Today we look at how we can minister to the poor without taking over their lives, their communities, and their goals. There is a line between healthy reliance on other people (Galatians 6:2) and unhealthy dependency. Handouts send messages beyond the goal of charity. Playing God in the lives of the poor leads to a …
Category Archives: worldview
PU 007: Made in the Image of God
The poor are image-bearers of God, but well-meaning Christians sometimes send a different message. Scripture tells us that God made all people, rich and poor (Prov. 22:2). We also know from Scripture that all people were created in God’s image (Gen. 1:26, 27). More than a nice idea, this truth should impact our interactions with …
PU 006: Why People Stay Poor
Why is it so hard for people to pull themselves out of poverty? In this episode we consider how people change and what keeps them from changing. Conclusions are drawn for charitable giving. The change process: Life experience, followed by… Reflection, followed by… Decision, followed by… Action, followed by a new life experience. Obstacles to …
PU 005: The Transformation Toolkit
Four simple tools that facilitate holistic development. This episode features four tools to facilitate holistic development. These approaches are practical methods based on the foundational material from previous episodes. They can be used on a daily basis anywhere from villages in Peru to housing projects in Chicago. More listening options: Right-click to download. Ready for …
PU 004: Ideas Have Consequences
Worldview is the key for solving poverty. What is worldview? Explore resources available from Disciple Nations Alliance. In this episode we talk about Gnosticism and Animism, HIV/AIDS, the American myth of being happy, and symptoms of poverty vs. causes of poverty. More listening options: Right-click to download. Ready for the next episode in the Theology of …
PU 003: The Tragedy of Taking Shortcuts
Converts or disciples? What’s the difference? In this episode we consider the country of Rwanda. Christianity and Genocide in Rwanda Areas of Development: Spiritual, Social, Physical, Mental Scripture references: Exodus 20:13 Matthew 5:44; 6:25-33; 28:18-20 2 Peter 1:3 Philippians 4:8 Application for ministry–the importance of discipleship Application for the world’s poor–long-term change More listening options: …
PU 002: Poverty Started Somewhere
In this episode we ask, “Where did poverty start?” God’s story Creation – Genesis 1-3 The fall – Genesis 3 Jesus Christ- Colossians 1:15-20 Our mission – Matthew 28:18-20, 2 Corinthians 5:17-21 New heaven and new earth – Revelation Four relationships or areas of development Spiritual – Genesis 1:27; 2:17 Social – Genesis 2:24 Physical …
PU 001: Introduction
Welcome to our first episode! Today we share statistics on global poverty and what to expect from this podcast. Click the play button above to start listening. Or choose one of the links below. More listening options: Right-click to download. Ready for the next episode in the Theology of Poverty series? Go to the menu …