Breaking the Yoke of Economic Dependency in Africa: Insights from Pauline Corpus on the Ecclesiastical Role

Abstract

The yoke of dependency refers to the belief that an individual or a nation cannot handle their problems without the intervention of others; the attitude of avoiding or neglecting personal responsibility and relegating it to others. This attitude has made Africa neglect its moral duty and fail to tap into the valuable resources for its development. This paper interrogates Apostle Paul’s approach to the gospel ministry, which has significant implications for breaking the yoke of dependency in Africa, a situation arguably witnessed in the church. It critiques the issues that have held Africa back, feeding the warped idea of what is generally known as “the Whiteman’s burden.” The library-based research interrogates different perspectives on dependency from scholars within the frameworks of Apostle Paul’s writings, mainly in his epistles to the Thessalonians. The study concludes that the solution to dependency solely lies in the hands of Africans. The African church needs to recognise its identity in God, be willing to work hard and tap the human and natural resources within its reach.