For the past 17 years I have lived with the Tsonga speaking people in Limpopo, South Africa.
Tsongas comprise our church body. I preach in the Tsonga language each Sunday. Our Christian School teaches mostly Tsongas, along with a few Vendas and Zulus. All eight of our children have been born in South Africa. I lived with the chief’s family for two years as I hauled my drinking water. I learned the language the old fashioned way. I have preached countless sermons in the neighboring villages and cities of Mozambique, Botswana, and Zimbabwe. I love the people I live among.
This background gives me at least some authority to answer questions about challenges in the black African home. I recognize that not all black Africans are the same. There are many differences between the Zulus and Sothos in South Africa and even more so between the Hausa in West Africa and the Bemba in Zambia.
A Kenyan friend, professor and pastor asked me a question the other day. With a broad brush, here’s how I would answer his question: “What are the hinderances to God-honouring family life within black South African families?” Continue reading