Full Project – IMPACT OF CROSS-CULTURAL CHALLENGES IN FULFILLING THE GREAT COMMISSION

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1  Background to the Study

The Great Commission, as outlined in the Gospel of Matthew (28:16-20), is a mandate given by Jesus Christ to his disciples to spread his teachings to all the nations of the world. In Nigeria, a country with a diverse cultural landscape, the fulfillment of the Great Commission has been met with various cross-cultural challenges. Nigeria is a multi-ethnic and multi-religious country with over 250 ethnic groups and two dominant religions, Christianity and Islam (Falola, 2001).

The first challenge in fulfilling the Great Commission in Nigeria is the language barrier. Nigeria is a linguistically diverse country with over 500 languages spoken (Lewis, 2009). This linguistic diversity poses a significant challenge to the spread of the Gospel, as the message of Christ must be translated into various languages, some of which may not have a written form or an equivalent for certain Christian concepts (Adegbite, 2004).

Secondly, the cultural diversity in Nigeria also poses a challenge. Each ethnic group in Nigeria has its unique cultural practices and beliefs, some of which may conflict with Christian teachings. For instance, some ethnic groups practice polygamy, which is contrary to Christian teachings on marriage (Peel, 2000). This cultural diversity makes it difficult to present a unified Christian message that is acceptable to all ethnic groups.

Religious tension is another significant challenge. Nigeria is almost equally divided between Christians, mainly in the South, and Muslims, predominantly in the North. This religious divide has led to numerous conflicts and violence, making it difficult for Christians to evangelize in predominantly Muslim areas (Falola, 1998).

Furthermore, the socio-economic conditions in Nigeria also affect the fulfillment of the Great Commission. High levels of poverty, corruption, and political instability can hinder the spread of the Gospel. For instance, poverty can make people more susceptible to prosperity gospel, a distortion of Christian teachings (Ukah, 2007).

In conclusion, the fulfillment of the Great Commission in Nigeria is fraught with numerous cross-cultural challenges. However, these challenges also present opportunities for the Church to adapt its evangelization strategies to the Nigerian context. This could involve the use of indigenous languages in evangelism, contextualizing Christian teachings to local cultures, and promoting interfaith dialogue to reduce religious tension (Sanusi, 2012).

 1.2 Statement of the Problem

The Great Commission, as outlined in the Gospel of Matthew (28:16-20), is a mandate given by Jesus Christ to his disciples to spread his teachings to all the nations of the world. However, in Nigeria, a country with over 250 ethnic groups and a vast array of cultural differences, fulfilling this mandate has proven to be a significant challenge.

The first problem lies in the language barrier. Nigeria is a linguistically diverse country with over 500 languages spoken. This linguistic diversity often hinders effective communication of the gospel, as the message may lose its original meaning when translated into different languages. This problem is further compounded by the lack of trained interpreters and the unavailability of the Bible in some local languages.

Secondly, cultural differences pose a significant challenge. Each ethnic group in Nigeria has its unique cultural practices and beliefs, some of which may conflict with Christian teachings. For instance, some ethnic groups practice polygamy, which is contrary to Christian teachings on marriage (Adeyemo, 2004). These cultural differences often lead to resistance and rejection of the gospel message.

Thirdly, religious pluralism is another challenge. Nigeria is a religiously diverse country with Christianity, Islam, and traditional African religions being the major religions. This religious diversity often leads to religious conflicts and intolerance, making it difficult for the gospel message to be accepted in some regions.

Fourthly, the socio-economic conditions in Nigeria also pose a challenge. High levels of poverty, illiteracy, and unemployment often lead to social unrest and insecurity, making it difficult for missionaries to carry out their work.

Lastly, the lack of adequate training and resources for missionaries is a significant problem. Many missionaries in Nigeria lack the necessary cross-cultural skills and resources to effectively communicate the gospel message across different cultural contexts.

Furthermore, the cross-cultural challenges in fulfilling the Great Commission in Nigeria are multifaceted and complex. They require a comprehensive and context-specific approach to address effectively.

