African Church History

This course provides a sweeping historical survey of the development of Christianity in Africa from the apostolic era to the modern period. Students will explore the early influence of African theologians like Tertullian, Origen, Athanasius, and Augustine, and then trace the spread of the faith through North Africa, Ethiopia, West Africa, and sub-Saharan regions. Special attention is given to African engagement with colonial missions, the emergence of African Indigenous Churches (AICs), theological independence movements, and the development of evangelical and Reformed expressions of Christianity on the continent.

This course will also critically examine the interaction between African culture and Christianity, the impact of colonization, the growth of Pentecostal and Charismatic movements, and the challenges of syncretism. Reformed theological reflection will be integrated throughout, offering tools to evaluate historical movements and discern faithful gospel continuity in the African context.

Students will be encouraged to assess the theological, cultural, and spiritual lessons from African Church history and apply them to contemporary African ministry, leadership, and mission.