Biblical Research in Africa: Historical Jesus Quest in Inculturation Perspective

Abstract

The Historical Jesus research is a very interesting and challenging academic enterprise especially as it relates to Africa. This type of research is new in Africa but is being attempted by African scholars. The historical Jesus research is gradually gaining ground in Africa especially in South Africa. However, the African scholar needs to explore more ground on this department of research in biblical studies. Therefore, using the inculturation paradigm, this paper aimed at reconstructing the historical Jesus research in Africa. The work showed that historical Jesus research is new in Africa but have been attempted by African scholars with a view to making it more constructive to African Christianity. Unlike Reimarus’ and Schweitzer’s opinion that separate Jesus of history from Jesus of the Christian faith, African scholars see Jesus of Nazareth as the same with Jesus of Christian faith. More significant meanings are made when African Christology is formulated within inculturation design such as African languages, symbolism, etc.

DOI: 10.5901/ajis.2015.v4n2p183