Master's theses (NEGST)

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Mentoring for effective Cross-cultural ministry: a case study among the University of Nairobi students
(2013-06-24) Yoon, Mark Koo
Mentoring is an ancient old wisdom to impact life-change and to inspire mutual growth, learning, and development. Mentoring relationships have the capacity to transform individuals, groups, organziations, and communities. This research attempts to understand traditional mentoring models, and to compare them with the recent mentoring models to examine which ones work effectively in a cross-cultural context. In addition, the research also searches for a new mentoring model that can work effectively in a cross-cultural setting. This research is based on the qualitative research to describe the implicit aspects of how Christian campus students of University of Nairobi view on mentoring. For this purpose, research design is employed as a tradition of qualitative research. Data is collected using focus group discussions and survey among members drawn from UBF ministry. The findings of this study reveal that traditional mentoring that African young people went through was mainly hierarchical and unidirectional. Such traditional mentoring can be still effective, but it needs to be adjusted according to modern context. They suggested that hierarchical authority must be discouraged, while communal responsibility should be encouraged. Most of all, they claimed that mentors in modern age, should consider the cultural change if they want to be effective in mentoring mentees of modern age. In consideration of a new model for effective mentoring in cross-cultural context, they proposed a holistic model. In the holistic model, God and the Holy Spirit play the role of an agent or supervisor between a mentor and mentee. A mentor can impact the mentee and vice versa. Through such spiritual interaction, both of them grow toward God in the likeness of Jesus. In view of the findings, recommendations for further studies are made that for the holistic model to be practically applicable, practical mentoring tools for effective interaction between a mentor and a mentee to be researched further. In addition, during the focus group discussions, a research question arose: What happens when a mentee grow faster than his mentor? How to measure the growth of both mentor and mentee through mentoring relationship? These remain for further studies.
Conversion from Islam to Christianity among the Arsi Oromo: Missiological implications for Christian witness
(2013-06-24) Berhe, Anwar Mehammed
The Arsi Oromo people are part of the wider Oromo people group of Ethiopia and Islam is the dominant religion of the people despite the presence of minority Christians among them. This thesis attempts to understand the conversion process of the Arsi Oromo from Islam to Christianity. It employs Rambo‟s seven stage model of conversion process in order to understand the conversion experiences of Arsi Oromo MBBs (Muslim Background Believers). The changes resulting from conversion and how the western Arsi local churches engage in helping Arsi Oromo converts to adapt to the existing church context are examined. Twenty converts (ten MBB women and ten MBB men) have been interviewed in order to get emic data about their conversion process. The literature review part seeks to discuss conversion from the perspectives of different disciplines. The biblical and theological views of conversion are discussed as a basis for conversion from Islam to Christianity. The review also assesses and discusses conversion from the perspective of social sciences and the various works that have been done on conversion from Islam to Christianity. This research employs ethnographic research method, which is a branch of qualitative research method in order to gain understanding of the conversion processes of the Arsi Oromo MBBs. The data was collected through unstructured and semi structured interviews and moderate participant observation. The coded data (appendix 2) presents the emic view of conversion in the way the stories told by the interviewees. Based on this data the analysis has been carried out in order to get etic view of the conversion process. The aim of this study is to gain a deeper and wider understanding of the different processes involved in the conversion of Arsi Oromo. Through the findings of this research, it has been established conversion is a long time process and influenced by various factors: the context of the convert, crisis, quest, and interaction with the agents of the gospel. A strong desire for relationship with the divine and ethical community was the core factor in the conversion process of the Arsi Oromo. The study also registered peace, joy, assurance of salvation, and fulfillment are the immediate positive consequences of conversion despite all converts facing various degrees of persecution from their community. Allegiance, moral and cultural encounters are also the most important changes observed in the life of converts as a mark of genuine conversion. This study also shows that more conversion happened in the rural village which is very hostile environment for Christianity compared to the towns that enjoyed freedom of worship. In the final chapter, missiological implications for Christian witness are drawn from the research findings. Recommendations for further study are also proposed.
