Walking with the Poor: Principles and Practices of Transformational Development (Revised, Expanded)

By In Jae Myung, Peter D. Grünwald, Mark A. Pitt

Proposes an understanding of development in which the physical, social, and spiritual dimensions of life are seamlessly interrelated.

"A masterpiece of integration and application that draws widely on the best Christian and scientific sources on development and draws solid conclusions from what we have learned from experience in ministries around the world." From the Foreword by Paul G. Hiebert

"A book from which Christians of every church tradition can draw deeply and profit greatly. The practical wisdom found here can only be the result of what is expressed by its title: 'walking with the poor.'"? --Stephen B. Bevans, Catholic Theological Union

In this revised and updated edition of a modern classic, Bryant Myers shows how Christian mission can contribute to dismantling poverty and social evil. Integrating the best principles and practice of the international development community, the thinking and experience of Christian nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), and a theological framework for transformational development, Myers demonstrates what is possible when we cease to treat the spiritual and physical domains of life as separate and unrelated.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 1570759391
• ISBN13: 9781570759390
• Release Date: June 2011
• Publisher: Orbis Books
• Length: 386 Pages
• Weight: 1.32 lbs.
• Dimensions: 0.9" x 5.9" x 9.2"

Customer Reviews

Excellent introduction to tranformational development

Myers gives a balanced and holistic view of a Christian approach to transformational development, which focuses on the local community not the agencies "helping", and acknowledges and addresses the whole person within the community (and within aid agencies). Though obviously not a literary classic, this is well-written and readable. Theologically it is orthodox and reformed (though not overtly so, and very accessible to other...

Must read for everyone doing community transformation work

While this book is not an easy read, it is extremely thought provoking and enlightening. Everyone involved in any kind of mission work will benefit from the wisdom and guidance in this book. I've already bought 30 copies for key folks from our church involved in or planning transformational development work locally and internationally.

Biblical Transformation/Kingdom of God

This is an excellent, practical presentation of what biblical transformation can look like. An excellent presentation of the biblical story & world view, with a helpful and practical description of the kingdom of God and Shalom. It presents poverty not simply as an economic issue, but a relational issue with a spiritual root. I have already given away several copies of this book and plan to give more away. Should be...

Really GREAT book, just go a bit farther!

I loved this book. I mean I LOVED this book! It probably took me longer to read it than it took the author to write it, because I kept underlining it and pausing to consider the concepts! My only two concerns were this: The book should be marketed to ALL followers of Jesus, not just those people who work in full time humanitarian aid! Every follower of Christ is called to make disciples--and we need to recognize that this...

The Best on Xn Theory and Theology for Development Workers

"Walking with the Poor..." is simply the best single book about holistic Christian development theory, theology, and real Christian organizational practice which I have read to date. The purpose of the book in Myers' own words "is to describe a proposal for understanding the principles and practice of transformational development (positive material, social and spiritual change) from a Christian perspective. It is my intention...