Full Project – INVESTIGATING CHRISTIAN PARTICIPATION IN POLITICS AMONG SELECTED PENTECOSTAL CHURCHES IN LEKKI, LAGOS
A Study of RCCG and Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries
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ABSTRACT
The study Investigating Christian participation in politics among selected Pentecostal churches in Lekki, Lagos. The study has the following objectives: to examine the level of Christian participation in politics considering the moral concerns in contemporary Nigeria; to examine the factors limiting Christian participation in politics in Nigeria: to determine the prospects of Christians active participation in politics in Nigeria. Concerning methodology for this study, data was obtained from primary source that is questionnaire. The data to be obtained out there in the field shall be presented in a tabular form and analyzed through the use of a simple percentage table to enhance quick and easy understanding of the respondents’ responses or opinion the topic being researched on. The statistical took employed to test the hypotheses of the study is the regression and chi-squared. The sample size of this study consists of thirty-two (32) respondents. This research work adopted the convenience sampling technique in selecting the respondents from the total population. A total sample size of two hundred and forty (200) respondents was selected from the research population using the convenient sampling method. The study has the following findings; to examine the level of Christian participation in politics considering the moral concerns in contemporary Nigeria. To examine the factors limiting Christian participation in politics in Nigeria and to determine the prospects of Christians active participation in politics in Nigeria. This research will educate the general public on the level of participation of Christians in Nigerian politics and will also enlighten on how the teachings of Christianity can be used as a tool for national development through eradication of corruption and other social vices.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
- BACKGROUND TO THE STUDY
Christian participation in politics has been a topic of interest in recent years, particularly within the context of Pentecostal churches. In Lekki, Lagos, a vibrant and rapidly growing area, several Pentecostal churches have emerged as influential players in the political landscape. This literature review aims to explore the extent and nature of Christian participation in politics among selected Pentecostal churches in Lekki, Lagos. By examining existing research and scholarly works, this review seeks to shed light on the motivations, strategies, and impact of Christian political engagement in this specific context.
One key aspect to consider when investigating Christian participation in politics is the theological underpinnings that shape the beliefs and actions of Pentecostal churches. Pentecostalism, as a distinct branch of Christianity, emphasizes the active involvement of believers in all aspects of society, including politics. This theological perspective often leads Pentecostal churches to encourage their members to engage in political activities, such as voting, running for office, and advocating for policies aligned with their religious values (Abogunrin, 1984).
In the context of Lekki, Lagos, several Pentecostal churches have gained prominence for their active involvement in politics. For example, the Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) and the Mountain of Fire and Miracles Ministries (MFM) have been known to organize voter education campaigns, host political rallies, and even endorse specific candidates during elections. These churches leverage their large congregations and extensive networks to mobilize their members and influence political outcomes.
Nigerian Christianity dates back to the abolition of the trans-Atlantic slave trade in the early nineteenth century, which was followed by the emergence of a literate African elite, consisting of liberated and returned slaves as well as local converts. The need for political stability in Nigeria cannot be overemphasized. Indeed, all segments of the Nigerian society are interested in the political future of the nation. However, this interest is approached from various dimensions. A major interest in the Nigerian polity is the Investigating Christian participation in politics among selected Pentecostal churches in Lekki, Lagos.
Politics is about the acquisition of power and the use of such power. The Oxford Dictionary of Words defines politics as “matters concerned with acquiring or exercising power, within a group or an organization”. Onyekpe (1999) defines the term politics as the struggle for power which itself is the authority to determine or formulate and execute decisions and policies, which must be accepted by the society. It is the struggle for power of governance, especially executive authority (Onyekpe 1999).
Onyekpe however gives a caveat to the first part of his definition. According to him, the struggle for or the acquisition of power and the reaction of the society to it, depend greatly on the level of political development of the country. In an undemocratic society, it does not really matter whether the decisions and policies are accepted by the society. Thus the value of political power or politics leaves little or no room for the people to have input, except where democracy has already been entrenched.
Abogunrin (1984) in his paper titled “Towards a Unifying Political Ideology and Peaceful Coexistence in Nigeria: A Christian View”Dal et al, (1999) opines that Christianity and politics are two inseparable institutions in the human social psyche and structure. He equally asserts that earthly governments are mere agents of God’s theocratic governance of the physical and the spiritual world (Abogunrin, 1984). He, however, points out that the ideals of Christianity is a good guide to better political conducts, but the practices of such ideals are usually influenced by the socio-cultural institutions in the society, including politics.
Christians have always present argument based on the statement of Jesus Christ that “Give unto Caesar what is Caesar and unto God the things that are God’s” (Matt. 22:17-22). This phrase has often been used to exclude from participation Christians and clergymen, who want to venture into politics. Matthew Hassan Kukah however, disagrees with this school of thought, with an exegesis on this passage. He writes that what Jesus really meant was not that Christianity and politics do not mix, nor did He mean that Christians should not participate in politics, the coin was representation of the power of Caesar and that was why the coin had Caesar’s sign. In the case of God, His authority is over and above the realm of Caesar’s empire. In that sense both Caesar and his coin are under the aegis of God and the issue of separation or Christians should not participate in politics is an aberration (Kukah 1998). It should be noted that the argument of these opposing schools are hinged on their belief, perhaps based on experience, that politics often corrupt Christian religion. Also that political leaders use Christianity as a platform to deceive the people.
