Exploring Theological Resources That Can Contribute To The Transformation, Recovery, Reclaiming

By Ph.D I. U. TANIMU-SAMINAKA

This book suggests an appropriate and wholistic measure in tackling the perennial problems associated with poverty, dehumanisation and lack of respect for human dignity amongst rural communities of Africa. Dr. Tanimu Saminaka describes how Integrated Rural Community Sustainable Development (IRCSD) plays a significan

• Language: English
• Publisher: Midas Touch GEMS
• Release date: Jun 22, 2023
• ISBN: 9781088182604

Book preview

The Reasons For The Choice Of The Theories And How They Link With The Book

When mankind’s relationship with his maker/creator (who is God) is broken, and mankind losses their identity and worth, multifaceted problems of poverty, brokenness, hunger, disease and godlessness may arise that require restoration of the battered image by accepting the gift of God in Christ Jesus.

As it were, Africa is largely impoverished with many issues of low self-esteem and identity crises. The Love for the Poor and Salvation as the restoration of God’s image provides us with answers to the reality that poverty and hopelessness can be dealt with when the individuals concerned understand and are able to retell their own stories. They also have to know who they are and that they have an identity and worth in God through Christ Jesus. The biblical truth is that human beings are made in the image of God and have value and dignity and should use their God-given potentials to stay away from poverty. The Asian Human Rights Commission released a statement in 2006 claiming that: Human dignity is the true measure of human development.

Overview

Poverty has remained a major challenge of both the church and the world (Christian, 1999). The challenge of human dignity and complete lack of the understanding that men and women are created in the image of God, therefore co-creators clouds the minds of dozens of Africans: the church and society.  This book however, pictures and captures several important issues of rural and community development and discusses why dehumanisation amongst rural poor should be discarded. Deep truths amongst rural farmers were discovered during the study in the selected States of Cameroon, Nigeria and Niger Republic. Male and female farmers were consulted and interacted with.

Again, the biblical view of the poor and God’s designed agenda for mankind to be in His image was also featured. Rediscovery of our identity is another very important endeavour towards dealing with poverty and brokenness of Africa. Hunger, diseases and wars, and the complete lack of respect for human dignity can only be dealt with when Africans and Africa realise who they really are and are poised to change their attitude. Attitudinal change in Christ Jesus is very imperative and a necessary step and in the right direction