A missiological study of Islamic strategies for converting Christians to Islam and their implications for Christian discipleship: a study of converts in Kawangware and Embul-bul areas of Nairobi-Kenya
(2013-06-24) Dikki, Michael Ezra
Islam has been acclaimed to be the fastest growing religion in the world today attracting converts from different cultures and religions across the world. Several studies have been conducted by several researchers in Africa on the phenomenon of conversion from Islam to Christianity, but not much research has gone into the investigation of why Christians convert to Islam. This study is an attempt to understand the factors that influence Christian conversion to Islam and also an attempt to discover the strategies employed by Muslims to achieve this conversion. This study was conducted among converts from Christianity to Islam in Kawangware and Embul-bul areas of Nairobi-Kenya. The study applied Lofland and Skonovd‟s conversion motifs in an attempt to discover the motifs behind these conversions through interviews with these converts using the qualitative research method. The findings of this study reveal that these Christians converted to Islam as a result of comparative investigation of the two religions and of the practices they see in Islam. Other factors reported are simplicity, clarity and unity of Islam, friendship, the search for the true God and deliverance from evil spirit. In applying the conversion motifs, the intellectual and the affectional motifs where present in the conversion biographies of all the converts, which was in consonance with the reasons given for conversion. However few of the converts reported the experimental and revivalist motifs. The mystical motif was not clear and none reported the coercive motif. The study reveals that conversion is influenced by several factors and validating Lofland and Skonod‟s position that there is the presence of more than one single motif in every conversion biography. The findings of the study also reveal that conversion from Christianity to Islam is not restricted to any Christian denomination or tribal grouping in Kenya and did not reveal material enticement as reasons for conversion. The findings further reveal that Muslims in Nairobi use debates/street preaching/dialogue, friendship and care, media, mosque visits and invitation to ask questions and availability/ability to answer them as strategies to influence conversion to Islam. In view of the findings, conclusions reached are that such conversions were possible because of the absence of effective discipleship and the conduct of Christians, which include denominational pluralism and disunity among churches. The study recommended the recourse to biblical theology for doing Bible study in our churches in Nairobi and Africa as whole, as opposed to systematic theology‟s topical approach in order to provide a holistic understanding of the Christian message and of the Bible. The introduction of Islamic education in the curriculum for the training of our pastors in all theological schools across Africa and church based Islamic education for the laity is recommended, which should include Bible study, seminars and workshops in order for Christians to provide answers to questions and challenges increasingly raised by Muslims in regards to their faith.
Description and evaluation of missions activitiesby various leaders of Africa Inland church Tanzania Pwani diocese (AICTPD).
(2013-06-24) Ndaro, Alfred Mang’ere
This study was intended to investigate the understanding of missions among various leaders of Africa Inland Church Tanzania Pwani Diocese (AICTPD). So it is a descriptive research in which 62 leaders from AICTPD churches were consulted. These leaders include the bishop, the assistant bishop, general sectary, pastors and missionaries with their wives, one evangelist, two church elders and AICTPD partners in the diocese. These partners are AIM Regional leader, TIMO leader and BFC leader. Among these leaders, 7 of them were interviewed in Arusha, the other seven were both interviewed and asked to fill the research questionnaire in Morogoro, and the 48 filled the research questionnaire. A questionnaire and interview were the two combined methods used to collect data. The research discovered that the predominant missions activities include training in theology, improving existing churches, sending work reports, reaching out to unreached, encouraging pastors and missionaries and training in missions. The main challenges among others are inadequate support to missionaries, inadequate missions training, extreme size of geographical area of the diocese, lack of strategic planning priority, vision and creativity. All this provide the grounds for the recommendation that is given below. The data also revealed that the church achieved some successes which are the establishment of IBM, evangelism and discipleship, reaching out to Muslim communities and initiating strategic planning. In order to maintain these successes, the leaders suggested that they will involve the entire church in missions, reduce the size of the diocese, hold annual conferences and allocate resources into the diocese. Other areas will include providing missionaries with opportunities to share their testimonies with churches, develop positive attitude towards missions, cultivate more partners and improve training in the IBM. Based on these research findings, the diocese had never been able to develop a master strategic planning until the year 2010, when they put one in place. AICTPD, therefore, has survived without concrete, measurable and tangible goals and objectives. The diocese needs to develop missions strategic planning that could be integrated into the master plan of the diocese. MAPANA (Missions Awareness Program for African Nations Abandoned) strategic planning has been recommended, which if well supervised and coordinated will bring efficiency into the entire church structure. Missions training and involvement from individual believers, local church to top leadership of the diocese, needs to be given priority as other church ministries.
