by Philip Jenkins

See this item in the bookstore...

review by Retha McCutchen

The New Faces of Christianity: Believing the Bible in the Global South by Philip Jenkins takes a fresh look at the differences within Christian circles, contrasting the belief system of the Global South (Latin America, Asia, and Africa) with European and American Christianity. Jenkins recognizes that interpretation of Scripture and faith in the Global South—the world's largest growing region of Christian faith—will increasingly affect the rest of the world.

Believers in Latin America and Asia largely read or hear the Scriptures and interpret them in light of their cultural understanding. Theirs is often a more literal view than is common among European and American Christians. Jesus healed, so they pray for and expect healing. It's the same with casting out evil spirits.

Jesus offers love and hope which are accepted wholeheartedly by those without much hope. Jenkins draws a comparison by pointing to slaves in early America whose hymns expressed hope for a better future in the face of a devastating daily reality.

People groups currently under occupation, and those who have recently been freed from oppression and gained independence from colonialism and imperialism, often struggle with biblical interpretation. Jenkins cites Joshua as an example of this struggle. The Global South finds it easy to identify with the inhabitants of the land who were killed and/or displaced. At the same time they can also relate to Joshua and the children of Israel as they seek a homeland away from Egyptian slavery. Jenkins includes South Africa and Israel as modern-day examples of this dichotomy.

Jenkins's treatment of the fact that Christianity often appeals first to the poor and downtrodden in life is thought-provoking. Such people hearing the gospel for the first time bring a refreshing “newness” to Christianity. Those living under oppression might hear Psalm 23 as, “The Lord is my shepherd; I have everything I need. He lets me see a country of justice and peace and directs my steps toward his land.”

A people fighting for freedom might interpret Psalm 1 to read, “Happy are those who reject the evil advice of tyrants, who do not follow the example of sellouts and are not resigned to live as slaves.”

Jenkins reminds us why it is important that every people group gets the Bible in its own vernacular. Other language translations will strengthen relationships, deepen spirituality, and give ownership of God's word to the people.

I recommend this book. It's a text that will open our eyes to a better understanding of and respect for the voices of our brothers and sisters around the world who read the exact same text and find a somewhat different meaning. It will help us recognize that the Holy Spirit is at work worldwide interpreting the biblical revelation.

Have you read this book? Add your comments below.