Master's theses (NEGST)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://dlibrary.aiu.ac.ke/handle/123456789/666

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 178

The 2007 December post-election violence in Naivasha Town and its Effect upon the church.
(2014-05-08) Mbaluka, Paul Ndivo
The purpose of this study was to discover the factors which led to the failure during the election preparation and consequences of the 2007 post-election violence in Naivasha and how the church was affected. In order to achieve this purpose, research was carried out whereby data was collected through observations, discussions in groups, and face to face structured interviews with twelve participants, two police officers, two IDPs, two pastors, two youths (Mungiki members), two civil servants and two people from different ethnic background that were targeted (Luo, Kalenjin). The findings revealed five categories of causative factors leading to the 2007 December post-election violence in Naivasha. These factors include political, land, revenge, tribalism and poverty issues. The Naivasha post-election violence that erupted in late January 2008 was revengeful though the above other factors played a key role. The research has examined the consequences and what should be put in place in order to avoid the same from happening again. This study has revealed that though the church has been in one way or another blamed for its failure in lack of providing the right information during the 2007 political campaigns; it is the same institution in a strategic position of ensuring true forgiveness and reconciliation. The reconciliation must first begin with the church itself whereby disunity and segmentation among the Christian body must be dealt with first. Based on these findings, the following recommendations are made: the government to put in place an independed ECK, punishment of the perpetrators, putting in place of the civic education, introduction of the poverty eradication schemes, constitution review among others. Recommendations were given that since the Church is not blamed so much among the Naivasha residents, it should take the initiative of rendering timely seminars and workshops on forgiveness and reconciliation to the community.
a philosophical study on the influence of the intelligent design of the brain to prove God’s existence by theology graduates in citam assemblies, Nairobi Kenya
(Africa International University, 2021-07) Nyarangi Judith Nyanchama
The examination of explicit arguments and prospects to proof the existence or non existence of God is necessary in these contemporary times, to help bring non believers and atheists to faith. This conversation and argument frequently springs up in religious forums and especially in theological spaces. The study investigated the influence of the intelligent brain design on theology graduates to prove God’s existence in CITAM churches, Nairobi Kenya. The study focused on the structure, material, and functions of the human brain. The researcher argued that proving the existence or non-existence of God is necessary in these contemporary times, to help bring non-believers and atheists to faith. This is especially critical in Christ is the Answer Ministries, whose mission is “To know God and to make Him known through evangelism and discipleship.” The research objectives include: (1) to establish the influence of the intelligent brain structure in proving God’s existence by theology graduates in CITAM assemblies, Nairobi Kenya; (2) to examine the influence of intelligent brain material in proving God’s existence by graduates of theology in CITAM assemblies, Nairobi Kenya; and, (3) to evaluate the influence of the intelligent function of the brain in proving God’s existence by graduates of theology in CITAM assemblies, Nairobi Kenya. A review of literature established that the existence of an intelligent brain structure, material and functions points to a Supernatural Being, God. It revealed that the brain is the organ that discerns what is real, which means that the brain perceives God, or pure consciousness, to be more real than anything else. The target population for this research included graduates of theological studies from various church institutions in Nairobi area. A qualitative descriptive research was used through standardized open - ended interview questions. To select the appropriate categories of respondents, theoretical-purposive sampling was used for selecting 50 participants. The researcher thematically analysed the responses from the respondents, which provided for an inductive process of the researcher building from the data to broad themes to a generalized model or theory. The study revealed that graduate students of theology are knowledgeable about intelligent brain theories. They perceive the brain structure, material, and function as evidences of God’s existence. They are confident about using the concept of intelligent brain design to defend the existence of God to achieve CITAM’s mission statement of making the one eternal God known through evangelism and discipleship
A philosophical study on the influence of the intelligent design of the brain to prove God’s existence by theology graduates in CITAM assemblies, Nairobi, Kenya
(Africa International University, 2020-07-31) Judith Nyanchama Nyarangi
