Citrusdal | Clanwilliam | Graafwater | Kompas Gemeente Vredendal | Somerset-Wes

Categories
Sermons

Do Business, NOT Make War

“And He said to them, “Why did you seek Me? Did you not know that I must be about My Father’s business?” Luke 2:49. In a time of worldwide unrest and war, in all our endeavours, activities, vision and labour, may we answer the question: Am I about our Heavenly Father’s business? Jesus brings us the cure for the prevalent anxiety plaguing the hearts and minds of people globally, distracting us from being obedient to what God requires from each of us individually.

“Therefore I tell you, stop being worried or anxious (perpetually uneasy, distracted) about your life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor about your body, as to what you will wear. Is life not more than food, and the body more than clothing? Matthew 6:25

Staying busy in God is moving forward – it is an antidote against the depression and oppression of overthinking things in our volatile times. We thus need to have the right expectation for the year ahead. The root meaning of anxiety as a self-inflicted or induced condition is more than just feeling worried or fearful. Its most destructive force is the dividing factor it brings to the mind and will – it pulls you away from being under the love, guidance and care of a loving, Heavenly Father. He is the ultimate and perfect Father and provider. Doubt (unbelief or being unsure) is the enemy of faith.

We are not of this world but we are in this world and so He provides us His presence, purpose and provision. We are witnessing a pivotal moment in global thought, marking the apex of a swing towards particular humanistic secular liberal worldviews. These views, characterized by notions of unbridled freedom and unearned rewards, are now giving way to a more balanced perspective.

We’re observing a shift in several key areas:

  • From Globalization to LOCALIZATION: A movement from a borderless global community to a renewed emphasis on local economies, value-driven cultures, and good governance
  • From Multiculturalism to NATIONALISM: A transition from focusing on diverse, multi-ethnic societies to a stronger sense of national identity and sovereignty. See video by Katharine Birbalsingh CBE, a British teacher and education reform advocate who is the founder and Headmistress of Michaela Community School in London. She is author of multiple books including Michaela: The Power of Culture. This talk was given on Day 3 of the ARC Conference 2023, discussing what it would take to rebuild the social fabric. She gives practical wisdom to multi-cultural and multilingual communities like in South Africa.
  • From Equality to JUSTICE: Shifting the emphasis from “equal outcomes” for all to fair treatment and opportunity based upon individual circumstances and merit. God gives us wisdom how to deal with hierarchies.
  • From Human Rights to Human OBLIGATIONS: A pivot from emphasizing individual rights to highlighting the responsibilities each person has towards society, responsible citizenry.
  • From Individuality to COLLABORATION: Moving away from a sole focus, on individual achievements to valuing cooperative efforts and communal success. This means managing interpersonal relationships must become a mastery.
  • From Irrationality to COMMON SENSE: A turn from often impractical or extreme ideas back to practical, grounded reasoning.
  • From Superficial to Deep, Meaningful RELATIONSHIPS: Transitioning from fleeting, surface-level interactions to fostering profound and significant connections. Social media is being navigated more effectively for those who are aware of it’s abuse.
  • From Unchecked Expression to Robust Public Fact-Checking and DEBATE: Moving from an era of saying and doing anything without scrutiny to one where statements and actions are rigorously examined and debated.
  • From Lawlessness to Restorative JUSTICE: Shifting from a lack of consequences for actions to a focus on repairing harm and restoring balance and order.

These shifts are mirrored in recent political trends. In Argentina, the election of the more right-wing, conservative Javier Milei marks a notable change. His appointment has been celebrated by renowned conservative figures like Ben Shapiro, indicating a wider endorsement of this ideological shift[1]. The liberal agendas are getting decreasing tolerance.

In Canada, Pierre Poilievre of the Conservative Party presents a strong challenge to Justin Trudeau, leveraging what many see as superior common sense. And in the United States, despite legal challenges, Donald Trump’s potential re-election chances signal a continued interest in conservative, progressive leadership.

A recent Gallup Study underscores this trend, indicating a growing popularity of conservative viewpoints. This swing reflects a global reevaluation of values, suggesting a movement towards principles that emphasize accountability, merit, and a more measured approach to individual and collective responsibilities[2].

In a world still rife with conflict, contestation and opposing group identities we need a BIBLICAL SOLUTION to build BRIDGES and bring PEACE. “Do Business, Not Make War” resonates with more and more people around the world! 

Trade: The Bridging Factor 

It is a fact that people who trade don’t usually fight. Trade reduces the incidence of wars. For business to stop a war, it has to be premised on Biblical Ethics and mutual collective prosperity. 

Because of the “Global RESET” we will all experience various waves of instability.

Now this, “Yet once more,” indicates the removal of those things that are being shaken, as of things that are made, that the things which cannot be shaken may remain. Therefore, since we are receiving a kingdom which cannot be shaken, let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire. (Heb 12:27-29)

The humanistic-view paradigm has reached the end of its pendulum, and a balance is about to occur. The earth is busy re-collaborating itself for scientifically, every negative will be cancelled by a positive. The principle of serving God and bringing about His unshakeable kingdom is not just about avoiding conflict. It’s a profound invitation to a biblical Christ-centered, kingdom-motivated ethical prosperity of mutuality. Scripture guides us in conducting business that uplifts and unites.  How can you do so in your sphere of influence?

The Bible contains a significant number of verses that deal with business, money, and transactional ethics. While it’s challenging to provide an exact number due to the varying interpretations and contexts within which these themes are addressed, it is commonly acknowledged that there are over 2,000 verses in the Bible that mention money and related topics. The Bible extensively addresses unethical methods of acquiring wealth, emphasizing the importance of moral and ethical integrity in financial matters.

REPENTANCE is required from these key wrongful / negative practices highlighted in these scriptures:

  • Dishonest gain, wealth accumulated hastily or through deceit is condemned (Proverbs 13:11, 21:6).
  • Fraudulent measures are an abomination in the eyes of the Lord (Proverbs 11:1, Leviticus 19:35-36).
  • Theft or stealing is strictly forbidden and contrasted with the virtue of honest labor (Exodus 20:15, Ephesians 4:28).
  • Usury or exploitative interest, especially against the poor, is denounced (Exodus 22:25, Ezekiel 18:13).
  • Bribery and corruption, which pervert justice (Proverbs 17:23, Exodus 23:8).
  • Exploitation of the poor and vulnerable through fraudulent practices or denying fair wages is sharply criticized (James 5:4, Proverbs 22:22-23, Leviticus 19:13, Jeremiah 22:13).
  • Greed and covetousness are highlighted as root causes of evil and idolatry (Luke 12:15, Colossians 3:5).
  • Deception in business, involving dishonest scales and weights, is exposed as worthy of divine retribution (James 5:1-6, Micah 6:11).

