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Introduction:
A. What is Contextualization?
Context comes from the Latin contexere which means to weave or join together. The noun form
contextus refers to what is woven together, what is held together as a connected whole. In relation
to a text, the context may be a unit of words or sentences in which the text is set and to which it is
connected (literary context). It may also refer to the historical situation (a set of events) in which the
text was set and out of which it arose (historical context) or to the cultural situation in which the text
was staged (cultural context).
Example of Literary Context: black
Contexts:
1. red, brown, blue, black - color
2. the blacks were oppressed by the whites - race
3. a black, stuborn heart - attitude or condition
Example of Historical Context: Noli Me Tangere
Contexts
1. Spanish Regime
2. Oppression of Filipinos by Spaniards (e.g., tributes and forced labor)
3. Tension between the illustrados (the elite Filipinos who had education in Manila and Europe) and the
friars who owned larged tracts of land which were leased to Filipinos.
So a text can only be understood properly when it is interpreted according to its context, not according
to the context of the reader. This is Hermeneutics; the concern is on the interpretation of the text. But in
the subject of contextualization, the concern is on the application of the text in the context of the reader.
Hermeneutics and Contextualization
Interpretation
Application
Context of
the Scripture
Context of
the Reader
Definiton: Contextualization is the process by which Christian truth is embodied and translated within
a concrete historical situation. (Dr. Rodrigo Tano)
Contextualization is the process ...
Process is a method of doing something, with all the steps involve.
Since it is a process, it requires careful study or analysis. The text (Christian truth) must be studied
carefully as well as the context (the historical and cultural situation of the reader). Dont think that since
you are a Filipino and was born in the Philippine soil you dont need to study your own culture. Try to
read books about Filipino history and culture, and you will be surprised that there are things that you
dont really know about your culture.
... by which Christian truth ...
The subject of contextualization is the Christian truth. Our concern is not how to apply science
or philosophy in our own culture, but how to apply the Christian truth (the Scripture) in our Filipino
experience. Since we are dealing primarily with Christian truth, the text, it is important that we must
study it carefully. Here you can apply your knowledge on Exegesis. Dont just apply the text in your
own context without studying it first in its own context. So the first question is not How do I
understand this? but How did the original readers understand this? For example the word peace.
Dont understand the word the way English readers understand it, but understand the word the way
Jews understood it. Then after knowing its correct meaning, then thats the time that you apply it. This is
the principle that we follow in Bible translation.
First we understand the meaning of a word in the time of the author and then translate it in Hiligaynon in
a natural way. Thats why in translation exegesis is important; you dont just translate the English words
to Ilonggo, but you have to analyze the words carefully.
For example:
... is embodied ...
To embody means to give a definite form or appearance. To embody something is to give it
a form or an expression. In some culture Christianity comes in different forms. For example, some
Christians in Africa do tribal dance in their worship or they use native instruments in worship. That is
their form of worship or that is the embodiment of Christian worship in their cultural situation.
So what must be the form of Christianity in the Philippines? How are we going to embody the
Christian truth in our own culture? What must be the form of worship in our localities? Or the form of
evangelism? Or the form of preaching? Or the form of discipleship? These are the things that we are
going to explore in this course.
... and translated ...
This is not about Bible translation, although Bible translation is a form of contextualization,
because the Scripture is embodied in the language of the people. When we talk of translating the
Christian truth in a concrete historial situation, we are referring to the declaration or exposition of the
truth in a form which is understandable to that situation. We have so many words and concepts in the
church that are not fully understood by people. We speak of justification, sanctification, kingdom of
God, or salvation, which are not really clear to the people. Even salvation is misunderstood. I will be
using salvation as an example of how Western views influenced us. Truth must be expressed clearly and
understandably.
... within a concrete historical situation.
The Christian truth must be embodied and translated within a concrete or specific historical situation.
The historical situation is the object of contextualization while the subject is the Christian truth. The
historical that is being referred here is the culture (like American or Filipino culture) or the social setting
(like the urban setting or rural setting). So in contextualization it is important to know the culture or
social setting where the Christian truth is communicated.
B. The Need for Contextualization
Christian in the Third World (underdeveloped countries of the world, especially colonized by strong and
developed countries) have long been passive and uncritical recepients of the ready made theological
systems transmitted from the West (Europe and Northern America). They have been believed that the
only valid way of doing theology or doing evangelism or other form of ministry is that which conforms
to the Western style of doing it. We try to imitate everything that comes from the West. Examples:
1. Sequence of Sunday Service:
Sunday School
Sunday Service
Singing
Announcement/Offering
Special Number
Preaching
Closing
2. Evangelism
Sharing of the Gospel
Lead the person in sinners prayer
(Some people think that salvation will not take place without sinners prayer.)
3. Liturgy
Communion once a month
First the Scripture is read, prayer for the bread, and then partaking of the bread
4. Songs
We always watch for new tapes in the market and introduce the songs to the members. Some
dont even understand what they are singing. Some songs are only meaningful in Jewish contexts:
Shalom Jerusalem.
What factors have contributed to this attitude among the churches in the Third World?
