Christianity In Nigeria Research Articles

John Obi Oluwabamiji Ogundipe and the Promotion of Pentecostal Christianity in Nigeria

John Obi Oluwabamiji Ogundipe and the Promotion of Pentecostal Christianity in Nigeria

Christian Ethical Response to The Challenges of Digital Financial Borrowing in Nigeria

Digital financial borrowing is the money borrowed online through digital mobile applications, platforms or phones that are offered by financial lenders using the Internet. Due to the advancement in financial technology, banking and financial services and operations have been digitalized. The emergence of digital finance has rebranded banking and financial borrowing access and opportunities. People can now borrow money online, digitally and seamlessly. This development is applaudable because it eases traditional banking operations burdens and removes bottlenecks in borrowing and lending to finance business and personal needs. However, the attendant experiences from digital financial borrowing are worrisome and pose challenges to human well-being in developing economies, especially among Christians in Nigeria. Some of the experiences of digital financial borrowers are poor loan repayment, which may be due to high interest, breach of personal data policy and social shaming of defaulted borrowers by lending companies’ employees. The unvirtuous motives and characters of some borrowers, professionally unethical attitudes and loan recovery strategies are responsible for these challenges. This paper gives an overview of digital financial borrowing in Nigeria and discusses digital financial borrowing, which is characterized with features such as instant, automation, remote, consumer loans and short maturity. The paper argues that digital financial borrowing has assisted financial inclusion and contributed to Nigeria’s digital economy, it has however negatively impacted on borrowers’ personal, emotional, mental, marital, business, spiritual and moral well-being due to poor repayment or inability to repay, high interest, and social shaming of customers by digital loan officers. The paper concludes that Christians should act virtuously and ethically according to biblical instructions when dealing in financial borrowing, wisdom, honesty, godliness, discretion, patience and mutual respect are among Christian virtues to display in financial borrowing decisions, actions and relationships. It recommends that churches and church leaders should encourage financial education and literacy that enhance credit understanding and boost Christians’ financial wellness. It also recommends that Chartered Institute of Bankers of Nigeria, with other financial regulatory bodies in Nigeria should regulate the operations of lending companies and enforce acceptable professional work ethics and attitudes of digital lending companies’ employees to enhance friendly relationships with customers.

Treating traumas among Christians in Nigeria: A randomized controlled field study of the Healing the Wounds of Trauma program.

Treating traumas among Christians in Nigeria: A randomized controlled field study of the Healing the Wounds of Trauma program.

Women and Christianity in Southwestern Nigeria from 19th to mid-20th Century: Implication for Contemporary Churches in Nigeria

Women have played significant roles in the development of Christianity in Nigeria, but with little attention given to their roles in historical accounts. Therefore, this research focuses on the roles of women found scattered in some documented history of Christianity in Southwest, Nigeria from 19th century till mid- twentieth century when missionaries came from America and Europe to Nigeria to establish Mainline Churches and in addition assesses their activities in the African Indigenous Churches (AICs) in Nigeria. The paper leaned on Dorcas Akintunde’s assertion that the official history of churches and Christian ministries in Nigeria takes a very little account of the role of women. She observed that the history of Christianity till the mid-twentieth century when Aladura churches (Praying Churches) were founded was basically patriarchal. Having explained these endeavours, the research also makes some recommendations for women activities in contemporary Christianity in Nigeria. The research uses qualitative approach with primary and secondary sources from In-depth Interview (IDI), participant observations and bibliographical and archival search. Women were found out to have served as missionaries, acted in men’s absence, and deployed their professional expertise on the mission fields, founded churches and were actively involved in pulpit ministry. Hence, their roles contributed significantly to the growth of Christianity in southwest Nigeria.

