Does this passage support radical contextualization?

Claim:

Naaman worries that he will need to return to Aram and worship his pagan gods (v.18). Some evangelicals believe that this justifies Muslim Background Believers participating in worship services to Allah—for the sake of the gospel.

Response:

This passage does not support radical C-5 contextualization. For one, this new convert asks for forgiveness twice for his action. This was not morally neutral; it was a sin. In other words, if this was appropriate for contextualization, why does he ask for forgiveness?

Second, Namaan was trying to make some sort of concessions by bringing loads of dirt to bow on in Aram. This, at least, demonstrates that he is trying to follow God—even in a difficult situation.

Third, God is free to offer grace to young believers like this, but we should be clear that he is forgiving us for doing something wrong.

About The Author
James Rochford

James earned a Master’s degree in Theological Studies from Trinity Evangelical Divinity School, graduating magna cum laude. He is the founder of Evidence Unseen and the author of several books. James enjoys serving as a pastor at Dwell Community Church in Columbus, Ohio, where he lives with his wife and their two sons.