You Asked it

Would it be possible to include some thoughts on the Christadel­phian’ s role in unions/strikes, etc.? Is it “clear cut?” I have been hearing conflicting ideas lately. K.S. Canada

There are a wide variety of unions and work circumstances; we are familiar with some and can comment on these. Additional input from readers would be appreciated if any feel it would be helpful. Reference can also be made to “A Sister Declines to Strike” (Tidings, 5/92, pg. 168) in which a Canadian sister effectively summarizes why we cannot participate in strikes.

Most unions provide a service to employees either by collective bargaining and/or employment opportunities through a hiring hall. If we bene­fit from such services, it is only reasonable that we pay for them through union dues. The concept is much like giving to Caesar that which is Caesar’s.

Furthermore, union-company relationships are not always hostile. In many circumstances, the company works with the union as an extension of its personnel department. If the union were to be voted out, such companies would likely encourage formation of an employee association in its place.

The strike, however, is an openly hostile act motivated by temporal reasons and deliberately designed to hurt the company, governmental unit or person we serve as employees. The relevant scriptures in this regard seem to us to be clear:

“Servants, obey in all things your masters according to the flesh; not with eye service, as menpleasers; but in singleness of heart, fearing God; and whatsoever ye do, do it heartily, as to the Lord, and not unto men; knowing that of the Lord ye shall receive the reward of the inheritance: for ye serve the Lord Christ” (Col. 3:22-24);

“And having food and raiment let us be therewith content” (I Tim. 6:8);

“And the servant of the Lord must not strive; but be gentle unto all men” (II Tim. 2:24).

Surely the only conclusion is that the disciple of Christ should not participate in an act of hostility against his employer/master. If we desire better pay or conditions in this society we should appeal to management or, if possible, seek a better job.

There may be situations where a struck employer does not welcome us crossing the picket line because of the commotion it would cause. In such cases, the right course would be to stay away. Ordinarily, however, we should not strike; and, out of consideration to our fellow employees, we should make that clear from the beginning of our association with the union.