Project – Challenges of raising Godly Children to the development of the Church and Solutions

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

The task of raising godly children within the context of the Church is an enduring challenge faced by Christian parents, especially in regions where socio-cultural and religious dynamics influence children’s upbringing. According to Adewuyi (2018), one of the primary challenges faced by Christian parents in Nigeria is the erosion of traditional Christian values by the influence of modernity and secularism. In the Oyo 1 section of the Assemblies of God, Nigeria, children often face external pressures from the media, peer groups, and schools that promote values contrary to biblical teachings. This is compounded by the fact that many parents are preoccupied with economic survival and work commitments, leaving little time to actively nurture their children’s spiritual lives. The challenges are especially evident in urban and semi-urban areas like Oyo, where there is a stronger influence of materialism and individualism.

In addition to external cultural and societal influences, there is also the issue of inconsistency in the faith practices of parents and church leaders. Many Christian parents are not adequately equipped with the knowledge and skills needed to instill biblical values in their children. Adegboye (2020) highlights that the gap between what parents preach and what they practice often causes confusion and discouragement in children, making it difficult for them to form a consistent and deep relationship with God. Within the Assemblies of God Church in Oyo 1, a disconnect between the church’s teachings and the lifestyles of some congregants may also affect children’s spiritual formation. This gap between Christian doctrine and practice calls for a concerted effort to bridge the divide between church teachings and the everyday realities of families.

Furthermore, inadequate discipleship programs tailored for children and youth in local churches has been a major barrier to raising godly children. As emphasized by Onwuchekwa (2017), churches often prioritize adult ministry and overlook the need for specialized teaching and mentorship programs for children and young people. In the Assemblies of God, there may be limited resources or insufficient personnel to run engaging, biblically-based children’s ministry programs. This leaves children vulnerable to the competing ideologies of the world, without a strong foundation in the faith. The lack of a well-structured, age-appropriate curriculum designed to impart Christian values and teachings contributes to the weak spiritual formation of young people in Oyo 1.

The issue of inadequate leadership within the church, particularly in relation to children’s ministry, has been noted as a significant obstacle to raising godly children. According to Akinpelu (2019), leadership in many local assemblies lacks a clear vision for youth and children’s ministry. In the Assemblies of God in Oyo 1, there may be a shortage of trained children’s workers, and the church’s overall focus may be more on adult worship services rather than children’s spiritual development. When church leaders fail to prioritize and invest in the spiritual well-being of children, the future of the church becomes uncertain. A strong and effective leadership structure is essential to ensure that children are provided with the proper spiritual guidance, mentorship, and education they need to thrive as godly individuals.

Addressing these challenges requires a multi-faceted approach. First, church leaders in Oyo 1 must emphasize the importance of parental involvement in the spiritual development of children. As Okoro (2018) notes, parents must be viewed as the first line of spiritual education for children, with the church acting as a support system. Parents should be trained through workshops and seminars to better understand their role in fostering a godly environment at home. Second, there needs to be an intentional focus on developing children’s ministries that are not only biblically sound but also culturally relevant. Investing in training for children’s workers and developing resources that engage children through activities, music, and storytelling can significantly improve the effectiveness of children’s ministry programs. Lastly, strategic partnerships between the church and community stakeholders—such as schools, parents, and local organizations—can create a holistic approach to raising godly children. Through these efforts, the church can effectively address the challenges posed by secular influences and promote a generation of young people committed to Christ.

In conclusion, the challenges of raising godly children in the Assemblies of God Church in Oyo 1 are deeply rooted in external societal pressures, inconsistent faith practices, and a lack of focus on children’s discipleship. However, with committed church leadership, proactive parental involvement, and a structured children’s ministry program, these challenges can be overcome. By addressing these issues, the church will not only safeguard the spiritual future of its children but also ensure the continued growth and development of the Church itself in Oyo 1. It is crucial that both the church and parents work collaboratively to raise children who are not only grounded in the faith but are also capable of becoming future leaders who will drive the growth of the church and positively influence their communities.

• Statement of the Problem

The issue of raising godly children within the context of the church in Oyo 1 section of Oyo North Area, Assemblies of God, Nigeria, has become a significant concern for both parents and church leaders. While the Church’s mission is to nurture disciples and create a community that mirrors the values of the Kingdom of God, raising children who are deeply rooted in these values is increasingly challenging. The convergence of various external and internal factors—such as the pervasive influence of secular culture, the inconsistent spiritual practices of parents, and insufficient children’s ministry programs—has led to a generation of children whose faith is shallow and susceptible to the distractions of contemporary society. In this context, there is an urgent need to examine the challenges facing parents and church leaders in their efforts to raise godly children, and to explore potential solutions for the holistic development of children within the church.

