Identity and Ecclesiology

Questions of identity continue to intrigue theologians in Africa, and African intellectuals often note communal emphases in African thought. This raises the question, How do ecclesiologies in Africa engage with identity concerns, and how do they envision the Christian identity? Stephanie Lowery argues in this book that theologians in Africa provide theological and biblical arguments regarding Christian identity that are relevant to individual Christians and ecclesiologies in all contexts. She also proposes the social identity approach as a tool that can both further articulate and advance these discussions. ''Drawing from her exposure to African Christianity and expertise in African theology, Lowery has produced an accessible and insightful work that discusses in a distinctive manner the relationship between identity and church as imagined in the works of some key African theologians. Identity and Ecclesiology makes a substantive contribution to the growing literature on contemporary African Christianity and African ecclesiology.''--Victor I. Ezigbo, Professor and Chair of Biblical and Theological Studies, Bethel University ''Stephanie A. Lowery’s Identity and Ecclesiology is a brilliant, fascinating, and ground-breaking analysis of the historical trajectory, major themes, and prominent architects of the theological self-understanding of the community called church in Africa. An essential resource for scholars and students looking for fresh insights, new perspectives, and scripture-based notions on the dynamic nature of African ecclesial identity and its significance for the world church.'' --Agbonkhianmeghe E. Orobator, SJ, Hekima University College Jesuit School of Theology, Nairobi''Colonialization inflicted much devastation. One with eyes to see also can detect a powerful work of the Spirit in Africa. Stephanie Lowery, a child of Africa herself, has these eyes, and investigates with keen analytical proficiency. This book explores ideas of African thinkers and leaders that not only have helped sustain the African church, but have made contributions to Christian thought the rest of the world really needs--’first-world’ Christians perhaps in particular.''--R. Todd Mangum, Lester and Kay Clemens Professor of Missional Theology, Academic Dean, Biblical Theological Seminary''Out of Africa come fresh theological voices contributing to the church’s global New Reformation. Lowery expertly recounts their vision of Christ’s church rooted in communal identity, a necessary antidote to the corrosive individualism which has diminished the West’s ecclesiology. An essential read for every Christian committed to the future of our common faith as God’s family.''--Gene L. Green, Professor of New Testament, Wheaton College and Graduate SchoolStephanie A. Lowery is a lecturer of systematic theology at Scott Christian University in Machakos, Kenya.