How is your Spirit-filled life and decisions demonstrating the kingdom principles that bring peace in your home and work environment? The saying, “If God can get it to you, He will also get it through you”. God requires diligent, good stewardship of what He has given us. Becoming a good businessperson or entrepreneur is part of developing our faith in God.

Business is Spiritual 

How do we continue doing business when the rest of the world is at war? The church must continue and even intensify the focus on being the forerunners and mentors of creating wealth, inventing industry and consistent engaging in the Holy Spirit’s guidance for solutions and fruitfulness. Isn’t it interesting that one of the main reasons why Hitler initiated war was to enviously destroy the monopoly that Jewish businesspeople had occupied in countries (the “Kristallnacht” actions). Money is not the problem but the errors or lack in HOW we spiritually work with money.

In “Business Secrets from the Bible: Spiritual Success Strategies for Financial Abundance,” Rabbi Daniel Lapin presents a unique perspective on the spiritual nature of business, drawing from biblical tradition and the Hebrew language. He writes forty principles for financial success, but I want to highlight that all human activities lie along a spectrum between spirituality and physicality, with business transactions skewing more towards the spiritual. He argues that actions understandable to animals or replicable by machines (A.I.) are more physical, while those beyond animal comprehension or machine capability are spiritual. For instance, a chimpanzee may understand eating but not reading, and machines can’t replicate human loyalty, a spiritual characteristic.

Lapin explains that business, involving voluntary exchanges and economic decisions, is fundamentally a spiritual process as it requires conscious thought and human interaction, elements that animals and machines cannot replicate. He emphasizes that humans naturally superimpose spirituality on their actions to avoid feeling purely animalistic, adding rituals to even the most basic activities to elevate their spiritual significance.

Which room in your home enjoys the most attention or decoration? It has enjoyed the most conscious thought or human interaction. This will reveal which area of your life or thoughts is most effective or spiritual.

EMPLOYERS MENTORING EMPLOYEES

So, spirituality is the realm of the unmeasurable, unquantifiable, invisible.  You can either do everything yourself or extend yourself to pay others to do some things for you.  Hiring other people is fundamental to acquiring wealth. How do you choose people who have optimism, are articulate, skillful, and function with integrity, honesty, faithfulness, and loyalty?  These things cannot always be tested and measured.  Spiritual qualities cannot be measured scientifically.   This is why you need to become spiritually aware and sensitive in order to hire the right people and make money! 

Lapin also delves into the Hebrew language, illustrating how it intertwines with these concepts. He notes the Hebrew word for God’s favor, ‘cheyn,’ is etymologically linked to ‘coin,’ ‘gain,’ and similar terms in many languages. This connection suggests a divine aspect to economic transactions and the marketplace. The Hebrew word for a business professional, ‘ohmein,’ sharing a root with ‘amen,’ implies faith, a crucial element in business and spiritual endeavors.

Rabbi Lapin argues against separating business from morality and spirituality, suggesting that secular humanism and socialism fail to recognize the inherent spiritual nature of commerce. He contends that business and religion synergize, as both discourage selfishness and promote a focus on others’ needs. Recognizing the spiritual aspect of business enables individuals to integrate their career with their spiritual life, ensuring that their business practices are morally sound and spiritually aligned. This perspective transforms the pursuit of economic success into an act of emulating divine creativity and fulfilling a broader spiritual purpose.

Faith in the grace of the Holy Spirit enables faithful servanthood and industry on behalf of God. You become a trade-agent of heaven. His concerns become ours. Like Jesus, “being about my Father’s business” (Luke 2:49), the needs of His (other) children is a priority!!! That is how we grow and earn an income!! That is the root cause – earning remuneration integrally for the purpose of helping/meeting the needs of people! Give people His DELIGHT! Every industry infused by the motive of being a blessing of God to people is the very foundation of our existence. All must engage collectively in this godly principle for the goodness of God will follow you – doors will open, favor will be extended, etc.

YOU CANNOT SERVE GOD AND RICHES

“No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or else he will be loyal to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and mammon.” Matthew 6:24

Jesus is the cornerstone not only for our spiritual lives but for the way we conduct our lives from the heart. His “servant-king” authority stems from a motive of loving servanthood, not of “lording” or of oppressive domination (Matt. 20:26). As we obediently and humbly learn from Holy Spirit to serve humanity adequately and dynamically, His grace meets our faith in Him to meet both our needs and that of our neighbour’s. True fulfillment and abundant living (and reward) results in those who diligently seek Him above seeking wealth. What we have sown from His life and guidance will reap fruitfulness and provision in the natural. As we have made Jesus the Lord of our lives, let us resist the lure and temptations of spiritual independence / Mammon.

Happiness Is Not In Money

What makes people truly happy? A very thorough study referenced in the video, “What The Longest-Running Study on Happiness Reveals” and elaborated in the book The Good Life: Lessons from the World’s Longest Study on Happiness by Robert J. Waldinger and Marc Schulz, Ph.D.[3], offers profound insights into the true sources of lifelong happiness. Contrary to popular belief that wealth and material success are key to a fulfilling life, the study concludes that two primary factors contribute to lasting happiness:

  • healthy, meaningful relationships
  • physical health and well-being.

Therefore, this groundbreaking research, which spans several decades, meticulously tracks and analyzes the lives of individuals from varied backgrounds. The study’s longitudinal nature allows for an in-depth understanding of the factors that contribute to a person’s long-term happiness and well-being. One of the most significant findings is the central role of relationships in a person’s life. Relationships that are deep, meaningful, and healthy have a direct and profound impact on overall happiness. These relationships provide emotional support, reduce stress, and contribute to a sense of belonging and purpose.

Physical health and well-being are also identified as crucial to happiness. This encompasses not only the absence of illness but also the presence of good physical habits and routines that maintain the body’s vitality and function. The study suggests that maintaining physical health is not just about longevity but also about enhancing the quality of life and enabling individuals to engage more fully with their environment and relationships.

Interestingly, the study reveals that while money is necessary for basic needs and comfort, it is not a reliable source of long-term happiness. Beyond a certain point, the accumulation of wealth does not significantly contribute to a person’s overall happiness.

