Interfaith Relations: Inclusive and Transforming Christian Mission in a Religious Pluralistic Africa

In the ongoing theological conversations, the relationship between the Christian mission and interfaith relations is central. This paper notes the contention between the two variables, where some scholars argue that building relationships with people from other religions is not part of the Christian mission. The easy uses a descriptive survey design with a qualitative desk review approach. Three research questions guide the study: Understand the challenges posed by religious plurality to the church in Africa, Establish the relationship between the church's mission and Christian-Muslim relations in Africa and Propose a biblical principle of fairness to religious experience as a critical element of the African Christian Mission. The essay underpins its argument on Hick's Pluralism Theory and Allport’s Intergroup Contact Theory, which emphasises the need for constructive dialogue and contact between people of different backgrounds and orientations, including religion. The essay discusses the challenges of religious diversity and the relationship between the church's mission and interfaith relations while advocating for a biblical principle of fairness to guide the Christian approach to interfaith engagement. The essay argues that interfaith relation is an integral part of the Christian mission in today’s world. The church will be engaged in a holistic and transforming mission if it listens and reacts to God's actions in all people and all places without discrimination. A comprehensive understanding of interfaith relations within the environment or landscape of Mission is needed to disentangle any implications these entities may have on theology if they are not well understood, enunciated, and accomplished. The paper culminates in a series of recommendations to enhance an inclusive and transforming Christian mission, such as the church's involvement in interfaith dialogue, incorporating interfaith studies into theological education, and fostering collaborative community initiatives. Ultimately, it posits that a holistic approach to Christian mission can enrich faith communities and contribute to enduring peace and development in African societies. Keywords: interfaith relations, Christian mission, religious plurality