Biblical and theological basis for church involvement in community development in Kenya

Abstract

The Church, as an integral part of missiology, is obligated to the development of the community; by providing social services like education, health care, agriculture, advocacy, clean water, capacity building, food, shelter, and sanitation which have remained a mirage to many Kenyans. This study sought to establish the biblical and theological basis for Church's involvement in the CD. The Anglican Development Services (ADS) of the Anglican Church of Kenya (ACK) was used as the case for this study. The study targeted four Anglican ADS regions, namely: Pwani, Eastern, Mount Kenya East and NAIKA (Nairobi, Kajiado and All Saints). The theory of Reconstruction Theology (RT) advanced by Jesse Mugambi based on the process of social reconstruction as a paradigm for CD was employed. A sample of 330 respondents gotten from a target population of 1,827 was used. A descriptive survey design was employed. Utilizing questionnaires, interviews, and Focus Group discussions, data was gathered. Statistical Package for Social Sciences (SPSS) version 26 computer software was used to analyze the quantitative data using frequency and percentages, while thematic analysis was done on qualitative data in accordance with the study's objectives. The findings showed that the biblical and theological basis for the Church's involvement in CD was highly valued. To improve the sustainability of CD within targeted areas, it was recommended that the implementation of CD be based upon a strong biblical and theological basis as a demonstration of service to the vulnerable in the community.