Korea Baptist Theological University and Seminary

This study argues that Paul’s exhortations in Romans 14:1–12 are deeply rooted in his Christological and eschatological convictions. By analyzing the tension between the strong and the weak, this study proposes that Paul’s call for mutual welcoming is not a mere social recommendation but a profound theological imperative. Through careful textual analysis, this study highlights how Paul integrates Christological and eschatological motifs to shape his ethical instructions. The identification of Jesus Christ as both the Lord and the eschatological judge reinforces the theological basis for Paul’s exhortations to prioritize love and mutual welcoming over judgment and contempt. Paul’s vision of a unified community reflects his eschatological hope of Gentiles and Jews being united as the new people of God. In conclusion, the study affirms that Paul’s exhortations are not ad hoc responses to pastoral challenges but are firmly grounded in his coherent theological convictions. By interweaving Christological and eschatological motifs, Paul presents a compelling vision of the Kingdom of God, where Christ’s lordship and the eschatological awareness urge believers to transcend their differences and live in a manner that reflects peace and unity.

This article examines the practical nature of Christology in contemporary African Christianity. The writers argue that though the religious mindset of the African people does not allow a dichotomy between ontological and functional Christologies, existential challenges have made many Africans tilt towards the functional end. The method adopted in the article is a descriptive approach. Christology is central to the orthodox Christian faith. It permeates all the pages of the Bible. The Old Testament consistently predicts the coming of the Messiah. The New Testament writers focused on Him in the light of His work on earth and the office he came to occupy concerning the Messianic predictions of the Old Testament. In history, the focus of theology has always been on the person and work of Christ. Contemporary African Christianity is not an exception to this trend. Many controversies have emerged in the process of the discussion on Christology. These Christological controversies surround the Person, picture, and deeds of Christ. A tilt towards functional Christology may cause a down-playing of God’s sovereign will to focus on what works. This may lead to syncretic beliefs and practices as people look for what gives a solution. The conclusion is that African Christology should blend ontology and functionality. The Christology that is both contextually relevant and scripturally balanced should be presented to the African people. Therefore, African theologians should make efforts to prepare theology that reflect a balanced Christological presentation intentionally.