1. Monocultural (single culture) system - at the height of the modern missionary movement in the latter
part of the nineteenth century, it was held by mission boards that the churches in the mission fields be
modelled after the churches at home. Church architecture, hymnology, liturgy, musical instruments,
church programs were brought unchanged to the native churches and were readily adopted by the new
Christians. Even in the establishment of Bible Schools and seminaries, these too were patterned after
theological schools in the West in terms of curriculum, textbooks, and methods of teaching. These
missionaries brought their church culture into these new churches. For example, in Nigeria, missionaries
from North America prevented the use of the African native drum and dance in church worship there.
2. Cultural superiority - The great technological achievements and advancements and the affluence and
the sophistication of western countries bred a feeling of cultural superiority. So they consider the culture
of the Third World countries as inferior. Some missionaries even told their converts that their culture is
demonic and urged their destruction. These missionaries lack the sensitivity to, and apprreciation of,
non-western cultures.
3. Misunderstanding of culture - These missionaries overlooked the truth that God works in and through
all cultures. They thought that God can only work through their cultures, and cultures that are different
from them should be rejected. They dont realize that God can work even in the culture of non-western
countries. They forget the fact that even the Bible has its own culture. It was written in the context of
Jewish culture. It simply shows that God worked in that culture.
4. Misundertanding of the nature and function of theology - they think that theology are just set of
beliefs or doctrines that can be transmitted from one culture to another without modification or
reformulation. They dont realize that theology can only be perceived correctly when it is interpreted and
translated within the experience and cultural frame of reference of the recepient; otherwise it will be
irrelevant to him.
Wrong Model
Word of God
Western Culture
Correct Model
Western Culture
Word of God
Third World Culture
Biblical Basis for Contextualization: 1 Cor. 9:20-23. The best example of contextualization is Jesus
himself. Though he came from heaven, he did not come with a culture of his own, but he lived within the
culture of the Jews, relating and interpreting to them the truth in their own cultural experience.
What is the goal of contextualization; why is it needed? To make the Christian truth relevant and
understandable to the people.
What contextualization is not:
1. Not nationalism - this is not devotion to ones nation or patriotism. This is just a recognition that God
has given us a culture through which he can deal with us, and we dont need to seek God in a foreign
culture.
2. Not syncretism - this is not a mixing of Christian truth and unbiblical culture, like the folk Christianity
in our country. Some attempts to adapt the culture at the expense of Biblical truth. For example, there
are theologians in India who present Christ as one of the gods of Hinduism in order to bring them to
Christ. Culture must be subservient to Christian truth not the other way around.
3. Not purism - although contextualization tries to Filipinize Christianity, it does not attempt to make
Christianity purely Filipino. There is no such thing as pure culture. Every culture has been influenced by
other cultures. It is like a language, you cannot find a pure language. Every language has borrowed
terms. And culture changes from one generation to another. And culture varies in different social setting,
urban and rural. In some rural areas there are still so many superstitious beliefs, but no longer in the
cities. So in contextualization, you have to look at cultural situation that you are in. Contextualization is
the inter-action of the Christian truth with the present culture not the culture of the past. You must know
where your people are.
II. An Example of Contextualization: Salvation
What is salvation? For evangelical Christians, it is redemption, salvation from sin. Salvation is
just spiritual in most of the evangelical denominations. This is what they had learned from western
missionaries or preachers, and also books from the West. We need to realize that these countries are
economically prosperous, and salvation is not so relevant to their economic condition, thus they tend to
focus more on the spiritual aspect of salvation.
But what is really salvation in the Scripture?
1. Old Testament Concept
The most common word used in the Old Testament to describe salvation is the
to avoid risk of refusal - for example somebody owes you money, you are afraid that he will refuse
to pay, so you will send somebody to get the money for you.
to ensure success in negotiations - sometimes you send an important person that will speak on your
behalf so that you can get what you want. Like applying a job, a Filipino might ask an influential
person to speak to a manager.
The desire for social acceptance is reinforced by the avoidance of personal rejection which would result
in a deep seated sense of shame or embarassment. Due to a high sense of self-esteem (amor propio - self
worth, the way we value ourselves), the Filipino is sensitive to insults especially open insult. When amor
propio is violated or threatened, it is accompanied by hiya (shame, embarrasment). When a person is
laughed at in the group, he is deeply embarassed. As Christians we must know how to handle our selfesteem. What is the proper way to respond to insults?
2. Economic security consitutes another set of goals for which the Filipino strives. Economic security
means the ability to meet material needs without borrowing; that is, through ones own resources.
Filipinos strive to improve their economic condition so that they will not need depend on others for their
needs, because of hiya. Kahuluya nga maghulam kita. Economic stability is what forces the parents
to put their children to school inspite of financial difficulties.
3. Social mobility - is advancement to a higher status. Another reason why Filipinos strive to improve his
economic condition is to have a higher social status. For they observe that rich people are being looked
up, respected, and has the power and prestige. For example, a poor person who was able to work
abroad as a seaman or a worker whose economic condition improved is looked up by his community and
receives social acceptance.