Die by Fire (Isaiah 66: 16): A Study of Divine Justice in Old Testament and in African Yoruba Context

This study attempts to reread Isaiah 66: 16 in the light of divine justice in African Yoruba culture in Nigeria. The study survey various uses of fire in ancient Israel and in the African Yoruba tradition. In the event of justice, a parallel is sought between Yahweh and a Yoruba deified divinity called Sango whose presence is marked by fire, thunder and lightning. The parallel is with the view to establish the significance of fire on justice in African Yoruba Christianity. African Biblical Hermeneutics was used for the study. It was discovered that fire was used as medium of divine justice and mercy in African Yoruba tradition. Fire marked divine presence, manifestation of the glory of God, revelation of God’s power, cleansing of human and vessels for holy use, and use for domestic purposes especially cooking. The African Yoruba Christians in Nigeria see fire as a weapon of divine justice. Therefore, in their prayers to God they call down fire to kill their spiritual and physical enemies. They are fond of using the words: ‘die by fire’. In this way, the Bible becomes a sure and reliable weapon in the battles of life and thus makes the biblical text relevant in any context, condition and generation.

Sacrifice in Judaism and its Challenges to Christian Religious Worship in Nigeria: A Comparative Analysis

This comparative analysis explores the concept of sacrifice in Judaism and its challenges to Christian religious worship in Nigeria. Sacrifice holds significance in both faith traditions, influencing worship practices in diverse ways. The study focuses on theological implications, historical contexts, and contemporary relevance of sacrificial practices in Judaism and Christianity. In Judaism, sacrifice historically played a central role in religious worship, with rituals of animal offerings serving as means of atonement, thanksgiving, and communion with God. The Hebrew Bible outlines detailed instructions for sacrificial practices, emphasizing purity, obedience, and spiritual intent. However, with the destruction of the Second Temple in 70 CE, the practice of animal sacrifice ceased, leading to new interpretations of sacrifice within Jewish theology. In Nigeria, Christianity has become dominant, coexisting with traditional religious practices involving sacrificial offerings to deities and spirits. The introduction of Christianity in Nigeria has presented challenges to traditional sacrificial practices, resulting in theological debates, cultural conflicts, and shifts in religious identity among Nigerian Christians. The tension between traditional sacrificial rituals and Christian teachings on sacrifice has influenced religious worship practices in Nigeria, showcasing the complexities of religious syncretism and cultural adaptation. This analysis examines the challenges that the concept of sacrifice poses to Christian religious worship in Nigeria, exploring how the legacy of sacrificial practices in Judaism influences Christian perspectives on sacrifice, redemption, and divine worship. By comparing sacrificial traditions in Judaism and Christianity, this study aims to deepen understanding of how religious beliefs, cultural traditions, and theological perspectives interact and evolve in diverse religious contexts. Keywords: Sacrifice, Judaism, Christianity, Religious Worship, Nigeria, Comparative Analysis, Theology, Rituals, Syncretism, Cultural Adaptation

The Faith of Christians in a Muslim Society: A Case Study of Nigeria

This study delves into the intricate dynamics of faith in a Muslim-majority society, with a focus on the Nigerian context. The research systematically explores the experiences of Christian witnessing and its repercussions, highlighting the challenges posed by ethno-religious conflicts. Additionally, it delves into the pervasive issue of persecution as a defining element of Christian witnessing, and investigates the factors contributing to religious violence in Nigeria. The central argument posits that, on the whole, Muslims have been more detrimental than beneficial to the coexistence with Christians, who, in contrast, have struggled to foster peaceful relations. The discourse surrounding the fate of Christians in a Muslim society is characterized by a singular perspective on Islam's perceived 'bloody corridors' and the escalating violence, leading some to view Christianity skeptically. The experiences of many Christians in Nigeria have created an environment where rhetoric tends to lean towards calls for revenge, often devoid of logical justification. The study reveals that the faith of Christians in Nigeria is seemingly in jeopardy. In light of these findings, the study advocates for religious tolerance and enlightenment as the primary solutions to safeguard the faith of Christians in Nigeria. It underscores the importance of fostering an environment where diverse religious beliefs can coexist harmoniously. The recommendations offered aim to promote understanding, tolerance, and dialogue between Christian and Muslim communities, with the ultimate goal of preserving the fabric of religious diversity in the nation. Keywords: Faith, Christianity, Islam, Society and Moslem Society

