The Bible tells us what to believe—the gospel. It also shows how to contextualize the gospel? In One Gospel for All Nations, Jackson Wu explains practically why we must not choose between the Bible and culture highlights implications for both missionaries and theologians. Contextualization should be practical, not pragmatic; theological, not theoretical.
Years ago, the author had a startling realization. Theologians and pastors have long taught on the glory of God and its central importance in the Bible. However, because he was living in East Asia, it also dawned on the author that this sort of talk about God’s glory, praising Him, and magnifying His name was simply another way of talking about honor and shame.
A worker among ethnic minorities, Ella provides a brief summary of some advantages, challenges, and theological considerations she has experienced.
The guest editor interviews a pastor from eastern China on the topic of contextualization.
Roland defines animism, recognizes the anxieties of animistic peoples, and considers three areas of importance when applying the gospel to them.
Dr. Sun proposes that the theological concept of “union with Christ” has elements that intersect with Chinese culture and can aid in presenting the gospel.
From the guest editor's desk
Suggestions for further reading about contextualization and the Chinese church.
Contextualization and worldview are partners. Chinese science fiction allows us to see Chinese worldviews that are often not easily observed in everyday life.
More on a new resource about contextualization, honor, and shame from Jackson Wu.
A new resource on contextualization, honor, and shame from Jackson Wu.
A ChinaSource 3 Questions interview with Werner Mischke, author of The Global Gospel: Achieving Missional Impact in Our Multicultural World and coordinator for “Honor, Shame and the Gospel: Reframing Our Message for 21st Century Ministry,” to be held June 19-21 in Wheaton, Illinois.