Beliefs and Convictions
In the Philippines, the belief-system is still basically animistic and personalistic in spite of the influence of
technology and modernization. The universe is viewed as governed directly by personal beings other
than man, as opposed to the mechanistic view that the universe is governed by impersonal laws which
men can discover and harness. The Filipino farmer may rely more on a planting ritual or luck than on the
use of fertilizer. The concept of suerte (luck or fate) and bahala na (fatalistic resignation) expresses this
outlook. Success is due more to suerte or panalangin (Gods mercy). Failure, on the other hand, is due
not so much to natural causes (e.g., lack of fertilizer or irrigation) as it is to malas (bad luck) or gaba
(curse). Even in basketball, Ive heard many times from the commentator the word malas. But
everything has its own time; one must be resigned to whatever occurs. Failure today may turn to success
tomorrow.
Norms (Standards) and Principles (Rules of Conduct)
1. Strong Family Orientation - This is a conduct which is almost uniquely attributed to Filipinos. The
family provides status and emotional and physical protection. In time of crises especially the Filipino
does in fact find both physical and emotional security in the support of relatives. On the night, for
example, of the eruption of the Taal Volcano in 1965, 48% of the refugees found their way to the homes
of their families and relatives, 28% to the homes of friends who were members of the extended family
(in-laws, maninoy/maninay; compadres/comadres), and only 12% made use of the public evacuation
centers.
Because of the strong feeling of family loyalty and solidarity, the individuals interests are often
subordinated to those of the family. Upward social mobility through education, acquisition of land, or
government position is made possible through family connections, and such upward movement in turn
enhances the status of all members who are eventually to share in the benefits. On the other hand
improper or antisocial behavior by a family member discredits the entire family. This brings stern censure
and serves as an effective mechanism of social control. The sense of family solidarity often leads to
serious conflicts with outsiders who treaten any family member and also makes possible the
circumventing of legal involvement.
Non-relatives are brought into quasi-kinship relations through the compadrazgo system. At
baptism or marriage, individuals are ususally sponsored by godfathers (padrinos, ninong, maninoy) and
godmothers (madrinos, ninang, maninay). The male sponsor becomes a compadre (cofather) and the
female sponsor comadre (comother). This compadrazgo system brings nonrelatives into a social
relationship which approximates the sense of solidarity and mutual obligation that marks natural kinship.
2. Filipino Hospitality
Due to the innate family consiousness and the pakikisama system, the Filipinos developed the attitude of
hospitality. The Filipino places his home and food at the disposal of everyone no matter if he be a
stranger. Sometimes he would even give his guests more than what they give to their families in order to
have a little show-off. Hospitality is the Filipino trait that is most admired by foreigners. Listen to the
interviews to the visitors.
3. Utang Na Loob (Reciprocity)
It refers to the feeling of obligation to repay a favor of service done. Based on this principle, every
service rendered demands a return according to the statuses of the of the persons involved and the kind
of service done. The debt need not be paid in monetary terms since there is no formal agreement on the
amount or form of payment. Repayment in full is not expected but the sense of indebtedness takes on a
deep emotional dimension. Unwillingness to repay is a source of hiya (shame, embarassment). Thus a
farmer may render service repeatedly to his landlord (e.g., plowing his field, hauling firewood) for the
latters kindness in lending him money or sending his child to school.
TOPIC 1: Lusot, Lakad, & Lagay
Lusot - a mentality that is concerned with getting away from an undesirable or unpleasant situation in the
fastest, and least painful manner possible.
My wife told me about some Bible students who rode a boat by faith without money to pay for the fare,
and they were able to escape the ticket inspector by moving from one place to another inside the boat.
And after the inspection of the ticket, they were glad nga nakalusot sila.
I know a Christian who by forging her papers nakalusot sa embassy and was able to go abroad.
Sinfulness:
1. Lying
2. Maneuvering
3. Deception or Trickery
Biblical Principles:
Ps. 101:7 - I will not allow deceivers to serve me, and liars will not be allowed to enter my presence.
Prov. 12:22 - The LORD detests lying lips, but he delights in men who are truthful.
Lakad/Lagay
Topic 2: Bahala Na
Bahala na is an expression of fatalism which means that life is determined by an impersonal force called
fate (kapalaran or suwerte).
How does the fatalistic outlook shape the Filipinos attitude and behaviour?
1. The Filipino is constantly under the grip of fear. Uncertain of the future, the Filipino fears for what
will happen tomorrow.
2. The fatalistic outlook shapes the Filipino to an unlucky victim of an unavoidable and unbending fate.
Here, man ceases to be the rational, moral being God intended him to be, capable of making responsible
choices that could shape his destiny.
3. This mentality is behind the Filipinos lack of initiative and foresight. It explains the do-nothing or dolittle attitude that produces an unwarranted sense of dependence on awa or the dole out.
What is the difference between Bahala na and Gods will?
The difference is in the object of resignation: in bahala na the Filipino yields to fate while in Gods
will the Filipino yields to God. So is it okey then to say Bahala na ang Dios?
It depends on how you say it. If you say it as an expression of
1. true faith
2. presumptous faith - an arrogant expression of faith. For example, you cross the water even though the
boat is overloaded.
3. passive faith - example, you just yield a thing to God without doing nothing.
Biblical Principles:
Psa. 138:8a - The Lord will fulfill his purpose for me ...
Eph. 1:11 - In him we were also chosen, having been predestined according to the plan of him who
works out everything in conformity with the purpose of his will.