The examination of explicit arguments and prospects to proof the existence or non-existence of God is necessary in these contemporary times, to help bring non-believers and atheists to faith. This conversation and argument frequently springs up in religious forums and especially in theological spaces. The study investigated the influence of the intelligent brain design on theology graduates to prove God’s existence in CITAM churches, Nairobi Kenya. The study focused on the structure, material, and functions of the human brain. The researcher argued that proving the existence or non-existence of God is necessary in these contemporary times, to help bring non-believers and atheists to faith. This is especially critical in Christ is the Answer Ministries, whose mission is “To know God and to make Him known through evangelism and discipleship.” The research objectives include: (1) to establish the influence of the intelligent brain structure in proving God’s existence by theology graduates in CITAM assemblies, Nairobi Kenya; (2) to examine the influence of intelligent brain material in proving God’s existence by graduates of theology in CITAM assemblies, Nairobi Kenya; and, (3) to evaluate the influence of the intelligent function of the brain in proving God’s existence by graduates of theology in CITAM assemblies, Nairobi Kenya. A review of literature established that the existence of an intelligent brain structure, material and functions points to a Supernatural Being, God. It revealed that the brain is the organ that discerns what is real, which means that the brain perceives God, or pure consciousness, to be more real than anything else. The target population for this research included graduates of theological studies from various church institutions in Nairobi area. A qualitative descriptive research was used through standardized open - ended interview questions. To select the appropriate categories of respondents, theoretical-purposive sampling was used for selecting 50 participants. The researcher thematically analysed the responses from the respondents, which provided for an inductive process of the researcher building from the data to broad themes to a generalized model or theory. The study revealed that graduate students of theology are knowledgeable about intelligent brain theories. They perceive the brain structure, material, and function as evidences of God’s existence. They are confident about using the concept of intelligent brain design to defend the existence of God to achieve CITAM’s mission statement of making the one eternal God known through evangelism and discipleship.
A theological appraisal of the eschatology of selected citam churches in nairobi
(Africa International University, 2021-07-23) Mbithi Stephen Muema
The doctrine of eschatology is one of the core teachings of the Christian doctrine. The reality however is that it has not always received due attention in the postmodern church. The relegation of this important doctrine to the background of church activity has therefore meant that eschatology has almost been forgotten in church circles. This research sought to establish the interaction of the church with eschatological teachings, beliefs and practices as understood by the pastors, elders/deacons, leaders and members of Christ Is The Answer Ministries (CITAM). The study used mixed methods research design. The target population was the pastors, elders/deacons, leaders and members of CITAM in two selected assemblies in Nairobi. The assemblies were: CITAM Parklands and CITAM Valley Road. Data was collected from a sample of 68 respondents using stratified sampling technique by use of a questionnaire. The data was then analyzed by use of descriptive statistical analysis. Data collected from open-ended sections of the questionnaire were discussed and presented in narrative form. The research found that the church has done some work as regards to teaching and discussing eschatology but it is far from sufficient. More needs to be done in popularizing eschatological themes in church circles. It was recommended that the church should be intentional and committed to doing more in promoting interactions with this doctrine. Further studies need to be conducted on the methodologies and ways of systematically inducting eschatology into the everyday church activities and teachings.
Acceptability of Swahili Translations in Kenya : The Case of Kiswahili Union Version, Habari Njema and Neno New Testament
(2014-05-23) Omollo, Maurice Onyango
Adolescent spirituality : age of conversion and spiritual development in selected Christian universities in Kenya and its implications for youth ministry
(2014-04-16) Nzigo, Onesiphore
This study was a replication of Lamport's study. Its purpose was to find out similarities or differences to Lamport's study to justify more confidence in the validity of research findings and determine the degree to which findings apply to other populations when different subjects at a different time and in a different setting are used. The Master of Arts students at Daystar University responded to the questionnaire related to the age of conversion, and the undergraduate students at Africa Nazarene University responded to the questionnaire related to the spiritual development facet. Based on the research questions, this study dealt with the age of conversion, the extent to which males and females differ in age of conversion, the most common contributing factors in becoming a Christian, the major influencing factors for spiritual growth in adolescents, the extent to which adolescents differ in spiritual growth when raised in homes where Christian influence is strong, medium, little, or non-existent. Findings of this study showed that adolescence is the prime age of conversion and that males become Christians earlier than females. However, there was no significant difference for males and females in factors influencing spiritual growth. Home, parents, school, the reading of the Bible and other Christian materials, music and Bible studies were found to be the most influencing factors for conversion and spiritual development.
