Abstract
Missionary Christianity was introduced into Africa by Western and American missionaries whose theological framework shaped Christianity in Africa. Since theology is contextually informed, missionary theological formulations failed to meet Africa’s needs in many respects. In response, the African church began a quest for an African-brewed theology that is culturally sensitive and contextually relevant. For some time now this quest has engaged many African scholars; yet, no scholarly consensus has been reached regarding the nature and methodology for African Christian theology. This article contributes to the ongoing discourse by examining the emergence and development of African Christian theology and afterward, outlining some essential features that must characterize African Christian theology to make it accessible to and acceptable by the African Christian community. It is a literature research based on critical examination of related publications on African Christian theology. The article offers a model for contemporary Christians who are engaged in or desire to undertake theological research for the benefit of Christianity in Africa. Keywords: Africa, Christian, Pan-Africanism, Theology, Worldview
Highlights
The word “theology” comes from the Greek words “theos” (“God”) and logos (“discourse” or “speech”)
This article contributes to the ongoing discourse by examining the emergence and development of African Christian theology and afterward, outlining some essential features that must characterize African Christian theology to make it accessible to and acceptable by the African Christian community
It is a literature research based on critical examination of related publications on African Christian theology
Summary
The word “theology” comes from the Greek words “theos” (“God”) and logos (“discourse” or “speech”). Contextualization “attempts to communicate the Gospel in word and deed and to establish the church in ways that make sense to people within their local cultural context, presenting Christianity in such a way that it meets people’s deepest needs and penetrates their worldview, allowing them to follow Christ and remain within their own culture.” To achieve both globality and contextualization, African theologians must mediate between the universal message of Christianity (with its predominantly western flavor) and African realities This mediatorial role requires adequate understanding of both the biblical and the African worlds.
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