Phil. 2:12,13 - ... continue to work out your salvation with fear and trembling, for it is God who works
in you to will and to act according to his good purpose.
Preaching Topics:
1. Bahala na and Gods Will
2. Faith not Fate
3. Is it Suwerte or Gods Will?
4. Kapalaran and Gods Purpose
5. Bahala na ang Dios--What does it Mean?
TOPIC 3: Pakikisama
Pakikisama is getting along with others.
Negative meaning: conformity to group standards and expectations, and giving in to the group.
Example: barkada (especially evil company)
Positive meaning: friendship, pakikipagkapwa-tao, neighborliness
Examples: bayanihan, damayan
Biblical Principles:
For Bad Pakikisama
Ps. 1:1 - Blessed is the man who does not walk in the counsel of the wicked or stand in the way of
sinners or sit in the seat of mockers.
1 Cor. 15:33 - Do not be misled: Bad company corrupts good character
Prov. 28:7 - Young people who obey the law are wise; those who seek out worthless companions bring
shame to their parents.
These passages do not imply that it is wrong to socialize with unbelievers. Jesus ate with the sinners and
the tax collectors. What is not allowed is to have a close companionship or friendship with the
unbelievers.
For Good Pakikisama:
The author made mention that our pakikisama whether with Christians or not, should have a salting
effect. This means that our presence, views and dealings should help fight off the influence of corruption
and evil. At the same time our pakikisama must somehow light up others as well. So by our words and
our deeds, our companions are led towards constructive, meaningful lives. The goal of our pakikisama is
a transformation in peoples lives, not just harmony of the temporary and superficial kind.
Matt. 5:13-14 - Let your light shine before men, that they may see your good deeds and praise your
Father in heaven.
Col. 4:5-6 - Live wisely among those who are not Christians, and make the most of every opportunity.
Let your conversation be gracious and effective so that you will have the right answer for everyone.
Preaching Topics:
1. Pakikisama in the Right Way
2. Jesus Pakikisama With the Sinners
3. Who Are Your Barkadas?
4. What Does Scripture Say About Pakikisama?
TOPIC 4: Bayan Ko: Strengthening Our Weak National Consciousness
Nationalism - a condition of mind in which loyalty to the ideal or fact of ones national state is superior
to all other loyalties, and in which pride for ones nationality and belief in its intrinsic excellence and its
mission are integral parts. (Carlton J.H. Hays)
The Positive Side of Nationalism:
1. It makes oppressed and colonized people fight for their freedom, democracy, and independence.
Because of our forefathers nationalistic sentiments they constantly struggled for our independence from
the domination of Spaniards, Japanese, and Americans.
2. It gives the people a sense of pride for their freedom and sovereignty.
3. It preserves the peoples culture and values. It makes one protect his cultural heritage in order to
maintain his national identity.
The Negative Side of Nationalism:
1. Nationalism is a divisive factor in international relations. Nationalism causes disagreement,
dissensions or wars among countries. Take for example the case in Yoguslavia the Serbs because of their
nationalistic sentiments they tried to wipe out ethnic Albanians in Kosovo. During Second World War,
the Germans destroyed millions of Jews in Germany and Poland because of nationalistic passion; they
dont want Jews part of their race.
2. Sometimes nationalism makes the people arrogant. There are people who because of their
nationalistic pride dont want to accept the deficiencies of their culture. They dont want to learn from
the culture of other people. For examples, we Filipinos easily accomodate the culture of the Americans
but how many Americans accomodate our culture?
What is a Christian Nationalist?
A Christian nationalist is a person who loves his own people and country, but ...
his nationalism is subject to Christ - our loyalty must first be to Christ. If our country will do
something contrary to the Scripture then we should not embrace it or tolerate it but we must go
with the truth. For example in a communist country, Christians cannot be 100% loyal to their
country, they have to share Jesus even though it is illegal.
he does not tolerate any principle, system, or practice in his country that is contrary to the Scripture.
If the goverment legalize abortion or divorce we have to oppose it.
he does not hate other nationalities and races. We should treat all people equal in Gods sight. Scriptures
teach us that there is no difference between Jew and Gentile (Rom. 10:12) for Christ died for all
mankind.
Biblical Principles:
God created all the nations: Acts 17:26
The Jewish people love their nation Israel and they take pride in their Jewishness.
Although Paul was a Roman citizen, he never denied his Jewishness: Acts 21:39, 22:3; Phil. 3:5-6.
Simon, one of Jesus disciples, was a Zealot: Matt. 10:2-4; Lk. 6:12-16. The Zealots was a subversive
political group whose goal was to free Palestine from the power of Rome.
Preaching Topics:
1. Should Christians be Nationalistic?
2. Is Nationalism Biblical?
TOPIC 5: Nakakahiya
Hiya has three possible meanings:
1. shyness - Example: When a person is requested to sing in public without his knowledge, would refuse
out of hiya, and would say huwag na, nakakahiya indi ako nakapag-praktis. Is hiya or shyness an
indication of pride? This the thing that I discussed with an American. I think, it depends upon the
situation. If you are shy to sing because you are not prepared, I dont think it is really pride.
