Reflections On Contextualization: A Critical Appraisal of Daniel Von Allmen's "Birth of Theology"

Abstract

This article presents a critical appraisal of Daniel von Allmen’s essay, "Birth of Theology," which advocates for a radical approach to contextualizing Christian theology in non-Western settings, such as Africa. Von Allmen argues that authentic contextualization requires a tabula rasa—abandoning existing theological frameworks to allow local churches to develop theology spontaneously from a minimal core confession ("Jesus is Lord"). Examining von Allmen's thesis, D. A. Carson identifies significant flaws in his New Testament exegesis, particularly his reconstruction of early church history and Christological development. Methodologically, Carson critiques von Allmen for sacrificing the objective, propositional authority of the entire biblical canon in favor of an endlessly malleable contextual process. In response, Carson outlines four guidelines for biblical contextualization, arguing that genuine contextual theology must remain grounded in the whole authority of Scripture, utilize historical theology, foster reciprocal cross-cultural critique, and maintain a biblically controlled standard rather than cultural self-determination.