E-Journal of Religious and Theological Studies

Child, Church and Protection: A Historical Theology Perspective and Its Implications for Churches in Africa

2025-03-14T15:48:33+00:00

Children have the right to protection. As a result, all institutions, including churches are expected to take concrete steps to safeguard children. There is a growing interest in the role of churches in child protection. Africa is considered the center of vitality of Christianity and Christian faith communities have become a powerful force in African society However, recent data revealed that various forms of violence against children such as sexual, physical, emotional and neglect are rife on the continent. Faith communities have a mandate to undertake concrete measures to ensure the safeguarding of children in churches and society at large. Using a chronological approach to historical theology, the paper undertakes critical reflections on the church’s child protection efforts across the major periods of church history to obtain insights into the contemporary church in Africa. The paper posits that churches can glean valuable lessons from the church age to inform and reform churches’ child protection efforts The paper contributes to the current discourse on efforts of churches on child protection by shedding light on the fact that during the church age, children were viewed as precious in the sight of God and worthy to be nurtured in a caring and loving environment.

Birth Control and the Catholic Church: Implications for Some Selected Churches in the Kumasi Archdiocese, Ghana

2025-03-14T15:25:47+00:00

This study examined the implications of Pope Paul VI’s encyclical Humanae Vitae on the Catholic faithful in the Kumasi Archdiocese of Ghana. The purpose of the study was to assess the effectiveness of natural family planning methods, such as abstinence and the rhythm method, endorsed by the encyclical, and to explore how these teachings align with the reproductive health goals of Catholic women in the region. A mixed-methods approach was employed, using questionnaires and interviews with Catholic Parish Priests, Catechists, Church leaders, and healthcare practitioners. Data were thematically analyzed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the lived experiences of the Catholic community regarding birth control. The findings reveal that many Catholics in the Kumasi Archdiocese lack sufficient knowledge of Humanae Vitae and its promotion of natural birth control methods. This awareness gap has led to varied interpretations and practices, with some Catholics resorting to methods that better suit their personal and family needs. The study concludes that the Catholic Church needs to step up its efforts in educating the faithful on the ethical considerations of birth control, aligning religious teachings with the practical realities of the community. This research contributes to scholarship by highlighting the disconnection between papal teachings and the everyday experiences of Catholic laity, calling for a reassessment of Humanae Vitae to better support the reproductive health and well-being of Catholics globally.

The Articulation Power of the Pulpit in a Christian Setting in Africa: Enhancing Effective Communication and Spiritual Impact

2025-03-14T15:40:21+00:00

This research article explores the unique influence and potential for the transformative impact of the pulpit in a Christian setting within the African context. It investigates the significance of effective articulation in delivering sermons, fostering congregation engagement, and promoting spiritual growth among African believers. Through in-depth interviews and theoretical insights, this study emphasizes the role of skilled preachers in effectively communicating the message of Christianity. The findings underscore the importance of culturally relevant and persuasive preaching in inspiring positive change and nurturing vibrant Christian communities in Africa. The study concludes that African pastors and preachers should prioritize Bible exposition while incorporating culturally relevant elements into their sermons. The study also recommends that African pastors should enhance their communication skills through training programmes and collaborate with fellow leaders to develop contextualized preaching models, fostering a deeper understanding of Christian teachings and engaging congregants for the growth of the African church. Finally, it adds to the ongoing discussion on the effective use of culturally relevant material in the correct articulation of pulpit messages to improve Christian life.

Sabbath Observance in Luke-Acts: Situating the Earliest Followers of Jesus Within Judaism

2025-03-14T15:18:44+00:00

This study demonstrates that Luke presents the earliest followers of Jesus as steadfast Sabbath observers, challenging the common assumption that they abandoned or disregarded this practice. By closely examining the references to the Sabbath in Luke’s Gospel and Acts, it is observed that Luke consistently depicts Sabbath worship as a standard practice among Jewish and Gentile believers. This portrayal suggests that the earliest followers of Jesus did not believe the Sabbath had been abrogated but saw it as integral to their faith and community life. These findings invite modern Christians to reconsider the relevance of Sabbath observance in their own spiritual lives. By highlighting the continuity between Judaism and the emerging Christian movement, this study contributes to scholarship on early Christian identity and practice, portraying the earliest followers of Jesus as a movement within Judaism.