God’s Work
God has already been at work in Malawi.
Long before missionaries ever appeared on the scene, God has been testifying to himself through rains, harvest, and the joys of human life (Acts 14:17). God has charged his creation in this country full of beauty, life, and goodness.
Missionary History in Malawi
Since missionaries arrived in Malawi in the mid 1800’s, Christianity has slowly taken root. Sent from Scotland and South Africa, they partnered together as Reformed Christians to evangelize in word and deed. They started numerous hospitals, medical works, and literacy programs. By 1922, they translated the Bible into Chichewa, the dominant tribal language; a real act of sacrifice, hard work, kindness, and cultural preservation.
Yet, their legacy is a mixed one. Alongside the real good they did was their involvement in British colonial rule, itself a complex history. So also, in the central region of Malawi, some of the South African missionaries were influenced by Apartheid theology. In spite of these harmful things, God grew the number of Malawian believers.
Malawi’s Future is Malawian Led
When Malawi was granted independence in 1963, the church boomed. This massive growth was due to a number of factors: their first president was a Presbyterian elder leading many to desire solidarity with him and his church; freedom from colonial rule meant they could lead their own church; the Spirit of God did an amazing work.
In the years since, Malawians have steadily taken over the leadership of more and more of their own institutions, and many more have come to faith. Today, roughly 80% of Malawi confesses faith in Christ.
Malawi is representative of a growth God has given across the continent. In 1900, Sub-Saharan Africa represented. 1.4% of Global Christendom. In 2018, it grew to make up 24% of the entire Church.
The Malawian Church is now faced with charting their own path of following Christ in their post-colonial era. What direction they take will greatly depend on the quality of their pastors and lay leaders.
Read on to find out how we partner with Malawians to do just that.