Commercialisation of Christianity in Nigeria: A Review

This review investigates the commercialization of Christianity in Nigeria, delving into its historical roots and modern expressions. A booming economy that includes mega-churches, televangelism, religious tourism, and a robust market for faith-based goods and services has resulted from the nexus of faith and commerce. Factors responsible for the commercialization of Christianity and the impacts of commercialization on religious practices, and the larger socio-cultural fabric are critically evaluated in this study. The article examines how some charismatic leaders have shaped the religious-business environment and considers how this has an impact on the genuineness of Christian teachingsin contemporary Nigeria. This review adds to the on-going conversation on how Nigerian religious practices are changing and highlights the intricate interactions that exist between faith and business within the framework of Christianity. This review recommends more investigation into viable ways to promote peaceful coexistence of religion and business in Nigeria's Christian community.

Religious Harmony in Nigeria: Evaluating the Role of Islamic and Christian Beliefs and Practices

This study aimed to investigate whether Islamic and Christian beliefs and practices promote harmony, particularly in the context of Nigeria. Employing a qualitative method, the research was anchored on the sociological theory of religion. Despite acknowledging the existence of social inequity and political unrest stemming from the relationship between Muslims and Christians in Nigeria, the study argued that both faiths still advocate for harmony through religious tolerance and enlightenment. Key findings suggest that while religious conflicts persist, there is a shared belief in the potential for harmony through religious tolerance and enlightenment. The study concludes with recommendations for religious leaders to promote peaceful coexistence and unity among adherents.

Welcoming One Another” (Romans 14-15): A Paradigm for Mutual Cooperation Among Christians in Nigeria

Decades of discussions have occurred over whether Romans 14–15 is directed to any particular circumstance in the Roman community, as it contains arguments similar to those found in 1 Corinthians 8-10. Some scholars feel it is a generic admonition, while others say it is a reply to the Roman community's particular predicament. The concept of mutuality fits within the setting of Romans, and the chapters (Rom 14–15) speak of Paul's exhortations from the preceding chapters (Rom.12–13) being applied contextually. In Nigerian churches/Christianity, the scenario of separation and categorization found in the Roman Church exists. Certain Christians have been labeled as "weak" or "strong" as a result of this; ethnicity and other factors are most likely to blame. As a result, the negative effects exceeded the favorable effects among Christians over the last few decades. This paper examines Paul’s style for eliciting mutual collaboration (brother/sister metaphor), arguing that if Christians read, comprehend, and embrace Paul's call to welcome one another in Romans 14 –15, the walls of division will fall and mutual cooperation will ensue.

Secessionist Movement in Church History: A Critical Analysis of the Protestant Churches’ Separation from the Anglican Communion in Nigeria.

The secessionist movement, particularly evident in the Protestant Churches’ separation from the Anglican Communion, was a critical period in the history and development of Christianity in Nigeria. The schism within the Anglican Church led to the proliferation of churches and the expansion of denominations in Nigeria. Thus, this paper critically delves into the historical, social, and theological factors that engendered the separation of ‘Protestant Churches’ from the Anglican Church in Nigeria, while assessing its theological and ecclesiastical implications, the objective being to provide a comprehensive account of the underlying motivations behind the breakaway, and its consequences on Nigeria’s multi-faceted religious landscape. With the aid of content analysis method of research, which relies essentially on the collection and analysis of secondary data, the study finds out that a complex interplay of colonialism, cultural dynamics, and doctrinal differences contributed to the emergence of distinct Protestant denominations in Nigeria during the colonial period. Furthermore, the paper contends that the role of the secessionist movement in shaping and reshaping religious identities, practices, interactions and discourses within the country cannot be over-emphasized, thus, deserving the critical attention of the intellectual community.

