Redeeming Souls vs. Redeeming Culture

There seems to be a dichotomy in the church between proclamation and mercy ministries.

Some churches train their people to share the gospel and hold many evangelistic events and outreaches. Other churches or ministries follow Saint Francis’s advice, “Preach the gospel at all times and if necessary use words.” Redeeming souls vs. Redeeming culture. That seems to be the split.

The Christian communities I’m involved in seem to drift more toward redeeming souls than redeeming culture. We talk a lot about internal redemption (of the soul) but not so much about external redemption (of the culture). So, I think we should ask ourselves why this is and make some necessary changes.

Are we teaching out students how to redeem culture once they have come to Christ?

If they step out into one of these cultural institutions (Business, Government, Media, Church, Arts & Entertainment, Education, Social Sector) after graduation, will they know what to do?

How do we go about equipping our students to do the works God has prepared for them in advance... in their area of influence?