Culture originates from God, and is as old as creation itself. A closer study of Gen.10 verse 1-31 reveal the movement of people from creation.The Table of Nations (Gen.10) describes how each ethnic/language group coalesces in fulfillment of the cultural mandate given to Adam and Noah. (Gen. 1:28 and 9:1) It reflects how cultural formation manifests itself in the development of specific ethnic/language groups. God is already present in a culture.
“No people are without God. They may not know him, and they may not serve him, but he is still in their midst. Most basic expressions of life and faith are God-given. We may not use them properly or honor him with them as they were intended to do. But that does not mean they are inherently ungodly or unbiblical, “Confirming Romans 1:19-23, 25”Because what may be known of God is manifest in them, for God has shown it to them. Writes Gavriel Gefen, Christi
Culture is a Subject we approach with fear & trembling. Culture is not universal, at least in principle. As kingdom of God tradition demands, we are to see it as a calling tied to our mission as followers of Christ, a calling that has to do not only with our living in different cultures, but our scrutinizing in the light of the word and celebrating the redemptive work of Christ in the culture around us. Culture was not made as a route to idol worshipping, but a means of worship and appreciation to the only true God, The creator of heaven and earth. The only and major vehicle for development and economic advancement of a people, showcasing God’s creativity to man and through man. A means of interaction and exchange of values among people.
As we explore this great subject of utmost importance to the Body of Christ as stewards of God’s creation called in Christ for the redemption of the world. Just as everyone talks about their culture with high regard, what then is Culture? And why is culture important and who instituted culture? The simplest definition we all know is that culture is the way people live. Another definition defines Culture as an integral part of every society! A learned pattern of behavior and ways in which a person lives his or her life, which in the real sense of the term constitutes the music, food, arts and literature of a society, even though they are only cultural products
According to English Anthropologist, Edward B Taylor, Culture is that complex whole which includes knowledge, belief, art, law, morals, customs and any other capabilities and habits acquired by man as a member of Society.
As every society has a different culture, where people share a specific language, traditions, behaviors, perceptions and beliefs. Culture gives people identity which makes them unique and different from people of other cultures. Often when people of different Cultures migrate and settle in another society, the culture of that society becomes the dominant culture and those of the immigrants become the subculture of the community. Even people who settle in other nations imbibe the new culture; while at the same time strive to preserve their own
Why is Culture important? It is what gives an individual or community a unique identity. The culture of a community gives its people a character of their own. Cultures shape the personality of an individual or community. The language that a community speaks, the art forms it hosts, food, customs, traditions festivities and religion are all inclusive in a community culture. Culture is necessary to maintain orderliness and discipline in the society. It is also a means of communication among people, and creates a feeling of belonging and togetherness among people in the society.