Why Christians Must Not Abandon Broken Institutions

Faith Facts

• The United Nations Refugee Convention celebrates 75 years on July 28, prompting reflection on Christian engagement with global institutions
• Biblical wisdom calls believers to work within imperfect systems rather than withdraw from them
• Christian voices remain essential in shaping humanitarian policies that reflect God’s call to care for the vulnerable

As the United Nations Refugee Convention reaches its 75th anniversary this July 28, believers across America face a critical question about their role in the public square. When institutions appear ineffective, unresponsive, or disconnected from the concerns of faith communities, should Christians disengage or continue to engage?

This question resonates deeply in our current cultural moment. Many faithful Americans feel increasingly alienated from international bodies and domestic institutions that seem hostile to traditional values and Christian principles.

Yet the answer, grounded in Scripture and Christian tradition, points toward continued engagement rather than retreat. Throughout biblical history, God’s people have worked within imperfect systems to bring light into darkness and advocate for the vulnerable.

The United Nations Refugee Convention represents one such institution where Christian voices remain desperately needed. Despite its flaws and the legitimate critiques of international bureaucracy, this framework has provided protection for millions fleeing persecution, war, and violence over the past three-quarters of a century.

From Joseph serving in Pharaoh’s court to Daniel advising Babylonian kings, Scripture provides clear precedent for believers engaging with institutions that do not share their faith. These biblical examples demonstrate that withdrawal is not the answer when systems fall short of God’s standards.

The call to care for refugees and strangers runs throughout Scripture, from Old Testament commands to New Testament teachings. This mandate does not change based on the imperfection of the institutions through which such care is delivered.

Christian engagement with international humanitarian frameworks offers opportunities to advocate for policies that reflect biblical principles of compassion, justice, and human dignity. When believers step back, secular voices fill the void, often pushing agendas that conflict with traditional values.

The Church’s responsibility extends beyond critique to active participation in shaping better solutions. This means bringing Christian wisdom to bear on complex questions of refugee protection, asylum policies, and humanitarian assistance.

American Christians, in particular, have both the freedom and the platform to influence these conversations in ways believers in many other nations cannot. This privilege comes with responsibility to steward our voice wisely and effectively.

Engagement does not mean uncritical acceptance of every policy or position. Rather, it requires discernment to distinguish between an institution’s foundational purpose and its current failings, working to reform rather than abandon.

The alternative—complete disengagement—cedes the field to those who may have little regard for the sanctity of life, religious freedom, or the family structures that faith communities hold dear. It surrenders influence at precisely the moment when Christian perspective is most needed.

As we mark 75 years of the Refugee Convention, believers should recommit to principled engagement with institutions that serve the vulnerable. This engagement must be rooted in biblical truth, guided by wisdom, and motivated by love for our neighbors, including those forced to flee their homes.

The path forward requires Christians to be both faithful to our convictions and present in the institutions that shape our world. We must resist the temptation to retreat into isolation while also refusing to compromise core biblical principles.

Let us know what you think, please share your thoughts in the comments below.