Advocacy

Advocacy – the Biblical mandate

Advocacy takes its roots from the legal profession. It means speaking up for, or pleading on behalf of, another.

It is part of the role of the church to advocate: to speak out against injustice, defend the cause of the poor, hold those in power accountable, and empower individuals to speak up. It is clear from the Bible that God expects His people to be concerned about – and raise their voices on behalf of – the poor:

"Speak up for those who cannot speak for themselves, for the rights of all who are destitute. Speak up and judge fairly; defend the rights of the poor and needy." Proverbs 31:8-9 (NIV)