Addressing Contemporary Challenges in African Missions

An Apologetic Approach

Resumo

In recent times, the conversation in Africa's religious circles has attempted to invalidate the Christian faith, raising concerns in the hearts of believers whose knowledge of faith is shallow. Through various platforms such as social media and traditional broadcasting channels, skeptics and agnostics have publicly discredited the finished work of Christ, challenging believers to provide answers to questions regarding their faith. This has discouraged many believers, and many more might still be discouraged. There is, therefore, a need for ministers and ministries around the world to seek ways of inculcating sound biblical knowledge in believers and enhancing their commitment to fulfilling the Great Commission. This study demonstrates the relevance of apologetics in achieving the twin objectives of enhanced faith-based knowledge and increased commitment to the Great Commission. In conducting the research, the study employed a systematic literature review method, drawing on research literature from theological, missiological, biblical, and philosophical fields to analyse the significance of apologetics in the context of the current challenges that African missions face. The sources used in the study include the Scripture as a primary source, along with peer-reviewed journals and academic monographs. The study highlighted some dominant issues in mission and ways to enhance believers' knowledge through the inclusion and adaptation of apologetics in church and ministry settings, thereby helping believers to be more rooted, better able to defend their faith and more equipped to effectively communicate Christ. The literature indicates that believers are broadly aware of the concept of apologetics, but its acceptance and usage remain at the nascent stage. However, it was established that the appropriate use of apologetics would significantly enhance believers' confidence when reaching the lost.