Contextual Theology and Inculturation Principles

In Christianity, inculturation is the adaptation of the way Church teachings are presented to other, mostly non-Christian, cultures and, in turn, the influence of those cultures on the evolution of these teachings.

This term, “inculturation”,  is generally used by Catholics, the World Council of Churches and some Protestants. Other Protestants prefer to use the term “contextual theology”. (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Inculturation)

On the one hand, culture is to be valued and respected, recognising that the universality of Christianity does not necessitate a conversion to Western or colonial ways in order to be saved.

This view erases the cultural identity of the person coming into the faith. On the other hand, cultures emerge from fallen man and must be screened for ungodly practises, that are harmful both to constituents and the Gospel.

Contextual theology will impact on how you interpret and apply the Bible (your hermeneutics). 

Read “From Christianising Africa to Africanising Christianity: Some Hermeneutical Principles.”  (p.573-577)

Formative Assessment *