The Balance of Prayer / Meditation and Meaningful Work 

We want this happiness of being a blessing in meaningful relationships and vibrant health and living, not to engage in life-destroying war. Therefore, remaining active in God’s business, is His instrument in engaging in His discipleship to become more like Him. That includes a consistent and vibrant prayer life.

Based on a Maamar of the Lubavitch Rebbe, Menachem Mendel Schneerson, it is learned that meditation and prayer, while spiritually transformative, do not match the power of doing business ethically (Padah B’Shalom, 5739). We get transformed when we prayerfully and dependently include God in all endeavors, and in so doing, we also represent Him adequately in character and discipline within the workplace. In South Africa, the social grant system plays a crucial role in supporting a significant portion of the population. As of the latest reports, around 29-million South Africans are beneficiaries of various government grants. These grants include disability payments, child support, and pensions for the elderly, among others. They are designed to provide financial assistance to those in need, particularly individuals and families living below the poverty line.

With only about 7.4-million taxpayers, the country faces a challenging situation. This disparity highlights the ongoing issues of unemployment, economic inequality, and the heavy reliance on a limited taxpayer base to support a large portion of the population. These are mere temporal aids and do not develop and maintain the long-term nation’s dignity and self-worth to embrace becoming employable and to engage entrepreneurial values. You are not on earth to remain a consumer, but to grow and develop into saints who bless.

The Bottom Line: A Culture of Contribution

In a balanced and thriving society, the principle of contribution is key, extending across all age groups. It’s essential for everyone, including children, to engage in activities that contribute to the household and community. For children, this involvement should be age-appropriate and nurturing, focusing on household responsibilities rather than labor. It’s about instilling a sense of responsibility and teamwork, not exploiting their efforts.

Similarly, older adults should be able to stay active in the workforce. Their participation should be tailored to their abilities, ensuring that they can contribute without physical strain or undue stress. This approach respects their experience and wisdom while recognizing their changing capacities.

Embracing a culture of contribution fosters a sense of purpose and belonging for all, enhancing societal cohesion and individual fulfillment. 

Victimhood, Protests and Civil Unrest

These are premised on the notion that someone rich has something to lose. Thus, the imminent threat of destabilization is an effective means to get something from the rich.  The reality in South Africa is, that business is suffering, profits are marginal, and very few are still able to give, which renders protest actions meaningless.

The most effective pathway out of victimhood involves a constructive approach that focuses on skills development, empowerment and personal growth, rather than glorifying or overly sympathizing with the state of being a victim. This process entails guiding individuals towards self-reliance and maturity, equipping them with the skills and confidence needed to stand on their own two feet independently. Additionally, encouraging them to extend help to others not only fosters a sense of community and compassion but also reinforces their own sense of agency and purpose. This holistic approach cultivates resilience, fosters personal development, and transforms the experience of victimhood into an opportunity for growth and positive contribution to society.

“Aid” Versus Discipleship 

Shifting from Aid to Discipleship in Business Support.

While providing aid is crucial for immediate relief, its impact often remains short-term. A more sustainable approach involves moving beyond mere aid to fostering discipleship. Imagine if every robust and healthy business committed to the mentorship of a small entrepreneur, guiding them towards success over a five-year period. A strong business can develop in five years and that model can duplicate into the longevity of the business of many more generations and assist other businesses.

This discipleship model would not only offer the necessary support and resources but also impart valuable skills, knowledge, and strategies for long-term business growth. Such a collaborative effort would empower budding entrepreneurs, leading to a more sustainable and thriving business community.

Becoming a strong business flourishing entity, with an agile and respected army is vital to maintain peace. Former US president, Ronald Reagan, a proponent of this philosophy, famously said, “We maintain the peace through our strength; weakness only invites aggression.” This is why we should all help one another in a biblical, ethically rooted economy of mutuality to accomplish more together. Once we consistently and patiently demonstrate the love of God and people personally experience it, respect and trust are cultivated in the ethic of work.

Greek Word: Pragma (πρᾶγμα)

Pragma is a Greek word that means “thing done,” “fact,” or “matter.” It is sometimes translated as “business” or “affair.” In the context of the Parable of the Minas, it underscores the expectation of the master for his servants to be actively engaged in business or productive activities with the resources entrusted to them.

Multiplying your “talent”: Industriousness and Entrepreneurship

The Parable of the Pounds (not talents) from Luke 19:11-27

This parable is not the parable of the talents but of the pounds. The ten talents was an amount that spanned three months wage. He instructed them to be pragmatic and industrious. They had to multiply that wage to be ten times more successful. The most important lesson from this parable is there is a direct link between the measure of multiplication and the number of cities one can rule. The principle of true authority / discipleship / mentoring is found in Jesus’ teachings.

What if politicians first prove their success in the business world before trying to lead Nations?

According to Elon Musk, the world-famous inventor and philanthropist of revolutionary new ideas, starting a new business, particularly as an entrepreneur, is notoriously difficult. This is why we need to be disciplined, mentored, and supported towards success!

SCRIPTURAL ENCOURAGEMENT for multiplication (not loaning):

Ask the Lord for wisdom to multiply what He has given you without loaning money. Show your faithfulness in this and God will trust you with greater.

  1. Proverbs 31:16: “She considers a field and buys it; out of her earnings she plants a vineyard.”
  2. Proverbs 10:4: “Lazy hands make for poverty, but diligent hands bring wealth.”
  3. Proverbs 14:23: “In all toil there is profit, but mere talk leads only to poverty.”

HIGH-QUALITY WORKMANSHIP (EXCELLENCE):

  1. Exodus 35:31-32: “He has filled him with the Spirit of God, with wisdom, with understanding, with knowledge and with all kinds of skills— to make artistic designs for work in gold, silver and bronze.”
  2. Colossians 3:23: “Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men.”
  3. Proverbs 22:29: “Do you see a man skillful in his work? He will stand before kings; he will not stand before obscure men.”

Two greatest ENEMIES: Greed and Laziness

The less you do, the less you want to do! God has designed industriousness and lbessing for each day of your life – even into your old age.

Laziness disguises itself in greed. If you don’t master the storm on the inside, the storms outside will not subside.

Scripture on Greed

  1. 1 Timothy 6:10: “For the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil. Some people, eager for money, have wandered from the faith and pierced themselves with many griefs.”
  2. Luke 12:15: “Then he said to them, ‘Watch out! Be on your guard against all kinds of greed; life does not consist in an abundance of possessions.'”
  3. Ephesians 5:5: “For of this you can be sure: No immoral, impure or greedy person—such a person is an idolater—has any inheritance in the kingdom of Christ and of God.”
  4. Colossians 3:5: “Put to death, therefore, whatever belongs to your earthly nature: sexual immorality, impurity, lust, evil desires and greed, which is idolatry.”
  5. Proverbs 15:27: “The greedy bring ruin to their households, but the one who hates bribes will live.”
  6. Exodus 20:17: “You shall not covet your neighbor’s house. You shall not covet your neighbor’s wife, or his male or female servant, his ox or donkey, or anything that belongs to your neighbor.”

