What is contextual theology?

Answer

Also known as “enculturation,” contextual theology refers to the way in which the church in each era tends to adjust its teachings to the culture it is in. There are numerous instances of this, with a notable one found in 1 Corinthians 11:4–7. Paul’s instruction here pertains to head coverings. In that society, it was unthinkable for a woman not to cover her head. The veil or covering on the head of a Corinthian wife who believed indicated that she was under her husband’s authority and thus submissive to God. In Corinthian society, women typically wore head coverings as a symbol of submission to their husbands. Paul upholds the importance of adhering to that cultural practice—omitting head coverings for women would convey the wrong message to society. Paul even suggests that if a Christian woman rejects her head covering, she might as well shave her head, an action that would bring disgrace (verse 6). A woman who refused to wear a covering in that society essentially declared, “I refuse to submit to God’s order.” The apostle Paul’s teaching was that a woman wearing a “covering” was an external sign of an inner attitude of submission to God and His established authority. Adapting this teaching to different cultures is part of contextual theology.

Clearly, biblical teachings sometimes need to be understood within the cultural context. However, the fundamental principles of God’s Word remain consistent today as when they were written. The essence of the passage in 1 Corinthians is that Christ is the head of the body, and the husband is the head of the wife, who should submit to him and demonstrate her submission in culturally suitable ways.

Contextual theology draws on biblical principles but interprets them through the perspective of contemporary reference points.

When developing a theological system, it is essential to take into account linguistic, socio-political, cultural, and ideological factors. This can lead to a blend of beliefs known as a syncretic hodgepodge. The way of “Following Jesus” can vary significantly between different cultures and contexts, even appearing unrelated to Christianity. It is crucial to apply contextual theology cautiously to avoid compromising the truth and losing the essence of the gospel in translation.