Transformation and development of human society : a homiletical pastoral perspective

Abstract

This dissertation investigates the Preacher and his/her homiletic contribution to transformation, development and healing of human society. Descartes (1596-1650) is the father of modern thinking. A fragmented approach to life, which he accentuated reason above all other aspects of human endevour, thus derived the dichotomy that emphasizes the material and despises the spiritual as metaphysical. It appears that from this thinking, the preacher has been bombarded with misperceptions and misconceptions when confronted with the transformation, development and therapeutic issues of this modern; if not post modern era. The modern Church is not free of blame for enforcing this approach that sidelines the Preacher from his full balanced mandate that is God given, namely: work it and care for it. Meaning transform the earth for the better and heal it as a divine decree with a bearing of preparing people for the hereafter. The Preacher is crucial and pivotal to society’s transformation, development and the healing of the human condition, which is bedevilled by many natural and unnatural maladies that constantly challenge life as God ordained it. A holistic approach of the Preacher and his/her homilies is critical and is an important contribution to the unlocking, unfolding, releasing and unleashing of the hidden potential which can heal human society. This dissertation proposes the need for change /shift of mindset in order to embrace progress and healing of humans; as this is a very human phenomenon with transcendent help. This need is observed in the homilies that are preached in the rural villages; which lack balance in the holistic approach. The homilies of Billy Graham, Martyn Lloyd-Jones and ancient John Chrysostom are depicted to demonstrate how preaching has contributed to bring regeneration, progress and healing to human society. The case studies of three churches in Venda namely Tshigubu (Drum) Church (African Independent), Lutheran Church (Churches of Reformation) and Calvary Christian Church (charismatic church) are investigated with regard to changes they have brought within the Venda society. When the history of western/ modern civilization is traced from Sumerian and Graeco- Roman times, the Preacher features prominently; and even in rural Venda with its kings and chiefs; the Preacher remains critical to the phenomenon under study.