Scripture on Laziness

  1. Proverbs 13:4: “The soul of the sluggard craves and gets nothing, while the soul of the diligent is richly supplied.”
  2. Proverbs 20:4: Sluggards do not plow in season; so at harvest time they look but find nothing.”
  3. Proverbs 6:6-11: “Go to the ant, you sluggard; consider its ways and be wise! It has no commander, no overseer or ruler, yet it stores its provisions in summer and gathers its food at harvest. How long will you lie there, you sluggard? When will you get up from your sleep? A little sleep, a little slumber, a little folding of the hands to rest— and poverty will come on you like a thief and scarcity like an armed man.”
  4. 2 Thessalonians 3:10: “For even when we were with you, we gave you this rule: ‘The one who is unwilling to work shall not eat.‘”
  5. Proverbs 19:15: Laziness brings on deep sleep, and the shiftless go hungry.”
  6. Ecclesiastes 10:18: “Through laziness, the rafters sag; because of idle hands, the house leaks.
  7. Proverbs 12:24: “Diligent hands will rule, but laziness ends in forced labor.”

Reinforce your focus on the resurrection and creative life of Jesus within – seeking His kingdom and righteousness as a priority. Forsake and let go of all worry, fear, anxiety and the need to control your life. He promised that as you decide on His resurrection life and new vision, all your needs will be met (Matt. 6:33) as you are a blessing to your home and community. It is not about your agenda, but your surrender to Him to be about your Father’s business. He partners with us through our faith in Him to fulfill the destiny He designed for our lives. Your life is important and matters about God – what He has written, or purposed for your life, He will fulfill.

Your eyes saw my substance, being yet unformed.
And in Your book they all were written,
The days fashioned for me,
When as yet there were none of them.
(Psalm 139:16 NKJV)

“being confident of this very thing, that He who has begun a good work in you will complete it until the day of Jesus Christ.” Philippians 1:6

I am thankful for each believer, each child of God in our ministry who has offered their work as worship to God. In so doing, God receives all the glory through our lives surrendered to the Holy Spirit.

Take your stand in the place He has ordained for you in the army of God to be an unashamed worker whose life is based upon His Word and the Spirit’s guidance. Believe for His business ideas, the right employees, the right work opportunities and the right employers. We take the righteousness of God as a grace gift that enables us to continue be a blessing to people around us.

Let us continue to pray for one another and to share our testimonies as God answers our prayers to be blessed to be a blessing.


[1] https://youtu.be/GHdwKl1a1mg Ben Shapiro famous Conservative Celebrates Milei’s appointment.

[2] https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2023/aug/09/americans-conservative-obama-trump-joe-biden

[3] https://the-good-life-book.com

Categories
Social Relevance

Towards Biblical solutions for restoring a God honouring Heaven-Kingdom Economy.

The ultimate test of any religion, ideology or worldview is the benefits it ultimately brings to the poor, the marginalized and oppressed.  If we say we are Christians, we have to take poverty seriously.

But if anyone has the world’s goods and sees his brother in need, yet closes his heart against him, how does God’s love abide in him? [1]

Although poverty in its many forms has been with us for ages, over-population and ensuing unemployment is becoming the prevalent crisis of the decade. The underlying question to more and more people, even those having a job is: How does one earn a living? Or bluntly said: “How does one make enough money?” Enough? What is enough? According to the bible enough are food, shelter and clothing? (Mat 6:25; 1 Tim 6:8) In a consumer-based driven economy, enough is never enough.  Tech companies have found a way to make cell-phones, tv’s and computers consumables. With a rapidly growing and consistently younger population, the employment question is central to the enquiring mind. How will I ever make it, if my parents or no one I know isn’t even making it? Crime, theft, extortion, corruption, prostitution, sex-trafficking, gangsterism is for many the only sensible path to earn a living.  The achievement of a superior qualification does not guarantee employment or better earnings anymore. 

Dr. Ruben Richards, relates a moving story of while mediating peace talks in Lavender Hill notorious gang-war stricken area, he took a short break and saw a 9-year-old youngster patiently waiting for someone who was in the negotiating room. Making small talk Ruben asked the boy: “So, what do you want to be when you grow up one day,” Without blinking and with a sense of pride and confidence the 9-year-old said, “I want to be just like my daddy, a gangster!” That daddy happened to be one of the most notorious gang leaders in the room.[2] There are many people particularly children and women trapped in a destructive way of earning a living! Similarly, some businesses are keeping people poor, to ensure a constant workforce.  

How NOT to earn a LIVING. 

The bible is implicit regarding its warnings about how to not earn a living!  

Purposeless Toil (Prov. 23:4); lies (Prov. 21:6); interest to family members (Exo 22:25; Deut. 23:19); dishonest gain (Eze 22:13); ponzi & pyramid marketing schemes[3]; fraud, over-promise-under-deliver; slavery & oppression of the poor (Prov. 22:16); unjust scales (Prov. 11:1); quick-profit (Prov. 13:11); default on payments (Ps 37:21; Rom 13:7); passive income (2 Thes. 3:10); extortion & bribes (Luk. 3:14); violence (Prov. 1:19). 

Why do we have to pay taxes?

Generally: How do governments make money? Taxes, natural resources, tourism and investments? Oliver Wendell Holmes, former Justice of the United States Supreme Court, said, “Taxes are what we pay for a civilized society.” This phrase is engraved on the IRS headquarters building in the US. But like man, governments have also found unjust ways to abstract more money from its citizens, without delivering on it’s civil, safety, security, infrastructure promises. 

When God saw that the wickedness of man was great in the earth, and that every intent of the thoughts of his heart was only evil continually. (Gen 6:5) He sends the flood as a punishment.  Only one family was saved: Noah and his 3 sons. Thereafter God added another divine instruction to man: “Whoever sheds man’s blood, By man his blood shall be shed; For in the image of God He made man.” God was saying that He will never judge the earth again like this. Per definition, God gives this role now to human government. This is rearticulated again in the NT: Therefore submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord’s sake, whether to the king as supreme, 14 or to governors, as to those who are sent by him for the punishment of evildoers and for the praise of those who do good. (1 Pet 2:13-14) Even Jesus acknowledged the role of government: “Render therefore to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s, and to God the things that are God’s.” (Mat 22:21) That be it, an evil, godless, secular, government that later murdered Jesus, innocently, and persecuted Christians.  But the Government’s role is clear: They are God’s agent on earth to punish, evildoers. People who selfishly has no regard for the safety, well-being and progress of the community. 

