Abstract:
This article examines the role of house churches in South Africa in the ministry of emerging
adulthood. Emerging adulthood is a turbulent life stage that is characterised by change and
exploration. Additionally, it involves increasing responsibility and autonomy as young people
assume more adult roles. This article suggests that emerging adulthood is a critical life stage
for several reasons. Given the contextual realities of South Africa (high unemployment, high
levels of crime, poverty), as well as the associated negative behaviour and the increasing
religious disaffiliation among emerging adults, it is essential to provide nurturing support to
this group in particular. To this end, this article presents a missional model for house churches
as an alternative method of ministry for reaching and retaining this population group. The
characteristics of house churches and emerging adults are explored and serve as the backdrop
for this missional model.
INTRADISCIPLINARY AND/OR INTERDISCIPLINARY IMPLICATIONS : This article makes intradisciplinary
and interdisciplinary contributions by engaging the theological disciplines of missiology and
practical theology as well as psychology and sociology.