2. embarrasment - loss of face or deflation of ones self-esteem. Example: A child who was kicked out
from school is nakakahiya. Sociologists say that this concern for saving face stems from our being
others-directed. That is we tend to base our judgment based on what other people would think or say:
Tan-awa ang natabo sa imo, ano na lang ang isiling sang iban?
3. impropriety - being improper or unbecoming or inappropriate. Example: A person would not visit a
friend during siesta time, because it is nakakahiya (inappropriate).
When is hiya a sin?
1. Hiya is sin when your concern is what others would think of you rather than what God would think of
you.
2. Hiya is sin when you cease from doing what God wants you to do.
3. Hiya is sin when you depreciate yourself. We must consider ourselves special in the sight of God. God
made us his children so there is no reason why we should consider ourselves low or insignificant.
These three attitudes are seen in the life of Moses:
Exod. 3:11,10 - #3
Exod. 4:1 - #1
Exod. 4:13 - #2
Biblical Principles:
2 Tim. 1:7 - God did not give us a spirit of timidity (cowardice, shyness), but a spirit of power, of love
and of self-discipline.
2 Tim. 2:15 - Do your best to present yourself to God as one approved, a workman who does not need
to be ashamed ...
Mk. 8:38 - If anyone is ashamed of me and my words in this adulterous and sinful generation, the Son
of Man will be ashamed of him when he comes in his Father's glory with the holy angels."
Preaching Topics:
1.What Must be the Attitude of Christians Towards Hiya?
2. Overcoming Hiya
3. Dont Be Shy, Youre Special
4. Hiya--A Spiritual Sensitivity?
2. Headship of Service: ... and gave himself up for her. The husbands headship highlights his
responsibility not his authority.
3. Headship of Source: The husband is to be the main provider, the moral and spiritual source, the
strength to his wife and family.
Moral and Spiritual Source: to make her holy, cleansing her by the washing with water through
the word ...
Material Source: After all, no one ever hated his own body, but he feeds and cares for it, just as
Christ does the church (Eph. 5:29)
2. Eph. 5:22, 24: Wives, submit to your husbands as to the Lord ... Now as the church submits to
Christ, so also wives should submit to their husbands in everything.
So since this is the kind of headship God wants for a Christian husband, wives should submit to
their husbands in everything (that is good). This does not mean that husbands should not listen to their
wives. Remember that husbands headship is a headship of love, which means that husbands should be
considerate also to their wives. The term submit is not used on the part of man because Paul wants
to emphasize that husband has the role of leadership in the home, and the wife as the subject must
submit. Like the relationship between the king and his subjects. We cannot say that the king and his
people must have mutual submission. Being subjects, the duty of the people is to submit, and the duty of
the king is to love and take care of his people. When President Erap listens to the voice of the people, he
is not submitting himself to the people, but he is expressing his love and concern for people. Like also
Jesus and the Church, we cannot say mutual submission between Christ and his church. Also in parentschildren relationship. The role of submission is given to the the children, and the parents role is to show
love to their children. Therefore the word submission is only used in the context of leadership and
authority.
So, in the husband-wife relationship, the husband being the head, the wifes role is to submit to
her husband and the husbands role is to love his wife. Thats why Paul did not say, Husbands submit
also to your wives rather Husbands, love your wives.
How about if the wife is the pastor of the church? Since she is the leader does it mean that the husband
is to submit to her? Some would say that in the church, the husband must submit to the wife, but in the
house the other way around. But this is impossible because the ministry and the family life are
interrelated. Some decisions in the family affect the ministry and some decisions in the ministry affect the
family. For example if the wife decides to pastor a place, it must also be considered where the family will
stay or where the children will go to school. Or for example, when the family decides to have a vacation,
it must be decided who will take care of the church or who will be responsible to preach. Like for
example when you went to convention, you had to think who will take of your children when you are
gone and how their food will be provided. So ministry and family life are interrelated. So if the wife
decides something which for her is good for the ministry but for the husband it is not good for the
family. Who is to be followed? For example, the wife wants to buy a guitar because she needs it for the
ministry but the church does not have the money. Now the husband has a money because he has a work,
and the wife ask money from her husband to buy a guitar. But for the husband the money is not enough
for the needs of the family. But the wife insists, saying God will provide for our food. But the husband
refuses. Just because she is the pastor the husband must submit? Or for example, the wife wants to
pastor to another place but the husband refuses because his work is in that place, should the husband
submit to her wife? So it is really difficult to have a shared leadership between a husband and a wife.( I
think this is also one of the reasons why Jesus did not chose a female apostle.) Personally, every decision
of the wife in the ministry that affects the family must be subject to the evaluation of the husband.
This is a difficult situation and we cannot just give a quick solution to this. The best thing to do
is to bring the matter to the Lord in prayer. Submit first your decisions to the Lord for we know that it is
he who works in us that we might do his good pleasure. As time passes, and if both of you sincerely
seek the Lords will, this will become clearer and clearer for we know that he is our guiding light who is
faithful to lead us in the right path.
