The tragic history of Western colonialism and the slave trade in Africa has left deep scars, understandably fueling anger and resentment. However, it is crucial to avoid letting the sins of the past cloud our understanding of unrelated truths. One such misconception is the attempt to link the figure of Jesus Christ with this dark chapter, claiming Jesus as a tool for Western suppression. This article aims to debunk this harmful narrative by separating the person and message of Jesus from the actions of colonizers, emphasizing his universality and transformative power.
Contrary to the misconception, Christianity had an established presence in Africa long before the arrival of European colonizers. The earliest evidence points to the 1st century AD, with the Church of Alexandria playing a pivotal role in spreading the faith across North Africa. By the 4th century, the Aksumite kingdom in Ethiopia embraced Christianity, becoming one of the first Christian nations in the world. Additionally, archaeological discoveries suggest Christian communities thrived in various regions, including Nubia and the Swahili Coast, centuries before Western colonisation began.
Here are some historical facts to consider:
1st Century AD: The Coptic Orthodox Church is established in Egypt, claiming its origins from the Apostle Mark.
4th Century AD: The Aksumite emperor Ezana adopts Christianity, marking Ethiopia as a Christian nation. This potentially contributed to one of the reasons Ethiopia was never fully colonized.
7th Century AD: Christianity flourishes in Nubia, as evidenced by churches and religious artefacts discovered in present-day Sudan.
10th-15th Centuries AD: The Swahili Coast experiences significant Christian presence, with trade and cultural exchange playing a role in its growth.
Apart from these historical pieces of evidence, it is important to stress that the core message of Jesus transcends geographical and cultural boundaries, offering salvation and hope to all individuals, regardless of race, ethnicity, or origin. As the Bible states in John 3:16: "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life."
Furthermore, the transformative power of Jesus is evident in countless testimonies across the globe, including testimonies from Western nations. If Jesus were solely a tool for Western suppression, his message and power wouldn't resonate with and transform individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Consider these examples:
Reinhard Bonnke, a German national, who was popular for his gospel crusades shared the story of his salvation, expounding that the gospel entered the Bonnke family when an American missionary who lost his way in the woods, located the village where his family dwelt, and prayed for healing for his great grandfather who had a painful illness and was healed after the prayer in the name of Jesus.
Millions of people in different parts of the world find solace and strength in their faith in Jesus, seeking guidance and purpose. The narrative of Jesus is beyond Africa!
Individuals across the world, regardless of race or ethnicity, experience personal transformation through encounters with Jesus and his teachings.
I understand the anger of the African man because I am also one; we dislike the oppression of the colonialists and will forever speak against such cruelty against humanity. However, we cannot allow anger to cloud our reasoning as to link the saving power of Jesus Christ to anything Western. If anyone has done anything against humanity, they were not portraying Jesus or His message.
It is crucial to distinguish between the historical wrongdoings of Western colonialism and the message and power of Jesus Christ. To claim Jesus as a tool for suppression is not only historically inaccurate but also undermines the universal nature of his teachings and the transformative impact he has had on countless lives throughout history. By separating truth from falsehood, we can appreciate the positive influence of the Christian faith and avoid perpetuating harmful misconceptions.
If you have been misled by these false linkings, please allow the love and light of God to come into your heart as you invite Jesus to your life today. I love you with the love of God, and Jesus loves you more.
Compiled by
Caleb Oladejo
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