Christian Missions in Malawi:: A Spiritual and Socio-Cultural Perspective

Evans Khobidi

doi:10.21697/lr.16397

Published: 2025-12-22

Vol. 4 (2025)

Christian Missions in Malawi:

A Spiritual and Socio-Cultural Perspective

Evans Khobidi

LIBERTAS RELIGIOSA Studium interdyscyplinarne wolności religijnej

Section: Artykuły

https://doi.org/10.21697/lr.16397

Abstract

This article explores and examines the nature, history, challenges, and opportunities of Christian Missions, particularly evangelical Christianity in Malawi which has historically emphasized sound biblical teaching, disciple making, church planting and missionary sending. This is explored from a spiritual and socio-cultural perspective in contrast with Christopaganism, Traditional African Religion (TAR), Globalization & Western Mission Withdrawal, Ecumenical Movements, Pentecostalism, Syncretism and neo-prophetic movements. It highlights the dual role of missions as a vehicle for the spread of the Christian faith and as an instrument of social transformation. The historical contribution of early missionaries, the impact on education and health, as well as contemporary challenges and opportunities for the Church, are discussed. The specific objectives of this article are to (1) examine the historical background of Christian Missions in Malawi, (2) analyze the spiritual and socio-cultural challenges faced by Christian Missions, (3) discuss the growth of Christianity in Malawi, and (4) identify opportunities for future mission work. A qualitative approach was employed, utilizing a literature review and case study analysis to gather data. The findings suggest that Christian missions have made a significant impact on Malawian society, but face challenges such as cultural barriers and limited resources. Thus, the article recommends prioritizing theological education, leadership development, and contextualization of the Gospel. The study concludes that Christian Missions in Malawi have the potential to continue growing and making a positive impact on society that is replete with traditional religions, but must adapt to the changing cultural and spiritual landscape.

Keywords:

Christian missions, Evangelicals, Pentecostalism, Syncretism, Christopaganism, African traditional religions, Malawi, socio-cultural perspective, church history, community transformation, spiritual renewal, Evangelical Christianity, globalization, Western mission withdrawal, evangelization, contextualization, neo-prophetic movements, ecumenical movements

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Khobidi, E. (2025). Christian Missions in Malawi:: A Spiritual and Socio-Cultural Perspective. LIBERTAS RELIGIOSA Studium Interdyscyplinarne wolności Religijnej, 4, 189–199. https://doi.org/10.21697/lr.16397

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