Redefining prophetic ministry in the post independence era in Namibia

Abstract

Abstract provided by author:

In this thesis, the primary objective, is to analyse and reflect upon the often difficult relationship between the concern of church and religion in 'spiritual salvation or liberation' on the one hand, and the predicament of religion when it interacts in the secular realm with matters concerned purely with a material condition, and what it could and should be doing in a fluid social order. The church, therefor, has an obligation in a number of areas, which includes a joint responsibility with the state regarding ethics and social morality in the public domain

The terrain of church and state is different, but often also similar, and it is in the interest of society that the interaction between the two institutions be regarded as mutually beneficial. It is also imperative that this interaction be seen to be working for the greater good of society as a whole. This study will

attempt to establish whether it is committed to this purpose

Firstly the study will reveal how the church continues to give substance to its prophetic ministry within the realm of the socio-political framework in Namibia, and whether Christians believe that the church continues to be relevant to the lived experiences of believers. Second, the study will indicate whether Christians believe that the prophetic ministry of the church is of a sufficiently organic nature as to require redefinition over periods of time, in order to be an effective role player in Namibian society. Finally the document will show whether it is possible for the church to accommodate the desires and aspirations of its membership in a changing world, as well as how the church and the state will critically work together in such new situations. In short, the study will analyse and compare the situation in the pre- and post independence periods with regard to the involvement of the church in civil matters, which contributed to the change in the socio-political position of Namibia. It will, consequently, confine itself to the pre-independence period starting 1970 to the present, with 31 December 2000 as the cut-off date for the gathering of data, and for the inclusion of recent publications

The study will comprise five Chapters. Chapter 1 will give background information about the study. This information will include stating the purpose of the study, reasons for considering the study important, statement of the problem, and the scope and limitations the study will take. Chapter 2 deals with historical understanding of prophetic ministry as understood by the church. Chapter 3 will analyse the role of the church in the 1970's to the present, that is 2000. Chapter 4 will provide suggestions and recommendations for a redefinition of prophetic ministry and ways of finding the way towards a better church/stte interaction in the resolution of socio-political issues. Chapter 5 will provide the conclusion of the study