Missionary Minds

Because of Africa’s history of slavery and racial discrimination, African governments often believe it is their duty to protect labourers from exploitation. They believe one of the ways to do this is to enact and enforce minimum wage laws, forcing businesses and employers to pay labourers no less than a stipulated amount. On the surface, this seems fair. After all, shouldn’t governments stop greedy businesses from exploiting desperate people? Shouldn’t Christians support a minimum wage?

This past week has been marked by shocks, frustration, and what the Kenyan citizens may term as palpable failure in nation-building. When the protests, dubbed "Occupy Parliament", began on Tuesday the 18th of June, Wycliffe Muia reports that it all looked peaceful. However Anti-tax protesters in Kenya are in shock after a 29-year-old man was killed during the nationwide demonstrations against a new finance bill. Rex Kanyike Masai, who was protesting on Thursday in the centre of Nairobi, died of gunshot wounds, as reported by a doctor from a hospital in the capital, as per a local newspaper. Police fired tear gas and water cannons at largely peaceful protesters near parliament as lawmakers were debating proposals to bring in new taxes. How should Christians think through this breakdown of the social contract between the Kenyan government and its citizens?

Whatever the state of political and military tensions on the African continent may be, Christians need to recognise that the world is engulfed in a war that involves all of humanity. It is not a physical war but a spiritual one that rages for control of our morals, of what we believe to be true, and ultimately of our worldview. However, many believers are ignorant of this ongoing war because they have embraced the myth of neutrality. Perhaps one of the enemy’s greatest tactics is to keep Christians ignorant of the war, or at least naive to the scale of the conflict. Listen to learn more about the war that all of us are involved in.

The work of pastoral ministry is not for the faint-hearted. We read in Philippians 1:29 that “it has been granted to you that for the sake of Christ, you should not only believe in him but also suffer for his sake.” The calling often comes with unexpected trials and tribulations. Despite this, a pastor can model the joy of suffering before His people. Pastors are not victims in God’s plan of building a kingdom for His Son! We are partakers!Here are 4 things pastors can do to be able to rest while ministering. Listen and enjoy.

South Africa could become the first country in the world to implement a Universal Basic Income (UBI) grant, according to recent articles by Business Tech and Yahoo Finance. The basic tenet of UBI is that the government can accomplish its goal of eradicating inequality by offering a guaranteed income to everyone. Proponents of UBI, such as the ANC (African National Congress), argue that it could “effectively eliminate poverty in society.” Christians considering this economic policy should be aware that it is principally flawed and practically - impossible.

Recently two evangelists in Uganda were left in a pool of blood by Muslims demanding they renounce Christ. Just in 2024 alone, we read in horror of Muslims ambushing Christians in Kenya, murdering evangelists in Uganda and burning homes of recent converts. Some estimate over a million Christians have been martyred in just the first decade of the 21st century.  As the blood of Christian martyrs paints Africa red, how then can Islam be called a religion of peace?

Discover the untold stories of suffering and resilience in Sudan and Northeastern Nigeria. This gripping episode of The Africa Review in Five sheds light on the ignored genocides ravaging these regions, where millions face displacement, starvation, and violence. Tune in as we explore the silence of African leaders and the power of informed prayer and solidarity.

“Discover the thought-provoking debate on whether mothers should participate more in the workplace. Stellenbosch Business School’s article sheds light on gender inequality, where women remain underrepresented. But what about mothers juggling careers and children? From Nigerian moms firing nannies to Ugandan moms defending their choices, the discussion is lively. The biblical perspective emphasizes a woman’s priority: the home. While feminism encourages career pursuits, the Fulfilment Argument suggests that working moms find joy in fulfilling roles. Ultimately, it’s not about whether a woman should work, but where. Join us as we explore these compelling viewpoints!”

In this episode of The Africa Review in Five, we explore the impact of social media on Christians in Africa. With platforms like Facebook and Instagram rapidly growing in popularity, how can believers harness this tool for God's glory? We discuss the benefits of social media evangelism, fostering community, and enhancing Christian visibility. However, we also address the potential dangers, including worldliness, distraction, and self-promotion. Join us as we navigate the digital landscape.

Dive into a thought-provoking discussion on Christian marriage in South Africa! Uncover biblical truths with Tim Cantrell and explore what it truly means to marry ‘in the Lord’. Don’t miss this enlightening episode of The Africa Review in Five—Tune in now!