Was the Bible copied from other books?

Every proper theological school teaches this, one of the first scares to a bible scholar: Genesis chapters 1 to 11 are not historical but rather clever stories laced with theological themes. Hard to swallow, but that is what professors and Bible scholars have come to agree and BRIGHT MHANGO goes in search of the answers as to why the chapters are rejected and looks at the implications.

Why not just burn the body?

Malawi has a severe problem of pressure on land. In fact, it is one of the most densely populated countries around. So why dig graves when cremation could offer a way out of the land troubles haunting the country? That is the question BRIGHT MHANGO addresses.

Should churches publicise charity?

By seeking publicity for works of charity, has the church gone commercial? That is the issue WATIPASO MZUNGU JNR deals with in this story.

Can gays be Christians?

Incompatible, aren’t they? How can one be a Christian and gay at the same time? But, as BRIGHT MHANGO writes, there are some people who don’t see a contradiction.

Leviticus 20:13 says without apology that "If a man also lie with mankind, as he lieth with a woman, both of them have committed an abomination: they shall surely be put to death; their blood shall be upon them."

Can politics, Christianity mix?

Some people are already calling him man of the people. He is fluent and has provided a fresh face to the Malawian political arena. But Reverend Dr Lazarus Chakwera’s emergence on the political scene has not been without raised eyebrows. Some Christians say as a pastor Chakwera should not dabble in politics. BRIGHT MHANGO asks the question: Is politics not for Christians?

An obituary to travengelists?

These days, people who preach on buses are a common sight. But in preaching in buses, are they not violating other people’s right to be left alone? Bright Mhango discusses the issue.

Can the Communications Act tame religion?

News that the Malawi Communications Regulatory Authority (Macra) fined Radio Islam K260 000 (abour $620) for allegedly demeaning Christianity received mixed reactions among Malawians. Some said Macra was harsh while others argued that discipline in broadcasting is important. But as BRIGHT MHANGO writes, the issue is more complex than the amount of the fine.

Is religion for the poor?

In Europe and America, the pattern is clear: As American and European societies become more prosperous, their religious attachment is declining. In contrast, in Africa, where poverty is widespread, religiosity is on the up. So is poverty religion’s bedfellow and best friend? BRIGHT MHANGO deals with the issue.

Why baptise children?

When Jesus Christ was baptised, the world came to a standstill: John the Baptist actually issued an apology, saying he is not even fit to carry Jesus’ sandals. The heavens opened and a dove flew from it and a voice boomed from the same. God, for the first time, told his creatures that Jesus was his son. This means baptism is important in Christianity, but what about baptising babies? BRIGHT MHANGO grapples with the question.

Who made the Bible?

The gospel of Thomas and the book of Maccabees are out there. They were written at a time when the gospels were being written or even earlier, so why does the Bible have the books it has? Is the Bible the word of God? BRIGHT MHANGO searches for the answers.