Original Research
Embodied grace: The implications of the incarnation to public practical theology in Sub-Saharan Africa
Submitted: 12 January 2024 | Published: 29 April 2024
About the author(s)
Patrick Nanthambwe, Unit for Reformed Theology and Development in South Africa, Faculty of Theology, North-West University, Potchefstroom, South AfricaAbstract
Christian incarnation, illustrated through the example of Jesus Christ, involves the embodiment of God, the guardian of all creation and the manifestation of Christian beliefs. This divine incarnation operates through boundless love and concern, as demonstrated in God’s choice to intimately connect with humanity, as noted in John 3:16. Although global challenges abound, it is evident that sub-Saharan Africa faces unique difficulties, hindering its inhabitants from experiencing the fullness of life intended by God. There is a need to find solutions to the challenges faced by the African continent. In the context of sub-Saharan Africa, the question is: How can practical public theology, informed by the incarnation, be practised in tackling the challenges people face in Africa? The study addresses this inquiry, presenting the implications of the incarnation doctrine as a means to tackle African challenges. It posits incarnation as a foundation for comprehending God’s love for Africans and proposes practical ways for resiliently confronting their adversities. The article draws upon existing literature in the field of public practical theology to underpin the core argument of its thesis.
Contribution: This article contributes to the discussion on how theology should be used to address people’s concrete challenges in sub-Saharan Africa. The doctrine of incarnation is a unique example whose implications can help the enhancement of addressing people’s challenges in Africa.
Keywords
Sustainable Development Goal
Metrics
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Crossref Citations
1. Public Theology as a Theology of Resilience in Sub-Saharan Africa: A Public Pastoral Care Contribution
Patrick Nanthambwe
Religions vol: 15 issue: 10 first page: 1213 year: 2024
doi: 10.3390/rel15101213