Theology for different cultures

Contextualising theology is about properly applying theology. Behind it is the assumption that while there are fundamental biblical truths essential to the Christian faith everywhere, the emphasis and understanding of certain of those truths will vary across cultures, as will their expression. So it is to some extent necessary - and unavoidable - to read and systematise the Bible with the mindset, questions and needs of the specific culture in view. The validity of this approach can be found in the apostle Paul's example and command, as well as being assumed from the diversity of content and potential application of biblical material. Paul used the language, understanding and questions of the Athenian culture when speaking about the gospel (Acts 17). He also addresses more peripheral issues that are relevant to a specific cultural context (eg 1 Cor 10). And it can be inferred that in his example of adapting to different cultures to save some he also adapts his thinking (1 Cor 9:19-23).

The danger with contextualising theology is twofold. Firstly, the Bible's emphases and the questions that it asks of the culture can be overlooked. No culture asks all the questions that God would have it ask or emphasises the things that God would have it emphasise. The second issue is related to this – even if the right questions are asked, the answers can be misunderstood (and misapplied) if the values of the culture are too much in view. The Bible must be allowed to give its own answers even – or perhaps especially – when they are counter-cultural.