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Contextual theology adapts biblical principles for modern culture, including inculturation, determining cultural relevance of statements, and applying principles to new technology. Caution is advised to ensure universal relevance.
Contextual theology is a Christian philosophy that attempts to view biblical principles apart from their cultural context. Aspects of contextual theology include adapting non-Christian practices for Christian purposes, deciding which biblical statements apply only to the original culture, and determining how biblical principles apply to new technology. Some of these aspects can be seen in New Testament sermons and letters.
An aspect of contextual theology, known as inculturation, seeks to adapt any compatible piece of a non-Christian culture for Christian purposes. For example, December 25 was originally a pagan holiday held in ancient Rome to celebrate the invincible sun. When some Romans became Christians, they took many aspects of the famous pagan holiday and used them to celebrate the birth of Christ, in the holiday now known as Christmas.
A biblical example of inculturation is found in Paul’s sermon in Acts 17-22. Speaking in Athens, Greece, Paul quoted Greek philosophers and poets to demonstrate that Jesus Christ rose from the dead. By using familiar poets, Paul made it easier for the Athenians to accept his message. This same kind of contextualization is on display when a minister cites a current film or book to illustrate his or her point.
Considering the cultural relevance of a biblical statement is another aspect of contextual theology. Some biblical statements are considered universal, relevant to all people and cultures, while others are cultural and apply only in the original culture. A common example is found in 1 Corinthians 11:4-7, which states, among other things, that women should not shave their heads. Many scholars believe that shrine prostitutes shaved their heads. Therefore, many believe that the cultural commandment was for women not to shave their heads, while the universal statement is not to dress like a prostitute.
Anything that the Bible doesn’t specifically address can also be discussed under contextual theology. For example, the biblical authors didn’t have such things as cars, cell phones, and televisions. Contextual theology seeks to find the underlying principles of biblical commandments and apply them to modern culture.
Many Christians encourage great caution when using contextual theology. While the differences between first century and modern scholarship must be taken into consideration, most theologians urge that the claims be considered universally relevant unless there is very strong evidence to the contrary. Otherwise, people may just ignore any commands they find the hardest to follow.
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