ANALYZING JESUS' RESURRECTION (MARK 16:1-20) IN THE CONTEXT OF AFRICAN REALITIES AMONGST 21ST CENTURY THEOLOGIANS

This paper analysis Jesus’ resurrection (Mark 16:1-20) in the context of African realities among 21st century theologians. Justin Ukpong's theory of hermeneutical enculturation was adopted in the work. Secondary sources of data collection are mostly used in the work. Findings show that the idea of “resurrection” was first a common concept, partly existing in the ancient Greco-Roman world. It also appears in the Old Testament, the Inter-Testamental period, and the New Testament. Mark’s resurrection story actually ends at Mark 16:8, while the later verses (9-20) were added by other evangelists or scribes who copied Mark, remedied the situation, and provided accounts of the appearances. The research supports those who establish that the empty tomb tradition was enough evidence to prove that Jesus resurrected. The resurrection story is crucial to Africans, as they believe in the reality of the resurrection even in the midst of the suffering they are experiencing, with the hope that God will renew all things and bring new life. Death, to Africans, does not separate someone from the family. Rather, the “living-dead” remain united and connected with the “living-living. Speaking of Jesus as an ancestor in Africa means He shares common parentage with them. He is mediating between them and God and modeling for them good conduct. The resurrection of Jesus Christ for Africans is a symbol of salvation, reconciliation, and the proof of Jesus Christ as the Messiah.