The Bible and Public Theology in African Christianity

Abstract

The study examined the place of the Bible in the search for theological insights and perspectives for Public Theology in African Christianity. The paper argued that the acceptance of the application of the Bible to human experiences in African societies offers African public theologians the opportunity to apply biblical and theological perspectives to cultural, social, economic, political, and public-policy issues. The study observed that the Bible has been used to promote social justice, advocate for human rights and confront corruption and other forms of oppression. African theologians have developed perspectives on these issues that draw on the biblical teachings of justice, compassion, and stewardship of the earth. The Bible has been a relevant tool for African Christians to engage with public issues, promote social justice, and advocate for the common good. The study concluded with the recommendation that African Christians must engage the social, political, and economic issues that affect their communities, and work for the liberation of all people from the forces that oppress them with Christian teachings and insights. Public Theology in African Christianity must be grounded in a deep commitment to the presence of God in the world, the transformation of society, the liberation of the oppressed, and the contextualization of the Christian faith to the African context. The gospel message has relevance for all aspects of life, including social, political, and economic issues. Theological insights and perspectives that must inform Public Theology in African Christianity include the incarnation, righteousness, social justice, human dignity, Christian identity, contextualization, and the common good.

Keywords

• african christianity
• public theology
• public witness
• christian