Contextualization Circle: Developing Relevant and Effective Theologies

by Delanyo Adadevoh

This publication seeks to provide a model paradigm for developing contextual theologies in Africa. This paradigm, I hope, will be applicable in its essential principles to other cultures around the world. The book begins with a survey of different definitions and methods of contextualization. It is the author’s intention to show that contextual theology cannot be developed for a people without taking their worldview and socio-religious experiences into serious consideration. Africans will come to the Scriptures knowingly or unknowingly with presuppositions that are based on their worldview and historical experiences. These presuppositions influence the kinds of questions they will bring to the Scriptures, and the way they derive meaning from the scriptural accounts. An effective contextualization paradigm will therefore seek to understand the history, philosophy and theology of traditional religions in Africa in order to appreciate the presuppositions that Africans will bring to the Scriptures, and the thought-forms to use in making the Christian message relevant to the African.

Paperback

Published November 15, 2016