"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly, defend the rights of the poor and needy." Proverbs 31:8-9 (NIV)
The word "activism" originates from the Latin actus, meaning "a doing or driving force." The modern term emerged in the early 20th century from the German Aktivismus, referring to deliberate action for social or political change. Activism involves, intentional efforts to address injustices and advocate for moral principles through protests, advocacy, or community service
The Bible presents numerous examples of activism.
Moses led the Israelites out of Egyptian slavery, confronting Pharaoh in pursuit of justice (Exodus 3-14).
The prophets, including Isaiah and Amos, spoke boldly against corruption, urging people to seek justice and defend the oppressed (Isaiah 1:17).
Jesus Himself was an activist, challenging religious hypocrisy, healing the marginalized and proclaiming freedom for the oppressed (Luke 4:18-19).
The apostles continued this mission fearlessly spreading the gospel despite persecution (Acts 5:29).
Christian activism is not rebellion but a call to action, standing for truth, justice, and righteousness. Just as biblical figures took bold steps for God's purposes, Christians today must engage actively in transforming their world through faith-driven action, ensuring the continued spread of the gospel in a broken world
A SACRED TRUST
"According to the glorious gospel of the blessed God, which was committed to my trust" (1 Timothy 1:11).
The Apostle Paul took personal responsibility for the Gospel. His words in our theme verse show, that to him, the Gospel was a sacred trust. In 1 Corinthians 9:16, he said, “…necessity is laid upon me; yea, woe is unto me, if I preach not the gospel!” Again, in 1 Timothy 1:12, he declared, “…I thank Christ Jesus our Lord, who hath enabled me, for that he counted me faithful, putting me into the ministry.”
Your conviction about the Gospel must be absolute. Think about it: the salvation of lost souls is God’s number one passion; it’s all that heaven stands for. Yet, God committed such a great commission and responsibility to you and me. This is something to be hallowed; too sacrosanct to take likely.
In Mark 16:15, Jesus said, “…Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature”; this is the Great Commission. The question is, “Can God trust you to fulfill it?” Are you about His business, or you’re still busy pursuing your own dreams? Let the Gospel, and its spread around the world, mean more to you than anything else in this world. Be committed to it, irrespective of the oppositions you might face.
Take a cue from Paul; even when the Holy Spirit expressly testified that he’d suffer severe afflictions and be imprisoned if he went to preach in Jerusalem (Acts 20:22-23), he was undaunted. His response was: “… none of these things move me, neither count I my life dear unto myself, so that I might finish my course with joy, and the ministry, which I have received of the Lord Jesus, to testify the gospel of the grace of God” (Acts 20:24). Talk about burning your bridges? That’s it!
Be an activist for the Gospel. None of the adversities you face can defeat you if you stand your ground and refuse to quit. Remember that God counted you faithful and committed the Gospel to your trust; He believes in you. So, be an effective witness of the Lord Jesus Christ, and do it passionately with joy. Hallelujah!
Study these Scriptures
Proverbs 31:8-9, Exodus 3-14, Isaiah 1:17, Luke 4:18-19, Acts 5:29, 1 Timothy 1:11, Acts 20:24