Supplemental Material for Treating Traumas Among Christians in Nigeria: A Randomized Controlled Field Study of the Healing the Wounds of Trauma Program

Supplemental Material for Treating Traumas Among Christians in Nigeria: A Randomized Controlled Field Study of the Healing the Wounds of Trauma Program

Re-Reading 1Timothy 5:23 in the Context of Covid-19 Vaccine Hesitancy among Christians in Nigeria

Re-Reading 1Timothy 5:23 in the Context of Covid-19 Vaccine Hesitancy among Christians in Nigeria

A Review of Nigerian Christians’ Response to the 2019 Witchcraft Conference

For centuries, witchcraft was a major part of religious belief in many cultures, including those in Africa. It was the focus of the much-contested conference of the University of Nigeria, Nsukka, in 2019. Many Nigerian Christians publicly debated the relevance of a conference on witchcraft and demanded its cancellation. This paper is a personal contemplation of the reactions of Nigerian Christians to the conference. Data for the paper is drawn from interviews, newspaper publications and the social media. I argue that an academic study of witchcraft is not out of tune with any religious creed, including Christianity; and that the vehemence against the conference by the Christian community in Nigeria, to which I belong, calls into question our understanding of our faith. In effect, the paper probes the public reaction to the conference, considers its unintended outcomes, and draws out the lessons that can be learned about Nigerian Christians and Christianity in Nigeria.

Ethical Investigation of Material Possession Among Contemporary Christians in Nigeria

Purpose: God created material possession for sustenance of man on earth. Material possessions are indispensable in life and living a purposeful life requires having basic material possessions. Material possession that some Christians at this contemporary time desire to acquire include latest vehicles, glamorous attire, attractive and solid houses, estates, clothes, electronic equipment and gadgets, plots of land, billions of dollars in their foreign accounts, productive firms at home and abroad and many of such. The greed of humans makes them pursue material possessions of the world at the expense of moral and spiritual values. Undue quest for material acquisition through bribery and corruption is detrimental to the moral and spiritual standard of Christian life.
 Methodology: The paper identified compromise of some Christians, abuse of prosperity gospel, increase of social vices in the society, abandoned and inhabitable houses as challenges attached to material possessions among some Christians.
 Findings: The paper argues that acquiring material possession is not sinful, but undue means of material acquisition is against the will of God. Appropriation of Christian ethical response discussed in this paper is believed to promote biblical understanding of material possessions and godly ways of utilizing them to the glory of God and blessing of humanity.
 Unique Contribution to Theory, Policy and Practice: The study recommends that all Christians and responsible citizens should avoid every unethical way of acquiring material possession and learn to be contented in God. The true Church of Jesus Christ must uphold proactive teachings of the Bible on what constitutes true material possession.

On Denominationalism and Inter-Denominationality: Discerning the Signs of the Times in Nigerian Christianity

ABSTRACT At this stage of Christianity in Nigeria, the question: “why do we fight with each other?” is not just relevant but cogent. Since the 1880s when Christianity arrived the southern part of Nigeria, there has been rivalry among the Christian denominations – from the struggle for territorial and numerical dominance, to antagonism in educational, political and social spheres. Sadly, this disunity has weakened Christianity as a force to check the excesses of the government and the lopsided policies that are not in the interest of the largely Christian populace. While Christians bicker and betray each other for denominational gains, the whole nation decays to the detriment of all. In this article, we exposed how Christianity came as denominations in Nigeria, provided a critical appraisal of denominationality and the ills of denominationalism. Then, we proffered inter-denominationality (not denominationalism) as the preferable orientation from denominationality for a better Christian relationality in Nigeria.

