Andrea Williams, a prominent British attorney and founder of Christian Concern and the Christian Legal Centre, delivered a stirring message to an estimated 1.1 million South Koreans during a joint worship service in Seoul on Reformation Sunday, October 27, 2024. Her address served as both a warning and a rallying cry, urging Christians to remain vigilant against the encroachment of ideologies that challenge traditional values.
In her passionate speech, Williams highlighted the potential dangers that South Korea could face if it embraces legislation similar to that seen in Western nations, particularly regarding LGBT rights. “We have removed Jesus from public life,” she declared, emphasizing a growing disconnect between society and the teachings of Christ. She lamented how many people, particularly the youth, are unaware of Jesus’ role as the Savior of the world, a reality that she believes stems from a broader cultural shift away from Christian principles.
Williams pointed to troubling trends in the UK, where she claimed that laws have been enacted that protect behaviors contrary to Christian beliefs. "Sin is protected in law, and godliness is punished," she warned. Street preachers face imprisonment, and individuals can lose their jobs for simply sharing their faith or offering prayer in the workplace. This, she argued, is a cautionary tale for South Korea, where proposed anti-discrimination laws could lead to similar consequences.
The backdrop of Williams’ message was the proposed anti-discrimination legislation in South Korea, which many local Christian leaders fear could lead to the legalization of same-sex marriage and the promotion of gender ideology in schools. Recent legal decisions, such as a landmark ruling in July that allowed same-sex couples to share health insurance benefits, have raised alarms among conservative Christians who believe these changes will further erode traditional family values.
Throughout her address, Williams referenced biblical scripture to underscore her points. Citing Jeremiah 2:13, she noted, “My people have committed two sins: They have forsaken me, the spring of living water, and have dug their own cisterns, broken cisterns that cannot hold water.” Her message was clear: the battle between good and evil is not confined to one nation; it is a global struggle that requires the Church to stand firm in its convictions.
In a heartfelt appeal to the South Korean church, Williams encouraged believers to rise up and embrace their faith boldly. “If God is for you, who can be against you?” she proclaimed, urging the faithful to shine brightly in a world increasingly at odds with Christian teachings. Her call to action resonated deeply with attendees, many of whom expressed hope that the gathering would inspire a renewed commitment to faith and social responsibility among Christians.
The event, which was attended virtually by an additional million viewers, served as a significant moment for the Korean church to reflect on its role in society and the essence of its faith. Rev. Jung-Hyun Oh, senior pastor of Sarang Church and one of the event’s organizers, articulated a vision for revival, stating, “Through this worship service that we offer today in spirit and truth, I hope that families and churches will live, and that the Korean Church and the world church will experience a new revival.”
As the global Christian community watches South Korea’s unfolding narrative, Williams’ message serves as a reminder of the importance of remaining steadfast in faith amidst societal changes. Her words not only resonate within South Korea but also echo the sentiments of many Christians worldwide who are grappling with similar challenges in their own countries. The call for unity, vigilance, and a return to foundational beliefs is more relevant than ever as Christians seek to navigate the complexities of modern life while holding fast to their faith.