Biblical mission in the context of vulnerability in Africa. 1 Cor. 2:1-11 and vulnerability in Africa

Abstract

To understand vulnerability in Africa in a biblical sense, we must turn to the cross of Jesus Christ. The cross is central to understanding how we should relate to this world and its challenges. The challenges of Africa are immense, and we must regard these challenges in light of the cross of Jesus Christ. In terms of people’s lives and their well-being, the death of Jesus on the cross is central to our understanding of its relation to the suffering in this world. Paul emphasised that he only wants to know about the cross and Jesus Christ on the cross. In that, we see the meaning of life. We see the problems of the world, but we see God’s reply. Christ, the crucified One, brought about new life and new relations. How must we understand the cross? First, according to Paul, it is clear that the death of Jesus on the cross is beneficial because it brings salvation. The death of Jesus on the cross changes everything, and new hope and new life are possible. Everything has changed because Jesus has come and died on the cross. At the cross, the One is in the place of the others. We cannot speak about Jesus in any other way than as the One who died on the cross and was resurrected. The cross is central in this world with all its suffering and problems. In our vulnerability in Africa, we should turn to the cross, to Jesus, the only One who can change the situation and bring about new hope for people in this world. Vulnerability in Africa is also the vulnerability of the crucified One. This has implications for all people in Africa, meaning that they can look up to the cross of Jesus Christ to understand their vulnerability and how they can live according to the Word of God. However, in this world, the Jesus of the cross is also the Jesus of the resurrection. Jesus’ resurrection brought about new hope and a new situation for all. The cross is, therefore, central and always leads to the resurrection. In a vulnerable situation in Africa, the cross and the resurrection should be regarded as one. It is, however, also crucial to turn to the world in terms of the suffering of the world. In order to understand this, practical involvement is necessary and the Church cannot turn its back on the practical issues of suffering in the world. Therefore, the Church should be involved in the most practical way. This article emphasises the cross of Jesus Christ in being involved in this world. Practical issues such as looking after people, bringing peace among people, alleviating suffering and poverty, as well as healing those in distress should be addressed. Therefore, not only advocacy, but also practical involvement in these issues should be addressed. This article shows that the cross of Jesus has implications for the most practical issue of the individual in this world.