CHURCH STATE RELATIONSHIP IN KENYA – A CASE STUDY OF AFRICA INLAND CHURCH – KENYA 1895-2011

Abstract

This research focuses on the theology of the AIC with regard to church and state relation from 1895-2011. Different theological positions that have been held with regard to church and state relations are identified and critically examined in light of biblical nuances on the subject. This research particularly examines how AIC, formerly called AIM has engaged in successive Kenyan governments from the colonial period (1895-1963), up to 2011 with regard to public matters. This research targeted the Presiding Bishop of the church, his deputy, four bishops, five other elders who are members of the governing council of the church and120 pastors who are in active ministry selected through purposive sampling. The data collected was analyzed through observer impression method; where the data was observed and examined and interpreted following the impression given.

This research shows that Africa Inland Church Kenya theology is Calvinistic. This is because, its forerunner the AIM was founded by Missionaries from the Presbyterian church who were Calvinistic and therefore their theology on church and state relations is heavily influenced by Calvinistic theology. This historical prevalence and teachings as taught and handed down by the missionaries who planted the AIM (later AIC) church in Kenya have, down the years determined the position of the church in regard to matters of church state relations. Another major source of influence has been the government of the day, where the church’s position has been oscillating depending on each subsequent government. At times the church took no official stand by choosing silence even where other churches were actively engaging the government on critical matters such as social.