An Assessment of John Mbiti's African Concept of Time and Its Implications for Christian Ministry

Abstract

John Mbiti is a trailblazer in discussing the traditional African concept of time. In his work, he maintains that the African concept of time is key to understanding African ontology hence underscoring the value of a right understanding of African view of time. However, not all subsequent scholars are in agreement with Mbiti's assessment of the concept of time in Africa: as dependent on event; two-dimensional and as having no concept of the future. More often than not, previous studies on this issue have tended to focus more on critiquing Mbiti's analysis of time without applying African understanding of time in today's context. Consequently, this paper not only examines the ongoing discussion on traditional African view of time but also posits that the proclamation of the gospel of Jesus Christ ought to be presented by taking cognizance of the African understanding of time. Thus, evangelism, Christian discipleship, Christian apologetics and planning should be done in such a way that they factor in African love for history, their value for the present and their less emphasis on things that are really in the distant future. This way, inculturation of the Christian faith is enhanced.