Toward a Faithful Contextualization

Abstract

When gospel and culture meet, is the message biblically faithful and culturally appropriate? A theology that begins with culture and where culture is the determining factor will unavoidably end in syncretism. Adventist theology does not start with the cultural context but with the biblical text. A valid approach to contextualization demands a commitment to biblical authority. The message of the Bible must not be compromised.  In examining the topic of contextualization, this article first reviews the concepts of culture, a definition of contextualization itself, and the issue of syncretism. Then, it considers different approaches to the balance of Scripture and cultural setting, followed with a focus on the important issues of contextualization and culture, and contextualization and doctrines. In the two final sections, the article deals with implications for missions, evangelism, and pastoral ministry, and considers a faithful approach to contextualization.