Christian Mission and African Traditions

Abstract

Abstract This chapter discusses the main tensions between Christianity and African religio-cultural traditions against the backdrop of mission history. In dealing with these issues, African Christians have pursued religious innovations—such as the rise of the independent indigenous Pentecostal/charismatic churches and movements—whose spirituality responds to critical questions with which indigenous people have come to faith in Christ. The encounter between Christian mission and African religio-cultural realities has been a very intriguing enterprise. On the one hand, Christianity sought to supplant traditional religion through processes of demonization and conversion, often leading to tensions between the two faiths. On the other hand, although traditional religions were weakened by Christian mission, their underlying worldviews have remained resilient even within African expressions of Christianity today. Thus, although they seek to remain biblical in terms of Christian practices, African Christians have often operated with an amalgamated worldview that has brought together Christian and traditional beliefs.