1.3   Aim of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine the impact of cross-cultural challenges in fulfilling the great commission.

1.3.1 Objectives of the Study

The specific objectives of the study are to:

1. To examine the nature and extent of cross-cultural challenges that missionaries face in fulfilling the Great Commission in Nigeria.

2. To analyze the impact of cross-cultural challenges on the effectiveness of evangelism and discipleship as part of the Great Commission in Nigeria.

3. To identify strategies that have been successful in overcoming cross-cultural challenges in the context of the Great Commission in Nigeria.

4. To assess the role of local churches and international mission organizations in addressing cross-cultural challenges in Nigeria.

1.4.  Research Questions

The research Questions are buttressed below:

1. What is the nature and extent of cross-cultural challenges that missionaries face in fulfilling the Great Commission in Nigeria?

2. How do cross-cultural challenges impact the effectiveness of evangelism and discipleship as part of the Great Commission in Nigeria?

3. What strategies have been successful in overcoming cross-cultural challenges in the context of the Great Commission in Nigeria?

4. What is the role of local churches and international mission organizations in addressing cross-cultural challenges in Nigeria?

1.5   Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement for the study is buttressed below:

H_o: Cross-cultural challenges has no significant impact in fulfilling the great commission.

H₁: Cross-cultural challenges has significant impact in fulfilling the great commission.

1.6   Significance of the Study

The study of the impact of cross-cultural challenges in fulfilling the Great Commission in Nigeria holds significant implications for both the local and global Christian community. Understanding these challenges can provide valuable insights into the complexities of cross-cultural evangelism and discipleship, thereby informing more effective strategies for fulfilling the Great Commission.

Firstly, this study can contribute to the body of knowledge on cross-cultural missions, particularly in the Nigerian context. Nigeria, with its diverse ethnic and cultural groups, presents unique challenges for missionaries. By examining these challenges, this study can provide a nuanced understanding of the dynamics of cross-cultural evangelism in Nigeria.

Secondly, the findings of this study can inform the development of training programs for missionaries and local churches. By identifying the specific cross-cultural challenges faced in Nigeria, these programs can be tailored to equip missionaries with the necessary skills and knowledge to navigate these challenges effectively.

Thirdly, this study can guide the strategic planning of local churches and international mission organizations. Understanding the impact of cross-cultural challenges on the effectiveness of the Great Commission can help these organizations allocate resources more effectively and develop strategies that are responsive to the specific challenges in Nigeria.

Fourthly, this study can foster greater cross-cultural competence among missionaries and local churches in Nigeria. By proposing recommendations based on the findings, this study can contribute to enhancing the fulfillment of the Great Commission in Nigeria.

Lastly, this study can have broader implications for the global Christian community. The lessons learned from the Nigerian context can inform cross-cultural missions in other parts of the world, thereby contributing to the global fulfillment of the Great Commission.

1.7   Scope of the Study

The scope of the study is to examine the impact of cross-cultural challenges in fulfilling the great commission. The study is restricted to selected denomination in Nigeria.

1.8  Operational Definition of Terms

Impact: Impact refers to the effect or influence that something has on a person, group, or situation. It can be positive or negative.

Cross-cultural: Cross-cultural refers to interactions or experiences that involve people from different cultural backgrounds or societies.

Challenges: Challenges are difficulties or obstacles that one may face in achieving a goal or completing a task.

The Great Commission: Fulfilling the Great Commission is a concept rooted in Christianity, specifically in the Bible’s New Testament. It refers to the commandment given by Jesus to his disciples to spread the teachings of Christianity and make disciples of all nations.

Evangelism: Evangelism is the act of sharing one’s religious beliefs, particularly in Christianity, with the intention of converting others to that faith.

The Gospel: The Gospel, in Christianity, refers to the teachings and message of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the New Testament of the Bible. It is often associated with the good news of salvation and the promise of eternal life.

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