What does inculturation mean?

Definition and Overview

Inculturation refers to the process of adapting and expressing sincere faith or core convictions within a particular cultural context, while maintaining the foundational truths of Scripture. It involves carefully engaging with the customs, practices, and beliefs of a given society in such a way that the essence and message of the gospel remain intact. The goal is not to weaken or dilute biblical truth, but rather to convey it meaningfully so that outsiders can understand, respond, and live out its tenets without confusion.

Biblical Foundation

From the earliest days of the faith, Scripture supports the careful shaping of communication about God’s truth to diverse cultures. The Apostle Paul’s approach in Athens illustrates this principle: “Men of Athens, I see that in every way you are very religious…” (Acts 17:22). There, Paul used their own altar to an “unknown god” (Acts 17:23) as a segue to share the truth of the one eternal God, demonstrating how knowledge of the local culture opened doors for presenting the gospel clearly.

Paul’s statement, “I have become all things to all men so that by all possible means I might save some” (1 Corinthians 9:22), reflects inculturation at work. While core doctrines (e.g., the authority of Scripture, the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ) remain unchanged, Paul adapted his method of presentation to the customs and thought-forms of different groups so they might comprehend the truth more readily.

Examples in Early Christianity

1. Gentile Inclusion: In the book of Acts, the Jerusalem Council (Acts 15) wrestled with the question of how Gentile converts should be integrated into the community of believers. The Council determined that certain cultural practices—such as circumcision—were not mandated for Gentiles, as long as they refrained from activities expressly condemned by God’s word. This decision allowed for a distinctly Gentile expression of Christian obedience.

2. Use of Local Languages and Literature: Early Christians adopted local languages (e.g., Greek, Syriac, Coptic) to spread Scripture widely. Archaeological discoveries of ancient manuscript fragments, such as those found in the deserts of Egypt, reveal faithful copies of biblical texts in multiple languages, indicating that from the earliest centuries, contextualizing Scripture for local cultures was both accepted and valued.

3. Integration of Cultural Practices: The fish (Ichthys) symbol, found carved on Roman catacombs and in other parts of the ancient world, exemplifies how believers aligned certain visuals familiar to local populations with a Christian message. This recognition of symbols established cultural connection without compromising the gospel’s meaning, linking “fish” to Jesus (the Greek letters ΙΧΘΥΣ forming an acrostic: "Jesus Christ, God’s Son, Savior").

Inculturation vs. Syncretism

Despite its importance, inculturation must be distinguished from syncretism. Syncretism blends contradictory beliefs in ways that erode the doctrinal foundation of the faith, whereas inculturation strives for clarity and faithfulness. Whenever external religious traditions threatened the early church, the apostolic writers warned believers to remain steadfast. “Do not let anyone who delights in false humility and the worship of angels disqualify you…” (Colossians 2:18) underscores the principle of discernment in dealings with local customs and religious practices.

Practical Steps in Inculturation

1. Study the Culture

Observing language, traditions, family structures, and values is vital. In each culture, there are bridges (points of contact) and barriers (pitfalls) to proclaiming biblical truth. Knowing these distinctions helps believers communicate effectively.

2. Identify Non-Negotiable Truths

Core doctrines—salvation through Christ’s resurrection (Romans 10:9–10), the authority of Scripture (2 Timothy 3:16), the unity of Father, Son, and Holy Spirit (Matthew 28:19)—must remain firm. Adapting the outward form of worship or methods of outreach should never dilute these essentials.

3. Emphasize Genuine Love and Service

Demonstrating Christ’s love in tangible ways can transcend cultural barriers. Historical missionary accounts, such as the work of figures like William Carey among different people groups, show that genuine benevolence, education, and compassion support the effective inculturation of the gospel.

4. Foster an Ongoing Relationship with Scripture

When believers remain anchored to the Bible, they can contextualize effectively. As Jesus prayed, “Sanctify them by the truth; Your word is truth” (John 17:17). Immersion in the written Word keeps inculturation faithful to God’s revelation.

Historical and Archaeological Insights

Archaeological and textual evidence shows that inculturation occurred from the earliest periods of church history. Manuscripts preserved from the second and third centuries, such as the Bodmer and Chester Beatty papyri, include local translational nuances while preserving the same salvific message of Christ. Early church buildings discovered in the Near East often display locally influenced architecture, yet inscriptions or mosaic designs clearly testify to the God of Scripture.

Further, records of modern missionary work illustrate how effectively the message of salvation has spread when believers take time to learn the culture, translate the Bible into the local language, and address questions arising within that cultural worldview. Historical examples, such as the rapid spread of the gospel in regions of Africa and Asia, underscore how vital it is to communicate the unchanging message of Scripture in a culturally accessible manner.

Application in Contemporary Settings

Inculturation remains a pressing concern in global Christian engagement. Scholars of missiology, anthropology, and religious studies often highlight its role in church-planting, discipleship, and evangelism. At the same time, theological safeguards ensure that adaptation never compromises biblical teaching. The goal is always to “go and make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19) in a way that resonates within each cultural sphere while remaining completely loyal to the truths revealed by God.

On a personal level, believers can practice inculturation by relating to those around them in ways that respect cultural differences yet still point fully to the love, authority, and truth of God revealed in Christ. Whether through language, music, or cultural expressions of hospitality, the biblical mandate is to present truth with clarity and kindness, so that people from every tribe and tongue can meaningfully embrace the gift of salvation.

Conclusion

Inculturation is the careful, faithful, and culturally meaningful presentation of the gospel in a given context. It is never meant to compromise Scripture, but to steward its message in accessible and relevant ways, reflecting the heart of God for all peoples. As exemplified throughout church history and in the pages of the Berean Standard Bible, believers are to remain steadfast in scriptural truth while extending genuine love and contextual understanding to help every culture encounter the transformative power of the risen Christ.