Language as a Barrier to Cross-Cultural Evangelism in the Reformed Church inZimbabwe

Abstract

This historical study explored language as a barrier to cross-cultural evangelism in the Reformed
Church in Zimbabwe. The article is based on the relevant literature review, Synod Acts and church
committee minutes. It outlines the negative effect of using the Shona language, the Shona
literature, the Bible, Hymn books, Catechism and the deployment of pastors and evangelists who
are Shona speaking. The study was conducted through a review of primary sources and documents
about evangelism outreaches in the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe. Hence, it was discovered that
the church is failing to penetrate the gospel into other cultures because of using the Shona language
as the medium of communication. The article details the importance of language inclusivity in
order for the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe to penetrate all corners of the country with the gospel.
The history of the church showed that the Reformed Church in Zimbabwe managed to penetrate
Masvingo Province and part of Manicaland Province because of the use of the Shona language.
This church is struggling to penetrate Matebeleland North, Matebeleland South and part of the
Midlands provinces because of the language barrier. The study recommends that the Reformed
Church in Zimbabwe improve on language inclusive, Bible and literature translations and training
of personnel who fit well across all cultures in Zimbabwe