I had the privilege of living in Australia for around fourteen years and the United States for over thirty years. After a considerable absence, with a group of ten individuals, journeyed Down Under, finding ourselves immersed in a cultural comparison that reflects nuanced history, distinctly different from our American roots. The historical narratives of these two nations, one born out of convict settlement and the other founded by pioneers seeking religious freedom, provided a rich backdrop for our observations.
Australia, with its origins as a penal colony, has cultivated a societal outlook steeped in secularism. In contrast, the United States, emerging from the aspirations of those seeking freedom of worship, carries a religious memory that permeates its societal fabric. These differences are more than a historical footnote; it manifests in the very way each society perceives its fundamental rights and privileges.
In the Australian context, rights are often perceived as grants from the government to the people, a product of a societal contract. On the other hand, the United States, deeply rooted in its constitutional principles, sees these rights as endowed by the Creator – a divine right, as articulated in the foundational document of the nation, the Constitution of the United States.
“We hold these truths to be self-evident, that all men are created equal, that they are endowed by their Creator with certain unalienable Rights, that among these are Life, Liberty and the pursuit of Happiness.” (Preamble to the Declaration of Independence)
Exploring a little deeper into the societal outlook, a distinctive emphasis emerges: individualism versus community focus. In the United States, individual rights are prominently emphasized, reflecting a culture that places high value on personal liberties. In contrast, the Australian society leans more towards community rights, where the collective welfare is prioritized.
While the Anglican Church carries historical weight in Australia, its contemporary impact on community life is somewhat diminished. In the United States, the echoes of Protestant traditions, stemming from the European Reformation, linger into the 21st century, although with a declining influence in the face of increasing secularization.
The dual challenges and opportunities posed by multicultural influences are apparent in both nations. This cultural diversity serves as a complex field for evangelism, requiring an approach to bridge cultural gaps while capitalizing on the unique opportunities for proclaiming the gospel.
Reflecting on world history, it becomes evident that societies influenced by the gospel have historically flourished, not just spiritually but also morally, economically, and socially. As we traverse both the historical and contemporary landscapes of Australia and the United States, a common theme emerges – the pressing need for the transformative message of the gospel.
In this quest for transformation, the family unit stands as a focal point, often under attack by secular forces and ideologies. The hope lies in individual transformation that will inevitably influence and fortify the family unit, with far-reaching impacts on society at large. This impact extends beyond borders, influencing the global landscape through avenues such as entertainment, media, business, and international interactions.
The obvious call echoes for the Christian church in both nations – a return to the core of individual impact. Rooted in the Great Commission outlined in Matthew 28:16-20 and Acts 1:8, the mission is to make disciples, teach obedience, and multiply efforts, not just within local communities ("Jerusalem") but also in broader regions ("Judea," "Samaria") and globally ("the ends of the earth"). The ultimate aim is to glorify God but also the well-being of society, addressing the challenges and seizing the opportunities for evangelism in both Australian and American contexts. Our journey to Australia provided more than a geographic exploration; it was an insightful journey into the social and cultural landscapes of a nation with a distinct history. Through this comparative exploration, we recognize the human need for eternal spiritual transformation and the potential for societal flourishing through the timeless message of the gospel.