An examination of the Socio-political contribution of Pentecostalism to Kenyan national development: a case study of Christ Is the answer ministries
(2013-06-24) Owojaiye, Babatomiwa Moses
This study is sought to shed light on the question of Pentecostalism’s sociopolitical role in Kenyan national development by looking at the case of Christ Is the Answer Ministries (CITAM). CITAM is one of the leading Pentecostal denominations in Kenya. Using CITAM was particularly important to this study because of the fact that the denomination targets people living in the urban settlements of Kenya. Besides, CITAM is a middle-class Pentecostal denomination, a significant percentage of CITAM members are educated, and are influential at different levels of Kenya’s socio-political strata. The purpose of this research is therefore to study whether a Pentecostal denomination like CITAM is involved in the socio-political development of Kenya as well as evaluate the effectiveness of its involvement. This is a socio-scientific and traditional theological research. To gather data for the research, the researcher made use of mixed research methodology. The mixed research methodology combined both the quantitative and qualitative research methods. Specifically, questionnaires were administered and interviews were conducted in order to achieve the purpose of the study and to successfully answer the research questions raised in the study. This method was used for complimentary purposes. The research is divided into five chapters. Chapter one of the study which is the introduction, gave a general overview on the background, rationale, purpose, research questions and the methodology used in the study. Chapter two dealt with theoretical review of literature. Here, the researcher presented the recent debates on the role of African Pentecostalism in the public space. Chapter three presented a full explanation of the methodology used for the collection of data for this study. The analysis of the data as well as the finding from the analysis is found in chapter four; while chapter five contained the conclusion of the study and recommendations for action for CITAM in order to improve its involvement in the socio-political development of Kenya. In conclusion, the study revealed that CITAM is involved in the socio-political development of Kenya but stronger in social involvement than political. Challenges of tribalism, financial constrains, and unclear policy on socio-political development are however some of the challenges affecting the effectiveness of its involvement.
A study on the use of chronological Bible storying as an evangelistic tool among Borana Muslim women in Kariobangi
(2013-06-24) Gitau, Everlyne Wanjiru
The purpose of this study was to gain understanding of Chronological Bible Storying as a strategy for Muslim evangelism and the relevance of this approach in evangelising the Muslim Borana women in Kariobangi. The research method chosen for this task was qualitative since it tried to understand CBS strategy and its relevance from the experience of the Borana Muslim women and the missionary storyer. The informants included women who had attended the storying sessions at Kariobangi and the missionary storyer who prepared and taught in the storying sessions. The sample selection was done using purposive sampling. The researcher chose to use participant observation and interviews to collect data. The data gathered through taped interviews was transcribed and reviewed looking for words, phrases or key words that gave information relevant to the research. These were picked out and coded for analysis. The condensed notes taken during the research were typed up and then coded. The data from both collection methods was then analysed thematically. The study found that Chronological Bible Storying was a relevant evangelism tool for Borana Muslim women in Kariobangi. The women were found to be most functionally illiterate and therefore considered to be oral communicators, making storying the best way to communicate the gospel. Since the Borana women are in need of economic empowerment, this strategy was found to be appropriate as it goes hand in hand with the framework of common interest created by a self help group.
A philosophical and theological response to the problem of evil: a focus on the mental, moral, natural problem of evil in the Luo cosmology
(2013-07-16) Ouma, George Odero
The problem of evil is the most discussed subject in every culture; for it poses enormous challenges to human existence and belief in the Christian God. Both religious and secular thinkers down through the ages have questioned the trustworthiness of the Christian God in face of evil in the world. Some have argued for the inability of the Christian God to eradicate evil, if indeed he existed, while others have contended that if indeed the Christian God existed, he does not have the intention of erasing evil from this world. These claims render null and void that belief in the Christian God, not only guarantees eternal life, but also exalts humanity above the threats of evil through faith in Jesus Christ; and in the promise that the Christian God shall finally subjugate evil at the end of history. In this thesis, fundamental questions regarding the problem of evil have been carefully addressed. This undertaking has been in the context of philosophical and theological responses to the problems of moral, mental and natural evil in Luo cosmology. Through this, it is shown that the appalling condition of the Luo community is attributable to Satanic and human free will in committing evil. This reality is exemplified by the presence of the forces of evil which are immanent in the physical creation and in the network of fallen human cultural practices. Exonerating God from evil, this thesis explains that even though it seems that God’s eternal decree rendered the entrance of evil into the world, God himself remains absolutely above reproach regarding the origins of evil in the world. God’s work remains perfect, for all his ways are just, faithful, righteous and upright despite what evil does among the Luo people. Whatever the enduring condition of Luo people under the scourges of moral, mental and natural evil, God has revealed his master plan to rescue mankind through the incarnation, crucifixion, death and resurrection, ascension and the second coming of Christ. Faith in Christ elevates humanity above the temptations of evil and empowers humanity to endure the afflictions of Satan to the very end of history. At the end of history evil will be rightly answered by its destruction, and the future hope that God offers will judge, compensate and put into perfect state this present world. Glorious mind and glorious morality shall be restored to man. Man will be a new being enjoying his full life through the perfect rule of Jesus Christ. This thesis includes strategies for a victorious Christianity among Luo people. These strategies are: studying the metaphysical, epistemological and ethical issues in Luo cosmology, the trainings of Christians on spiritual warfare, initiation interreligious dialogue, evangelism, Christian apologetics, a call for the church to engage in development schemes. The goal of all these is to bring the Luo people to the essentials of the Christian faith toward appreciating the demarcations of the life of the kingdom of Christ and their culture. The study concludes by calling the Luo people to depart from attitudes of mistrust, suspicion, bitterness, rebellion against the claims of the Christian faith; and to abandon their barbarous cultural practices, and promote to excellence their cultural aspects which are in agreement with Christian faith.