Many governments are wedged into a destructive, systemic misappropriation of funds, and fail to fulfil their primary divine mandate. In the South African context Dr Nthabiseng Moleko summarises her experience in the Public Sector: 

In my short life, I served in the public sector and I saw many things, but perhaps the most disheartening was the conduct of many of our leaders. I focus on the public sector, which does not hold the monopoly on corruption, deception, nepotism and the like, despite what our papers seem to want us to believe. I focus on them as they hold the key to changing the lives of the poorest of the poor, the oppressed, the most vulnerable in our society as they are mandated to. The private sector has a significant role to play in this regard, but it rapidly diminishes when one starts coining words such as “shareholder value” and “profit”. As I worked in the public sector, I began to see in different instances why the poor were not receiving the support they needed. It was because of people who either refused to do their work, those who wanted to block others from doing their work, or simply because those tasked with doing the work simply did not know how to do their work. Then of course there are those who make it their work to take and loot the money intended to actually do work targeted at the poor.[4]

Our president has been courageously fighting to keep our Country unified to over-come the COVID 19 pandemic, but if he is not going to punish corruption of funds intended for COVID 19 relief immediately, harshly, and decisively people are finally losing all trust in Government tipping the Country into self-regulated anarchy! Inefficiency, laziness, entitlement as a result of nepotism, carder-deployment and political social-tax robs from taxpayer’s money to feed their own greed has to be punished harshly because it is treason against humanity.  

During the Mediation Foundation for Peace and Justice[5] conference at the Cape Castle for the restoration of land and the dignity of the people under the leadership of Alan Nelson the 18/8/2018 keynote speaker Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng reminded participants that corruption is not only a government practise, the private sector has also been inundated by corruption scandals.[6] Corporate corruption, including deliberate bankruptcy, thin capitalization, illicit financial flows, transfer (mis)pricing, trade mispricing, jurisdiction shopping, and tax evasion.[7]

How do the righteous earn money? 

Is what every believer should ask and fulfil in the fear of the Lord in their lifetime.  According to Rabbi Daniel Lapin: 

The business professional also must value his employees as well, for they are his most valuable asset. He must attend to their welfare. Recognizing them as spiritual beings with their own divine aspirations, he must not only endeavour to compensate them fairly but also help them find transcendent meaning in their work. Ancient Jewish wisdom prohibits an employer from instructing his worker to perform meaningless work. For example, he may not hire the worker to dig a hole one day, fill it the next, and thereafter repeatedly dig and refill it. This prohibition applies no matter how generous the pay maybe, because it leaves the worker with no sense of accomplishment, and therefore, no sense of the value of his contribution. [8]

Mankind had to work before work was cursed as punishment for their sin; subduing, tending, keeping and naming creation. (Gen 1:28; 2:15, 19) Work is thus supposed to be a blessing. Also, one is exhorted to find satisfaction in their own toil (Eccl 2:24; 3:13) raising up someone to steward it for the next generation to not see it going to waste. (Eccl 2:17-26) God is elated to see us prosper! “Let the LORD be magnified, Who has pleasure in the prosperity of His servant.” (Psalms 35:27) Righteous Work is the greatest remedy available for both mental and physical afflictions.” [9]

The role of agriculture. 

God’s provision to man is on the earth. Food, clothing, housing is found in nature. Gardening, and agriculture is the first profession of mankind.  (Gen 4) 

From the Agricultural Thinktank perspective: How do farmers make money? They plant something of value, mitigate the VUKA[10] risks factors: climate change, soil degradation; droughts, diseases, labour, the threat of EWC and land invasions, making debt to produce enough healthy, desirable, nutritious food and sell it to the highest bidder. It is a huge accomplishment to get the product to the gate: but then the financially successful farmer has to battle sufficient off-take: On average, a farmer gets only 15% of the retail price from white bread, bulk wine farmer 7%, a citrus farmer 9%.[11] For the farmer to compete in the narrow shelf-space available in the retail-driven single-channel market system, he has to comply with strict food-safety, traceability, consistency, and scale requirements. Most do not comply hence the decline in single-owned farm units, and the rise of industrial farms.  

Since 1996 the number of commercial farming units dropped from 60 900 to 39 900 in 2007. Of the current total, only 1.5 per cent (673) of commercial farms account for a third of total gross commercial farm income. In the food retail sector, the market share of the major retail chains has risen from below 10% in the late 1980s to around 68% in 2012. [12]

The Census of Commercial Agriculture report indicates that the total number of farms/ farming units in 2017 was 40 122. The total income for the commercial agriculture industry in 2017 was R332,8 billion, which was significantly higher than the R85,9 billion recorded for 2007. [13]

The conclusion is that bigger industrial commercial farms produced significantly more than small-scale and commercial farms with fewer people employed but generally paying better wages, and providing social-support infrastructure. According to Scott Drimie, director of the Southern Africa Food Lab and associate professor of Health Sciences at Stellenbosch, 100 commercial farmers produce about 90% of all of South Africa’s food.[14] The rest of the farming community are struggling and hence does not have enough funds left to do much social development. Agriculture is also the only sector that is required to provide housing, and social care to its workers, understandable the low wages paid. On the other hand, the employment offer is for the lowest expertise. The Developmental Bank of Southern Africa (DBSA) reveals that as little as 673 farms had a turnover of more than R10 million or an average of R17 850 283.[15]

The RICH and POOR Gap. 

South Africa is burdened with a huge wealth-poverty gap. (Gini coefficient 2014-63.0)[16] The biggest portion of our population does not have access to the most basic services, water, sanitation, electricity, quality education and frightening complete social degradation. According to Stats SA, 2,193,96 South African households live in informal settlements – 13% of the country’s population. 

Furthermore, the deepest disparity is the question of unequal wages and salaries. What are the Biblical justice and the ethically right way to think and act? Some suggest a national bench-marking salary standard, measured on several output measures. 