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.
an examination of Ephesians 1:3-14 with focus on our spiritual blessings and their implications for Christian living
(Africa International University, 2021-07) Makokha Martha Christabeth
In Apostle Paul’s letter in Ephesians, Soteriology and Ecclesiology among others are the vital doctrines. Ephesians 1:3-14 pericope details the spiritual blessings that come from God’s redemptive plan and work which is accomplished in Christ. Paul praises God for his sovereign will, good pleasure, and the richness of his grace. He uses the word εὐλογητὸς (blessed) in praising God who is worthy to be thanked for his doings and ascribe glory to him alone. Also, implications of the study for Christian living are considered. According to the researcher, Paul mentions in Ephesians 1:3-14 six spiritual blessings all of which are found in Christ. He instructs that believers in Christ have been chosen (v.4), predestined to a divine adoption (v.5), redeemed (v.7), received the mystery of God’s will (v.9), received an inheritance beforehand (v.11 & 12), and been sealed with the promised Holy Spirit as eternal life’s security upon responding to God’s word (v.13 & 14). The exegetical method has been used to interpret the passage. God is described as active in the past, present and future where his loving purpose is seen in various ways. The grand plan of God for human salvation from the eternity past is revealed in this first chapter of Ephesians. The cosmic unity is enhanced through Christ who is the source of it. It is in him that the work on the Cross that brought us salvation was accomplished. It is because most people struggle to understand what spiritual blessings are that the writer purposed to research on it to bring some enlightenment. The relevance of this study to peoples' beliefs, values, attitudes, and practices and the church and community to help solve existing problems in the same regard, as well as its applications, are brought out.
an investigation of the missionaries’ contribution to the growth and achievements of Africa international university, Kenya
(Africa International University, 2021-07) Wambugu Steven Njeru
The study investigates the role of Christian Missionaries at Africa International University concerning Spiritual, Academic, Infrastructural Development, and Financial contributions. To answer the question of how the missionaries contributed, the researcher used a Biographical Narrative Inquiry method for data collection and analysis. The growth and development of AIU cannot be wholly attributed to Christian missionaries as they had considerable local indigenous input that cannot be ignored or reduced to the overall development of the institution. The research findings showed that the missionaries contributions met the objectives of establishing a world-class educational institution that trains men and women with necessary ministry skills; develops in students a deeper understanding of biblical and theological foundations; studies the major issues and challenges facing Christianity in Africa as well as engaging in research and contribution to academic publications in addressing the concerns and needs of African Christianity. The research findings also concluded that the missionaries were and still are a significant and necessary component in the growth and continued existence of Africa International University. The effect of their contribution has impacted not only the teaching culture at AIU but also impacted thousands of graduating students who have been key contributors to their organizations in Africa and Christian society in general.
