Micro Business Implementation in Alleviating Poverty and Economic Inequality in the Church

Abstract

Holistic church empowerment is an approach that includes spiritual, social, and economic dimensions in carrying out the mission of the Kingdom of God in the world. The Church is called not only to proclaim the Gospel verbally, but also to manifest God's love through tangible actions that touch various aspects of people's lives, including poverty alleviation, social injustice, and economic inequality. This research aims to examine the role of the church in the economic empowerment of the congregation through social programs based on biblical teachings. The method used in this study is a qualitative approach with an analytical descriptive design. This research combines a review of the theological and social literature, as well as data collection through in-depth interviews with church leaders, congregation members, and related parties in church empowerment programs. Field observations of church activities that focus on socio-economic empowerment were also carried out. The findings of this study show that the church, in carrying out its social mission, has implemented economic empowerment by incorporating theological values of social justice, love, and solidarity. However, the major challenge facing churches is limited resources and a lack of skills training for congregations in the long run. The novelty of this research lies in the incorporation of church theological theory with socio-economic applications at the congregational level, as well as practical suggestions for churches in strengthening holistic empowerment by focusing more on economic capacity building and long-term empowerment. In conclusion, the church has a vocation that not only speaks of social justice, but also lives it with actions that empower the faithful holistically in all aspects of their lives.