But does higher wages necessary lead to bigger sharing and giving? In the African context, many workers annually deposit money into homeland accounts.  The total volume of domestic remittances is estimated to be between $11 billion and $13 billion, equivalent to 4% of GDP. [17]

The white minority capital argument led to a juxtaposed form of racism criminalizing wealth and white-owned business enterprise.  Pinning a collective sin to a singular culture-ethnic group is dangerous, as evidenced when the Soviet campaign of political repressions, including arrests, deportations, and executions of millions of kulaks (prosperous peasants) and their families in the 1929–1932 period.[18] Or the Hutu genocide of the Tutsi in Rwanda 1994. [19] How does one peacefully get the better earners to voluntary share their wealth?

Wages in the agricultural context is complex due to the huge number of low-qualified human hands needed in the fruit-picking sector. Currently, labour represents about 7.65% of total production cost on an average grain producing farm, compared to a 34% average on an apple and pear farm[20] The narrow profit margin of these industrial enterprises does not give much space to truly give a more equal wage, given the amount of skill and responsibility disparity between a general fruit picker and the CEO of a multi-national company? The inconsistency, unreliability, and problems associated with human labour has led to an overall automatization in the sector.[21] The question of labour in the agricultural sector is at the core of the negative sentiment against it. Agriculturalists are seen by many as the enslavers and abusers of the poor.  Agriculturists may however become the national hero’s as several analysts have noted the potential of agriculture to generate one million job opportunities focusing on winning industries, and available arable land.[22]

Sharing willingly or taken by force? 

Until this happens, the labour question deepens in a totally unequal society with dual economies: Why do those who have not share with the have nots? According to the Department of Social Development, there are currently 220000 NGO’s and community-based organisations registered.  These NGO’s rely on government but also private corporate CSI funding to survive.  There is hence a lot of sharing already going on! 

Sharing is also a highly personal activity, located towards one’s own family, or church.  It is most likely that sharing has not been reaching the right people.  At Pentecost sharing, and consequent fulfilment of Jubilee happened willingly, from the heart! Voluntary sharing is one of the first fruits of revival and participants of the Jesus movement. (Acts 2:44-45; 4:32)

But not all giving has helped the poor. Dambisa Moyo argues convincingly that foreign aid feeds corruption, debasing social and human capital.  “Aid has been, and continues to be, an unmitigated political, economic, and humanitarian disaster for most parts of the developing world.” [23]

Sharing resources without someone taking responsibility, utilising the given resources to improve their income and earnings is water down the drain.  The biblical way of eradicating poverty – is a matter of personal responsibility. The farmer leaves portions of his harvest, the poor pick it up themselves. Everyone must share, and everyone must work! (Lev 19:10; 23:22) 

Economy of mutuality and inclusion

Over and above the economic reality of the cost of wages Henry Hazlitt reveals that economics and ethics are, in fact, intimately related. Both are concerned with human action, human conduct, human decision, human choice. There is hardly an ethical problem, in fact, without its economic aspect. Our daily ethical decisions are in the main economic decisions, and nearly all our daily economic decisions have, in turn, an ethical aspect.[24] Thus there is a need for a Biblical Consensus on the tenets of redemptive entrepreneurship. This is what “ethical trade[25]” and the “International Christian Chamber of commerce” institutions try to achieve, Christians who do ethical business. Moreover, Christians that see their occupations as a redemptive purpose! 

Dale Partridge shows in his book, People Over Profit, that short-term profit gain, at the cost of the people, eventually lead to long-term decline. History has proven that all lasting commerce is born from a dedication to high character, high quality and high customer loyalty. [26] Roche & Mayer started a collaborative research program between Oxford University and Mars to study the current capitalist system of increasing worldwide inequality, presenting a new model of ‘economics of mutuality’. 

Our view is that we may soon need a new, more mutually beneficial and more complete form of capitalism that holistically optimizes value for all three inputs—the people, the planet, the financial capital—to reform the current system of financial capitalism that may one day collapse.[27]

Helmut Gollwitzer a concerned pastor, theologian and thinker known as a democratic socialist debated that regardless of our Christian political biases; we need to strive toward a social togetherness – “perfect togetherness without any conflict.” [28] This local community togetherness and economic justice cannot be achieved politically, culturally, economically or legislatively! This task lays at the Church community’s feet. To disciple the “ethos” where we reside and beyond. (Mat 28:19)

Those who are in Christ Jesus already have the solution! 

Building Bridges, Repairers of the breach! 

God has already moved and provided a Kingdom-based Non-Babylonian Economic Re-Generative Strategy. 

A bridge-building movement is emerging in SA, as a counter-measure against increasingly populist, racist, and dividing rhetoric from some political leaders and groups. The bridge builder initiatives were sparked informally and spontaneously on many fronts throughout the country. Like the Bela-Bela solution-based farmers conference held in Limpopo, 23-24 August 2018.   48 Speakers from various backgrounds, positions, and sectors came to showcase solutions and existing stories of hope in Agriculture. Since the Bela-Bela Land summit others were held at Komga Farmers Union, 29 October 2018, East London.   A Christ-centred Land summit was held in Sandton, Gauteng, February 28-1 March 2019, with a follow up in Middelburg EC, 20-21 May 2019, and 24 October 2019 in Paarl. All these LandSummits were intended as Bridge-building initiatives to develop and restore trust by showcasing stories of hope!

The Christ-centred focus is not geared to enforce religious exclusivity, or proselytism. The values that Jesus Christ portrayed, and so many South Africans from all backgrounds and race worship and adhere to, is seen as ‘n unifier.  Hence people abandoning their religious denominations and divisive doctrinal differences, to unify and rebuild the social fibre so critically needed for strong social cohesion is based on the person and example of Jesus Christ. 

It was forthcoming, that many of the stories and models showcased at the Landbou Weekblad Bela Bela event, had a strong personal faith in the person of Jesus Christ as their source and motivation.  The organizers of the two Christian Land Summits, thus viewed the shared Christ-centred values as a method to fast-track bridge-building of new cross-cultural relationships vital to the transformation of agriculture.[29]  It should also be noted, that although these values were the backbone of all the dialogue during these summits, the focus was healthy ‘Christ-centred’ relationships and not formalized religion.  The Jesus-narrative provides sufficient foundations and commonality to foster healthy relationships, and eventually sustainable projects. This is an important point to consider as many good projects failed due to corruption: the lack of intrinsic moral practically out-lived values.  

