Hope and Resilience

"While we received food, money, and clothing, the Bible was the most special gift. It reminded us of God's love for His people in Maiduguri." – Rev. Alfred Daniel Buba.  

In the heart of Northern Nigeria, in the embattled city of Maiduguri, the church stands resilient. This region has faced years of turmoil, violence, and displacement—yet the light of the gospel continues to shine. Thanks to your generosity, pastors in Maiduguri have received a unique tool that is transforming their ministries and strengthening their faith: the Africa Study Bible.  

These Bibles- were more than just printed pages—they were hope, encouragement, and spiritual revival. For many pastors in this region, the Africa Study Bible came at just the right time.  

A Bible for Africa, by Africa  

Pastor Samuel Olajugba described the Africa Study Bible as "a very unique and comprehensive resource designed specifically for African readers." What sets this Bible apart is its deep connection to African culture. It bridges the gap between the ancient biblical world and the realities of  life in Africa today. With insights written by African theologians, notes rooted in cultural context, and reflections on issues like community, leadership, and justice, it speaks directly to the heart of African ministry.  

Samuel continues, "It addresses the diversity within the African continent, highlighting different cultures, languages, and traditions, and emphasizing unity within diversity… The Africa Study Bible is simple and easy to read. For this reason, many people will prefer to use it."  

This Bible is a lifeline for pastors in a region like Maiduguri, where many believers live with daily uncertainty and where resources are scarce.  

Theological Tools for a Difficult Mission Field  

Maiduguri has long been a spiritual and physical battleground. The Christian community here has been affected not only by violence but also by floods and displacement. Rev Alfred Daniel Buba, a priest in the Anglican Diocese of Maiduguri, lost many of his personal books in the recent floods. When he received the Africa Study Bible, he said, "It was the most special gift… it reminded us of God's love."  

He goes on to describe how the Bible helps him bring clarity to his congregation:  

"The “proverbs and stories” notes in the Bible make the messages easier to understand, since proverbs are an important part of African traditions. I use the Africa Study Bible in church, and when I share its proverbs, I see my congregation's faces light up with understanding."  

This is what it means to make the Bible relatable—to give believers the tools to understand Scripture in their own cultural language.  

Addressing Complex African Realities  

Rev. Emmanuel Bunka Alex, also in Maiduguri, highlighted how the Africa Study Bible helps address sensitive theological issues like syncretism and polygamy—topics that are deeply embedded in African contexts. He pointed to an article note in the Bible that says:  

"Just because we find a practice in the Bible does not mean that God approves of it."  

This distinction, he says, "is a great tool to help us understand the dividing line between the Bible and African religious beliefs." 

Inspired by God. Delivered by You.  

Rev. Uriah Kanah Urbanus captured the spirit of the Africa Study Bible beautifully:  

"The move for and actualization of this Bible was indeed inspired by God. How grateful I am to have one on my shelf!"  

He praised the cultural relevance, the theological depth, and the way this Bible empowers local ministry. For him, and many others, this Bible is more than a study tool—it is a source of renewal, a spark for deeper engagement with God's Word, and a light in a dark time.  

Thank You, Donors.  

Because of your faithfulness, pastors in one of Nigeria's most challenging regions are now better equipped to disciple their people. You didn't just give them a Bible—you gave them God's Word through African eyes.  

The church in Maiduguri is standing strong. And you are part of their story.  

If you'd like to continue equipping pastors like these across Africa, you can support the God’s Word for Africa program at the link below. 

This interview transcript has been edited for clarity and conciseness.

With just a $67 monthly donation, you can help provide more pastors, like Pastor Djuma, with contextualized and relevant discipleship tools such as the Africa Study Bible, New Living Translation Text  Bibles (Africa Edition), and other resources, often with training on how to use these unique tools. Click here to give and help bring real change to the church in Africa.