Biblical Perspectives on Urban Development

Responses to Heather and Stephen

Heather

Urban form theory and procedural planning theory are applicable to the subject of urban planning in the US, and the biblical perspective you provide is also appropriate: as you point out, Psalms 69:35 states, “For God will save Zion and build cities of Judah, that they may dwell there and possess it.” This shows that God wants His people to care for the creation that he made and to value its beauty and order. This, therefore, is something to be considered by urban planners. Urban form theory and procedural planning align well with this perspective.

I would say, however, that procedural planning is more about inclusivity than it is about how the built environment impacts lives (Calderon, 2020). Still, together they help to show a comprehensive approach to bringing God’s word to the built environment. Urban form theory is an approach that focuses on the physical form of the built environment and how it shapes human behavior and social interactions. This theory is aligned with the biblical perspective in that it recognizes that the built environment has a direct impact on people\\\\\\\'s lives, and that urban planners have a responsibility to create environments that promote the well-being and flourishing of the people who live and work in them. Procedural planning theory, on the other hand, is an approach that emphasizes the importance of involving all stakeholders in the planning process and ensuring transparency and accountability in decision-making. This approach aligns with the biblical perspective in that it recognizes that all members of the community are created in the image of God and should have a voice in the decisions that affect their lives. It also aligns with the biblical principle of accountability, as it requires that decision-makers be transparent and accountable to the community.