The issue of “the right heart” is elucidated when people truly surrender their heart to Jesus. As Analize Crosby AGRISA policy analyst explains: “The personal cost of sharing is too high to enforce it by law or war, it has to come from the heart.”[30]

This question of trust and equality is disentangled within the Christ-centred narrative.  Various autonomous role-players naturally gravitated towards one-another, without any traces of the obstacles and hindrances of prideful superiority.  Former Zimbabwean Farmer Boet Pretorius , who was one of the first farmers to lose his farm in Zimbabwe; puts it succinctly: “until you love God first, then your people, you will not rule or keep your land”. This was also the conclusion of the first Land Summit: 

Aid amplifies ‘god’ complexes and strengthens inferiority complexes. The question was asked: “Who are the poor?” The Christ-centred perspective is: 

•          Poor relationship with God – Poverty of Intimacy

•          Poor relationship with myself – Poverty of Being

•          Poor relationship with family – Poverty of Trust

•          Poor relationship with community – Poverty of Security

•          Poor relationship with Creation- Poverty of Stewardship 

Thus, all mankind is considered poor, and in need of healthy relationships. From this point of view, a more natural and equal base is established to build relationships of trust.

TENET 1: CHRIST-CENTRED REVIVAL 

Christocentric, spirit-filled believers already have a sense of ‘togetherness’ not achieved through any human effort. Currently, there is a movement growing all across the country as streams of biblical, kingdom-purposed-faith-based individuals, churches and NGO’s are seeking the lowest point of departure. True humble, meek, and ego-less spiritual fathers (Isa 33:21) are calling the church into action: to again become the most attractive religion that toppled the mighty roman empire to convert to the ideals and values of a revolutionary Jewish artisan from Galilea. Even the World Economic Forum calls for a new social covenant where trusted local father figures re-align local societies to an equitable, mutual-responsibility, human-dignity focused common good. [31]

  1. The Christian Church grew most rapidly in the 300 years. (Stark 1997:161–162; Hirsch, 2006:18-22; Viola & Barna 2008:246–250) 
  2. The Christian Church became the State Religion because of its exemplary demonstration of intrinsic critical values: great acts of mercy and kindness • mutual support and love • self-control • respect for life • To do good to each other. • Avoid evil such as theft, deceit and jealousy. • Show hospitality to strangers. • Take care of each other and share their food with each other. • Prove mercy toward all people. • Conduct care and nursing of the sick. • Households testify to dignity, personal responsibility, honesty and obedience. • Ethnic variety is accepted. • Women, children and slaves are treated with respect. • Respect for life prevents abortion and childhood murder. • Martyrdom and the willingness to ‘ take up your cross ‘ (see Mark. 8) [32]
  3. Apostolic travelling teams mentored, taught, and held churches accountable to these values resulting in the writing of the NT. 
  4. The member’s active involvement of doing the work of the ministry, filled with the Holy Spirit, modelled on the example of Jesus and the apostles created a missional culture of mature believers living the gospel.  Their redemptive works were proof of their accuracy, not doctrinal documents. 

TENET 2 Asset Based Community Development.

Various Christian entities have already been strategically moved into place to change the Social-profile source document. We cannot achieve solutions, and togetherness if we are not working from the same source documents. There is currently no consensus regarding the Government’s land audit, and the suggestion is to rather profile the community than the country. Prof. de Wet Schutte with the Unisearch Program uses diversified Focus group prioritizing of needs analyses.[33]Johan Olivier (Ranyaka) follows a more town-planning, architectural-infrastructure-mapping approach.[34] Asset-Based Community Development’s premise is that communities can drive the development process themselves by identifying and mobilizing existing, but often unrecognised assets.[35] Currently, Prof. Deon Pretorius has created an Online application to do a statsSA community Profile so that the correct figures can be given to all the Government Departments: Human Settlement, Education, health, rural development, Social Development, and Agriculture. 

TENET 3 Morpho-genetic Social Developmental Approach.

The more we explore the significant challenges of our time, the more we are coming to realize that they cannot be understood as being isolated from each other. There is no single solution to the complexity of the challenges we face. [36]

From a Biblical Community Developmental perspective of how God made a nation of a bunch of slaves, it is understood that God’s way of restoration begins with a father, in a specific location, who through his obedience creates a new family, extended family, culture and nation.  This approach provides an explanation and strategy for development based on the complex interplay between contexts and people acting in contexts. Each community basically takes ownership of their own challenges through a Christ-centered-value-driven, non-partisan, pluralistic, multisector, pragmatic approach that begins to build local capacity, to achieve the common good of everyone in the community. In most instances a dramatic negative like the SundayRiverValley[37], Harrismith[38], and uprisings, gives way to a radical peaceful collaborative when the right people take lead.  

TENET 4 Funding of God-inspired initiatives. 

An army is as strong as it’s supply-chain. If we cannot get the resources to the troops on the front-line, we will lose the battle.  A great protest was mounted by the people, including the wives, against their fellow Jews. Some said, “We have big families, and we need food just to survive.” Others said, “We’re having to mortgage our fields and vineyards and homes to get enough grain to keep from starving.” And others said, “We’re having to borrow money to pay the royal tax on our fields and vineyards. Look: We’re the same flesh and blood as our brothers here; our children are just as good as theirs. Yet here we are having to sell our children off as slaves—some of our daughters have already been sold—and we can’t do anything about it because our fields and vineyards are owned by somebody else.” [39] Nehemia could not finish the wall until economic restitution had taken place. Simply put: the funds are not getting to the right people! Through nepotism, carder-deployment, racial-preference, and BBEEE white farmers are seen as the enemy (privileged), while many of these farmers held the solution-key to mutual economic growth. By means of the AMOS[40] network of farmers who have already proven their Christ-centred heart and passion, who have already made enormous financial contributions to restoration and healing, there are already plans/businesses/projects that are waiting for FUNDING. Hennie Viljoen proposed an “everyone must give approach”[41] Mines, banks, supply and value-chain, government, and the farmers all give a portion towards an equitable, profitable, right-partnership farming enterprise.  He who increases his wealth by interest and usury gathers it for him who is gracious to the poor. (Prov 28:8) 

TENET 5 The Fruitful village. 

How does a community/town/village/city look when God’s Kingdom has come? Although God’s Kingdom is in part an eternal future expectation, there is a part that needs to be established by His church here and now. (Luk 17:21; Mat 10:7) Eventually, all these father-family-faith-based projects begin to heal and restore communities by doing/executing/demonstrating Peace & Love solutions locally and hence gaining influence in Government, Health, Education, Law-enforcement and Business sectors.  

The Kingdom expands through Christ gaining territory in hearts through deep discipleship-based relationships.  Sin is the destruction and disruption of relationships: hate, offence, jealousy, pride, sloth, laziness, entitlement, deceit destroys relationships and family. God’s Kingdom is restored when relationships/community/family is restored. 

