Purification in an African context from a Missio Dei perspective : empowering pastors of African Independent Churches in Leandra to interpret the cleansing rituals of Numbers 19 from a Christ centred redemptive perspective : a case study

Abstract

This research examines and evaluates the way African Independent Churches use Numbers 19 when cleansing rituals are performed in the Leandra District in South Africa. Through qualitative empirical research the importance and understanding of these rituals among leaders and members of these churches are investigated. Their use of Numbers 19 in the Bible, as a key biblical text when they perform cleansing rituals, is evaluated. By considering valid Hermeneutical, Homiletical and contextualization principles, a Christ-centred redemptive way of interpreting and preaching and teaching Numbers 19 in a contextualized way is offered to enrich the lives of AIC members and to mobilize them as a significant missional force in the midst of fear and grief in struggling communities.