“We are what we are”: Christian identity in conflict with powers and principalities

Abstract

This article argues that Archbishop Desmond Tutu’s submission to the apartheid government’s Eloff Commission of Inquiry in 1982 is his most important, most thorough theological achievement. It was foundational for the work of the South African Council of Churches of which he was General Secretary. As such, its contribution to ecumenical theology and the work of ecumenical organizations globally remains invaluable. It also still stands as a singularly important testimony in the areas of political responsibility of churches, Christian organizations, and Christians individually. The issues Tutu raises in his submission, Christian identity, of obedience to God, justice, compassion, and solidarity are crucial matters as powerfully relevant today as they were at the time of the inquiry, and they are of universal import.