The African World View

This week we spent a lot of time learning about world view -- that is, the ways different cultures view time, relationships, family, wealth, religion, etc. We learned a lot about the African world view. For example, in the United States, we have a very individualistic world view. Everything revolves around self, and we make decisions based on our own opinions and feelings. In Africa, everything revolves around community. Decisions are made as a group, and they are made by consensus (that is, everyone agrees) rather than democratic voting. For example, in the U.S., if Dick wanted to marry Jane, but Dick's father didn't approve, Dick probably would still marry Jane because he wanted to. In Africa, Dick would wait years until his father and the rest of his family finally agreed it was okay to marry Jane.

We also learned that in America, the "big sins" are crimes like murder, adultery, abuse, and embezzlement (sins of the flesh), while in Africa the "big sins" are inhospitality and disrespect. In addition, Americans are time-oriented, while Africans are event oriented. If they go to a wedding or funeral, it is an all-day affair. Deron is a very relational person, but as a task-oriented individual it will be more difficult to adjust to this laid-back life style.

As we move to Africa, we're praying we'll be very aware of the African world view so that we will be sensitive and loving as we make friends and share Christ with those we meet.