A study of Gülen Inspired Schools in Kenya: A Case Study of Light Academy, Karen - Nairobi
(2013-07-31) Orwoch, Joash Mogire
This study examines the Gülen Light Academy Schools’ in Kenya. It is a case study of Nairobi Light Academy Boys Secondary School and its influence on society. It is the biggest among other branches in Kenya and situated in Nairobi, a metropolitan and capital city of Kenya. As a result the school enrolls students from all backgrounds in Kenya. By this positioning, the researcher will observe the contribution of the school on Kenyan society. The methodology includes a case study which was conducted by the use of indepth interviews for teachers and Alumni of Light Academy. A questionnaire was also issued to parents who have students at Light Academy. A total of 23 parents successfully filled the questionnaire. In addition to the parents, a total of 13 Alumni and 16 teachers were interviewed. Data was analyzed using qualitative techniques. The findings indicate that Gülen inspired schools have an implied objective of converting Christians into Islam. This is evident from the activities that take place in the school such as giving more emphasis to teachings from the Qur’an and encouraging interfaith discussions. The study recommends that Christian parents should carefully evaluate the effect of these activities on the future life of their children in terms of religious affiliation. The study also suggests that a comparative study should be carried out to compare the activities of Gülen inspired schools in other countries around the world.
The influence of ecclesia groups on numerical growth: a case of Nairobi chapel from 2009 to 2011
(2013-08-02) Orjeno, Dieudonne Chau Ginawi
A well studied and structured Ecclesia Group system plays a vital role in church numerical growth that contributes to the mission of God through reaching out to the world and translating the capacities of its members for church activities like discipleship of new member and effective involvement in the church’s vision. The Nairobi Chapel began the Ecclesia Group system in the late 90’s. It proved to influence the Nairobi Chapel numerical growth through its continual discipleship for its members and their involvement in church activities in direct and indirect means. This happens due to the clear path of discipleship the church have and its mission of growing deep to reach wide. The research identified Ecclesia Groups’ control on numerical growth through its continual discipleship. They offer opportunities for ministry and outreach for its members and leaders. The findings of this research attempted to shed more light on this influence and how to enhance and maintain this numerical growth of the Nairobi Chapel.
Social outcomes of child-witch accusations in Malawi: an investigation of discourses and practices of abundant life church ministers
(2013-08-02) Banda, Henock Katiyi
There has been a resurgence of witch accusations in Malawi which in its new form includes child-witch accusations. This research secured detailed information on social outcomes of child-witch accusations by studying the discourses and practices of Abundant Life Church Ministers. The paper argues that the practices and discourses of the church ministers in dealing with child-witch accusations have to some extent contributed to the negative social outcomes. While this study considers cultural and sociological explanations of the child-witch accusations, it does not intend to discount the religious values on belief in witchcraft. This study used an ethnographic approach to arrive at the findings. I applied anthropological research methods in collecting data including; interviews, participant observations and a small survey. The most profound findings of the study were that exorcism on the accused child by church ministers at times confirmed to the community that a child is a witch, resulting to a child living with a “witch” label for life. Secondly, suffering and evil in the Central Region of Malawi is majorly attributed to interpersonal causal ontologies of which child-witchcraft is primary. The foundations for child witch accusations majorly included; socialeconomic factors, rumors and suspicions, behavior of the child, series of misfortunes following a child or community, and incurable sicknesses. The social outcomes of child-witch accusations included; banishment, teasing and bulling, stigmatization, increased child-witch accusations, mistreatment of the child, rape, insecurity of the community, lose of trust in church ministers and at a very small scale there was an indication of conversions. This research is important because it seeks to address the issue of child-witch accusations from an African worldview level—as Samuel Kunhiyop rightly noted, “Although many Africans are Christians, their worldview has not been transformed” (2008, 385). Therefore, the research came up with recommendations; first, a comprehensive exegesis and contextualization of scriptures addressing witchcraft is needed. Secondly, the doctrine of suffering and sin should be adequately addressed in Bible studies and pulpits, as the research indicated that there is a correlation between suffering and child-witch accusations. Thirdly, advocacy and social actions in protecting the accused children is urgently needed in the central region of Malawi.