Religious War and Brutal Killing of Christians in Nigeria; Its Effects and Consequences in Related to John 18:5-11

Brutal killings of Christians in the northern and middle parts of Nigeria at the hands of Muslim militants and terrorists have been a daily occurrence in recent years. Nigeria daily news are always full of records of shielding of innocent bloods both adult and young, burning of Churches, the worst of them all is killings of Christian members during Church services. The major concerns now are days are kidnapping people after which the ransom will be paid and victim will eventually be killed. Increasingly, the attackers have included another group, militant nomadic Fulani herdsmen who raid villages and kill Christian men, women, children, and babies with, local weapon AK-47s, machetes and many others. This work considers the attitude of both the past and present administrations towards the brutal killings of Christian in the Northern part of the country it was equally linked with the story of Jesus Crucifixion and those that were supposed to speak and defended him master minded the killing of the Saviour of the entire universe. However, the work came out with the effect of the brutal killings, causes and concludes by suggesting the way out

Rethinking the Validity of Online Church During the COVID-19 Lockdown Period

The COVID-19 pandemic has changed the scope of the world, and various stakeholders have used technological advancements around the world. Fear of death and health emergencies have brought people closer to religion. However, social and other limitations have made it hard for people to keep their religious duties. This study examines the use of technology and the online church for Christian services during the COVID-19 lockdown period, which is not in accordance with the concept of congregation. The author discusses the validity of the use of technology and online church by Christians and how it impacts traditional worship services from biblical and theological perspectives. Research Findings show the high attendance after the change from traditional worship services to the use of technology and online church. The data used in this study is secondary data that was found through desk research and reliable sources. The research findings indicate big effects on all parts of society and religion, which should not be a surprise. The epidemic has changed religious practices from traditional to online church and contradicts biblical injunctions. Most religions, including Christian ones, put a lot of emphasis on the importance of community. It has been found that online churches have become popular in the proposed areas, and the technology provides a better opportunity for Christians in Nigeria, the Balkans, and Indonesia to carry out their religious obligations by following lockdown restrictions

A Deconstruction of the Cross and the Crescent for Inclusive Religious Pluralism between Muslims and Christians in Nigeria

The Crescent and the Cross as religious symbols are beyond the mere signification of religious affiliations. They are symbols on which over two hundred years of wars were sustained and are indicative of the religious dichotomy between modern Christianity and Islam across the globe. However, the tangential relationship between the usage of the symbols and the Jihad or the Crusade reeks of memories of fierce competition and unhealed historical memories. The collective memory of the wars fought under the symbols has remained a moniker for conquests and forceful submission. The exclusive propensities of the experiences are evident in the interreligious relation of the adherents of both religions in Nigeria. This article attempts to answer the question of how the exclusive religious disposition underlining most instances of religious crises in the country may be addressed. This article uses deconstructive analysis to strip the symbols and their exclusive religious dispositions for an inclusive religious pluralism model. It argues for the need for a critical rethinking of the exclusive interreligious model operative in the country to facilitate social development and the peaceful co-existence of the adherents of both religions.

Praying for Civil Authorities (1 Tim 2:1-7): A Contextual Study

Most exegetes regard 1Timothy 2:1-7 as a general command for Christians to pray for all people and kings or rulers. This paper will demonstrate how Paul exhorts the church in Ephesus to pray for all people, including kings, in order to fulfill God's mission of bringing salvation to all humanity in the text under consideration. In the same vein, Christians in Nigeria must equally pray for themselves and civil leaders in order to exercise their mission in a country riddled with ills that dehumanize the image of God in the human person. To elaborate on the meaning of this passage, the grammatical structure of the text will be examined. This article argues that if 1Tim. 2:1-7 is read and understood, Christians in Nigeria would know that authority comes from God to humans, therefore they would appreciate and pray for civil authorities. Hence, the work uses contextual exegetical approach. This method combines rhetorical and literary analysis in the quest for theological meaning. Furthermore, it is a synchronic approach, this is because, it seeks to co-ordinate the different levels of meaning, the literary and theological, the historical and the hermeneutical with a view to drawing out the meaning and message of biblical text at the level of its composition and for today.