Topic 3 of 7 · Form 5
Christianity: scripture, beliefs and African Christianity
The Bible: Old Testament (Law, Prophets, Writings) and New Testament (Gospels, Acts, Epistles, Revelation). Approaches: literal, historical-critical, and contextual (reading in African contexts).
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Scripture
The Bible: Old Testament (Law, Prophets, Writings) and New Testament (Gospels, Acts, Epistles, Revelation). Approaches: literal, historical-critical, and contextual (reading in African contexts).
Key teachings
The Trinity; incarnation, crucifixion and resurrection of Jesus; salvation; the Kingdom of God; the Sermon on the Mount; love of neighbour; social justice in the prophets (Amos, Micah).
Denominations
Catholic, Orthodox and Protestant traditions; in Zimbabwe – Catholic, Anglican, Methodist, Lutheran, Seventh-day Adventist, Reformed, Pentecostal (e.g. ZAOGA, AFM) and African Initiated Churches (Johane Marange, Johane Masowe, Zion Christian Church).
African Christianity
- Inculturation: expressing the gospel through African cultures (music, drums, liturgy, names).
- African Initiated Churches emphasise prophecy, healing, the Holy Spirit, and African cultural forms.
- Debates: syncretism versus authentic African Christianity; the prosperity gospel; church and politics.
Christianity and society
Mission schools and hospitals, the role of churches in the liberation struggle and in peace-building (e.g. statements by church bodies such as the Zimbabwe Council of Churches and the Catholic Bishops' Conference).
Check yourself
- What is inculturation?
- Give two features of African Initiated Churches.
- Which Old Testament prophet is known for teaching social justice?
Show answers
- Expressing Christian faith through the forms and values of a local culture.
- Any two: prophecy, healing, emphasis on the Holy Spirit, African music and dress, white garments, open-air worship.
- Amos (also Micah or Isaiah).
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