Analysis and Critique of Traditional Explanations of African Indipendency : a case study of the Eternity Worship Centre, Nairobi, Kenya
(2014-05-26) Weah, Jackson Garpu
In the last two decades a new phenomenon has occurred within African Christianity. There has been a proliferation of new religious groups, churches and ministries which for the most part have seceded from the classical African Initiated Churches or among themselves. These movements arose in the wake of the collapsed economic and political systems in the decade of the 1980s. The failure of nationstates created massive disillusionment which resulted in many Africans turning to these popular religions as a place believed to give full participation and satisfaction. This present work attempts to tell the story of the Eternity Worship Centre as an example ofthis new phenomenon by utilizing oral history, relying heavily on the memories of the founding members. It aims at analyzing and critiquing the traditional explanations of African independency which states that Africa Initiated Churches emerged as a result of revolting against legitimate missionary leadership. The first chapter/ introduction state the purpose, significance and methodology of this task and review some of the relevant literature. The next four chapters tell the story of the Eternity Worship Centre and its secession from the Rhema Fellowship. The second chapter briefly traces the background of Christianity in Africa as well as the rise and traditional explanations of African independency. Chapter three mainly focus on the rise of the new phenomenon (popular religion) in Africa in the decade of the 1980s and concluded with the history of Rhema Fellowship and the birth of Eternity Worship Centre. Chapter four highlights the analysis and influences on the Eternity Worship Centre by different religious forces. Chapter five takes a careful look at the factors which were responsible for the secession of Eternity Worship Centre from the Rhema Fellowship. The thesis concluded with lessons, recommendations, and future of the new phenomenon in Africa in Chapter six.
Approaches used in Asian Evangelism in Nairobi
(2014-05-09) Kiriga, Mwiranga Gideon
The objective of this study was to investigate how churches and para-church organizations reaching out to Asians with the Gospel of Jesus Christ in Nairobi prepare and carry out evangelism and nurture converts, relating that to the resulting experiences. In order to achieve this, the researcher undertook an extensive review of related literature. Literature on with preparation for evangelism, methods of evangelism, follow-up and nurture of converts, and especially giving special attention to those written with an understanding of the context. It was a descriptive study that sought to discover the situation as it is and thus the researcher used open-ended questions more than closed-ended questions in much of the data collection. Three methods of data collection were used, i.e. questionnaires, interviews and participatory observation. A sample of twenty two (22) participants from five different churches were served with questionnaires, six pastors/evangelism team leaders interviewed, and the researcher personally participated in six outreach related activities organized by individual churches besides attending their Sunday services. The findings indicate that all the churches involved in Asian outreach do some form of preparation for evangelism but for most of them it is not sufficient. The methods used in evangelism are well chosen and appropriate to the targeted community. Some of the activities used for evangelism such as dinners and clubs are unique to this group as they are not characteristic of conventional approaches. It was clear that each approach bring about a different kind of response and consequently experiences that result. Where strong friendship relationship was established before hand, e.g. in neighborhood evangelism where a person reaches out to a neighbor he/she already knows, better results and experiences are achieved than when the gospel is presented to strangers or by strangers. When genuine conversion is achieved, discipleship is exciting as the converts are zealous to know more about God. Both new believers' classes and home fellowships or care groups are used to nurture the converts.
The Armenians and the Turks :can these two nations be reconciled?
(2014-04-03) Babayan, Hasmik
This paper begins with a historical description of Turko-Armenian conflict in order to gain an accurate understanding about the cause and effects of this conflict, as well as the historical overview attempts to present the complicated situation of this conflict in the spheres of politics, economics and religion. Later it will look at the psychological and spiritual part of the conflict. This section will mainly discuss the problem of exclusion, embrace, forgiveness and reconciliation. It is my great hope and prayer that this study will encourage Armenians to start loving Turks through unconditional love of Christ, through which only reconciliation and forgiveness will be possible.