One of the primary challenges faced by Christian families in the Oyo 1 section of Oyo North Area is the cultural and societal pressures that conflict with biblical teachings. Modernity, materialism, and secularism have significantly impacted the younger generation, leading many children to question or abandon their Christian faith. The growing influence of media, internet culture, and peer groups has exposed children to values that undermine the principles of holiness, integrity, and godliness. In particular, the rise of social media platforms and entertainment content promotes lifestyles that often contradict Christian values, leaving children vulnerable to adopting worldly attitudes and behaviors. The church, despite its efforts to combat these external influences, often finds itself in a struggle to counteract the deep-seated impact of these forces on children’s spiritual development.

Another major challenge is the inconsistency in the faith practices of parents and church leaders. Many Christian parents, particularly in the Oyo 1 section, struggle with balancing their spiritual obligations with the demands of work, social life, and economic survival. This imbalance has resulted in a lack of intentional and consistent spiritual leadership at home, where children spend the majority of their time. According to some reports from within the Assemblies of God church, parents often fail to create an environment conducive to the spiritual growth of their children, either due to lack of time, knowledge, or commitment. Furthermore, there is often a gap between the teachings provided in church and the behaviors exhibited by parents at home, which leads to confusion and inconsistency in the child’s spiritual formation. This problem is compounded by a lack of spiritual mentorship and guidance from the church, leaving children without clear role models to emulate.

In addition to these external and familial challenges, the church’s children’s ministry programs in Oyo 1 are often inadequate in addressing the specific needs of children and youth. Many local churches focus their resources on adult ministry, leaving children’s programs underdeveloped or poorly resourced. Research has shown that a lack of specialized training for children’s workers, insufficient educational materials, and limited engagement with children’s issues significantly hinder the effectiveness of children’s ministry in the region (Akinpelu, 2019). Without properly structured and engaging children’s ministry programs that align with the church’s core teachings, children are left with minimal opportunities to cultivate a deeper understanding of God and the Christian faith. This creates a void in their spiritual formation, which becomes more evident as they grow older and face the challenges of adolescence and adulthood.

Moreover, the leadership of the church in the Oyo 1 section often lacks a strategic vision for children’s spiritual development. While the Assemblies of God emphasizes the importance of raising children in the fear and knowledge of God, many church leaders are not adequately trained to lead children’s ministry effectively. In many cases, children’s workers lack the necessary training and resources to implement age-appropriate teachings and activities that engage children in meaningful spiritual formation. The result is that children’s ministry programs may lack the depth and focus needed to nurture children’s faith. This leadership gap poses a threat to the long-term health and growth of the church, as the spiritual development of young people is foundational to sustaining the church’s future.

In response to these challenges, there is a pressing need to develop a comprehensive strategy to address the root causes and provide sustainable solutions. The church must recognize that raising godly children requires more than just doctrinal teaching; it requires an integrated approach that involves the active participation of both the family and the church community. Parental involvement must be prioritized through training programs and support systems that equip parents to lead their children spiritually at home. Additionally, the church needs to invest in specialized children’s ministry programs that are biblically sound, culturally relevant, and tailored to the developmental needs of children at different stages. Furthermore, church leadership must place a stronger emphasis on developing leaders who are equipped to disciple children and mentor young people, ensuring that children are not only taught biblical knowledge but also given the tools to live out their faith in a world that constantly challenges their beliefs.

The problem of raising godly children in the Assemblies of God Church in Oyo 1 section of Oyo North Area is multifaceted, involving both external cultural pressures and internal challenges within families and the church. The disconnect between the teachings of the church and the realities of daily life for many families, combined with inadequate children’s ministry programs and leadership, has made it increasingly difficult to nurture children in the ways of the Lord. Addressing these issues requires a concerted effort by parents, church leaders, and the broader community to create an environment where children can grow in faith and become committed disciples of Christ. Developing effective strategies and solutions will be key to ensuring the future development and growth of the church, as well as the spiritual vitality of the next generation.

1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine the Challenges of raising Godly Children to the development of the Church and Solutions in Oyo 1 section of Oyo North Area, Assemblies of God, Nigeria. The specific objectives are:

1. To identify the specific challenges faced by parents in raising Godly children in the Oyo 1 section of Oyo North Area.
2. To examine the impact of raising Godly children on the overall development of the Church in the area.
3. To explore the existing solutions and strategies implemented by parents and church leaders to address these challenges.
4. To assess the effectiveness of the current approaches in promoting the spiritual growth of children and strengthening the Church community.

1.4. Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What are the specific challenges faced by parents in raising Godly children in the Oyo 1 section of Oyo North Area?
2. How does raising Godly children impact the overall development of the Church in the area?
3. What existing solutions and strategies are implemented by parents and church leaders to address the challenges of raising Godly children?
4. How effective are the current approaches in promoting the spiritual growth of children and strengthening the Church community?

1.5. Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Raising Godly children will not affect the overall development of the Church in the area.

