1. Introduction
While Scripture makes it clear that salvation is found in Christ alone, it equally affirms that God’s goodness is not limited to His covenant people. Throughout history and across cultures, people outside the Church have displayed honour, justice, compassion, and wisdom—qualities that reflect God’s image and His universal moral order. This article explores why Christians should affirm and recognise the blessings that come through moral virtue, dignity, and honour among those outside the faith, without compromising the uniqueness of Christ as Saviour.
2. Theological Foundation: All Are Made in God’s Image
Genesis 1:27
“So God created mankind in his own image…”
Every human being carries the imago Dei—the image of God—which means that all people, regardless of belief, possess innate dignity, moral capacity, and the ability to reflect aspects of God’s character.
James 3:9–10
“With the tongue we bless our Lord and Father, and with it we curse people who are made in the likeness of God… this should not be so.”
Recognising the image of God in others compels us to speak well of, honour, and affirm goodness where we see it—even in non-believers.
3. God’s Goodness Extends to All Humanity
Psalm 145:9
“The Lord is good to all; he has compassion on all he has made.”
Matthew 5:45
“He causes his sun to rise on the evil and the good…”
These verses highlight that God’s benevolence is not restricted to the righteous. His common grace sustains and blesses all people. Christians, therefore, should resist tribalism and sectarianism that suggest only believers can do good.
4. Examples of Honour Outside the Church (Biblical and Historical)
Biblical Examples
| Person | Act of Honour or Virtue | God’s Acknowledgement |
|---|---|---|
| Abimelech (Gen. 20) | Respected marital boundaries | God intervened and vindicated his innocence |
| Pharaoh’s daughter | Saved Moses from death | Instrumental in the preservation of God’s deliverer |
| Jethro (Ex. 18) | Gave wise counsel to Moses | His advice improved Israel’s leadership structure |
| Cyrus (Isa. 45; Ezra) | Released Jews from exile, supported the Temple | Called “God’s anointed,” used for redemptive purposes |
| Cornelius (Acts 10) | Prayed and gave alms, sought truth | Received the Gospel through divine arrangement |
Historical Examples
- Humanitarian efforts by secular leaders or other faiths
- Civil reformers who promoted justice, education, and dignity
- Peace mediators, rescuers of persecuted people, and advocates of truth
While these individuals may not confess Christ, their moral alignment with God’s law often results in blessing and honour, both in this life and sometimes in Scripture’s redemptive narratives.
5. The New Testament Ethic of Affirming What Is Good
Philippians 4:8
“Whatever is true, whatever is noble… if anything is excellent or praiseworthy—think about such things.”
This exhortation is not limited to “Christian things.” Paul calls believers to recognise virtue wherever it appears, including in art, philosophy, law, and daily life—regardless of the source.
Romans 12:10
“Be devoted to one another in love. Honour one another above yourselves.”
Paul’s ethics encourage a posture of respect and affirmation, not arrogance or exclusion.
6. Recognising Goodness Is Not Compromise
Some fear that affirming goodness outside the Church undermines the Gospel. However:
- Acknowledging moral excellence is not equal to endorsing a belief system.
- Jesus Himself praised the faith of the Roman centurion (Matthew 8:10) and the mercy of the Good Samaritan (Luke 10:33–37).
- Paul quoted pagan poets (Acts 17:28) to communicate truth.
Affirming goodness prepares the way for deeper conversation. It builds bridges, not barriers.
7. The Missional Implication: A Pathway to the Gospel
Romans 2:7
“To those who by persistence in doing good seek glory, honour and immortality, he will give eternal life.”
Although this passage does not suggest that works save, it implies that moral integrity may position a person toward receptivity. When Christians recognise and honour this, they:
- Reflect God’s generosity
- Engage in truthful dialogue
- Remove stumbling blocks of superiority
8. Practical Discernment for the Church
Christians must balance discernment with affirmation:
| Affirm | Without Compromising |
|---|---|
| Acts of love, justice, and wisdom | The centrality of Christ as Saviour (John 14:6) |
| Moral truth in secular expressions | The authority of Scripture |
| Kindness in other belief systems | Biblical boundaries of worship and theology |
This balance demonstrates both truth and grace, mirroring Christ Himself (John 1:14).
9. Conclusion
God’s goodness is visible in the world beyond the Church walls. To deny this is to deny the imago Dei and the reality of common grace. By recognising and affirming what is good, Christians honour God’s design, gain credibility in public discourse, and create space for Gospel engagement. It is not compromise—it is biblical wisdom.
References
- Genesis 1:27; 20
- Exodus 18
- Isaiah 45; Ezra 1
- Psalm 145:9
- Matthew 5:45; 8:10
- Luke 10:33–37
- Acts 10:1–4; 17:28
- Romans 2:7; 12:10
- Philippians 4:8
- John 1:14; 14:6
- James 3:9–10