We begin from the starting point that all humans are made in the image of God and are thus to be equally respected, included and supported in society (Genesis 1:26-27). The teaching of the prophets consistently links faithfulness to God with a willingness to care for those members of society who are on the margins or have been treated unjustly. See for example Isaiah 58:1-11; Amos 2:6-7; 4:1-5; 5:10-15, 21-24. Jesus’ example of ministry and his teaching point us to a focus on showing kindness and compassion to those marginalised by society (Luke 10:25-37). Jesus described his call to ministry as one which was bound up with proclaiming good news for the poor and oppressed (Luke 4:16-19), and he taught that our response to those in need represents a response to Christ himself (Matthew 25:31-46). The New Testament Epistles describe a community without distinctions (Galatians 3:28) and give Christians the “ministry of reconciliation” (2 Corinthians 5:18) and of pursuing peace with everyone (Hebrews 12:14). In the light of these biblical principles, CREST sees that the single area within Australian society where there is the keenest need for reconciliation and peace-making, where people have been dispossessed and continue to be marginalised, where there is a need for respect and the recognition of the presence of God, is in our relationship and heart for the First Peoples of this country.* *extracted from the CSA First Peoples Heart Document 7
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