Introduction

Cultural and contextual theology equips Christians to navigate the complexities of sharing the Gospel in diverse global contexts, fostering effective communication and missional engagement. Despite its importance, some Christians remain apathetic toward these disciplines, often due to misconceptions or lack of awareness. Understanding cultural and contextual theology enhances the Church’s ability to fulfill the Great Commission by adapting the timeless message of Christ to varied cultural landscapes. This exploration is not about diluting the Gospel but about embodying its transformative power in ways that resonate with different communities. By examining seven reasons for this apathy—ranging from ignorance of cultural dynamics to resistance to technological reflection—this article seeks to illuminate barriers and encourage deeper engagement. Grounded in Scripture and informed by academic research, it challenges believers to embrace cultural and contextual theology as a vital tool for mission. As the world grows increasingly interconnected, understanding these disciplines is essential for Christians to effectively share God’s love across diverse cultures, ensuring the Gospel remains relevant and impactful.

1. Ignorance of Cultural Dynamics in Context

Many Christians may overlook cultural and contextual theology due to a lack of awareness about how culture shapes faith expression. Without understanding the dynamic interplay between theology and cultural contexts, believers may dismiss these disciplines as irrelevant, failing to see their transformative potential in missional work. Contextual theology enables Christians to discern how societal values, traditions, and histories influence the reception of the Gospel. Romans 12:2 (ESV) urges, “Do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that by testing you may discern what is the will of God.” This verse emphasizes the need for mental renewal to engage with diverse cultures thoughtfully. Ignorance of these dynamics can lead to ineffective evangelism, as messages may not resonate with intended audiences. Scholars like Bevans (2018) highlight that contextual theology bridges cultural gaps, making the Gospel accessible. By studying cultural influences, Christians can better embody Christ’s love, ensuring their mission aligns with God’s will across varied contexts, fostering genuine transformation and connection.

2. Superficial Understanding of the Gospel

A superficial grasp of the Gospel can lead some Christians to view cultural and contextual theology as unnecessary, assuming the Gospel’s message is universally applicable without adaptation. This perspective overlooks the need for contextualization to communicate effectively across diverse cultural landscapes. In 1 Corinthians 9:22 (ESV), Paul states, “I have become all things to all people, that by all means I might save some,” illustrating the importance of adapting the Gospel’s presentation while preserving its core truth. A shallow understanding may cause believers to miss the nuances required for cross-cultural ministry, resulting in miscommunication or alienation. Schreiter (1997) argues that contextual theology ensures the Gospel speaks meaningfully within specific cultural frameworks. Without this, Christians risk presenting a one-size-fits-all message that fails to connect. By deepening their Gospel understanding, believers can appreciate the need for cultural sensitivity, enabling them to share Christ’s love in ways that resonate with diverse audiences, fulfilling the call to reach all nations effectively.

3. Theological Complacency

Theological complacency can cause Christians to resist cultural and contextual theology, as rigid beliefs may discourage exploration of diverse perspectives. Complacent believers may see their theological framework as sufficient, dismissing the need to understand how culture shapes faith interpretation. Jeremiah 29:11 (ESV) declares, “For I know the plans I have for you, declares the LORD, plans for welfare and not for evil, to give you a future and a hope,” encouraging openness to God’s transformative plans. Complacency stifles this openness, limiting engagement with contextual theology’s insights. Hiebert (1994) notes that theological rigidity hinders missional effectiveness, as it ignores cultural influences on faith application. By embracing theological exploration, Christians can discover how God’s truth intersects with diverse contexts, enriching their understanding and mission. Overcoming complacency involves studying Scripture alongside cultural dynamics, fostering a vibrant faith that adapts to global challenges while remaining rooted in God’s unchanging truth.

4. Aversion to Interfaith Dialogue

Some Christians avoid interfaith dialogue, fearing it may compromise their faith, leading to disinterest in contextual theology’s role in navigating religious diversity. This aversion overlooks the missional urgency of understanding other faiths to share the Gospel effectively. Psalm 96:3 (NIV) exhorts, “Declare his glory among the nations, his marvelous deeds among all peoples,” calling believers to proclaim God’s truth universally. Engaging in interfaith dialogue does not dilute faith but equips Christians to communicate respectfully and effectively. Yong (2008) emphasizes that contextual theology fosters mutual understanding, enabling believers to share Christ without antagonism. By studying other faiths, Christians can identify shared values and address differences thoughtfully, enhancing evangelistic efforts. Overcoming this aversion requires recognizing dialogue as a tool for mission, not a threat, allowing believers to fulfill the psalmist’s call to declare God’s glory across diverse religious landscapes with confidence and respect.