Self-realization and self-esteem: a preliminary investigation of young people in Nairobi who do not know their parentage.
(2013-08-14) Mbaka, Geoffrey Njeru
Purpose: To know the correlation between religiosity and perceived family support and the self-esteem and self-development of young people who do not know their parentage. Method: This was a non-experimental correlation study that investigated the interrelationship between self-realization and self-esteem. Further, the research utilized convenience sampling and moderate participation. Besides, the study took an urban bias, focusing on young people in Nairobi Pentecostal Church Academy and Nairobi Pentecostal Church, Woodley. A questionnaire was distributed to 136 participants. However, the study limited the sample to 28 participants for analysis. This was because only 14 of the 136 participants did not know their parentage. As a result, a similar number who knew their parentage were sampled for comparison purposes. They were all Kenyan Africans living in Nairobi. The sheet included a demographic questionnaire that asked for each participant's gender, age group, and whether or not they know their parent (s). It also had the Rosenburg Self-Esteem Scale, a Religiosity Scale, and the Perceived Social Support Family Scale (Appendix I). These were used to measure the participants' levels of self-esteem, religiosity, and perceived family support respectively. Data analysis involved determining certain variables: religiosity and perceived family social supports' relationship to respondents' self-esteem. Further, the hypotheses were tested for statistical significance using the T test and interpretations duly made. Results: Respondents who know their parentage are more likely to have a stable social identity, hence a higher self-esteem. Also, religious and spiritual commitment influences self esteem positively. What is more, only about 11 per cent of the religious commitment of the respondents is referable to their self-esteem. If so, since 43 per cent of the respondents' religiosity and family support is referable to their family and church setting, fully 57 per cent of their self-esteem is attributable to other factors or settings, e.g. the school. Most important, a strong or healthy self-esteem among respondents is partly a product of wholesome interactions between young people and their parents. Conclusion: A statistically significant difference exists about religiosity scores and perceived family support scores of respondents. Only the correlation between selfesteem and religiosity, among respondents who know their parentage; and the correlation between self-esteem and perceived family support, for respondents who do not know their parentage, are significant statistically. Key words: Self-esteem; self-realization; self-development; religiosity; perceived family social support; parentage.
Factors that hinder a holistic urban ministry within Christ is the answer ministries (CITAM)
(2013-08-20) Otsyula, Ruth
The objective of this study was to identify factors that hinder a holistic urban ministry within Christ Is the Answer Ministry (referred to as CITAM). Authorization to carry out this research was granted by CITAM and the research for this study was limited to CITAMs six branches within Nairobi namely NPC Parklands, Buruburu, Thika Road, Valley Road, Karen and Woodley. To accomplish this, literature review of related topics was carried out and is discussed in Chapter 2. Data was collected by means of semi-structured interviews, surveys using questionnaire, participant observation and other written records from CITAM. The research findings revealed: Firstly, that CITAM is not providing a holistic urban ministry because they have limited their church ministry primarily to an audience that is English speaking among the urban population and hence excluding non English speakers. Those that benefit mostly adhere to the membership policy of CITAM namely being born again, baptized by emersion, becoming members of CITAM and adhering to sound doctrinal teaching at CITAM. However, other categories outside of this scope can benefit through their outreach, mission ministries, partnership or other affiliation. Secondly, although CITAM’s goal for their church is for a ministry approach that is holistic because they seek to reach out to the whole person with the life changing Gospel, this research found that CITAM has not been successful in doing this because there are many factors that hinder a holistic urban ministry at CITAM that range from attitudes of the members and congregation to financial limitations, administrative structures and others. For example, this research found out that the bulk of the pastors are not trained specifically in urban ministry and such limitations directly affect the performance of a holistic urban ministry at CITAM. CITAM thus provides selective urban ministries for the youth, children and adults based on the needs of the church and availability of finances among others. Thirdly, that CITAM continues to increase their urban ministries according to the needs that arise at the branch level (needs approach) in response to church development’s and hence are not limited by their 10 year strategic plan of 2007-2016. For example old and new assemblies continue to provide ministries that benefit their members and the neighbourhood in a unique way and different from other branches. The research findings are useful for drawing up strategies and policies for holistic urban ministry at CITAM and urban based churches. Appropriate recommendations are provided for enhancing and improving the holistic urban ministry.
