Holistic Justice – Becoming an Interruptible People

We exist in this moment were using a term like justice is just good branding; which of our favorite brands hasn't made a statement condemning something or advocating for something? For the people of God to embody holistic justice, we must recognize that justice is not an auxiliary topic to the Gospel– justice is how the Gospel is lived out amongst the community. It is our conviction that justice in the scripture is about becoming a particular kind of community.

Intentional Formation

Holistic Justice

Courageous Hospitality

Gospel Participation

“42 And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers. 43 And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. 44 And all who believed were together and had all things in common. 45 And they were selling their possessions and belongings and distributing the proceeds to all, as any had need. 46 And day by day, attending the temple together and breaking bread in their homes, they received their food with glad and generous hearts, 47 praising God and having favor with all the people. And the Lord added to their number day by day those who were being saved.” –Acts 2:42–47 (ESV)

Midtown Church exists to renew the reputation of the local church by revealing the kingdom of Jesus in Kansas City. 

Four Visions of Justice in the 21st century

1. Justice as individual freedom (Libertarianism)

2. Justice as fairness (Liberalism)

3. Justice as happiness (Utilitarianism)

4. Justice as deconstructing power (Postmodern)

Within the Church, justice has become–

1. A Community Care Department

2. Worldly

3. About publicity

Biblical Justice Defined

“All the believers were together and had everything in common. They sold property and possessions to give to anyone who had need.” – Acts 2:44-45

“[Christian] Justice is learning to live out what God has done in Christ amongst ourselves first. And in living out this justice in this community,  it becomes possible to share this justice with the world.” – David French

Justice is the shape of the Christian community. 

“The pursuit of justice is, first, about becoming a particular kind of people in the world…If we are to see new ways of pursuing justice in the world, we must see the work of extending God’s shalom into the world intertwined with becoming a just people ourselves.” –Adam Gustine, Becoming a Just Church

The Church of Christ is to be an oasis in the midst of the world where good flourishes. 

“The task of the church is to serve as the best example of what God can do with the human community.” - Stanley Hauerwas

Becoming an Interruptible People

1. Prepare 

2. Create Rhythms 

3. Embrace Interruptions