Globalization, contextualization, and indigeneity: Local approaches to indigenous Christianity

Abstract

Globalization has made it possible for local Christians to adopt resources from around the world. The adoption of these resources generates questions of cultural identity on the local level—What does it mean to be “indigenous?” These questions are significant for the formation and propagation of gospel-based communities lived out in specific contexts which, in turn, implies the need to refine our approach to contextualization. The uneven, multidirectional flows of ideas, resources, and people of globalization challenge both Western and Majority World Churches to exercise discernment as they attempt to live out the gospel authentically in their local context. However, approaches to contextualization must also take into account that “indigenous” is understood in a variety of ways by local Christians as they combine these global influences, their culture-at-large, and their faith to determine what it means to be Christians in their context. Based on this broader understanding of indigeneity, our approach to contextualization must be to empower local believers; to speak prophetically; to speak missionally; and to practice the same discernment that we expect of them.