This article investigates the biblical worldview and work of Friedrich von Bodelschwingh the Elder(1831-1910) and his son. The former was a German Protestant pastor and theologian. He worked for the Inner Mission and founded the Bethel Foundation in B...
This article investigates the biblical worldview and work of Friedrich von Bodelschwingh the Elder(1831-1910) and his son. The former was a German Protestant pastor and theologian. He worked for the Inner Mission and founded the Bethel Foundation in Bielefeld to take care of people with epilepsy. His son, Friedrich (Fritz) von Bodelschwingh, the Younger(1877-1946), who succeeded his father, was also a Protestant theologian, took over his father's ministry and expanded the Bethel Foundation by receiving various kinds of disabled people. Especially during the Nazi era, when Hitler attempted to eliminate the disabled on eugenic grounds through the so-called T4 policy, he developed the diaconie movement while trying to protect the disabled. Therefore, this study analyzes how their biblical principles reflect their view of humanity, social responsibility, and the unity of faith and action. In addition, it examines the practical activities centered on the Bethel community and their resistance under the Nazi regime. Through this, it illuminates the influence of the ministry of the Bodelschwings father and son on modern Christian social service and practice. As a conclusion, its implications in Korean society are drawn.