The Function of Prophetic Forthtelling in Roho Christianity

This paper examines the forms and function of prophecy in Roho (Spirit-led) Christianity in Africa. It seeks to situate this function within the rubric of biblical prophecy. It takes seriously their beliefs and theological reasoning that informs their practice. We look at forms of biblical prophecy that generally serve as their guiding principle, namely: foretelling and forthtelling. The literature available on Roho Christianity largely focuses on the historical, sociological, and anthropological aspects of this brand of Christianity. Majority of scholars have paid attention to their origins, rituals, and interaction with the larger society. While this is important, there is very little attention given to one of their principal characteristics--an active prophetic ministry. This paper seeks to satisfy the following seven objectives. Firstly, we look at the prophetic role of the church in African society. Secondly, we try to establish the nexus between prophecy and salvation in Roho Christianity. Thirdly, we look at the forthtelling character and function of Jewish prophecy. Fourthly, we look at prophecy as a community constitution in Roho churches. Fifthly, we assess how prophecy acts as group ritual for identity maintenance. Sixthly, we examine ways in which prophecy acts as symbolic Christian ethics. Finally, we explore how prophetic forthtelling enhances socioeconomic support among Roho churches. In order to achieve the foregoing, we look at concepts common to Roho Christianity in an attempt to draw conclusions about the concept and nature of prophecy in Roho churches and convictions connected with them

Healer

This book explores the established field of healing narratives in the New Testament by focusing on the remembered tradition regarding Jesus’ healings and comparing them with those of other healers, such as Asclepius. A sub-theme to the book is to investigate the reception of Jesus as healer in various African communities. The book exposes the various healing methods employed by Jesus such as exorcism, touch and the use of spittle. Like any other healing performances that reflect the healthcare system of a given culture, Jesus’ healings were holistic: healing the bodily pain, restoring households and combatting stigmatisation and marginalisation. The book demonstrates Jesus’ healing activities as “shalom” performances that seek to re-establish peace in all its social dimensions. With regard to the reception of Jesus as healer in the African context, the book elaborates the sacrificial lamb motif and the need for restoring a relationship with God. All the contributions in the book present a unique and original perspective in understanding Jesus as healer from an African healthcare system

Healer

This book explores the established field of healing narratives in the New Testament by focusing on the remembered tradition regarding Jesus’ healings and comparing them with those of other healers, such as Asclepius. A sub-theme to the book is to investigate the reception of Jesus as healer in various African communities. The book exposes the various healing methods employed by Jesus such as exorcism, touch and the use of spittle. Like any other healing performances that reflect the healthcare system of a given culture, Jesus’ healings were holistic: healing the bodily pain, restoring households and combatting stigmatisation and marginalisation. The book demonstrates Jesus’ healing activities as “shalom” performances that seek to re-establish peace in all its social dimensions. With regard to the reception of Jesus as healer in the African context, the book elaborates the sacrificial lamb motif and the need for restoring a relationship with God. All the contributions in the book present a unique and original perspective in understanding Jesus as healer from an African healthcare system