The family of God in Ephesians 2:12-22 in light of the Luo of Kenya’s extended family system: Towards Christian unity in the ecclesial life of the Church in Africa

Authors

  • Hezron Otieno Adingo Africa International University (A.I.U.), Kenya

Keywords:

Extended family, Christian unity, Ecclesial life, Acceptance, Western individualism

Abstract

In the African setting, the family is one big institution which transcends the household to encompass a broader scope of relations brought together by ties of kinship. This worldview has to be brought to bear in the understanding of the Church as the family of God if it is to make sense to African Christians. The relationship that arises out of such comprehension is one that is open and inclusive. Ephesians 2:12-22 presents a relationship which defies the conventional understanding of family, which is based on Western culture. The features of the Ephesian family are acceptance, a peaceful coexistence, a common descent (one Father), homely feelings, and subscription to shared principles. The comparative analysis between the passage and the Luo of Kenya (Luo’s) extended family system reveals connections between the two. Through the ideals of the Luo’s extended family system, light is shed into the passage and the understanding of Christian unity enhanced.

Published

2020-12-31

How to Cite

Adingo, H. O. (2020). The family of God in Ephesians 2:12-22 in light of the Luo of Kenya’s extended family system: Towards Christian unity in the ecclesial life of the Church in Africa. Tydskrif Vir Christelike Wetenskap | Journal for Christian Scholarship, 56(3&4), 91-111. Retrieved from https://pubs.ufs.ac.za/index.php/tcw/article/view/526

Issue

Vol. 56 No. 3&4 (2020): Tydskrif vir Christelike wetenskap/Journal for Christian scholarship

Section

Artikels | Articles

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