Contextualization: Meanings, Methods, and Models

by David J. Hesselgrave

This classic textbook brings together the meanings, proposals, and tasks involved in contextualization. Hesselgrave and Rommen explore the history of contextualization in the Bible and the Church while examining the proposals of prominent thinkers on this subject. They conclude with their own definition and approach to contextualization. Those who have come to expect expert analysis of contextualization from David Hesselgrave will not be disappointed with this work. "His Expertise," writes George Peters, "shines through in this book." Teaming up with Hesselgrave is Ed Rommen, who, according to Peters, is "becoming an authority in practical contextualization." Together they skillfully bring the labyrinth of meanings, proposals, and tasks of contextualization into clearer focus. The result, says Peters, "is the most comprehensive treatise on the subject produced by evangelical scholars." The authors survey the history of contextualization in Bible and church history, explore significant proposals of prominent thinkers, and evaluate these proposals from five different perspectives. They conclude their study by outlining their own definition and approach to contextualization, using numerous examples to illustrate their methods.

Genres: Theology, Christian

281 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1989

Reviews

[Dan Seely · Rating 4 out of 5]

An instant classic. Hesselgrave and Rommen deal comprehensively with contextualization, examining the biblical examples of contextualization and the historical attempts at contextualization from around the world before examining it's philosophical, theological, anthropological, hermeneutical, and communicational framework and then closing with various proposals and examples of authentic and relevant contextualization. This book provides tremendous insights on the importance and the "how-to" of contextualization. It would be beneficial not only to those studying contextualization as an academic discipline, but to anyone living in a cross-cultural setting who is seeking to better understand and communicate in a culture different from their own.

[Paul · Rating 2 out of 5]

I had great hopes that this book would provide me with clear directions on how to contextualize the message of Christ into desperate cultures. While there are some excellent hints about how to proceed, I found the book tedious.