Principles of
Development - Biblical Wholism
Biblical wholism is a Christian
worldview where all life and creation is interdependent and cannot be
separated - Christianity and social action are often seen as separate
activities. Our understanding inhibits us from integrating our
understanding of God with our development efforts. Issues of poverty
cannot simply be linked to economic, political, social or environmental
factors. We must approach the issue looking at its various
interdependent dimensions. Biblical wholism is rooted in the
scriptures. We see in Genesis 1 and 2 that a state of Shalom existed,
where the spiritual, psychological, social and ecological existed in
all its fullness.
Our worldview and understanding of poverty influences our chosen responses to the brokenness we see around us. In bringing a holistic response to the field of development, we view all aspects of human existence as being critical to achieving true wholeness as well as personal and social transformation. Our analysis should extend into a wider area of implications that may touch on spiritual, political and social aspects of families and of the whole community. Interventions may include spiritual value formation, political advocacy, or reconciliation of social relationships. We deal with people in their entirety and seek to engage in our work in ways that consistently and clearly point to the character and activity of God.