The Theological Impact of a Contextual Interpretation of Sacred Scripture in Nigeria

Abstract:The profuse use of the Bible perceived as the Word of God and the deposit of faith is common to all Christian denominations in Nigeria. Its contextual interpretation assumes various forms that can be formal, informal or neither of the two. Each has its expected impact in theological discussions and practice of the faith. Formal interpretation by experts, well-informed in scientific tools, contributes much in shaping the orthodoxy and orthopraxy of the Christian faith. Conversely, distorted explanations of the Bible have repercussions, as is evident from the mushrooming of sects and syncretism. The focus of this article is to explore some varieties of interpretation of sacred Scripture in Nigeria, their impact, and to offer suggestions on how to achieve an enhanced interpretation that will lead to a deepened understanding of the faith and its practice. Spurred on by the centrality of the Word of God in the life of Christians, the article, hopefully, will attain its aim of accentuating the need for a correct interpretation of the Bible.