Project – Challenges To Church Growth and the Way Forward – A Case Study of Christ Apostolic Church, Isale-Ake Assembly

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

The growth of the church in the contemporary world is a subject of great interest and concern to many, especially church leaders and scholars. Several challenges have been identified that hinder the growth of the church. One of the most significant challenges is secularization, which is the process by which religion loses its influence over various aspects of social life (Berger, 1967). As societies become more modern and technologically advanced, the role of religion, and by extension the church, tends to diminish. This has led to a decrease in church attendance and participation in many parts of the world.

Another challenge to church growth is the rise of religious pluralism. This refers to the increasing diversity of religious beliefs and practices within a particular society (Hick, 1982). With the advent of globalization and the ease of information flow, people are now exposed to a wide range of religious ideas and practices. This has led to a situation where people feel less obligated to stick to one particular religious tradition, thereby affecting church growth.

The church also faces the challenge of moral relativism, which is the belief that moral judgments are true or false only relative to some particular standpoint (Harman, 1975). In a world where moral relativism is increasingly accepted, the church’s traditional moral teachings may be seen as outdated or irrelevant, leading to a decline in church membership.

In response to these challenges, the church needs to find ways to remain relevant in the modern world. One way forward is through contextualization, which is the process of making the gospel relevant to a particular cultural context (Hesselgrave, 1989). This involves understanding the cultural context in which the church operates and adapting its message and methods to fit that context.

Another way forward is through ecumenism, which is the effort to promote unity among different Christian denominations (Rouse, 1957). By working together, churches can pool their resources and reach out to more people. This can also help to counter the challenge of religious pluralism by presenting a united front.

Finally, the church can address the challenge of moral relativism by engaging in moral discourse with society. This involves not just preaching moral values, but also engaging in dialogue with people about these values (MacIntyre, 1981). By doing this, the church can show that its moral teachings are not just arbitrary rules, but are based on a deep understanding of human nature and the common good.

• Statement of the Problem

The problem of church growth in Nigeria is a multifaceted issue that has been the subject of numerous studies. According to Agha (2017), the primary challenge is the rapid urbanization and modernization of Nigerian society, which has led to a shift in traditional religious beliefs and practices. This has resulted in a decrease in church attendance and membership, particularly among the younger generation.

Another significant problem is the rise of religious extremism and violence, which has created an environment of fear and insecurity. As noted by Onapajo and Uzodike (2012), the activities of extremist groups such as Boko Haram have not only led to the loss of lives and property but have also significantly affected the growth and development of the church in Nigeria.

Furthermore, the issue of corruption within the church has also been identified as a major challenge. According to Okon (2018), many church leaders have been implicated in financial scandals, which has led to a loss of trust and credibility among the congregation. This has further exacerbated the problem of declining church membership.

The lack of effective leadership and strategic planning is another problem facing the church in Nigeria. As observed by Ojo (2016), many churches lack a clear vision and strategy for growth, which has resulted in stagnation and decline. This is further compounded by the lack of training and development opportunities for church leaders.

Moreover, the issue of cultural and societal changes cannot be overlooked. As noted by Akinade (2015), the increasing influence of Western culture and secularism has led to a shift in societal values and norms, which has had a significant impact on church growth.

The challenges to church growth in Nigeria are complex and multifaceted, requiring a comprehensive and strategic approach. As suggested by Afolabi (2019), the way forward involves addressing these challenges through effective leadership, strategic planning, and a commitment to integrity and accountability.

• Aim and Objectives of the Study

The study examines Challenges to Church Growth and the Way Forward.

1. To find out if financial challenges will affect the growth and expansion of the Church.
2. To explore the various strategies that have been previously implemented by churches to overcome growth challenges.
3. To examine the role of modern technology and digital platforms in church growth.
4. To investigate the impact of societal changes on church growth.

• Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. To what extent will financial challenges affect the growth and expansion of the Church?
2. What strategies have been previously implemented by churches to overcome growth challenges?
3. How does modern technology and digital platforms contribute to church growth?
4. What is the impact of societal changes on church growth?

• Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Financial challenges will not affect the growth and expansion of the Church.

Ho: Financial challenges will affect the growth and expansion of the Church.

• Significance of the Study

The study of the challenges to church growth and the way forward, particularly in the context of the Christ Apostolic Church, Isale-Ake Assembly, is of immense significance as it provides a comprehensive understanding of the issues that hinder the expansion of religious institutions. This understanding is crucial for church leaders, members, and stakeholders who are keen on fostering growth and expansion within their religious communities.

Secondly, this study is significant as it explores the various strategies that have been previously implemented by churches to overcome growth challenges. By examining these strategies, the study can provide valuable insights into what works and what doesn’t, thereby guiding future efforts aimed at promoting church growth. This could potentially lead to more effective and efficient methods of church expansion.

The third significance of this study lies in its examination of the role of modern technology and digital platforms in church growth. In an increasingly digital world, understanding how technology can be leveraged for church growth is vital. This study could provide a roadmap for churches to navigate the digital landscape and use it to their advantage.

Fourthly, the study’s investigation into the impact of societal changes on church growth is significant. As society evolves, so do the challenges and opportunities for church growth. By understanding these societal changes, churches can better adapt and respond to the changing needs and expectations of their congregations.

The fifth significance of this study is its potential to contribute to the existing body of knowledge on church growth. By providing new insights and perspectives, this study could enrich the academic discourse on church growth and expansion, benefiting researchers, scholars, and students in the field.

Lastly, the study’s significance extends beyond the Christ Apostolic Church, Isale-Ake Assembly. The findings and insights gained from this study could be applicable to other churches and religious institutions facing similar growth challenges. Thus, this study could potentially have a broad impact, influencing the growth strategies of churches and religious institutions worldwide.

• Scope of the Study

The study examines challenges to Church Growth and the Way Forward. A Case Study of Christ Apostolic Church, Isale-Ake Assembly, Ogun State.

• Operational Definition of Terms

1. Challenges: In the context of this study, challenges refer to the difficulties or obstacles that churches, specifically the Christ Apostolic Church, Isale-Ake Assembly, are facing that hinder their growth and expansion. These could include a variety of issues, such as declining attendance, lack of resources, societal changes, or difficulties in adapting to new technologies.
2. Church Growth: This term refers to the increase in the number of attendees, members, or followers of a church. It can also refer to the expansion of the church’s influence, resources, or geographical reach. In the context of this study, growth could be measured in a variety of ways, including attendance at services, number of new members, or the church’s reach within the community or online.

3. Way Forward: This term refers to the strategies, plans, or actions that the church could take to overcome the challenges it is facing and achieve growth. This could include implementing new technologies, adapting to societal changes, improving outreach efforts, or other strategies that would help the church to grow and expand.

Project – Challenges To Church Growth and the Way Forward – A Case Study of Christ Apostolic Church, Isale-Ake Assembly