Third World

This is a broad generalization, which groups countries according to their social, political, cultural and economic development. The third world countries are often non-industrial and have the least developed, struggling economies with widespread poverty a consequence. It is recognised that most of Africa, Central and South America, parts of Asia and Oceania come into this category.

In these countries, the people are not so much interested in theory as in experience, in truth but power encounters. Such cultures want a reality that keeps body and soul together today, not just the anticipation of a better hereafter. This is why practical evangelism is so effective – meeting the present felt needs.

See also: good works, handout/hand-up.