An Assessment of the Strengths and Challenges of a Residential approach and a Community based approach to Caring for HIV positive Orphans :a case study of Grace Children's Center and the Lea Toto program
(2014-05-16) Rogers, Valerie
The objective of this study was to assess the strengths and challenges of a community based model and a residential model of care for HIV positive orphans. In order to achieve this purpose, research was carried out with two different ministries in Nairobi, Kenya: Lea Toto, a community based model, and Grace Children's Center, a residential model. The research was a qualitative study and data was collected primarily through ethnographic interviews with caregivers and staff members from each program. Questionnaires were also used to gather background information about each program. The researcher examined the strengths and challenges of Grace Children's Center and Lea Toto in light of literature discussing HIV/AIDS, orphans, and programs to care for orphaned children. The findings revealed that both programs have many strengths and are effectively caring for HIV positive orphans. The main strengths of Lea Toto are that they empower willing caregivers, the caregivers are familiar adults, their impact extends to the entire community, and they have the capacity to address stigma in the community. The main strengths of Grace Children's Center is that they are able to provide care for children who are abused, neglected, or threatened, the home functions as a family rather than an institution, and they are able to provide total care for the children. Both ministries also face challenges. Lea Toto faces the challenges of poverty in the community and monitoring the administration of drugs by the caregivers. Grace Children's Center faces the challenges of stigma and limited travel outside of the residential home for the children. Based on these findings, recommendations were made for community based programs and residential homes to work together to meet the needs of HIV positive orphans. Recommendations were given for community based programs to economically empower caregivers and to engage and empower the entire community. Recommendations were given for residential homes to foster a family environment and to integrate their children into the surrounding communities.
An assessment on the implication of spiritual fatherhood and spiritual sonship in the Kenyan Pentecostal and Charismatic denominations
(2014-05-07) Oyola, Kenneth Amolo
The purpose of this study was to discover the implications, relevance and importance of the concept of Spiritual fatherhood and sonship to the Pentecostal and Charismatic Churches in Kenya. In order to achieve this purpose, research was carried out where by data was collected through discussions and structured face to face interviews with three denominational leaders, six spiritual sons/daughters, two local church pastors who don't ascribe to the concept. The findings revealed that the concept is regarded as necessary and important by majority ofthe leaders and church leaders as well as those whom they regard as their sons/ daughters. However it has been misused by certain people to manipulate and dominate others whereas in certain occasions it has been used to kill the ministry of others. It has also revealed that it is one of the best way to disciple others into the ministry and prepare to hand over the baton 0 fthe ministry to the next generation. The research has revealed that though the church is so much involved in the concept of mentoring, it has to change its tact tic on how to bring up leaders for effective and efficient ministry and ensure smooth and seamless transitions as well as meaningful church growth. Based on these findings recommendations are made on the Church leaders as well as the local church pastors of Pentecostal and Charismatic churches to embrace the concept of spiritual fatherhood and sonship. However it should be structured in a manner that it does not breed domination, manipulation and control of those being spiritually fathered. This can be done through holding seminars, conferences and even preachings and teachings in the local churches.
Biblical leadership with special interest in the New Testament and application to the Ethiopian Evangelical Church
(2014-04-02) Berhe, Assayehegn
Chapter one is basically a general introduction. It covers the introduction of the topic; the issues involved; the significance of the problem; research questions; objectives; limitation and delimitation; definitions of terms; and approach or methodology. Chapter two contains some of the models of Christian leadership from both the O.T. and N.T. The key O.T. models of leadership are Moses and Nehemiah. From both characters I have tried to amplify the qualities, challenges, and problems of leadership; the team leadership they developed and the principles of leadership we learn from them. Then I moved on to the N.T. models of leadership. First,I Focused on the religious leaders in the book of Luke to help us See the negative side of leadership. Second, I have discussed about leadership as exemplified by Jesus and Paul. The excellence of His leadership was building a small group of disciples (team Leadership), shaping and developing their character. I have also argued from Paul's leadership example. I have tried to show the significance of Paul's conversion in his theology and leadership. When the itinerant founder or his delegate was not present, leadership on the local scene seems to have been left in the hands of "elders", all expressions of which in the New Testament are plural. Chapter three includes the discussion on the emerging Church and the problem of authority in Acts. There are significant transitions in Acts which will help us to understand the emerging church and the need of functional and not absolute leadership styles. And these transitions are geographical, ethnic, cultic, and institutional. These transitions have a counterpart in changes in the exercise of authority within the church. In the second half of chapter three, I have brought an argument of Jesus' and Paul's idea of 'team leadership' by discussing specific examples. Chapter four comprises suggestions and recommendations to the Ethiopian evangelical church. I have suggested that there is a need for leadership development and a quality leadership with High integrity. We need to develop and train Godly leaders, Create an atmosphere of accountability, and help them to develop an attitude of a servant leadership and a team spirit. In my conclusion, I have emphasized those leaders who are Spiritually authentic, blameless, mature, congenial, and compassionate with a servant heart must be recruited, trained, appointed, and invested with proper authority. Certainly, there is a need of developing a team leadership. This is New Testament leadership at its best.
