Why does the African culture hold having children in such high regard?

Conrad Mbewe highlights the cultural perspective in Africa, where having children is seen as honorable and a blessing from the Lord. In this context, the idea of marriage without children is almost unthinkable, as there is a belief that God has not blessed those without children. This view aligns with the Old Testament teachings that encourage marriage and procreation as a means of participating in God's blessings and fulfilling His commands.

In contrast, the New Testament expands this idea beyond the physical family, emphasizing the importance of spiritual multiplication through evangelism and church planting. The focus shifts to spreading God's word across new cities and nations, until the knowledge of the Lord fills the earth. This spiritual multiplication is viewed as a continuation of the Old Testament's call to grow and prosper, but now through a broader, global mission.

Psalm 127:3 (NKJV): "Behold, children are a heritage from the Lord, the fruit of the womb is a reward."