Designed to equip those involved in cross-cultural music misson, this course examines the philosophy behind ethnodoxology with multiple examples of how it has been used across the globe to spread the Gospel in an effective way.
Students are taught the rationale behind ethnodoxology in missional work, and understand the arguments in favour and against this. They also learn how apply the theories of ethnodoxology to a missional context, so as to reach out effectively.
Music is not a universal language; it differs from culture to culture. Understanding how musical traditions differ, and how to carry out appropriate research is key to being missional.
Romans 10:14 says: "How, then, can they call on the one they have not believed in? And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?" Through contextualized music, this Gospel can be spread effectively and in a memorable and engaging way.
Using Western music gives Christianity a foreign stamp; understanding how to employ local musics is key to touching the hearts of non-believers in these cultures.
The entire course relates to being contextual, as the Gospel is presented using indigenous song-styles, instruments and melodies.
The principles taught in this course can be applied to cross-cultural missional work anywhere in the world, and provides powerful tools to do this.
Through group discussion, student presentations and many examples from across the globe, students understand how to engage practically in ethnodoxology, reaching the given culture with its own Heart Music.
Through the discussions, research and material analysed, students complete the course transformed and inspired to engage effectively in intercultural music mission.
