Shifts in Blood Covenant Theology: A Comparative Assessment of the Perspectives of The East African Revival and Contemporary Christians in Nairobi

Abstract

This study was prompted by a positional shift on blood rituals amongst central Kenya Christians from the stance of the East African Revival (EAR) members. The study compared the position of contemporary believers, with that of the EARand highlighted the effect theobserved shift might have on the Church. A qualitative strategy with a phenomenological research design and purposive samplingwere applied. In-depth semi-structured interviews, Focus Group Discussions and document review were the research tools. Data was analysed using Thematic Coding Analysis. The EDNA model was used as the theological framework.Findings indicate a significant shift fromscripture as the default, final authority concerningsin and righteousness, to peers and mentors. The oral nature of the EAR’stheological legacy has largely facilitated this shift. Acceptance by the wider society, which values the blood rituals as culture, is valued by the contemporary believer but not by the members of the EAR.