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Studying African independent churches, David Barrett concluded that the single most important factor in dividing independent churches from missionary-founded churches was the vernacular translation of the Bible. As soon as the Bible was available in the native tongue, readers could check the teaching and practice of the missionary churches against the Scriptural standard. Many found the older missionary churches wanting, and set out to found churches that matched the Bible more closely.
No doubt many acted schismatically and immaturely. No doubt many of the independent churches have developed bizarre theologies. But what else could have happened? The Bible will finally bring new life, and it will eventually bring unity. Mbiti, in fact, argues that it already does, as independent churches and more traditional churches find they read the Bible similarly.
Along the way the Bible falls into the wrong hands, it topples traditions, it uproots and tears down. It is the living word of God, and cannot be contained or controlled. However erroneously we use it along the way, it goes out in the power of the Spirit, and we can trust Him to preserve the Word.
posted by Peter J. Leithart on Tuesday, July 03, 2007 at 10:47 AM
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