Dominic Bnonn Tennant

Being originally from South Africa, I tend to be more interested in the development of Christianity in the African continent than I do in other areas which get more attention, such as China. In this regard, I would like to commend to you the efforts of John Divito, who runs the Africa Center for Apologetics Research, as well as the blog Reformed Baptist Thinker (through which I learned about ACFAR). John has asked that those who support his ministry make December 3 the day to promote it to others who may be interested. ACFAR is a ministry to Uganda, where Christianity is currently threatened very seriously by extreme charismaticism and numerous cults. Genuine Christians, including pastors, have very little theological training and so find it very difficult to defend their faith against these elements. There is a great need to train Christians in Uganda, and in Africa generally, so that they are able to stand upon sound doctrine, being equipped to “destroy arguments and every lofty opinion raised against the knowledge of God” (2 Cor 10:5).

Apologetics is the beginning of what, at the risk of sounding trite, can be described as the intellectual journey of Christianity. It is the persuasion by which many are brought to faith; it is the belief by which growth in that faith continues; and it is the knowledge by which attacks on that faith from other religions are turned aside and exposed as folly. Without sound apologetic teaching, especially for pastors, the church in Africa is very vulnerable to false doctrines, cults, and apostasy. Therefore, if you are able to support John’s ministry, please consider it. A dedication to regular prayer for his efforts, and for our brothers and sisters in Africa, is as valuable as any financial contribution, though the latter is obviously appreciated. Through the efforts of people like John, perhaps God’s word will not return to him empty from Africa.