"I was stranger and you welcomed me......." Jesus Teaching on hospitality with special reference to matthew 25:31-46
(2013-08-22) Choge, Emily Jeptepkeny
Hospitality was valued in ancient Israel and it was enshrined in the Mosaic legislation. In first century Judaism, it was continued positively in the institutions of the Sabbath meal, the Synagogue and the travelling pairs of teachers who depended on the hospitality of their students. Negatively, restrictions were introduced in the enforcement of purity or cleanness laws intended to exclude those who did not qualify. These rules were strictly observed by the Essenes and the Pharisees. However, Jesus demonstrated a very inclusive ministry both in his teaching and interactions. In his teaching couched in the apocalyptic imagery in Matt. 25:31-46, he shows that hospitality will be the markof identification for those who will be welcomed into the eternal kingdom. The apocalyptic element shows that the teaching was given in the context if hardships and persecutions for these early Christians. In his interactions Jesus showed an open attitude to those who were left out of the covenant community, the Gentile Centurion and his servant(Matt. 8:5-13), the Canaanite woman and her daughter (Matt.15:21-28), and the tax collecter, Matthew and his friends(Matt. 9:9-13). The church in Africa today finds it difficult to practise hospitality because of Socio-economic hardships, growing insecurity, the influence of modernization and the lack of guidance due tb the breakdown traditional values. Jesus' teaching can inform our situation because it arose out of a similar context.
An evaluation of the catechism curriculum of the Anglican church of Kenya
(2013-08-22) Okoth, George Samuel
The purpose of this study was to explore the experiences of people who have gone through the A.C.K Curriculum that was designed as a catechesis. In this light, the study sought to explain the level of awareness of students of the program to the mission and vision of the church, it had to focus on the manner in which the students describe their readiness to handle life challenges as a result of training they obtained from the curriculum and explore the manner in which they describe their in-class experiences as they went through the program. The research was carried out in three Anglican churches within the city of Nairobi, namely, A.C.K All Saints Cathedral, A.C.K St. Stephens Jogoo Road and A.C.K St. James, Buruburu. The respondents were those who had gone through the catechetical process from 2008 to 2010. The respondents were 12 years and above, baptized and confirmed. The population of the study was 108 confirmed Anglicans from the three Churches. Using a random sampling, 12 members were selected from each of the three churches making a total sample size of 36. All the 12 participants from each Church were put into focus groups which became unit of analysis Three research questions were posited that guided the construction of the interview protocol. In relation to RQ 1 which dealt with the level of awareness of the mission and vision of the Church among members who participated in the research, the analysis of the responses revealed that all the respondents from the three congregations were aware of the first theme (Growing relationship with Christ) of the Mission Statement. Two congregations, All Saints and St Stephen’s are fully aware of the second theme (Living a life of Growth in Faith) while St James appeared unaware of this theme. In relation to RQ 2 that sought to find out the level at which participants would say that the curriculum had prepared them for life, the analysis revealed that the curriculum has prepared them to a certain level to handle doctrinal, spiritual, socio-economic, information technology and other life challenges. However, it was revealed that they have not been trained to handle health issues properly. In relation to RQ 3 that sought to capture the manner in which students describe their inclass learning experiences, the data revealed some level of dissatisfaction brought about mainly by untrained teachers, favoritism among leaders, and shortage of learning materials. Participants were however, very positive about the approach of rote learning used in the teaching method. To enhance the program, the research recommended the hiring of more qualified teachers, the provision of learning materials and the expansion of the curriculum to handle some more contemporary subjects and more flexibility among the teachers as they handle students. The curriculum should also be very intentional about sharing the mission and vision of the Church.
Factors contributing to “Conversions” from “Christianity” to Islam among the Turkana: An implication for Christian witness.
