The Relationship between Religion and Science in Mission: Reflections from an African Christian Perspective

Abstract

The subject of religion and science has become a new area of mission and study in Africa. Are they foes or allies? Can science be used as a tool for mission in Africa? This paper looks at the meaning of these two entities, examines the origin of modern science and shows its close connection to religion, gives the relationship between religion and science in the African context, investigates why religion continues to survive in today’s scientifically developing Africa, shows how science affects mission in Africa and concludes that religion and science are distinct but inseparable entities which are both required in Africa. Rather than refuting any of them as irrelevant, Africa needs both of them for its survival and so they should be allowed to co-exist.

Key Words: Religion and Science, African Context, Survival of Religion, Science and Mission