A Biblical Solution to Kongo Witchcraft
(2014-04-28) Hukema, Lammert
Various traditional beliefs and practices, especially those related to kindoki (Kongo magic and witchcraft), still exist among the Bakongo in the Lower Zaire, and form an obstacle to the spiritual growth of the Kongo Christians. The second chapter, after the introduction, describes the traditional Kongo world view, while the third chapter describes the traditional role and place of kindoki in Kongo society. This chapter also compares Kongo and European witchcraft, discusses the danger of demonic influence through involvement in occult activities, and finally explains what the Bible teaches on witchcraft in general. The fourth chapter discusses various proposed solutions to the problems among the Kongo people, created by kindoki beliefs and practices. Since witchcraft is fundamentally a spiritual problem, only the ,Bible offers a complete solution. This biblical solution forms the last part of the chapter.
A case study of Life Challenge Africa in their involvement in Muslim outreach in Nairobi, Kenya, with implications for implementing outreach in the local churches.
(2014-04-07) Duncan, Brent Anthony
This study seeks to find out what LCA is doing in their ministry to Muslims in Nairobi. Specifically it looks at the strategies that are being implemented by LCA. It seeks to know how the LCA staff evaluates these strategies. Then in looking at these two parts, the researcher seeks to find out how these strategies are being implemented in the local church and gives suggestions of other ways of implementation. LCA is a project under SIM composed of eight members who work fulltime in Nairobi. There are other LCA offices in Africa, one in South Africa and two in West Africa. This study focuses on the LCA office in Nairobi and asks the following questions in order to understand the concerns state above. What are the strategies that LCA is using in their attempt to minister to Muslims in Nairobi? How do the informants evaluate the effects of the strategies implemented by LCA? How can LCA's strategies be adopted into the local churches in Nairobi, and other mission organizations? The results of this research show that LCA is using several ways to bring Muslim neighbors to the knowledge of Christ. The LCA staff stands in full support of the strategies utilized. The implementation of these strategies into the local church has been a challenge. There are several ways in which this process is being carried out, mainly in the form of public awareness of LCA and their vision. The difficulty comes in helping others catch the vision that LCA has. Based on these findings, it is necessary that other organizations join in the effort of reaching Muslims. LCA has done much of the ground breaking as far as developing materials for Christians to use to understand how best they can reach out to their Muslim neighbors. It is now the responsibility of LCA to make these resources known, and the responsibility of others to utilize them.
