The calling of the Reformed Churches in South Africa in the moral renewal of the urban community in South Africa

Abstract

The main aim of this study was to investigate the prophetic calling of the Reformed Churches in South Africa (RCSA) in the moral regeneration of the South African urban community. The method of research followed in this study was to study primary and secondary sources, as well as appropriate biblical teachings and theological principles relevant to this study and to systematise the information. An analysis was provided of the main problems regarding moral decay besetting the South African urban community and the main challenges this moral decay poses for the RSCA were identified. A strategy the RCSA should implement in tackling these challenges was devised and a number of practical projects the RCSA could undertake at congregational level to concretise the strategy were discussed. The study confirmed that the Church has an important role to play as the driving agent for moral regeneration of the South African urban community. It was pointed out that the moral regeneration of the urban community in South Africa cannot be left to the government. The main reason is that morality cannot be legislated. However, when the love of God transforms the lives of people, it changes the heart, heals moral decay, provides strength to overcome temptation and gives the desire to reach out to people (friends, relatives’ neighbours, strangers and even enemies) in true love. The congregation’s main task with regard to moral regeneration is therefore to be clear about God’s mission, to discern what God is doing in the community and to serve his mission in practical ways.