Meningsfull tro i sosiokulturell kontekst. En undersøkelse av forholdet mellom gudsåpenbaring og kultur

Abstract

This article contributes towards developing a “theology of culture”. It explores and strengthens our understanding of the role of culture in God’s administration and communication with humankind. Contextualization is not simply a “good strategy” but is god-intended and therefore inherent to any and all aspects of Christian mission. Cultural preconceptions inevitably activate syncretic adaptations in processes of conversion. Instead of trying to avoid syncretism, a culturally conscious Christian ministry needs to engage syncretic evolvements with empathy and sensitivity. Hiebert’s model of critical contextualization, coupled with a Lutheran understanding of the function of culture, enhances our commitment to take peoples’ lives seriously.

Keywords:

Mission and anthropology, missiology, contextualization, signs and meanings, cultural sensitivity, theology of culture, syncretism