A CASE STUDY ON THE RELEVANCE OF LADY PASTORS IN AFRICA INLAND CHURCH KENYA MAKUENI AREA
(Africa international University, 2019-07-01) MWENGEI, RABECCA KATUNGE
The study aimed at examining the role of Lady Pastors as well as their significance in Africa Inland Church Makueni Area. This is in line with the scriptures which indicate importance of women and how they are committed in the service of the Lord. The study also sought to point out challenges faced by the lady pastors in the ministry and also reasons as to why they miss out the key positions in leadership. The research was conducted in seven regions. The study relied on questionnaires and interviews as instruments for data collection. Qualitative and quantitative research designs were employed to achieve the required results. Purposeful sampling was carried out to select respondents who could read and write in order to fill the questionnaires. The findings of the study revealed that the role of the pastor is clearly stipulated in the scriptures as preaching, teaching, evangelism and counseling among others. The study found that due to male dominance, lack of women ordination and licensing, lady pastors don’t officiate some ceremonies like burials, weddings, baptisms, and dedications. The study calls for co-operation of both male and female pastors, supporting and complimenting each other without discrimination because both are important before the Lord and given gifts as He wishes to serve him
Christian persecution and its implications for the church
(Africa International University, 2021-07) Gitonga Fredrick Nyaga
For the early Church, her story is a narrative of great persecution that was aimed to censor or to a larger degree eliminate the Christian religion. Great oppression was experienced during the reigns of emperors of Rome, in particular during the reign of Nero and also when it came to the unpopular Diocletian reign. This kind of persecution was a conspired method of the emperors to force the Christians to worship the idols that they had set and also due to their political intolerance. Today in Kenya there is perceived high level of Christian persecution in North Eastern region of the Country, in particular Garissa County, arguably, due to its proximity to Somalia, a country that has never experienced peace for decades. This has implications for the Church depending on the level of knowledge, preparedness and responses of Christians. This study involved an investigation of the Christian persecution and its implications for the Church among Christians in Garissa County. The researcher used qualitative method and developed an interview guide with open ended questions. The composition of the population was adult Christians from Garissa Township Constituency in Garissa County. The interview questions were administered to a sample of 30 respondents in English language, the language known by both the respondents and researcher and then the data was carefully analyzed. The researcher found out that 90% of the participants had experienced certain forms of persecution ranging from death threats, economic discrimination, violent extremist attacks, social exclusion and opposition. Also several ways of preparedness were identified which includes; reading and memorizing the Word of God, Prayer and fasting, Reading Christian Books and totally trusting in God. In relation to how participants responded to persecution, five responses were identified including; prayer, staying and enduring, aggressive love and fleeing. And finally, several implications of persecution for the Church were revealed which includes; loss of life and properties, physical and psychological torture, unity of the Church and living the cross daily. The researcher has recommended the following: 1. To the Kenyan Church: Put pressure on the Government to beef up security in the region, the persecuted church should, where possible, be a vibrant part of the society, avoid giving unnecessary offense and bringing on “avoidable” persecution. 2. To the Christian Non-Governmental Organization and Global Church community: Offer Christian counseling and care support to the persecuted Church, continue to advocate both for individuals and for persecuted church communities, provide resources for persecuted communities, including Bibles, training for pastors, Christians, humanitarian relief and development assistance, listen to persecuted Christians-who know the challenges firsthand, need to understand their global responsibility for Christians under persecution and achieve unity across Christian communities in supporting persecuted minorities and as well make inter-faith alliances.
Christians’ responsibility to the government
(Africa International University, 2021-07) Maina Amos Ndieyira
This study seeks to find out the original meaning of Romans 13:1–7 in context as it pertains to the issues of Christians’ submission to state authority. It specifically seeks to arrive at conclusions that will remove ambiguity from the understanding of a couple of phrases within the text, that seem unclear and problematic to understand and apply rightly without proper study. They include, for example, οὐ γὰρ ἔστιν ἐξουσία εἰ μὴ ὑπὸ θεοῦ, αἱ δὲ οὖσαι ὑπὸ θεοῦ τεταγμέναι εἰσίν (Rom 13:1) “for there is no authority except from God, and the existing authorities are (literally, ‘have been’) appointed by God.” The aim is to arrive at a place where the African Christian will have a clear conscience before God in his/her dealing with the state, through a proper understanding and practice of his/her responsibility to the government. The findings have shown that the text is speaking about the Roman government authorities—the institution of government and individual leaders that had been put in place by God at that time. The submission commanded here is that of attitude, recognizing that the institution of government is ordained by God and the holders of those positions are His servants, and as such, voluntarily placing oneself under them. Though the text is not explicit in addressing if and when believers should resist, it neither commands unquestioning submission to specific requirements from the leaders. Since government is ordained by God, it is under him and the submission to it goes only as far as is consistent with God’s holistic will. This is also the case considering the biblical-theological context. The lesson drawn is that Christians should not see government as evil and naturally against God, but as God’s institution with a purpose for the good of the society. The Christians are, to support the government in all relevant ways and obey the leaders as far as they are doing what is right in God’s sight