Preaching Topics:
1. Whos the Boss in the House?
2. A Biblical View on Family Leadership
3. Padre de Familia According to the Bible
4. Are You Ander-De-Saya?
TOPIC 7: Brocades, Facades and Edifice Complex
Brocade - literal meaning: a cloth with a raised design or embroidery
figurative meaning: an appearance engaging attention; hence, pa-impress
Facade - literal meaning: the front of a building
figurative meaning: a false, superficial, or artificial appearance or effect;
hence, palabas
Edifice - literal meaning: a large elegant building
figurative meaning: a projection of elegance; hence, pabongga
What are the reasons why Filipinos have these attitudes?
1. social acceptance - Remember that in our society those who are financially prosperous are
being looked up and well-accepted. The more you are rich, the more you are accepted and recognized.
So some people will project an image of being rich so that he will be accepted by many. For example, a
poor pastor wearing a barong or neck-tie are met by people with respect. When I went to British
Embassy, Ive noticed that most of the applicants were wearing formal dress, just to show that they are
affluent and has the money to go abroad.
2. praise and recognition - when you have the biggest house in your community, you will become
well-known. Or if you have the most expensive car in your place people will praise you. When you have
the biggest church in the city you will be famous and praised by everybody.
3. pride and arrogance - he wants to show that he has the money to buy expensive things. King
Nebuchadnezzar made great accomplishments in Babylon and arrogantly declared, I, by my own mighty
power, have built this beautiful city as my royal residence, and as the capital of my empire.
4. envy and jealousy - if a neigbor has a new and a big TV, a neigbor might also buy a new one
and a bigger one.
Biblical Principles:
1 Sam. 16:7b - The LORD does not look at the things man looks at. Man looks at the outward
appearance, but the LORD looks at the heart.
Luke 16:15 - Jesus said to them, You like to look good in public, but God knows your evil hearts. What
this world honors is an abomination to the Lord.
1 Pet. 2:1 - Therefore, rid yourselves of all malice and all deceit, hypocrisy, envy, and slander of every
kind.
Preaching Topics:
1. Paporma, Pabongga, Pasikat
2. Is God Impressed with Your Pa-impress?
3. Filipino Facades
4. Sikat sa Tao, Pero Hindi sa Dios
5. Not The Outside, But The Inside
pressured because you know that the meeting will start late. You can relate to what I am talking when
you are in other countries, especially in America. The pressure is great.
3. time is adjustable - we can move the meeting from 8:00 to 9:00 or even up to 10:00. This is helpful in
case of emergency when some people would not be able to come.
What are the negative sides?
1. much time are wasted - for example the meeting starts at 8:00, and you went there at 8:00, but the
meeting started at 10:00. You wasted two hours. We need to remember that we are stewards of
everything that God has given us, including time. So we must educate ourselves and our people to be
good stewards of time. But since the culture of lateness cannot be changed overnight, you have to think
of ways that you can make use of your time. I usually bring some of my teaching or preaching materials,
or some books to read, so that if I cannot waste my time.
2. it results to inefficiency - Because of this attitude of Filipinos towards time, those things that can be
done for just a minimum period of time cannot be done. Like in the church, young people prepares for a
Sunday presentation on Friday. The meeting is scheduled to start at 5:00 p.m. but then they start at
6:00 p.m., after 7:00 p.m. they decided to stop the practice because it is time to go home. So they will
continue to practice next day, and the practice will start again at 5:00 p.m. but because most of them are
late they started at 6:30, and since the next day is the presentation day, they decided to extend the
practice up to 8:30. They only spent three hours in practice for two days. Actually they dont really need
to go back the next day, if they only started at 5:00 p.m. and stopped at 8:00 pm.
3. damaging to other people - some people try to make use of their time in a responsible manner. For
example, a person needs to leave an important matter in the house just in order to attend a meeting and
then everyone comes late. Or you expect the meeting will end up at 10:00 and it ends up at 11:00 which
affects your next appointment.
4. it results to cramming - doing something in a hurried way. When the due date for submission is near,
students are cramming. Why? Because they did not do their work in advance. Because of the cyclical
concept of time. Always expecting that there is still much time. Three months before, there is still much.
Two months before, there is still much time. One month before, there is still time. Two weeks before,
there is still few time left. Three days before, no more time!
Biblical Principles:
Ps. 90:12 - Teach us to make the most of our time, so that we may grow in wisdom.
In order to make the most of our time:
1. we need to manage our time. Let us make a schedule of our time, for we can accomplish many things
if we budget our time. Personally, since I became a pastor, even when I was still a Bible student I make a
schedule of all my activities everyday. It is very difficult for me without this schedule.
2. we need to discipline our time. This means that we should minimize lateness. Let us teach our
members to be time conscious. We pastors should serve as a model. Let us start on time and end on
time. I really like the way Doanne Baptist Church manages their time during Sunday. They start on and
end on time.
Job 14:5 - Man's days are determined; you have decreed the number of his months and have set limits
he cannot exceed. This truth should encourage us to make the most of our days because we can only
live according to the number of years that God has given us. In other words, we cannot extend our life
how hard we may try. So it is only proper that we use our time wisely. If you waste 1 hour a day, from
the age for example of 20 up to 70, you will waste at least 18,250 hours. How many things you can do
for the Lord in this period of time.
