Why the Poor? Why the City?

by ed. by Mark Kramer

Jesus said that

The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring good news to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim release to the captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, to proclaim the year of the Lord's favor.
(Luke 4:18,19)

God's Word tells us much about the poor and about the city, but unless we study it faithfully, we'll be of little use as God's people in the world. Read the articles and Bible studies below to understand more of God's heart for urban justice.

Toward a Balanced Theology
Why Care At All About the Poor?
by Scott Bessenecker

Focus on the Poor: Their Plight
An excerpt from an intriguing 2100 Productions video originally presented at Urbana 93.

Focus on the Poor: God's Compassion
A second excerpt from a 2100 Productions video from Urbana 93.

Focus on the Poor: Video Study Guide
First watch the videos above. Then use these questions to respond and gain a deeper understanding of the issues presented.

Nurturing the Spirit to Serve
An Interview with Pastor Bill Hybels, Willow Creek Community Church

God's Concern for the City:
A Bible Study Series

An Introduction: God's Concern for Cities

The City of God
Revelation 21:1-22:5

Relating Crossculturally
Acts 6-7

Accepting Those Who Are Different
Acts 10:1-48

The Plight of the Poor
Amos 3-6

Christian Living in a Non-Christian World
Daniel 1, 6

Return to the Global Urban Missions feature.