Charlie Dates Explores the Intersection of Justice and Righteousness in New Book

In his latest book, 'What Hath Justice to Do with Righteousness?: Reclaiming the Intersection of Protest and Prayer,' Chicago pastor Charlie Dates argues that the modern church has created a false divide between personal righteousness and social justice. Drawing on biblical passages such as 2 Corinthians 6:14, Psalm 11:7, and the writings of the Old Testament prophets, Dates contends that these two concepts are inseparable. He describes righteousness as a vertical relationship with God’s holiness, while justice serves as the horizontal, social mandate that naturally flows from that divine character.

Dates aims to challenge American Christians to re-examine their theological blind spots regarding social engagement. By situating his work alongside other notable contributions from authors like Timothy Keller and Esau McCaulley, Dates seeks to provide a restorative framework for believers. He suggests that a complete faith practice must integrate both the internal pursuit of holiness and the external pursuit of justice, arguing that the two are essential components of a unified biblical witness.