According to Leicester Webb, these societies are united by certain political values, closely associated with Christian doctrines and ethics as it relates to justice, morality, freedom, equity, etc (Alfold 1981). However, B. Alford suggests that there is a possibility of effective and successful governance if Christians are actively participating in politics. Christians in Nigeria would rather not get involved in politics but the fact remains that Jesus Christ did not discourage political participation for the faithfuls. In Judaism, which provided background to Christianity, the God of Israel, Yahweh is the God of war (Josh. 6:20ff), economy (Ex. 16) and God of obedience and moral virtues (Num. 21:4-8). Yahweh is all in all in Judaic traditional thought and politics. Even though, politics in Nigeria has been marred with corruption, violence and even murder, these are against the Christian ethics and believe. This morality issue has been limiting the participation Nigerian Christians in politics.
However, it is important to note that not all Pentecostal churches in Lekki, Lagos engage in politics to the same extent. Some churches prioritize spiritual matters over political involvement, while others may have restrictions on political activities for their members. Understanding the factors that contribute to variations in Christian political participation among Pentecostal churches in Lekki, Lagos requires a comprehensive analysis of the specific church doctrines, leadership dynamics, and socio-political contexts.
Existing research on Christian participation in politics among Pentecostal churches in Nigeria provides valuable insights that can inform this investigation. Studies have shown that Pentecostal churches often serve as platforms for political mobilization, with pastors playing a crucial role in shaping the political attitudes and behaviors of their congregants. Additionally, research has highlighted the influence of socio-economic factors, such as education and social class, on Christian political engagement.
1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Despite the significant influence of Pentecostal churches in Nigeria, there is a lack of comprehensive research on the extent to which these churches encourage their members to actively engage in political activities. This study aims to fill this gap by examining the factors that influence Christian participation in politics within the context of selected Pentecostal churches in Lekki, Lagos.
The uncertainty about the future of Nigeria is unfortunately tied to poor democratic culture, which is an important ingredient of political life of every nation. Nigeria has been tagged, a failure in all fronts (political, economic, social and moral). Despite an abundance of economic resources, attempts to reduce poverty and promote sustainable development have not become a reality in Nigeria. Lack of political will, corruption, a deficiency of proper coordination for sustainable development programs, and wasteful patterns of production and consumption have hindered any meaningful progress in Nigeria. The non-participation of Christians in politics, monetization of politics and predentialism (popularly known as God-fatherism and God-son syndrome), violent behaviors of politicians such as political thuggery, political motivated assassinations, molestation of innocent citizens, seizure of ballot boxes, and wanton destruction of properties (ARSON), intimidation of political opponents, political sycophancy, looting, prevalence of cult’s activities and incitement of religious crisis in the name of politics, are negative behaviors exhibited by the political thugs in the name of politics in Nigeria. These aforementioned anti-social behaviors portrays the politicians as having no more fear of God, nor respect on their father’s land and human life, because money has been introduced into politics in Nigeria. This however, has made it necessary for the researcher to examine the Christian participation in politics considering the moral concerns in contemporary Nigeria.
1.3 OBJECTIVES OF THE STUDY
The following are the objectives of this study:
- To examine the level of Christian participation in politics considering the moral concerns in contemporary Nigeria.
- To examine the factors limiting Christian participation in politics in Nigeria.
- To determine the prospects of Christians active participation in politics in Nigeria.
1.4 RESEARCH QUESTIONS
- What is the level of Christian participation in politics considering the moral concerns in contemporary Nigeria?
- What are the factors limiting Christian participation in politics in Nigeria?
- What are the prospects of Christian’s active participation in politics in Nigeria?
1.5 RESEARCH HYPOTHESIS
H0: The level of Christian participation has no significant effect in politics considering the moral concern in contemporary Nigeria.
H1: The level of Christian participation has significant effect in politics considering the moral concern in contemporary Nigeria.
1.6 SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY
The following are the significance of this study:
- Finding from this study will educate the general public on the level of participation of Christians in Nigerian politics and will also enlighten on how the teachings of Christianity can be used as a tool for national development through eradication of corruption and other social vices.
- This research will also serve as a resource base to other scholars and researchers interested in carrying out further research in this field subsequently, if applied will go to an extent to provide new explanation to the topic.
1.7 SCOPE/LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY
This study focused on Investigating Christian participation in politics among selected Pentecostal churches in Lekki, Lagos. It will cover the participation of Christians in politics considering the moral concerns. The selected Churches are Redeemed Christian Church of God and Mountain of Fire and Miracle Ministries.
LIMITATION OF STUDY
Financial constraint– Insufficient fund tends to impede the efficiency of the researcher in sourcing for the relevant materials, literature or information and in the process of data collection (internet, questionnaire and interview).
Time constraint– The researcher will simultaneously engage in this study with other academic work. This consequently will cut down on the time devoted for the research work.
1.8. OPERATIONAL DEFINITION OF TERMS
Christian: Christian refers to a person who follows the teachings and beliefs of Christianity, which is a monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ.
Participation: Participation refers to the act of taking part or being involved in something. In the context of this study, it refers to the involvement of Christians in political activities and processes.
Politics: Politics refers to the activities, actions, and policies used to gain and hold power in a government or to influence the government. It involves making decisions that apply to members of a group or society.
Pentecostal church: A Pentecostal church is a Christian denomination that emphasizes the work of the Holy Spirit and places a strong emphasis on spiritual gifts, such as speaking in tongues, prophecy, and healing. Pentecostal churches often have a lively and expressive worship style.
Church: A church is a religious institution or building where Christians gather for worship, prayer, and fellowship. It is a place where believers come together to learn and practice their faith, and it is often led by a pastor or clergy.
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