The missionary task of the church towards the educational challenges for Mozambique in the 21st century

Abstract

The focus of this study was to investigate and describe the missionary task of the church towards the educational challenges in the 21st century in the specific context of the Republic of Mozambique. The background of the country, which in the last 36 years has been guided by an atheistic and secular approach towards religion in general and Christianity in particular, has contributed towards an educational system that lacks the vital insight from the church. In order to change the status quo, solutions have to be found for the main problem, namely: How can the Christian church contribute towards educational challenges in Mozambique? Education is an integral part of the way of life. It includes habits, customs, social organisations, techniques, language, communication, values, norms, beliefs and wisdom. As such, education and the lifestyle of people are inseparable. There can be no society without education. In the case of the Christian church, it is very important that its identity, insight and wisdom are applied to education, thus becoming a transforming element in the society, if taken into consideration that society is the fruit of education. A society that fears the Lord and is based on Christian educational principles is a blessed society. Societies must be built on the right foundation, namely God the Lord! This can be manifested through unity and the cooperation of the church. These characteristics must be accompanied by the church’s authentic identity, through its educational principles in line with the will of God. Educational principles must be directed towards the great mission field of God: the earth and the human race.