A theological appraisal of the eschatology of selected citam churches in nairobi

Abstract

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.