Project – ROLE OF CHURCH LEADERS ON THE GROWTH OF THE CHURCH IN SELECTED PENTECOSTAL CHURCHES IN UGEP, YAKURR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, CROSS RIVER STATE

ROLE OF CHURCH LEADERS ON THE GROWTH OF THE CHURCH IN SELECTED PENTECOSTAL CHURCHES IN UGEP, YAKURR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, CROSS RIVER STATE

 CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Role of church leaders on the growth of the church in selected Pentecostal Churches is a topic that has been extensively studied in the field of religious studies. Church leaders, including pastors, priests, bishops, and other clergy, play a crucial role in the development and sustainability of their congregations. According to a study by Stark and Finke (2000), the effectiveness of church leaders is directly related to the growth and survival of the church. They argue that effective leaders are those who can inspire their congregation, provide clear and compelling vision, and manage the resources of the church effectively.

In a similar vein, a study by Hoge and Wenger (2005) found that the leadership style of church leaders significantly impacts the growth of the church. They found that leaders who adopt a transformational leadership style, characterized by inspiring and motivating followers to exceed their own self-interests for the good of the group, are more likely to see growth in their congregations. This suggests that the role of church leaders extends beyond mere administration and involves shaping the spiritual and emotional climate of the church.

However, the role of church leaders is not limited to the internal dynamics of the church. According to a study by Ammerman (1997), church leaders also play a crucial role in connecting the church with the wider community. They found that churches that were actively involved in their communities, led by their leaders, were more likely to grow and survive. This suggests that the role of church leaders also involves acting as a bridge between the church and the wider community.

The importance of church leaders in the growth and survival of a church is also highlighted in a study by Woolever and Bruce (2004). They found that churches with leaders who were able to adapt to changes and challenges were more likely to grow and survive. This suggests that the role of church leaders also involves being able to navigate and respond to the changing religious landscape.

However, it is important to note that role of church leaders on the growth of the church in selected Pentecostal Churches is not without its challenges. According to a study by Roozen (2010), many church leaders face challenges such as declining membership, financial difficulties, and changing societal attitudes towards religion. These challenges require church leaders to be resilient and innovative in their leadership.

Role of church leaders on the growth of the church in selected Pentecostal Churches is multifaceted and crucial. They play a key role in inspiring and motivating their congregation, managing the resources of the church, connecting the church with the wider community, and navigating the changing religious landscape. However, they also face significant challenges that require resilience and innovation.

• Statement of the Problem

The problem of role of church leaders on the growth of the church in selected Pentecostal Churches is a complex issue that has been the subject of much debate and research. Many scholars argue that the leadership of a church plays a crucial role in its growth and survival (Barna, 2017). They contend that effective leadership can inspire congregants, foster a sense of community, and guide the church towards its mission and vision. However, there is a lack of consensus on what constitutes effective leadership and how it can be cultivated within the church context.

The second issue is the lack of empirical evidence to support the theoretical claims about the role of church leaders. While many studies have been conducted on leadership in general, few have specifically focused on leadership within the church context (Kouzes & Posner, 2012). This lack of empirical research leaves a gap in our understanding of how church leaders can effectively contribute to the growth and survival of their churches.

Thirdly, there is a problem of leadership succession in many churches. Many churches struggle with the transition of leadership from one generation to the next (Rainer & Geiger, 2011). This problem is often exacerbated by a lack of clear succession planning, which can lead to conflict and division within the church. This issue is particularly pertinent given the aging population of many church leaders.

Fourthly, there is a problem of leadership development. Many church leaders lack the necessary skills and training to effectively lead their congregations (Barna, 2017). This lack of training can result in ineffective leadership, which can hinder the growth and survival of the church.

Fifthly, there is a problem of burnout among church leaders. Many church leaders report high levels of stress and burnout, which can negatively impact their ability to lead effectively (Proeschold-Bell & LeGrand, 2012). This issue is particularly concerning given the important role that church leaders play in the growth and survival of their churches.