(2013-08-22) Lowoton, Oliver Erupe
This thesis attempts to describe conversion from Christianity to Islam among the Turkana people of Northern Kenya. Twenty Muslim Turkana converts have been interviewed in order to get first hand knowledge about this process. This thesis is divided into five main chapters. Chapter one is Introduction of the research giving its background, purpose, goal, research problem, the questions to be examined, the research significance and limitations among others. Chapter two is literature review which seeks to give the historical background of the Turkana people and describe some aspects of the study of conversion and its reasons for conversion. The Biblical understanding of conversion both Old and New Testaments is the basis of the study. Chapter four presents an emic view of conversion, and it analyzes the information in a stage model developed by Rambo. This is to get an etic view of the process of conversion among the Turkana. The stories from the interviewees are also recorded the way they were told. The aim of this research is to get a wider and deeper understanding of all the processes involved in conversion. This can give a basis for ministry among the Turkana. In the final Chapter, the information from the introduction and chapter four are used in order to describe some implications for witness. This study concludes that the church is obligated to equip the youth on Christian principles so that as they grow they do not deviate from it. The Church needs to contextualize her message to reach the Turkana.
An investigation into the factors that influenced numerical growth of Kimbo all nations Gospel church Kenya from 2000 to 2007
(2013-08-23) Mbugua, Joyce M.
The purpose of this research was to shed light into the factors that influenced numerical growth of Kimbo All Nations Gospel Church from a congregation of about 500 in 1994 to 2,500 in 2007. One of the major reasons is because many churches struggle with the issue of church growth. Many churches remain small despite many years of existence. By bringing these factors to light, such churches will be able to compare their methods with the methods used at Kimbo All Nations Gospel Church and thus be able to determine which methods can work best for them. The research was carried out using qualitative method of research where 30 participants were interviewed using open ended and semi structured questions. After the findings were analyzed it was discovered that the major factors that caused numerical growth in the church were effective leadership, effective departments, evangelism, mission and follow-up, good administration, committed membership and good church activities. Effective leadership emerged as the major factor that influenced other factors of numerical growth.
A Missiological study of the influence of Hindu beliefs and practices upon the response to the Gospel among Hindus in Nairobi
(2013-08-23) Irudhayaraj, Abraham
This is a missiological study of the influence of Hindu beliefs and practices upon the response to the gospel among the Hindus in Nairobi. It seeks to find out hindrance to the gospel message and thus build appropriate bridges for effective Christian witness to the Hindus in Nairobi. In order to achieve this, the researcher undertook an extensive review of the related literature. Mainly the data was collected through face to face interview to five pastors who are involved in Hindu evangelism, seven Hindu converts and five Hindus who have heard the gospel and have not responded to it. The interview questions were open ended. The findings clearly revealed that clearly revealed that, the Hindu concept of god, incarnation (Avatar), Karma (good deeds), Moksha (salvation), and Dharma (law) can influence Christian witnessing both positively negatively among the Hindus in Nairobi. Hindus and there is no need to defend the existence of God to a Hindu. But Hindus worship many manifestations of that are God where as Christianity restrictive to one and only one God. Hindus believe in ten incarnations of Vishnu to destroy sinners but the incarnation of Jesus Christ in Christianity is to seek and save the sinners once for all. Incarnation in Hinduism is inadequate. In Hinduism salvation means liberation from the cycle of births, deaths and rebirths and can be achieved in four ways. Christianity is rigid and offers one and only way to salvation and can be achieved only through Jesus. The doctrine of Karma (good deeds) is found in both Christianity and in Hinduism can attract Hindus to the gospel message. The concept of sin and sacrifice to atone for sins can easily be major theological block or bridge to Hindus. There are other Hindu concepts like devotion, idol worship, trinity, and festivals like Diwali, Easter and Christmas can be effectively used as bridges to communicate the gospel to Hindus in Nairobi. The caste system practiced among Hindus in Nairobi, their food habits (vegetarianism), dowry system, false assumption that Christianity is a foreign religion and foreign money is used for conversion and it is also a threat to Hindu culture and sovereignty can be major hindrance in advancement of gospel to Hindus. The success of the future evangelism is to contextualize the gospel message to Hindus and communicate it in a way that is relevant meaningful to their context.
