Project – The effects of servant leadership as a model for Pentecostal fellowship of Nigeria.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Servant leadership, as a model, has been increasingly recognized for its potential to transform organizations, including religious ones such as the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN). Greenleaf (1977) first introduced the concept of servant leadership, emphasizing the leader’s role as a servant who prioritizes the needs of others. This leadership style is characterized by listening, empathy, healing, awareness, persuasion, conceptualization, foresight, stewardship, commitment to the growth of people, and building community (Spears, 1998).

In the context of the PFN, servant leadership can have profound effects. The PFN, as a religious organization, is inherently community-oriented and values-driven. The adoption of servant leadership can enhance these aspects, fostering a more inclusive, empathetic, and service-oriented culture. Patterson (2003) suggests that servant leadership can lead to increased trust and organizational commitment, which are crucial for the unity and growth of religious organizations.

However, the implementation of servant leadership in the PFN is not without challenges. The cultural context of Nigeria, characterized by high power distance and a preference for autocratic leadership (Hofstede, 1984), may pose barriers to the adoption of servant leadership. Yet, studies such as Elegbe (2016) have shown that servant leadership can be effective in Nigerian organizations, suggesting its potential applicability to the PFN.

The effects of servant leadership on the PFN can also be examined from a theological perspective. Jesus Christ, the central figure of Christianity, is often portrayed as the ultimate servant leader (Mark 10:45). Thus, adopting servant leadership can align the PFN more closely with the teachings of Christ, enhancing its spiritual authenticity and credibility (Sendjaya, 2015).

Empirical studies on the effects of servant leadership in religious organizations are limited but promising. For instance, a study by Winston (2003) found that servant leadership positively influenced organizational effectiveness in a large church. While this study was not conducted in the PFN, it provides valuable insights into the potential benefits of servant leadership in similar religious settings.

Servant leadership has the potential to significantly impact the PFN, fostering a more inclusive, empathetic, and service-oriented culture. However, further empirical research is needed to fully understand its effects and the challenges associated with its implementation in the Nigerian cultural context.

• Statement of the Problem

The problem statement for the effects of servant leadership as a model for the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) is a complex issue that requires a comprehensive understanding of the leadership structure within the religious organization. The PFN, like many religious organizations, is structured hierarchically, with a leadership model that has traditionally been top-down. This model has been criticized for its lack of inclusivity and its potential to create power imbalances.

The introduction of servant leadership, a model that emphasizes the leader’s role as a servant to their followers, has been proposed as a potential solution to these issues. However, the effects of this model on the PFN have not been thoroughly studied. There is a lack of empirical evidence to support the effectiveness of this model in this specific context.

Furthermore, the cultural and societal context of Nigeria, where the PFN is based, may influence the effectiveness of the servant leadership model. Nigeria’s societal norms and values, such as respect for authority and hierarchy, may conflict with the principles of servant leadership, which emphasizes equality and empowerment (Okeke, 2018).

Additionally, the implementation of servant leadership within the PFN may face resistance from those who are accustomed to the traditional leadership model. This resistance may hinder the successful adoption of the servant leadership model and limit its potential benefits (Adams, 2019).

Moreover, the potential effects of servant leadership on the PFN’s organizational culture and performance are unclear. While some studies suggest that servant leadership can improve organizational performance and employee satisfaction, others argue that it may lead to a lack of direction and decreased efficiency.

In conclusion, the problem lies in the lack of understanding and empirical evidence regarding the effects of servant leadership as a model for the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria. Further research is needed to explore this issue and provide insights that can guide the PFN in its leadership practices.

• Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine the effects of servant leadership as a model for Pentecostal fellowship of Nigeria (PFN). The specific objectives are:

1. To examine the concept of servant leadership and its application within the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).
2. To investigate the effects of servant leadership on the organizational structure and dynamics of the PFN.
3. To assess the impact of servant leadership on the spiritual growth and development of members within the PFN.
4. To evaluate the influence of servant leadership on the community outreach and social responsibility initiatives of the PFN.

• Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. How can the concept of servant leadership be applied within the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN)?
2. What are the effects of servant leadership on the organizational structure and dynamics of the PFN?
3. In what ways does servant leadership impact the spiritual growth and development of members within the PFN?
4. How does servant leadership influence the community outreach and social responsibility initiatives of the PFN?

• Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Servant leadership has no significant impact on the organizational structure and dynamics of the PFN

H1: Servant leadership has significant impact on the organizational structure and dynamics of the PFN

• Significance of the Study

The study of servant leadership within the context of the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) holds significant implications for both the religious organization and its members. Servant leadership, a leadership approach that prioritizes the needs of others and the community, can potentially transform the way the PFN operates and interacts with its members and the wider community. This study aims to explore this leadership model’s effects and its potential benefits for the PFN.

Firstly, understanding the application of servant leadership within the PFN can provide insights into how this leadership style can enhance the organization’s structure and dynamics. Servant leadership emphasizes listening, empathy, and commitment to the growth of others, which can foster a more inclusive and participatory environment within the PFN. This could potentially lead to increased member satisfaction and engagement, thereby strengthening the organization’s internal dynamics.

Secondly, the study’s findings could shed light on how servant leadership impacts the spiritual growth and development of PFN members. Servant leaders in a religious context not only guide their followers but also nurture their spiritual growth. By examining this aspect, the study could provide valuable insights into how leadership styles can influence spiritual development, which is a crucial aspect of religious organizations like the PFN.

Thirdly, the study could reveal how servant leadership influences the PFN’s community outreach and social responsibility initiatives. Servant leadership’s emphasis on serving others could potentially enhance the PFN’s efforts in reaching out to the community and fulfilling its social responsibilities. This could lead to a more significant societal impact, enhancing the PFN’s reputation and influence within the community.

Furthermore, the study could provide a model for other religious organizations seeking to implement servant leadership within their structures. The findings could serve as a guide, highlighting the potential benefits and challenges of adopting this leadership style. This could contribute to the broader discourse on leadership within religious organizations, providing valuable insights for leaders and members alike.

The significance of this study lies in its potential to transform the understanding of leadership within the PFN and other similar religious organizations. By exploring the effects of servant leadership, the study could provide a roadmap for enhancing organizational dynamics, member spiritual growth, community outreach, and social responsibility initiatives. This could ultimately lead to more effective and impactful religious organizations.

• Scope of the Study

The study examines the effects of servant leadership as a model for Pentecostal fellowship of Nigeria. The study is limited to selected Pentecostal Churches in Lagos.

• Operational Definition of Terms

Effects: This term refers to the outcomes, results, or changes that occur as a result of a particular action or set of actions. In this context, it refers to the changes or impacts that servant leadership may have on the Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN).

Servant Leadership: This is a leadership philosophy in which the main goal of the leader is to serve. This is different from traditional leadership where the leader’s main focus is the thriving of their company or organizations. A Servant Leader shares power, puts the needs of the employees first and helps people develop and perform as highly as possible.

Model: In this context, a model refers to a particular method or system that is used as an example to follow or imitate. It could also refer to a theoretical framework that is used to understand a particular phenomenon. In this case, the servant leadership model is a way of leading that emphasizes service to others.

Pentecostal Fellowship: This term refers to a community or association of individuals who adhere to the Pentecostal branch of Christianity. The Pentecostal Fellowship of Nigeria (PFN) is a specific organization that represents this group of believers in Nigeria. It is characterized by its emphasis on a direct personal experience of God through the baptism with the Holy Spirit.

Project – The effects of servant leadership as a model for Pentecostal fellowship of Nigeria.