Foreign aid has poured into Africa for decades, yet the continent remains the poorest. This mindset, unfortunately, has also trickled down to the church, with many congregations sustained by foreign donations. But is this really healthy for the local church?In this thought-provoking article, we delve into the surprising scarcity of self-supporting churches in Africa. We explore the "three-selfs" of church autonomy and challenge conventional thinking on what it means for a church to truly stand on its own.
How can we overcome these cultural gaps and truly connect? Discover why our evangelism might be missing the mark and what foundational truths must be emphasized to ensure a clear understanding of Christ. Tune in to understand how to bridge the divide and preach the gospel more effectively.
The "Big Man Syndrome" plagues many African churches, where a single leader holds absolute control, making unquestioned decisions and stifling potential successors. When such a leader departs, the church often faces collapse. But does it have to be this way? Discover how successful leaders, like John MacArthur, model a different path—one of intentional mentorship and legacy building. How can today's church leaders ensure lasting health and impact beyond their tenure?
In a world where safety is a constant concern, especially in high-crime areas like South Africa, how should Christians navigate self-defense? The command to "turn the other cheek" often sparks debate, but does it truly forbid protecting ourselves and our loved ones? This episode dives into four biblical principles that challenge common misconceptions about gun ownership and self-preservation for believers.
When heinous crimes occur, our natural instinct is to cry out for ultimate justice. But in the face of brutal acts, should believers desire the death penalty? And does this desire conflict with the command to "love our enemy"? This episode of The Africa Review in Five delves into the complexities of capital punishment, examining biblical perspectives on why, who, when, and how it should be carried out.
Discover the profound impact of John MacArthur’s ministry on Africa and beyond. In this episode of The Africa Review in Five, we explore the incredible ways his legacy—from his local church to global airwaves, theological education, and extensive literature—has shaped countless lives and ministries across the continent.
Children are a blessing only when they are obedient and godly. It takes a lot of effort to enjoy the fruit of godliness in children, and part of that effort involves disciplining them. How are parents to discipline their children? When? How far is too far? Join us today in this episode of the Missionary Minds podcast as we discuss this crucial topic.
While communal living is a valued aspect of African culture, when does familial involvement cross the line into undue pressure and expectation for new couples?Shoko delves into how this "dynasty mentality" impacts crucial areas like children's education, financial decisions, employment, and even the heartbreaking aftermath of a spouse's death. How can couples navigate these deeply ingrained cultural norms while still honoring the biblical mandate for a new family unit? Tune in to understand the complexities and the call for biblical truth to transform these practices.
On its 70th anniversary, the Freedom Charter is still hailed by many as South Africa's "Bible" for liberation. But how does this influential document stand up to Christian scrutiny? And what does God truly desire for the political future of South Africa, or any nation?
Feminism, the Prosperity Gospel, and Westernization have significantly impacted African homes, leading to a four-fold theme: women prioritizing careers, grandmothers raising children, absent fathers, and children born before marriage. This episode challenges these trends by analyzing a recent mass wedding in South Africa.What five crucial marks should Christians embrace for a God-blessed marriage in Africa? Can traditional African culture and biblical principles truly align? Tune in to discover the answers and transform your perspective on marriage!
In a world quick to label any disagreement as "bigotry," how can we truly understand and overcome prejudice and racism? This episode of The Africa Review in Five, "Four Principles for Overcoming Prejudice and Racism," dives into critical biblical truths to help define these sinful behaviors. Should we treat everyone the same, or is there a godly way to navigate favouritism? Let's explore principles for honouring God in our relationships and interactions, without revealing all the answers. Don't miss this thought-provoking discussion!
South Africa faces one of the world's highest unemployment rates, a persistent challenge demanding urgent solutions. In "The Mess of Minimum Wage (Part 2)," we dive into how Minimum Wage Laws (MWLs) might be a major contributor to this joblessness. Do these laws truly help workers, or do they inadvertently price people out of jobs, leading to increased automation and fewer opportunities? We explore common arguments for MWLs and uncover the unforeseen consequences that impact entire communities.
The mission field can bring unique challenges for the missionary. To make a lasting impact for the Lord a man needs a wife suited to the call. What does such a wife look like?
Ditch the dating app swiping and get ready for a game-changing perspective on finding your future wife! This isn't your average "how-to." Based on 1 Peter 3:1-4, we're diving deep into a powerful checklist that focuses on what truly matters. Discover the "Roots" of conversion – is she a real Christian with a clear testimony and strong church involvement? Unpack the "Branches" of character, exploring submission, fear of God, purity, and that gentle, quiet spirit. And yes, even "Clothing" makes the list – think modesty, humility, and frugality! Plus, we turn the mirror on you with crucial action points like praying and preparing yourself. Tune in to transform your search for a godly lady!
In a world where solutions often bring more problems, some American ideologies have found their way to Africa, promising cures but delivering deeper ailments. From the Prosperity gospel's financial illusions to Wokeism's divisive anti-racism, are we truly addressing the root causes of suffering, or are we just worsening the disease?
Is Africa truly independent? Dive into this episode of The Africa Review in Five as we explore the complex relationship between African nations, foreign aid, and the call for self-reliance. We delve into the intriguing case of Zimbabwe and examine why, despite calls for decolonization, dependence on Western aid persists. This episode also challenges African churches, asking: Are they financially independent, or are they also relying on external support?
Are minimum wage laws really the answer to economic fairness? In this episode, we dive into "The Mess of Minimum Wage (Part 1)," exploring the complexities behind government-mandated wages. From Luxembourg to South Africa, wage regulations vary wildly, but do they truly protect the poor? Or could these well-intentioned laws actually be doing more harm than good? Join us as we question the common assumptions and begin to uncover the surprising truths about who really determines the value of our labor.
Making decisions in marriage can be hard. Some people do it thoughtlessly and others bulldoze through it. Listen to this episode to learn how to make good decisions in marriage.
Uncover the surprising influence of a 1961 book on today’s leaders and the ideologies driving current events. Delve into "Fanon Still Fanning the Flames: Exposing the Lies of Marxism" and explore the dangerous philosophies that may be fueling societal struggles. Are these ideas shaping the world around us more than we realize? Join us as we dissect the major deceptions of Marxism and challenge them with biblical truth in this week's episode of The Africa Review in Five.
With Africa facing significant economic challenges, what does true help for the impoverished look like? Does simply giving money solve the problem, or are there deeper issues at play? Join us as we uncover biblical perspectives and historical examples, questioning how best to address poverty in a way that truly uplifts and empowers. This isn't just about handouts; it's about understanding the root causes and finding sustainable solutions.