A discussion of James 1: 27 and its impact on efforts in evangelization and discipleship in the Ghanaian Christian context

Abstract

This article addresses the issue of true Christianity in the Ghanaian context – that is the kind of Christianity that meets all the requirements of God. It is essentially a theological reflection on the passage in James 1: 27. By this approach, the article brings out the core concern of the passage and applies it theologically to the Ghanaian context. The article concludes on the notion that the characteristics of true Christianity in the Ghanaian context offers an answer to the fundamental question underlining the general Ghanaian way of life: what does it mean to be a human being? To this end, true Christianity is characterised by mutual respect for all human beings, generosity towards all, liberation, and genuineness. Interestingly, these ideals or values are best expressed in the Ghanaian context in the important concepts of humanity and brotherhood or sisterhood of all human beings. Through the expression of faith in God, the Father, and expressed altruistic Christian attitude in the Ghanaian context, then, Christian missionaries and denominations may possess an effective tool for evangelization and nurturing.

Keywords: Religion/Christianity, Evangelization, Humanity, Brotherhood/sisterhood, Common good