The pastor of Redeemer Presbyterian Church (PCA) in New York City says seeking justice is not optional for the person saved by grace. “God’s grace makes you just.”

Tim Keller has strong words for people who do not care about the poor: “All I know is, if I don’t care about the poor, if my church doesn’t care about the poor, that’s evil.” He spoke with New York-based writer Kristen Scharold about why helping the least of these should be every Christian’s mission.

Why do you think generosity is crucial to biblical justice?
I used the term “generous justice” because many people make a distinction between justice and charity. They say that if we give to the poor voluntarily, it’s just compassion and charity. But Job says that if I’m not generous with my money, I’m offending God… It’s biblical that we owe the poor as much of our money as we can possibly give away.

What do you hope readers will learn about the relationship between God’s grace and justice?
Cause and effect: God’s grace makes you just. The gospel is such that even though you’re not saved by good works, you are saved by grace and faith—and it will change your life and lead to good works…

Many Christians hear “justice” and think about issues like sex trafficking, HIV/AIDS, and so on. Would you include those in your definition?
My definition of justice is giving humans their due as people in the image of God…

Read More: http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2010/december/10.69.html