Preaching Topics:
1. The Filipino and His Time
2. Late Na Naman!
3. Filipino Concepts of Time
4. Filipino Time and Christian Time
5. Filipino Time Wasters
Natural
(this worldly)
sciences
Supernatural
(other worldly)
spirit-beings
--- God, Satan, angels, demons
Beliefs:
1. The belief in the existence of spirit-beings are not so strong, especially on angels and demons. They
are not denied, rather, they are ignored. They are considered other worldly which means that they are
not part of this world; they belong to a different sphere or realm. This was not the case in the past. Many
people before believed in witches (the practitioners who used the power of demons). In America in
1692, twenty alleged witches were executed for witchcraft. The belief in the ability of the living to
contact spirits of the dead and other spirits was very popular in the United States. But because of the
rise of modernisn and intellectualism and the rising interest in science, this worldview changed.
For the non-Christian western mind, spirits do not exist because everything this worldly has
perfectly logical and natural (scientific) explanations. To believe in the existence of this spirit-world
would bring judgments of ignorance and superstition and make a persons intellectual credibility suspect
(Pat Robertson). Many of them consider spirit-beings as myth, supersitition.
Filipino Worldview
Natural
(this worldly)
sciences
Supernatural
(other worldly)
God, Satan
(this worldly)
angels, demons,
ancestral spirits,
dwende, capri, tamawo
and other spirit-beings
Beliefs:
For the more practical affairs of everyday living, the Filipino believes that God is too big to be
intimately concerned. So He has lesser spirit-beings to handle these more pragmatic and mundane
concerns. This is still part of the belief of pre-Spanish Filipinos who belived on the anitos (lower
gods). These spirit beings were in charge of the affairs of everyday life. They controlled such things as
birth, death, sickness, war, weather, agriculture, spiritual relationships, human relationships, protection
of the family and village, fishing, hunting, and giving information for difficult situations. These spiritbeings filled nature by living in trees, caves, and rivers. People felt that these beings would try to harm if
they got the chance. Angels (good) and demons (bad) are influence of Christianity. In Filipino animistic
they dont group the spirits in this way. They consider ever spirit has good and bad tendencies. The
spirits may do good to you or harm you (e.g. duwende, capri).
Variety in the angelic world: archangel (1 Thess. 4:16), seraphim (Isa. 6:2), cherubim (Gen. 3:24),
living creatures (Ezek. 1:5-6, Rev. 4:6).
Variety in the demonic world: lilith (Isa. 34:14; NIV: night creature;
NASB: night monster); sair (Lev. 17:7; NASB: goat demon).
These are not difficult to establish, but we know that it is possible for demons, as spiritual beings, to
manifest in many forms like angels. Since spirit beings like duwende and capri are common to Filipino
beliefs, the devil can use those images or forms to harm people.
Satan himself masquerades as an angel of light.
Biblical View:
1. Demons are real spirit-beings and they are this worldly. They can attack people and affect them
mentally, morally, physically, and spiritually, and they are frequently described as "unclean" (Matt 10:1;
Mark 1:27; Luke 4:36; Acts 8:7; Rev 16:13 KJV; NIV renders "evil"). They cause fleshly uncleanness
and base sensual gratification (Luke 8:27), and gross carnality and sexual sin (2 Tim 3:1-9; Rev 9:2021).
Filipinos must not fear demons or evil spirit-beings because their power had been broken (1 John
3:8; Col.2:15).
Filipinos must realize that the demons power is limited by the will of God: Simon, Simon! Listen!
Satan has received permission to test all of you, to separate the good from the bad, as a farmer
separates the the wheat from the chaff (TEV, Lk. 22:31; see also Job 1:9-12, 2:4-6). Satan could
not touch none of Jobs possessions nor his person, until God gave him permision.
2. Angels are also real spirit-beings and they are also this worldly. They assist, protect, and deliver
God's people (Gen 19:11; Ps 91:11; Dan 3:28; 6:22; Acts 5:19; Heb 1:14). They guided Philip to go into
the desert (Acts 8:26) and encouraged Paul in Corinth (27:23-24). Sometimes they interpret God's will
to people (Dan 7:16; 10:5, 11; Zech 1:9, 13-14, 19), and execute God's will toward individuals and
nations (Gen 19:12, 13; 2 Sam 24:16; Ezek 9:2, 5, 7; Acts 12:23). The affairs of nations are guided by
them (Dan 10:12-13, 20). God uses them to punish his enemies (2 Kings 19:35; Acts 12:23).
Preaching Topics:
1. Filipino Beliefs on Spirit-Beings
2. Angels and Demons in Filipino Worldview
3. Spirit World in the Minds of Filipinos
4. Natural and Supernatural
2. Another strategy is using a play. Filipinos love to watch drama. You can assign a group of people to
act out a situation. And then make you discuss the situation in your sermon. For example you let them
play a situation about a Filipino value.
2. THEOLOGY
It is also our task to teach people about theology or biblical doctrines. In teaching about doctrines in
Filipino context:
1. Filipino theology should lead Filipinos to the knowledge of the true God, the God of the Bible. It
should also encourage them to experience God in a deeper way in their own existence as a Filipino.
2. Filipino theology should not only be informative but also corrective. We should put the Scripture
above culture. Our goal in theology is to conform the culture to the Scripture not the other way around.
