Doing Justice and Loving Mercy: Compassion Ministries, Student Workbook, SW16

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D O I N G J U S T I C E A N D L O V I N G M E R C Y : C O M P A S S I O N M I N I S T R I E S

1. The creation is subject to corruption under the curse: generational and chronic sickness , Rom. 8.19-23

2. Jesus’ incarnation and passion: elimination of disease and its effects, overcoming of the curse, introducing of the fullness of God’s goodness and blessing, Luke 4.18-19

3. The Church expresses the shalom of God: the people of God serve the world as a locus and agent of wholeness and blessing, Matt. 5.14-16.

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C. Because God is a God of justice, his kingdom rule in Christ must be revealed through our acts of justice .

1. The creation has been alienated in its relationships and actions under the curse: alienation and intrinsic selfishness , Eph. 4.17-19

2. Jesus’ incarnation and passion: breaking of the flesh, of alienation and injustice, opening up to reconciliation and peace, Eph. 2.14-16

3. The Church expresses its justice: experiencing justice in the midst of God’s community, and working to display justice in all of its relationships and undertakings, Acts 2.42-47

Conclusion

» The first word, or prolegomena for understanding our call to do justice and love mercy is based on a theology of God that sees our role as kingdom agents. » We strive to do justice and love mercy because the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ is a God of nature as well as salvation, creation as well as covenant, and justice as well as a God of justification.