Contextualization Video Series Takeaways

[Emma Hodges]

– “Contextualization is the process by which people interpret, communicate, and apply the Bible within a particular cultural context.” This was a major takeaway for me from these videos, because it speaks to the importance of contextualization. Without understanding the culture you are in, it becomes difficult to communicate the gospel and it can create boundaries between someone understanding and applying the Bible.

– Practical changes you can make to contextualize the messenger better: I thought it was interesting that the speaker in the video spoke about how when you make changes in your clothes, appearance, piercings, etc., it shows that you are willing to adapt. You are showing a part of your character when you communicate to local people that you are willing to shift and adjust.

– I thought it was interesting in the video about contextualizing the local believing community how the video highlighted 4 key phases of missionary presence: 1) Pioneer, 2) Parent, 3) Partner, and 4) Participant. I think it is important to have these phases in your mind as you head into a new place to do missions because it helps the missionary to understand their role. If there already is a thriving church community, then they should take on the role of a participant. But if they are in an area that the gospel has not been brought to, they would take on the role of a pioneer.

[Taliya]

Contextualization removes unnecessary obstacles. As a foreigner, it is very likely that some things I am used to (in how I act or view the world) may actually be causes of disconnect or out up a wall when I’m in another culture. I don’t want to kill my chances of connecting with someone about the gospel in that way. Contextualizing myself and how I share the good news is important to avoid those unnecessary walls.

Contextualizing the believing community: How does an indigenous church look like in this culture? How is renewed life in christ expressed in this culture? Giving space for self-expression (traditional music or dance or or if fellowship outside is more common than meeting inside), self-theologizing (contextualizing the message further into how the indigenous people can understand better), and self-initiated service will allow for the community of believers to have longevity because it is connected tot heir culture.

The difference between the elephant church and rabbit church is interesting. I expect that a rabbit church style may be what would work best in the culture I will be going into, but I will keep an open mind to that!