Introduction
The word faith is common in the Christian doctrine, but most theologians still differ in its interpretation and meaning. Gutiérrez, a Catholic author and theologian, presents an excellent biblical illustration calling it a commitment and not merely a memorization of truths. In other words, faith is a practical attribute that Christians should demonstrate through serving others, especially those less fortunate. There are various historical examples that Christians can mimic to make their faith practical. Jesus Christ and Saint Thomas of Aquinas are some of the great examples who demonstrated their faith through charity. Although many Christians claim to have faith, only those who put their confessions into practice through charity can effectively liberate people from poverty, hunger, and other problems and demonstrate the love of Jesus Christ.
Discussion
The Bible teaches that faith works through charity demonstrated in the commitment to God and humanity. According to St. Paul, love nourishes and completes faith when a person sacrifices for others (Gutierrez, 1988). The implication is that it is not genuine when a person fails to show concern for the suffering and claim to have faith. The life of a believer connotes the willingness to die for the sake of another person just like Jesus. Saint Thomas of Aquinas is another practical example of a man who gave everything for the sake of demonstrating love to others. Therefore, unlike the popular trend of people confessing that they are faithful, it is impossible for the world to prove their word if there are no accompanying actions like the one demonstrated by the saint.
Whenever there is a gap in humanity that requires practical solutions, the response should demonstrate charity and not baseless assumptions and prayers. Particularly, the epistle of James states that when a hungry person asks for bread, it will be wrong to tell them that God will provide for their needs (English Standard Version Bible, 2001, James. 2:26-27). The proper response is to give food and ensure they are satisfied before sending them away. Ideally, human problems are an opportunity for Christians to demonstrate the love of Christ to other people. In a world full of suffering, only true love can restore hope and bring freedom from bondage, guilt, and condemnation.
Christians should follow the example of Jesus Christ, who was living as a pre-incarnate in glory but forsook everything to save the world. Noteworthy, he had a choice of remaining in heaven and believing that somehow humanity would be reconciled to him. Nonetheless, Jesus decided to give up his life on the cross so that the sins of people could be bloated. He understood that humanity would continue suffering the consequences of sin. However, he set the people free when he was crucified despite being innocent of all sins. Now, Jesus expects believers to follow his example by blessing other people. Showing other people mercy and helping them liberates humanity and reconciles people to God. Moreover, it demonstrates that a Christian is committed to God and their immediate neighbor, as demonstrated in the story of the good Samaritan.
The church of Christ can only find its relevance in service rather than power. The Vatican Council II is renowned for its stance that the only way for the church to find itself is by losing itself through service to the world (Gutierrez, 1988). The starting point of a flourishing church is not inside but from outside the world. The only way to be light is by reaching out to people who need help. Notably, if those living in sin are in bondage, then it means that they need help to be set free. Therefore, Christians are called forth to get out of their comfort zone and help others to join them in spreading love.
The main counter-argument against faith through works is the assumption that faith is a belief in the heart. It makes Christianity a passive religion where people trust in God even for the most essential things they can do. Several scriptures of the Bible refute such an assumption of dormant faith but urge believers to lay down their lives for the lost sinner. Moreover, the lives of triumphant saints who positively influenced the world were done through philanthropic acts. Thus, if the Christians refuse to give towards alleviating hunger and other problems. The world needs love that can melt their hearts so that they can accept the goods of God. However, even evangelism becomes problematic if the Christians are isolated and remain in the church.
Conclusion
In conclusion, claiming to have faith and doing nothing is stupidity but trying to solve the pain of the communities has eternal rewards. Jesus Christ knew the only way to liberate humanity was by coming down and showing love. It is upon Christians to now follow the same example and that of other saints. Moreover, the Bible teaches people to demonstrate what they believe through love. Thus, Christians live under the assumption that faith is all about believing and doing nothing to try to find a solution. Therefore, if people learn to be charitable, the world will see the love of Christ and be attracted to the church. Moreover, it is the best way to set the captives free because they show care.
References
English Standard Version Bible. (2001). ESV Online. Web.
Gutierrez, G. (1988). Chapter 1: Theology a critical reflection. In A theology of liberation: History, politics, and salvation (pp. 1-12). Orbis Books.