The Church’s Proper Attitude in Responding to Disasters From a Biblical Perspective

• Main Author: Lee, Hyunjoo
• Format: Dissertation
• Language: Korean
• Published: ProQuest Dissertations & Theses 01-01-2023
• Subjects: Biblical studies; Religion; Theology
• ISBN: 9798381427554

The purpose of this dissertation is to research and propose ways for churches to be spiritually prepared and appropriately respond to future disasters through a correct biblical understanding of disasters. Due to its inadequate response to the COVID-19 pandemic, the church's reputation has been damaged across society. The rapid spread of infectious diseases not only paralyzed society but also incapacitated the church's public role. The church must possess the spirituality to overcome and triumph over any impending disasters that may arise. Otherwise, it will be unable to fulfill its role as the light and salt of the world, as was the case during the COVID-19 pandemic. Through this research, the author hopes that the church will not repeat the same mistakes in future disasters.Based on these objectives this dissertation is divided into four main chapters. In Chapter I, titled "Ministry Need" the author identifies the areas where the church failed to respond appropriately to the disaster caused by COVID-19 and emphasizes the need for wise and effective responses and preparedness for future disasters. Chapter II, "Survey of Literatures" explores various resources to help the church respond correctly and systematically to disasters. It seeks to find relevant materials that interpret disasters and provide practical guidance for the church's disaster response. In Chapter III, "Biblical and Theological Foundation" the paper clarifies the definition of disasters according to the Bible and highlights that disasters are not only God's judgment on humanity but also a means to urge repentance through His loving tools. The church should ultimately hope for the restoration of God's kingdom after a disaster and respond specifically to future disasters with the right biblical values.Chapter IV, "Publication Proposal," briefly introduces the author's plan to publish this paper through POD (Publish On Demand) and provides an overview of the book to be published.The "Book Sample" consists of three chapters. In Chapter 1, it presents the definition and correct understanding of disasters as described in the Bible, along with the basis for repentance and the restoration of God's kingdom through disasters. Chapter 2 proposes aspects in which the church needs to return to its essence for spiritual training to overcome disasters and disaster responses. Chapter 3 discusses practical preparations that the church should make for disaster response in the post-COVID-19 era, including cooperative collaboration among churches, the restoration of public engagement, digital networks, household churches, and mission strategies.