The biblical foundation for Diaconia (Christian social service) has been challenged in the last years. The reference to a traditional christological approach was substituted by the notion that helping one's neighbour is a universal aspect of mankind. It is therefore no longer possible to argue for specific Christian social services. This approach is analysed in the first part with regard to practical consequences, consequences concerning legal principles, and ethical consequences. On theological grounds, traits of human nature such as love, empathy etc. are universal, however the same is true of traits like hate, disgust a.s.o. One cannot derive at moral principles by simply referring to human nature. Furthermore, to help another person is an ambiguous act, but this does not mean that underlying principles have no impact on the bias of the helping act as such. This argument is developed in the second part referring to the Christian understanding of love. By reference to the Good Samaritan, the direction of Christian love is explained. This does not exclude other foundations of love, but points out, that loving acts are not independent of such underlying foundations. Thus, a Christian perspective is still necessary for the specific contribution Diaconia can make in modern welfare states.
Personen: Eurich, Johannes
Eurich, Johannes:
Profillose Diakonie? : Zur Diskussion um die Begründung diakonischen Handelns / Johannes Eurich, 2014. - S.33-43
Einheitssacht.: Diakonie