The Contextualization of Christian Missions in African Cities: An Effective Methodology of Evangelizing Slums

The life and culture of some slums in Africa showcase a complicated and challenging ministry reality, ranging from cultural and ethnic diversity to occupational and lifestyle variations. The effectiveness of Christian missions is possible through a proper understanding of the diversities and different approaches to the mission field. Apostle Paul provides a contextualization methodology. He became like a Jew, an enslaved person, one under the law, not having the law even though free from God’s law but under Christ’s law. Paul became weak to win the weak with the Gospel (1 Cor. 9:19–23). The text combines the approach and understanding of the diversities in Paul’s context and the need for contextualization. Thus, this article discusses contextualization in Christian missions and contends that the most effective approach to Christian missions in some African slums is the incarnational approach to evangelism and discipleship. The article critically explores the nature and diversity of some African cities and slums. Subsequently, it outlines the strategic and viable missiological approaches to Christian ministry in African slums. Lastly, it provides recommendations to churches and parachurch ministries on practical techniques for evangelization in African cities, especially the slums.