Contextualizing Bible and Culture

Abstract

Let me begin by sharing with you a rather common experience by many young African pastors. The year was 1982. I had just completed my second year of pastoral work in that church. Being affiliated to a well known theological school, I had quickly gained acceptance in the community. I had basic knowledge in Greek, church history, theology and other related disciplines and the congregation was generally satisfied with the way I was handling my responsibilities. All seemed to go well until someone died. The deceased (a young man in his late twenties) had left behind a widow of one year and a small baby. Mary had already endeared herself as a firm believer in the Lord as demonstrated by her active role in Sunday school teaching and church choir. When I learnt of her husband's death, I had quickly advised her to consider re-marriage since she was still very young. At first the church elders had seemed to agree with my advice but it wasn't too long before I LEARNT THAT, THEY WERE, IN FACT, NOT TOO HAPPY WITH MY ADVICE AT ALL to the widow. I tried to propound the word of God, proving that marriage was only contractual until death and that Mary was free to marry the man of her choice.