What Is The Liberal Social Gospel Movement?

Dr. Couch, it seems that Barack Obama's pastor is into the liberal Social Gospel movement. It sounds like kingdom-now theology and postmillennialism. Would you explain this?

ANSWER: You are correct but his theology is even worse than that. He is into Liberation Black Theology which is full blown socialism and communism. Black Theology calls for the destruction of "white power" and even the elimination of the white race if it is not subdued and tempered. This and the Social Gospel is just warmed over liberalism. The great doctrines of Scripture are demeaned and down-played. Social and political action is what Christ was all about, and should be today the main focuses of Christian activity.

And yes, all in the liberal camp would be into the kingdom-now and postmillennial movement. We are building the kingdom by social and political action. If we just tweak society a bit we will bring into the world peace and harmony.

But there is more going on that is even worse. The Green Movement, fired up by the ignorant younger yuppy crowd, is removing all of our freedoms of choice and movement. It is certainly important to be responsible for the world God has given us but they are going beyond normal responsibility. They are into full control of both your thoughts and actions. They are virtually atheistic in their philosophy and activities. They believe humans are alone and must save the world. God is not around. They would deny prophecy that tells us this world is going to self-destruct by the providence and direct action of God in His anger against a sinful world.

Thanks for asking.
Dr. Mal Couch

What About the Social Gospel?

Dr. Couch, what do you think of the social gospel, the idea that the Church should primarily be concerned with the problems of poverty and injustice? Some blame capitalism for the oppression of the poor and say that socialism is more concerned for the disadvantaged. 

 

    History has proven just the opposite. When the social gospel becomes dominate, the true gospel disappears. In fact, just focusing on social concerns is the first sign that liberalism is taking root, both in the churches and in government. And quickly the heart concerns that should be behind charity dies, and that charity becomes a cold function of the government. And then such charity takes place based on authoritarianism and power, rather than based on a true concern for those in need. 

    The Old Testament speaks a lot about social justice and charity for the poor. However it was in the context of the theocracy of Israel. In the New Testament charity is first for the needs of the body of Christ, and then it can spill over to the needs of the lost. 

    What is happening in Africa and the cry for charity there, especially concerning AIDS, is a case in point. Billions of dollars are being spent there for a cure and for medicines when the problem could be solved almost overnight, and without cost, by a good dose of biblical morality. The liberal throws money at a problem and ignores the issues of morality. This does not mean that all who are in need are guilty of some sin. For example in Africa many wives and children have AIDS because of the sins of the fathers who are infecting their families. 

    I would never argue against charity but only Jesus the Messiah will finally solve the problem when He returns! And, presently, we should give in His name and for His sake to those in need. 

    Paul constantly writes about “doing good” which would certainly include charity work wherever it’s needed (1 Tim. 2:10; 5:10; Titus 2:14; 3:1, 8, 14). James writes about believers being full of mercy and good fruits (James 3:17), and Peter speaks of giving forth good deeds (1 Pet. 2:12). 

    Thanks for asking,

    Dr. Mal Couch