Journal: Conspectus
Volume: CONSPECTUS 28:1 (Sep 2019)
Article: The Realization Of Isaiah 61 In Africa
Author: Roland Paul Cox

Conspectus 28:1 (September 2019) p. 120

The Realization Of Isaiah 61 In Africa1

Roland Paul Cox

Keywords

Isaiah 61; Luke 4:14–30; Africa; Fulfillment of prophecy; Fighting injustice

About The Author2

Roland Paul Cox

Dr Cox received his PhD from the South African Theological Seminary. He is a missionary with International Christian Ministries (ICM). He is Deputy Principle Development and is part of the teaching faculty of Africa Theological Seminary (a ministry of ICM) in Kenya.

Abstract

The application of Isaiah 61 in Africa is considered by studying the original audience of Isaiah 61, exegeting the passage, studying Jesus’ audience of Isaiah 61, including a brief exegesis of Luke 4:14–30, examining why Isaiah 61 was never fully realized in either audience and considering the applications to Africa. While the ultimate fulfillment of Isaiah 61 will be in the eschaton, and while there has already been a partial realization of Isaiah 61 in Africa; a greater realization of Isaiah 61 is contingent upon Africans meeting the conditions of this vision: acceptance of Christ, following God, fighting injustice and helping the oppressed, hungry, naked and homeless.

This article: https://www.sats.edu.za/cox-realization-of-isaiah-61-in-africa

Conspectus 28:1 (September 2019) p. 121

1. Introduction

Isaiah 61 represents God’s vision for his people of hope, healing, freedom, comfort and salvation. It is a vision that has been preserved and passed down through the ages with Jesus himself quoting from this vision. It is a vision that has had a partial positive fulfillment on the continent of Africa;3 however, Africa—as a whole—with its conflicts,4 injustices,5 disproportion of diseases6 and spiritual tenuity7 should desire and seek a greater realization.