Theology and peacemaking in Africa

Abstract

Christianity has spread very quickly in Africa, but rampant is the violence and injustice committed by many who bear Christian names. This chapter aims to envision a theology of peace for Africa. The Kingdom of God that Jesus initiated and wanted believers to become leaven (Mt. 13:33; Lk. 20–21), salt, and light in the world (Mt. 5:13–16) remains dismal. Although there are some exceptions, Christians have blood on their hands. The chapter argues that there is a need and urgency for the African Church to transit from a statistical Church (that takes pride in the increasing number of Christians) to the quality of believers. It highlights the conceptual framework of violence and peace, followed by classic and biblical frameworks of peace theology. The chapter traces peace theology in the Church traditions and briefly analyzes violence in Africa. It also suggests possibilities and the nature of peace theology.