5. Narrow View of Mission

A narrow view of mission, focused solely on traditional evangelism, can lead Christians to undervalue cultural and contextual theology. Believers may believe the Gospel requires no cultural adaptation, ignoring the need for nuanced approaches in diverse settings. John 10:16 (NIV) states, “I have other sheep that are not of this sheep pen. I must bring them also,” highlighting the inclusive scope of Christ’s mission. This verse challenges Christians to broaden their missional perspective, embracing contextual theology to reach diverse groups. Bediako (1995) argues that effective missions require understanding cultural contexts to present the Gospel meaningfully. A narrow view limits outreach, as it fails to address cultural barriers. By expanding their understanding of mission, Christians can engage diverse communities with sensitivity, ensuring the Gospel’s message resonates across cultural boundaries, fulfilling Christ’s call to reach all people with His transformative love.

6. Underestimation of Media Influence

Underestimating the influence of contemporary media can lead Christians to overlook cultural theology’s role in addressing media’s impact on faith. Media shapes perceptions, values, and communication, yet some believers fail to recognize its significance in missional living. Proverbs 18:21 (NIV) warns, “The tongue has the power of life and death,” underscoring communication’s profound impact. In a media-saturated world, this principle extends to digital platforms, requiring theological reflection to navigate effectively. McLuhan (1964) notes that media shapes societal values, necessitating a culturally-informed approach to evangelization. By engaging with cultural theology, Christians can discern how to use media to share the Gospel while countering negative influences. Ignoring media’s power risks ineffective communication, as messages may not resonate in a digital age. Embracing cultural theology equips believers to harness media’s potential, ensuring the Gospel’s message is conveyed with clarity and impact in modern contexts.

7. Resistance to Technological Reflection

Resistance to reflecting on technology’s impact on theology can lead Christians to neglect cultural theology’s insights into technological advancements. Some believers may feel uneasy about technology’s complexities, dismissing its relevance to faith and mission. Ephesians 2:10 (NIV) reminds us, “For we are God’s handiwork, created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prepared in advance for us to do,” urging thoughtful engagement with all aspects of life, including technology. Hipps (2009) argues that technology shapes how faith is communicated, requiring theological reflection to align with God’s purposes. Resistance to this reflection hinders Christians from addressing technology’s challenges and opportunities in mission. By embracing cultural theology, believers can explore how technology influences faith, ensuring its use aligns with God’s call to do good works. This engagement enables Christians to navigate the digital age with discernment, using technology to advance the Gospel effectively.

Conclusion

Cultural and contextual theology are indispensable for Christians seeking to fulfill the Great Commission in today’s diverse world. Apathy toward these disciplines—whether due to ignorance, complacency, or resistance—hinders effective mission and limits the Gospel’s impact. Matthew 28:19-20 (ESV) commands, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you.” This call underscores the need for cultural sensitivity and theological adaptability to reach all nations. By addressing barriers like superficial Gospel understanding or aversion to interfaith dialogue, Christians can embrace cultural and contextual theology to communicate God’s love effectively. Academic insights from scholars like Bevans and Schreiter reinforce the importance of contextualization in missional work. As believers engage with cultural and contextual theology, they align with Christ’s mandate, ensuring the Gospel resonates across diverse cultures, fostering transformation and unity in the global Church.

Sources

• Bediako, K. (1996). Christianity in Africa: The Renewal of a Non-Western Religion. Orbis Books.
• Bevans, S. B. (2002). Models of Contextual Theology. Orbis Books.
• Hiebert, P. G. (1994). Anthropological Reflections on Missiological Issues. Baker Academic.
• Hipps, S. (2006). The Hidden Power of Electronic Culture: How Media Shapes Faith, the Gospel, and Church. Zondervan.
• McLuhan, M. (1994). Understanding Media: The Extensions of Man. The MIT Press.
• Schreiter, R. J. (2005). The New Catholicity: Theology Between the Global and the Local. Orbis Books.
• Yong, A. (2008). Hospitality and the Other: Pentecost, Christian Practices, and the Neighbor. Orbis Books.

Curt Watke, PhD

Dr. Curt Watke is a distinguished missiologist whose three-plus-decade-long career has significantly impacted Christian mission work in North America, particularly in under-reached and challenging regions. Holding a Ph.D. in Evangelism and Missions, Dr. Watke has focused on bridging cultural gaps and fostering sustainable Christian communities by developing innovative strategies that address contemporary challenges like globalization, urbanization, and religious pluralism. His emphasis on cultural sensitivity and contextualization in mission work is reflected in his collaborative writings, including notable works such as “Ministry Context Exploration: Understanding North American Cultures” and “Starting Reproducing Congregations.” Beyond his writing, Dr. Watke is a sought-after speaker and educator, lecturing at seminaries and conferences worldwide, and his teachings continue to inspire and equip new generations of missional leaders. His enduring legacy is marked by unwavering dedication to the mission of God and a profound influence on missional thought and practice.  Dr. Watke serves as President and Professor of Evangelism & Missiology at Missional University.