The relational process takes time, it is a long-term generational process.  

It is said that: “Throughout human history, most people live and die in the social class into which they were born. We cannot bring change to the individual if we do not affect the culture.” The best way to transform a culture is through raising healthy children, within a healthy extended family, the Church. “it takes a village to raise a child” or “it takes a church to raise a village”[42]

If we ever want to change communities, it begins at the ECD level.  Early childhood is a period of tremendous growth. Extending from conception to the age of 6, early childhood experiences carve out pathways towards health and well-being that persist throughout life. Supporting early childhood development, especially for the most vulnerable children, requires coordinated action to ensure health care, adequate nutrition, quality education, support for parents and protection of children’s rights.  But we need a new-employment-outcome-based kind of education. Children do not only need knowledge, but they also need skills, root skills in terms of character development, and technical production/entrepreneurial kind of skills that will give them a trade when they leave school not a certificate on paper.  

May your kingdom come and will be done here on earth as it is in heaven!


[1] 1 John 3:17 ESV

[2] https://discoversociety.org/2020/08/05/on-the-frontline-blood-in-blood-out-can-art-change-gangsterism/

[3] https://www.crown.org/blog/are-multi-level-marketing-companies-a-good-idea-for-christians/

[4] Moleko, N., 2017. Been Chasing Destiny. 1st ed. South Africa: Ngezandla Publishing, p.562.

[5] http://peaceandjustice.co.za

[6] https://www.janenchantal.com/report-of-the-restoration-of-land-and-the-dignity-of-the-people-conference-in-the-cape-of-good-hope-castle/

[7] Bracking A qualitative reframing of private sector corruption Considerations from the natural resource sectors in South., 2020. Anti- Corruption Resource Centre U4, [online] August 2013 No 7(U4 Issue), p.2. Available at: <https://www.u4.no/publications/a-qualitative-reframing-of-private-sector-corruption-considerations-from-the-natural-resource-sectors-in-south-africa.pdf> [Accessed 13 August 2020].

[8] Lapin, R., 2014. Business Secrets From The Bible: Spiritual Success Strategies For Financial. 1st ed. New Jersey: John Wiley & Sons, p.33.

[9] The Forbes Scrapbook of Thoughts on the Business of Life, New York: Forbes Inc., 1968, p. 427.)

[10] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Volatility,_uncertainty,_complexity_and_ambiguity

[11] http://www.grainsa.co.za/what-is-a-wheat-producer-s-percentage-share-of-retail-white-bread (retrieved August 2018) 

[12] Bernstein, Henry. (2013). Commercial Agriculture in South Africa since 1994: ‘Natural, Simply Capitalism’. Journal of Agrarian Change. 13. 10.1111/joac.12011.

[13] http://www.statssa.gov.za/?p=13144

[14] http://www.702.co.za/articles/2138/how-south-africa-can-keep-on-producing-enough-food-for-everyone (Retrieved 31 December 2017) 

[15] Statistics South Africa, 2005. Census of commercial agriculture, 2002. Pretoria, StatsSA.


[16] https://data.worldbank.org/indicator/SI.POV.GINI?locations=ZA

[17] https://www.technoserve.org/wp-content/uploads/2016/11/South-Africa-domestic-remittances-report.pdf

[18] https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dekulakization

[19] Kinzer, S., 2010. A Thousand Hills. New York, NY: John Wiley & Sons.

[20] Saayman, Lehanri &  Middelberg Sanlie. The Effect Of Higher Wages On Production Cost And Mechanization: A South African Maize Sector Study. The Journal of Applied Business Research – March/April 2014 Volume 30, Number 2 https://pdfs.semanticscholar.org/14e9/b6dc7d78af29c2340b041d01dba3ff2717f8.pdf

[21] Le roux, Daniel. Autmotion and employment: the case of South Africa. 2018. http://suinformatics.com/wp-content/uploads/2018/06/automation-employment-case-1.pdf

[22] Meyer, F., 2012. FARM SECTORAL DETERMINATION: AN ANALYSIS OF AGRICULTURAL WAGES IN SOUTH AFRICA. BFAP December 2012, [online] Available at: <https://www.hopcal.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2018/04/article_files_61_bfap-farm-sector-determination-report-draft-17-dec.pdf> [Accessed 13 August 2020].

[23] Moyo, D., 2014. Dead Aid. Haffmans & Tolkemitt.

[24] http://jpatton.bellevue.edu/biblical_economics/morality-economics.html

[25] https://www.ethicaltrade.org

[26] Partridge. Dale, People over Profit, Thomas Nelson, 2015 

[27] Roche, B. and Jakub, J., 2017. Completing Capitalism. 1st ed. Oakland, CA 94612-1921: Berrett-Koehler Publishers, Inc.

[28] See Gollwitzer,  Protestant Theology  : 191 –  2. Gollwitzer draws very briefly here on the imagery found in Mi 4.3f, Zec 3.10, and Rom 14.17.

[29] https://landsummit.co.za/14-models-2019/

[30] https://landsummit.co.za/the-heart-of-the-law-and-the-law-of-the-heart/

[31] http://www3.weforum.org/docs/WEF_GAC_NewSocialCovenant_Report_2014.pdf

[32] Dreyer, W., 2011. Praktiese Ekklesiologie En Bedieningspraktyk Met Verwysing Na Die Nederduitsch Hervormde Kerk Van Afrika (Afrikaans).

[33] http://www.unisearch.co.za

[34] https://ranyaka.co.za

[35] https://www.nurturedevelopment.org/asset-based-community-development/

[36] Friesen J. Dwight. Thy Kingdom Connected (ēmersion: Emergent Village resources for communities of faith): What the Church Can Learn from Facebook, the Internet, and Other Networks” 

[37] https://herald.pressreader.com/@Deon_Pretorius.2/csb_ik_tdjif_gzuXh-IDPUy-_sjz7BnQdPRXsLmbL9DXMD4a-I1o5UKqkbPAccX08wa

[38] https://www.goodthingsguy.com/people/sam-twala-fixing-problems

[39] Eugene H. Peterson, The Message: The Bible in Contemporary Language, (Colorado Springs, CO: NavPress, 2005), Ne 5:1–5.

[40] https://amosafrica.net

[41] https://landsummit.co.za/wp-content/uploads/2019/03/2019-February-28-Land-Summit-Everyone-must-give.docx.pdf

[42] Mitchell, M., 2001. It Takes A Church To Raise A Village. Shippensburg, PA: Treasure House.