It has become almost a truism among many scholars and activists to refer to Christianity as conservative. This seems to be rooted in assumptions that the religion has not kept up with the changing times, and has become mostly identified with a certain attitude— the standard conventional morality, with the same conservative ideas that have been around for centuries. But, is Christianity today so rigid that it cannot be progressive?
It is necessary to first consider the source material for Christianity, the Bible. Even a cursory review of references to Christians in the New Testament reveals a nuanced take on social organization and religious practice that is often overlooked in the discussion of ‘conservativism’. Christian teachings speak to society from a prophetic voice- expressing divine views on social justice and the pursuit of total equality. For example, the Apostle Paul’s letter to the Galatians expresses that Christian believers should “remember their kinship… as brothers and sisters in Christ, with no slave or free person among them”(Gal 3:28).
At its core, Christianity is a religion that believes in ‘love your neighbor as yourself’ (Mark 12:31), which implies advocacy of progressive social principles, recognizing that all persons are created equal. This is echoed in Christian teachings such as those found in the Gospels, where Jesus’ astounding words “Love your enemies, and do good, and lend, expecting nothing in return” (Luke 6:35) cannot be taken as a result of conventional morality — it is a revolutionary statement that calls us to serve causes of justice and peace with courage and strength.
The evidence for Christianity’s progressive character can also be seen in its revolutionary ethics. For example, the Christian idea of sacrament – that one should honor and respect the material world, and embody an attitude of solidarity in the face of suffering and injustice – is a moral framework with distinctly progressive implications. Similarly, the Christian notion of grace – that God’s love transcends all of humanity – speaks to a compassionate morality that has led to the establishment of many charitable organisations and missions, acting in the pursuit of social justice.
In recent years, the progressive nature of Christianity has been more widely recognised. A growing emphasis on modern biblical interpretations, empirical research and social engagement has been critical to the spread of progressive values over the last decades, from racial equality to LGBTQ+ rights. Examples of Christian communities who are actively seeking to challenge the status quo abound, from the work of faith-based charitable organisations, to individuals like Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. who used Christianity’s principles to become the leader of the civil rights movement.
One must also consider the position of Christian institutions in the modern world. Despite the fact that the churches are still often seen as conservative institutions, the majority of Christian churches, denominations, and organizations now mostly support progressive causes – such as marriage equality, environmentalism, and greater economic equality. This is particularly true in the African American church, which has historically been a driving force for social change.
Finally, Christianity has an extensive history of supporting progressive movements and leaders. In fact, it can be argued that Christianity has been a powerful force of progress throughout history: from the abolition of the slave trade to the spread of democratic ideals, it has been a driving factor in social reform.
Environmentalism
The modern environmental movement has deeply embedded roots in the Christian church, which has long preached a stewardship based ethic of sustainability. Today, Christian environmentalists all around the world use the Bible’s teachings to fight for the protection of the environment and sustainability of creation, some of whom are local eco-churches that seek to reconnect the congregation to nature and foster environmentally conscious behavior. This is just one example of how Christianity is actively embracing progressivism.
Christian environmentalists have aimed to show the relevance of Scripture to contemporary environmental action, tracing the roots of disposing wastefulness back to how Adam ignored his divinely mandated responsibilities as caretaker of the world. With a framework that emphasizes that there is no dichotomy between faith and environmentalism, and that stewardship is an essential part of Christian life, the Church has steadily become an increasingly vibrant force for change in regards to climate change.
Nowhere is this more evident than in Pope Francis’ landmark 2015 encyclical, Laudato Si’, in which he calls on Christians to become a global force for conservation and ecological stewardship. The encyclical is the most thorough statement of Christian environmentalism ever produced and continues to guide the environmental work of Christians all around the world.
In addition to this, the Church has also been very active on an international level in advocating for the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, pushing for ecologically responsible practices and public policies that put the common good before corporate and government interests.
Gender Equality
The Church has, unfortunately, been slow to embrace gender equality over the years, with many theologians and church leaders promoting traditional gender roles and relying on outdated interpretations of Scripture to justify them. But, in recent years, the Church has taken unprecedented steps towards progressism in this area.
One of the most important milestones was the release of the 2006 Lambeth Resolution in which the Anglican Church released a statement on Gender Equality, affirming the equal dignity and value of women and men and condemning gender-based violence. This has been followed by similar statements from the Catholic church, which has come out in support of women’s rights and gender equality.
Many Christian denominations and organizations have also taken steps to address gender disparity in the Church, such as the ordination of female pastors, and the introduction of ‘safe spaces’ in many churches that are dedicated to the advancement of gender equality.
In addition to this, the Church has also been very active in promoting the education of girls around the world, advocating for their rights and safety and providing them with access to quality educational opportunities.
Outreach and Community Engagement
The Church has long seen community involvement as a central part of Christian worship, with many churches and denominations offering services whose primary goal is to help those in need. This includes food banks, health care initiatives, homeless shelters, and job training programs, among others.
It is not a coincidence then that Christians have some of the highest rates of volunteerism in the world. A 2012 survey by the ENVY Post showed that 81 percent of American Christians volunteer at least once a year and most people who volunteer at church are younger than 35, which suggests that younger generations are increasingly turning to faith-based service as a way to make a positive impact in the world.
In recent years, the Church has also made significant strides in addressing poverty, both locally and globally. Many churches are increasingly involved in initiatives to combat extreme poverty and provide long-term solutions to some of the world’s most pressing issues. Additionally, many churches now partner with non-profits and other institutions in order to better serve their communities and become agents of change in the fight against poverty.
Outreach and Community Engagement
It is clear that Christianity is actively engaging with the progressive movement on many social issues. Examples of this can be seen across the world, from the ordination of female pastors, to the fight for racial justice and equal rights, to the quest for ecological sustainability.
At its heart, the progressive movement is about advancing justice, equality and the common good. It seeks to recognize the dignity and worth of all people, to foster a sense of solidary, and to ultimately make the world a better place for all. These principles are deeply embedded in Christian teachings, which actively embrace progressivism as a way to better serve society.