3. Filipino theology must be proclaimed with simplicity and clarity. Make theology simple as much as
possible. Use terms that are simple and understandable. Explain theological concepts as practical as
possible. For example the concept of justification. You can use the situation in the court to explain this.
4. Filipino theology must be relevant to the worldview, experiences, and religious beliefs of the people.
For example you can discuss about the theology of Gods will in view of Bahala na concept. Or you can
discuss the theology of demons in relation to the view of Filipinos on spirit world.
5. Filipino theology must be given practicality. Make theology practical. Help them to apply theology in
their daily living. One of the reasons why the church seems uninterested in theology is because it is
presented in such a way that it only opens the minds of the people to the doctrine but it doesnt touch
their needs.
6. Filipino theology should lead the Filipinos into spiritual maturity, into a life in conformity with the life
of Christ.
3. LITURGY (WORSHIP)
1. The Filipino Church is not bound to the form of Sunday Service from the West.
Program:
1. Praise & Worship
2. Pastoral Prayer
3. Announcement/Offerings
4. Special Number
5. Preaching
6. Closing Prayer
2. The Filipino Church should explore the indigenous art forms of communication for more meaningful
and relevant worship. Part of this I have already discussed in the style of sermon. Remember that it is
easy to communicate with people when you deal with their experience. So you can spend one Sunday
for just sharing their experiences.
3. The Filipino Church should give visual arts a definite place in worship. People learn also by what they
see. So what way to do it for example is to have a play in your church. This is attractive especially when
you are preaching from a narrative or story. Instead of reading the story from the text have some people
portray the story. For example The Prodigal Son. Or during the Holy Week, instead of traditional seven
sayings let some members portray the sufferings of Jesus.
In the visual arts you need to include also the physical arrangement of your church. The physical
structure and arrangement of our churches are monotonous, and this sometimes affect the mood of
worship. You can encourage your members to bring decorations with spiritual signifance to create an
atmosphere of worship, like dove or cross or light. Some of the members are gifted in arts, so we can
encourage them to produce some decorations. God wants to be worshipped in beauty, thats the reason
why the temple was very beautiful. I am not saying here that our priority is to make our church buildings
beautiful. Remember that the most acceptable worship is the worship from the heart. But if we have the
resources and the people, than can make our church beautiful then lets do it. This does not need to be
expensive, and the church need not to spend for it.
4. The Filipino Church should have songs that are understandable to the Filipinos and are relevant to
their experiences. Starting this week why dont you go over the songs and study them carefully. Look at
also some Tagalog and Ilongo Praise songs in the store.
5. The Filipino Church should be creative and explorative in Filipino style of worship.
We must also show practicality in discipling people. When we nurture our disciples with the
Scriptures make the truth practical, dont just fill his minds with doctrines without telling him how he
can apply it to his life. Christian truth is easier to understand when it is presented with practicality.
4. biblical - this is the most important. All methods and strategies must be biblical. I am not saying that it
must have a scriptural support. But it is in line with biblical principles. Dont do any method which is
unscriptural even if it is effective. For example, evangelism is relational, so you need to pakikisama.
Youre pakikisama of course should be right. If he does evil like sugal you should not follow him.
5. Its Financial Support
When the American missionaries came here, they did not work for their support. They were being
supported by their Christian friends in the States. So when Filipino minister pastors a church he does not
work even if his family is starving to death. In way should the Filipino minister be supported. First lets
look at how the ministers of God in the Bible were supported.
When Paul was ministering to the poor Christians in Ephesus, he did not receive support from them,
instead he worked hard so that he would not be a burden to them, and that he would be able to help
them. He said to the Ephesian elders:
I have never coveted anyones money or fine clothing. You yourselves know that these hands of mine
have supplied my own needs and the needs of my companions. And I have been a constant example of
how you can help the poor by working hard. You should remember the words of the Lord Jesus: It is
more blessed to give than to receive (Acts 20:33-35).
Filipino Ministers Financial Support
1. If the church is poor or financially hard-up, pastors should not be a burden to the members. This was
always Pauls principles: And when I was with you and needed something, I was not a burden to
anyone, for the brothers who came from Macedonia supplied what I needed. I have kept myself from
being a burden to you in any way, and will continue to do so. (2 Cor. 11:8) Paul worked so that his
needs will be provided, and that he would be able to help his poor members: It is more blessed to give
than to receive.
A principle to follow in working is this: No one serving as a soldier gets involved or entagled
(emplekomai) in civilian affairs--he wants to please his commanding officer. (2 Tim. 2:4). The soldier
must not be entangled in secular pursuits, and the Christian minister must be willing to do the same.
Gets entangled translates a rare verb that occurs only here and in 2 Peter 2.20, and refers to the act of
getting so involved in something that one becomes restricted and controlled, no longer free to do what
one should.
2. Churches who are financially stable can support pastors.
3. Individual Christians who have money or the resources should be educated to help other pastors and
ministries.
Sermon Paper
8 pages sermon, double space
1. Topic: Filipino Values
2. Title: Make your title catchy
3. Introduction
4. Body of Sermon
5. Conclusion/Application
Note: Passages must be interpreted correctly. I will check your exegesis.
Due Date: October 18, 1999. This time I will be strict.