In The News

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FREEDOM OR EQUALITY


The most recent catch words in political discussion appear to be freedom and equality, as if contrasting ideals. Although those advocating one or the other would not want to give the impression that they are mutually exclusive. This, in turn, raises the question as to how these themes play out from a Christian perspective.
Freedom first invites our attention. Initially, we recall God’s deliverance of his people from bondage. In context of the Genesis and Exodus narratives, it seems that humans were born free, and meant to exercise their freedom in a responsible fashion. Failing to do so, they became enslaved to what in Jewish tradition is graphically expressed as the evil inclination. By way of confirmation, Jesus observed: “everyone who sins is a slave to sin” (John 8:34).
After which, he added: “So if the Son sets you free, you will be free indeed.” As for apt commentary, “So the slave of sin cannot by himself change his status. He may long to be free; he may feverishly strive to be free, and others help him in the struggle; but any freedom that he may enjoy by such effort will be but the temporary exercise of an impotent will and therefore short-lived” (R. V. G. Tasker, John, p. 119).
Equality next surfaces as a consideration. In this regard, Peter allowed: “I now realize how true it is that God does not show favoritism, but accepts men from every nation who fear him and do what is right” (Acts 10:34). Since from every nation, any culture serves as a means through which the gospel may be proclaimed and embraced. While, needless to say, some are more receptive than others.
Second, no culture is so pristine that it measures up to the exacting standards of Scripture. So that we may understand the expression all have sinned not only in individual but corporate terms. Conversely, persons are justified “through the redemption that came by Christ Jesus” (Rom. 3:24). Consequently, bad news precedes good news.
Several additional observations seem appropriate. (1) Freedom and equality thus appear as illusive ideals, given the social context in which they are interpreted. So that we should bear in mind that it is often the lesser good, rather than the blatant evil, that keeps us from realizing the greater good. Which in creedal terms is to glorify God and enjoy him forever.
(2) As we are reminded by C. S. Lewis, error characteristically takes the form of opposites. So that when attempting to escape one problem, we fall prey to the other. Accordingly, those who emphasize freedom may disregard equality, and the reverse.
(3) Freedom involves not only from what is thought to be undesirable, but for that which is commendable. As for the latter, to love God with resolute devotion, and others as ourselves. That is, freedom to do good.
(4) While equality does not guarantee results, but reasonable means. So I am reminded having corrected thousands of final examinations over the years. Students were allowed equal access to our educational resources, but some failed to make as good use of them as others. Were we to overlook this fact, it would not be an expression of equality but inequality.
(5) Whether individually or corporately, we are a work in progress. So that we ought to strive to understand our situation more accurately, and forge creative solutions to persisting problems. In this regard, we should strive to learn from the past, live toward the future, and engage the present. While this is easier said than done.
(6) Finally, speaking from experience, we should welcome constructive dialogue with others. Not simply with those who tend to agree with us, but those who take issue. This allows for a freedom of expression for all involved. Qualifications aside, it rules out coercive activity. Or so it seems from a Christian perspective in response to the catch terms currently popular in the media.

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