From Dependence to Autonomy: Historical Trajectories of Church Self-Sufficiency

Abstract

This study examines the historical roots and development of ecclesial financial and institutional independence. Beginning with ancient Israel's economic and religious structures and the communal welfare practices of early Christianity, the paper argues that internal solidarity mechanisms and collective resource management were indispensable for the survival and credible witness of faith communities operating within hostile political environments. The Protestant Reformation contributed a significant theological reorientation through John Calvin's emphasis on vocation, stewardship, and decentralized church governance. In its modern form, self-sufficiency became central to Protestant missionary strategy, illustrated through three case studies: The Puritan congregational model in colonial North America, the Three-Self Missionary framework adopted by churches in South Korea, and the Jitegemea philosophy championed by the Presbyterian Church of East Africa. These comparative examples demonstrate how theological convictions, cultural contexts, and historical circumstances interact to produce distinct models of autonomous ecclesial life. The article concludes that the historical record of ecclesial self-sufficiency carries significant lessons for African churches today — particularly those navigating transitions out of missionary dependence and seeking structures grounded in indigenous leadership, financial accountability, and contextually responsive ministry.