Biblical Holism and Agriculture

by David J. Evans, Ronald J. Vos, and Keith P. Wright.

Someone dropped the “W” from wholism. Those ministering in development-related work now find a new word in their vocabulary: “holism.” What motivated this change? What does it mean for those in development-related work?

William Carey Library, P.O. Box 40129, Pasadena, CA 91114, 2003, 299 pages, $14.99.

—Reviewed by Ross D. Beach, executive director, DevCorps International, Mason, Michigan.

Someone dropped the “W” from wholism. Those ministering in development-related work now find a new word in their vocabulary: “holism.” What motivated this change? What does it mean for those in development-related work?

“Holistic” development workers are focused upon the integration of an individual’s physical and spiritual needs. This book is an explanation of what this means and why it is important. The book uses multiple biblical references to accent the importance of an integrated approach versus the concept that primarily addresses the physical aspects of population. A ministry that primarily focuses upon the physical needs of an individual is referred to as “wholistic” in nature. The “wholistic” approach felt that populations could be changed for the better if the physical needs could be provided.

This book is overdue, shedding light on what has been happening in agriculturally-based community development during the past twenty years. The editors have prepared a compilation of thirteen presentations given at an international conference on Biblical Holism and Agriculture held May 2002 at Dordt College, Sioux City, Iowa. Each chapter includes numerous biblical references, frequent applications from credible field experiences, and expands upon the concept of biblical holism. As a result, the reader gains insight into the integration of agriculture development and God’s revelation for his creation.

A synopsis of the book is apparent in the seven major themes that bind the presentations into an overview of biblical holism. The themes include God’s mandates, the relationships between the agriculturalist and humanity, God’s creation, knowledge, purpose, ethics and economics. These themes are based upon the perspective and value-system in God’s word. They lay the foundation for and define the overall purpose of the holistic development approach.

Readers will find the topics current and thought provoking. Some might also find them a bit tedious at times. Better coordination of themes and scriptural references would have enhanced the book. The vocabulary usage (i.e. sustainability, stewardship, creation, redemption and secularism) reveals the concerns addressed by the authors. Some policy recommendations require deeper reflection and study before being implemented by practitioners. Readers will need to sort the generalities and carefully process them before accepting them as valid.

This book is a valuable tool for practitioners of agricultural ministry or related community development work. The presentations provide insightful information regarding world value-systems and government policies. If you have an interest in applying God’s word to your vision for community development, do not leave home without first reading this book.

Check these titles:
Steward, John. 1994. Biblical Holism: Where God, People and Deeds Connect. Burwood, Australia: World Vision of Australia.

Myers, Bryant L. 1999. Walking with the Poor: Principles and Practices of Transformational Development. Maryknoll, New York: Orbis Books.

Copyright © 2004 Evangelism and Missions Information Service (EMIS). All rights reserved. Not to be reproduced or copied in any form without written permission from EMIS.

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