Recontextualising theology: A challenge for theological training

Abstract

When communicating the Christian message, it is required to pass the message on in a format that will make sense to the receiver as well as carry the intended meaning as accurately as possible. In order for the message to be understood, the context of the receiver must be taken into consideration. This is referred to as contextualization. During contextualization the quest is to retain the essence of Christianity while simultaneously adapting to a specific cultural context. The Christian message has been passed on so many times to so many contexts that we need to talk about re-contextualization. Recontextualization refers to the process in a postmodern context to contextualize the modern. In short, recontextualization is to contextualize that which has already been contextualized. Passing on the Christian message is made challenging by changing paradigms. This is exacerbated by the challenge to train students to be able to pass the Christian message responsibly on into a new context. This contribution wants to alert to the challenges posed by changing paradigms and contexts to developing a theological training programme. Prof CPJ Niemandt as head of the Theological training at Hugenote College has had experience in guiding a tertiary institution in training ministers in how to convey the gospel across cultural boundaries. This contribution wants to pay tribute to his academic leadership.

Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This contribution emphasises the need to take the local context into account when conveying the Christian message. This contributes to peaceful social communities where religions interact.