From conformity to transformation: Discipleship and identity in the context of social conflict

Abstract

Around the world social polarization and conflict is being increasingly experienced both in the general society and within church. There is evidence that many Christians are being more influenced by their social affinity groups than by their sense of identity in Christ, contributing to social tensions. This essay addresses the challenge of making disciples who are not conformed to the world but rather transformed (Rom 12:2). An approach is proposed that first defines the nature of discipleship and the importance of fostering a biblical “in Christ” identity among followers of Jesus. Social identity theory is employed both in biblical interpretation and in understanding Christian identity that transcends other identities. Adult learning theories are then used to propose an approach of “disequilibration and reframing” to foster identity formation. Three types of transformative encounters as pedagogical methods are described.