H1: Raising Godly children will affect the overall development of the Church in the area

1.6. Significance of the Study

The study of the challenges of raising godly children and their impact on the development of the church in the Oyo 1 section of Oyo North Area, Assemblies of God, Nigeria, is significant in several respects. First, it highlights a critical issue that affects not only the spiritual growth of the children but also the overall health and future of the church community. Raising children with a strong moral and spiritual foundation is vital for the continuity of any religious institution, and this study examines the specific challenges faced by Christian parents and church leaders in the Oyo 1 region. By focusing on the unique social, economic, and cultural dynamics of the area, the research can provide a deeper understanding of how these challenges affect the upbringing of children in faith and the long-term sustainability of church growth.

Second, the study contributes to the broader discourse on Christian education and discipleship within Nigerian churches. The Assemblies of God Church, like many others in Nigeria, faces a growing need to address issues such as secularism, materialism, and the influence of negative social media on young people. These external pressures have created a challenging environment for nurturing children who not only understand the doctrines of the faith but also live them out in their daily lives. Understanding these challenges from a local perspective can offer the church valuable insights into how it can improve its educational programs, youth ministries, and family support systems, ultimately fostering a more robust faith community.

Third, the research provides an opportunity to evaluate the role of the church in shaping the moral and spiritual lives of children. The findings could assist church leaders in identifying gaps in their current programs, such as Sunday school, youth fellowships, and parenting seminars. By recognizing the unique challenges facing families in the Oyo 1 section, church leaders can tailor their teachings and outreach programs to better meet the needs of children and their parents. This will, in turn, contribute to the development of children who are not only biblically literate but also equipped to navigate the complexities of modern life in a way that honors God.

Fourth, the study will also be valuable in understanding the specific cultural and socio-economic factors influencing child-rearing in the Oyo 1 region. The local customs, educational systems, and family structures in this area can either support or hinder the process of raising godly children. For instance, the rural nature of the region may present different challenges compared to urban centers, including limited access to educational resources, exposure to global influences, and the availability of faith-based counseling. This research will provide a localized perspective on the interaction between culture, socio-economic status, and religious values, offering practical solutions that can be adapted to the specific needs of families in the Oyo 1 section.

Fifth, addressing the challenges of raising godly children has a direct impact on the future leadership of the church. Children who are well-trained in Christian values today are the leaders of tomorrow, and their spiritual maturity will determine the direction and impact of the church in years to come. By identifying the barriers that hinder children from growing into faithful, responsible adults, the study proposes solutions that not only impact the current generation but also ensure a continuous cycle of spiritual renewal within the church. Through targeted interventions, the church can raise children who will take on leadership roles, evangelize effectively, and uphold the teachings of the faith for future generations.

Finally, this study offers solutions that can be applied not only in the Oyo 1 section but also across the broader Assemblies of God Church in Nigeria. While the challenges may be unique to the region, the principles and strategies for raising godly children can be universally applied to other congregations facing similar difficulties. Recommendations for enhancing family involvement, improving youth ministries, and integrating biblical principles into everyday life can serve as a model for churches across the country. By addressing these challenges at the local level, the church can create a ripple effect that positively influences the national church and contributes to the wider goal of building a spiritually vibrant and morally responsible Christian community in Nigeria.

1.7. Scope of the Study

The study examines Challenges of raising Godly Children to the development of the Church and Solutions in Oyo 1 section of Oyo North Area, Assemblies of God, Nigeria.

 

1.8. Operational Definition of Terms

1. Challenges: Raising Godly Children: This refers to the difficulties and obstacles that parents or guardians might face when trying to instill religious values and beliefs in their children. These challenges can include societal influences, peer pressure, differing beliefs within a family, and the general complexities of parenting. It often involves finding a balance between teaching religious principles and allowing children to explore their own beliefs.
2. Development: In a general sense, development refers to the process of growth, progress, or evolution in a particular area. This can apply to personal development, such as emotional or spiritual growth, or to broader contexts like community or economic development. In the context of raising children, it might refer to their physical, emotional, intellectual, and spiritual growth.
3. Church: A church is a building used for public Christian worship. However, it also refers to the community of people who gather for worship and fellowship. Churches often serve as centers for spiritual guidance, community support, and religious education.
4. Solutions: Solutions are methods or strategies used to solve problems or overcome challenges. In the context of raising Godly children, solutions might include creating a supportive home environment, engaging in regular religious practices, and seeking guidance from religious leaders or community resources.
5. Assemblies of God: The Assemblies of God is a group of over 144 autonomous but loosely associated national groupings of churches that together form the world’s largest Pentecostal denomination. It emphasizes the work of the Holy Spirit, the practice of spiritual gifts, and the importance of evangelism and missions. The Assemblies of God was founded in 1914 in the United States and has since grown to have a significant global presence.

Project – Challenges of raising Godly Children to the development of the Church and Solutions