Philosophy for Christian Community Development

Xenos Christian Fellowship
Christian Principles Unit 4

Philosophy for Christian Community Development

God is concerned that His people help the poor:

* In His OT law (Deut. 15:1-15).

* In His character (Prov. 14:31).

* In Christ's example (Lk. 4:18; 15:13-14).

* In NT commands (1 Jn. 3:16-17; Jms 1:27; 2:1-4, 14-17; 5:4).

God is concerned that the church help the poor:

* It's not the responsibility of the government to represent God's concern for the poor (they still are responsible to help the poor but do not share the gospel).

* It is the responsibility of Christians to be ambassadors to represent God on earth (Jn 14:12, 2 Cor 5:20)

The church should serve the needs of the poor comprehensively:

* Helping the person physically and spiritually (1 Jn 3:15-17).

* Demonstrating love and proclaiming the Gospel.

* Creating receptivity to the Gospel through service.

* Focusing some of its resources and services on the poor.

* Teaching the poor self sufficiency (2 Th 3:10).

* Helping the poor rise up out of their situation (Ja 2:15-17).

The church should be concerned about the whole cycle of poverty:

Long term solutions should be sought after (Deut. 15:1-15).

* Family disintegration.

* Affordable and livable housing.

* Lack of educational opportunities.

* Lack of job opportunities.

* Health Care.

The church should develop relationships in the community of need (Jn. 17:15):

* Providing acceptance, warmth, friendship, and fellowship.

* Providing role models and mentors.

* Encouraging those who become self sufficient to stay involved in their community.

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