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>> The hosting of Lausanne on the African continent is recognition of the glorious work
God is doing, not only to rapidly give the church in Africa a leadership mantel, but
also to show the world that Christianity in Africa is vibrant, influential and is positioned
for leadership. The African church has grown amidst remarkable hardships and these will
not end today. Journey with us, then, through the depth and unfailing power of God’s grace
and blessings to and through his church in Africa. See the future of Christianity unfold
before your eyes. Become part of his history on the African continent. How has the African
church participated in social, political and economic transformation? José.
>> Well, one day when witnessing to politicians when our country was still at war a cabinet
minister said to me, ‘We politicians are lucky because you Christians have no weapons.’
He said that to challenge me because he noted our divisions that make us ineffective in
our witness. But our political leaders were educated by Christian missionaries. However,
when they got into government they forgot that it is the church that played the key
role to the liberation of the country and needed to be reminded. In addition to that,
the Gospel was preached beyond the transformation of personal lives through the building of
schools and health facilities and rural development taken to remote villages. The church continued
to develop a holistic, biblical theology as well as radical, responsible and intentional
discipleship. >> René, what do Christians in Africa need to do to be faithful to the
Savior’s mandate among Muslims?
>> One day I went to witness to a Muslim with a toothache. He grabbed me by the collar.
I was tempted to hit back, but realized that I was there to share the Gospel and I restrained
myself. Though he released me and went away, I took food to him to eat. Ten years later,
when he was a civil servant, he came back to me and apologized. Another time judging
the situation that faced us in a Muslim community, we decided to show the Christian film which
gave us a wonderful opportunity to witness and talk to people. Jesus prayed in John 17,
“I am not asking you to take out of the world but to protect them from the evil one.”
He used the image of sending Christians out as lambs among wolves. As a Christian, we
should banish hatred, aggression and hostility. We should in certain friendship, cordially,
relationship and promote peaceful co-existence with others in the community. Our challenge
is to extend love to all, including Muslims. Christian love rightly demonstrated not only
to friends, but even to enemies, attracts and impacts deeply those around. To love enemies
is difficult. But by the Lord of grace and help of the Holy Spirit, we shall do it. >> Zelaem,
how can the African younger generation contribute to a future of hope?
>> Africa is a continent with vibrant younger generation of leaders in the making. For example,
Ethiopia, the second most populous has about 68% of the population are young, less than
24 years of age. And most of African countries share similar statistics. This huge human
resource and potential is hope for bright Africa. The challenges that young Africans
face today is multi-faced. However, in spite of all those challenges, the African youths
see the light beyond the darkness. And also the Christian you strive to give direction
and sense of hope for the young generation all in Africa have developed a strong sense
of African identity, develop attitude of thinking globally and acting glocally which some call
it glocalization, and develop disciples, discipline of hard work with all its ethical implications.
The millions of younger Christians all over Africa will be agents of transformation as
this great continent seeks to take its rightful place in the global arena. To achieve this
dream the youths in the church of Jesus Christ fortified by the grace of God and empowered
by the Holy Spirit can take the lead for holistic transformation. >> And finally, Margaret,
what challenges do Christians in secular jobs face in their faith and witness? >> Our country,
like all other African countries, struggle with all wounds of tribal and religious conflicts.
Besides factionalism, nepotism, corruption, violation of human rights and reluctance of
many to embrace the truth of God. I face the challenges in the public sector dealing with
the above aspects as well as how to maintain my Christian identity and integrity. Some
people for example have come to me promising to make me a millionaire overnight if I cooperate
by giving them contracts without due process or accepting their immoral advances. I have
made it clear to them that I am a Christian and have distinct values than theirs. True
promotion and riches come from God. I trust that Christians working in the public sector
can contribute to the kingdom of God by working faithfully and practicing integrity, humility
and love. Presently the leadership of the government of Southern Sudan, that’s my
government, has started engaging in dialogue between the church and the state which is
a positive indication of God’s work amidst challenges and to have a better future. Praise
be to God. >> Amen. Friends, let’s remember to pray for South Sudan because they have
a referendum on January 9th to decide the future of that country. And also remember
to pray for the Democratic Republic of Congo, because they’re in a situation of war where
women are *** and a lot of ravaging is happening. Thank you very much.