Recap of Theology of Foster Care by CAFO President, Jedd Medefind
Protection and care for vulnerable children has been a defining mark of Christianity since its first days. Even as a persecuted minority in the Roman Empire, Christians were known for rescuing and raising children abandoned by their pagan neighbors. Early church documents required that candidates for leadership be known as lovers of orphans.
The call to look after the orphan and the fatherless is a biblical command. However, foster care is no light endeavor. Without a robust theology, the costliness and complexity will crush all who get involved.
To care for the most vulnerable is ultimately a reflection of God’s character. This is our story, too. For what is the gospel if not that God welcomed us into his family when we were most in need? When Christians welcome and serve vulnerable children — whether through foster care or adoption, mentoring or support of struggling families — we are simply giving a small, humble reflection of the way he first loved us.
Amidst the great complexity and costliness of foster care, three theological truths are vital:
A Theology of Restoration. No matter how far a person has fallen, the gospel insists they are never beyond the reach of God’s redemptive love. This grounds Christians in a hope deeper than wishful thinking and calls us to work for the restoration of struggling parents whenever possible.
A Theology of Koinonia. True fellowship — koinonia — that God intends for his people is far more than Sunday services. It bears burdens (Galatians 6:2), shares hospitality and resources (Romans 12:13), and rejoices and mourns together (Romans 12:15). Not everyone is called to foster or adopt or work with struggling parents, but each of us can play a vital part.
A Theology of Suffering. In God, even the very hardest things can be the source of great good — both in our own lives (Romans 5:3–5) and others (Genesis 50:20).
Grounded in these truths, we have a foundation sturdy enough to weather the strains we’ll face if we answer the age-old call to care for vulnerable children and families of today.
What a great word to share with our T.R.A.C. and T.R.A.C.life volunteers.
*Theology of Foster Care. Jedd Medefind. National Association of Evangelicals. https://www.nae.org/theology-foster-care/ October 16, 2023.