The effectiveness of the Christian evangelistic methods used by the Nile development services limited for winning Muslims to Christ in Arusha, Tanzania
(2013-08-23) Wani, William Ketto Ruman
This study attempted to find out the effectiveness of Christian evangelistic methods used by NDSL to win Muslims to Christ in Arusha. The organization focuses on the preparation of servants of God to be self-supported in order to give care both spiritually and materially to the persecuted Muslims. This is done through friendly support, sponsoring income-generating projects and teaching. Ten NDSL leaders and ten members with Muslim background were the main sources of information for this study. Four research questions were designed to help them assess the effectiveness of the said methods; these were guided by the following four research questions: (1) what are the main methods that the NDSL has adopted in Muslim evangelism to achieve the aims and objectives of the organization? (2) to what extent are the adopted methods effective in winning Muslims to Christ? (3) what are the factors that influences or hinder Muslim conversion to Christ when using the adopted methods? (4) what are the best methods recommended by converts with Muslim back-grounds for winning Muslims to Christ? Results shows that all the methods adopted by NDSL are acceptable, but friendship evangelism, personal evangelism and evangelism through social services are highly favored. The gospel, love, knowledge and appreciation of the holy books remain the main factors of conversion. But again issues like finances, exclusion, persecutions and Muslims arrogance remain a drawback in the implementation of NDSL methods. Based on these findings, it becomes necessary for NDSL leadership to emphasize more on training, teaching and equipping members for social actions. Also, the leadership should mobilize the sister organizations for team work since the command to preach, teach and baptize people is mandatory to the universal Church.
Factors inhibiting numerical growth of Gisenyi Nazarene Church in Rwanda from 1998-2006
(2013-09-18) Ntakirutimana, Jean Bosco
The study stemmed from the need to comprehend the factors that have inhibited quantitative church growth at Gisenyi Nazarene Church (GNC) regardle: its location in a densely populated area in Rwanda. It became noticeable that the results of such an undertaking would provide both theoretical and practical podiur for the development of sound mission strategies that would cause the church to rru forward towards God's intention for it. There are plentiful literature that covers church augmentation phenomenor and principles relevant to the biblical and practical ways that deal with churches. However, recent African scholarships have paid little attention to the church grow phenomenon irrespective of augmenting challenges that several churches are experiencing particularly in fast growing cities in Africa. The 48 participants interviewed in the study were drawn from the GNC an other churches where former members of GNC fellowship on Sunday. The finding the study have shown that the GNC was not quantitatively on the increase as the church expected because of the problems related to lack of commitment by church leaders especially in the area of evangelism. It was concluded that GNC was not mounting quantitatively. This conclusi tiled way for recommendations that appeal to the need for church leadership to COl up with programs that will promote togetherness and team work in the church for effective communication and common vision.
The ambiguity over the recipient of Isaiah 18 and its impact on the church in Sudan today.
(2013-09-18) Liol-Agueng, Ramadan Chan
It is difficult to know the recipient of a text by a mere understanding of its message. This is typical ofIsaiah 18 where the prophet failed to name his audience. As a resulted the church in Sudan perceived the audience as Sudan and has formulated a theology of the present suffering on this text. It is out of this concern that the thesis of investigating the audience of the message of Isaiah 18 was born. This investigation is presented in six chapters. Chapter one covers introductory materials, namely statement of the problem, significance of the study, thesis plan and methodology, assumptions, definitions, limitation and delimitation. Chapter two discusses the land of Cush which serves as the background for the message in Isaiah 18:5- 6. It mainly consists of exegesis of verses 1 and 2 where the prophet describes the land of Cush. The land of Cush is described, located and identified on the basis of Isaiah's description. The extent of the land is pointed out in order to guide the reader in understanding Isaiah's intended audience. In chapter three, I exegete verses 2b and 7 in order to identify the people of Cush. This then led me to identify the possible Cushite communities at present. Chapter four focuses on the message of Isaiah 18 and its impact on Cush. This consists of exegesis of verses 3-7 where the inhabitants of the whole earth are called to witness the events of the destruction along with the content of the message of doom as well as God's position at the initial development of the events preceding the destruction. This then led to the examination of the impact of the destruction on Cush which is stated in verse 7. Chapter five aims at highlighting the relationship between the message ofIsaiah 18 and the present suffering in Sudan. It tries to reconcile the discussion of Cush in the opening verses with the ambiguity of the audience of the message in verses 5 and 6. This is then viewed in the light of the possible time for fulfillment to see the possible connection between the two. Chapter six then presents the conclusion reached on the basis of the findings. In conclusion, we have been able to locate the land of Cush south of Egypt which comprises of modem countries of Sudan, Ethiopia, Eritrea, Djibouti and Somalia. We have also been able to identify the Nubians, the Zing and the Abyssinians as the recipients of Isaiah's message. But our finding has shown the difficulty in taking the present political situation in Sudan as the fulfillment of Isaiah 18 and the church in Sudan has been advised accordingly on the basis of the finding.