Lastly, there is a problem of the changing role of church leaders in the modern world. With the rise of technology and social media, church leaders are now expected to navigate these new platforms in addition to their traditional roles (Schwarz, 2012). This changing role can pose challenges for church leaders, particularly those who are not familiar with these new technologies.

• Purpose of the Study

The purpose of the study is to examine role of church leaders on the growth of the church in selected Pentecostal Churches. The specific objectives are:

1. To examine the influence of church leaders on the growth and survival of a church.
2. To investigate the strategies employed by church leaders to ensure the growth and survival of a church.
3. To assess the relationship between the leadership style of church leaders and the growth and survival of a church.
4. To identify the challenges faced by church leaders in promoting the growth and survival of a church.

• Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. How do church leaders influence the growth and survival of a church?
2. What strategies do church leaders employ to ensure the growth and survival of a church?
3. What is the relationship between the leadership style of church leaders and the growth and survival of a church?
4. What challenges do church leaders face in promoting the growth and survival of a church?

• Significance of the Study

Role of church leaders on the growth of the church in selected Pentecostal Churches is a topic of great significance. Church leaders, including pastors, elders, deacons, and other ministry leaders, play a pivotal role in shaping the direction, health, and growth of the church. They are the ones who guide the congregation, provide spiritual leadership, and make important decisions that affect the church’s future. Their role is not just administrative but also spiritual, as they are responsible for the spiritual well-being of their congregation.

Church leaders are the primary drivers of church growth. They are responsible for creating and implementing strategies that attract new members and retain existing ones. This includes developing engaging worship services, organizing community outreach programs, and providing pastoral care. They also play a crucial role in fostering a sense of community within the church, which is vital for its survival. A church with a strong sense of community is more likely to retain its members and attract new ones.

Moreover, church leaders are responsible for teaching and preaching the Word of God. They are tasked with making the Bible relevant and understandable to their congregation, which is crucial for spiritual growth. They also provide guidance and counsel to members, helping them navigate life’s challenges from a biblical perspective. This spiritual leadership is essential for the survival of the church, as it helps members deepen their faith and commitment to the church.

In addition, church leaders play a significant role in managing the church’s resources. They are responsible for ensuring that the church’s finances are used wisely and that the church’s facilities are well-maintained. This stewardship role is crucial for the church’s survival, as it ensures that the church has the resources it needs to carry out its mission and serve its members.

Furthermore, church leaders are often the face of the church in the wider community. They represent the church in public settings, build relationships with community leaders, and advocate for the church’s interests. This role is vital for the growth of the church, as it helps to increase the church’s visibility and influence in the community.

In conclusion, role of church leaders on the growth of the church in selected Pentecostal Churches is multifaceted and significant. They provide spiritual leadership, foster community, manage resources, and represent the church in the wider community. Their work is crucial for the church’s survival and growth, making this a topic of great importance for anyone interested in the health and future of the church.

• Limitation of the Study

The study on role of church leaders on the growth of the church in selected Pentecostal Churches, specifically focusing on Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM), has certain limitations. One of the primary limitations is the specificity of the case study in Ugep, Yakurr Local Government Area, Cross River State. While MFM is a large and influential church, the findings from this study may not be applicable to all churches, especially those with different structures, doctrines, or cultural contexts. This limits the generalizability of the study, as the role and influence of church leaders may vary significantly across different denominations and geographical locations.

Another limitation is the potential bias in data collection. As the study relies heavily on the perspectives and experiences of church leaders and members, there is a risk of subjective bias. The leaders and members may have a vested interest in portraying the church in a positive light, which could skew the results. Additionally, the study may not fully capture the complex, multifaceted role of church leaders in church growth and survival, as it is influenced by a myriad of factors beyond leadership, such as community engagement, financial resources, and societal changes.

Project – ROLE OF CHURCH LEADERS ON THE GROWTH OF THE CHURCH IN SELECTED PENTECOSTAL CHURCHES IN UGEP, YAKURR LOCAL GOVERNMENT AREA, CROSS RIVER STATE