Project – The Impact of Persecution on Church Growth: A Study of the Plateau and Benue Crisis

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

The Christian church, from its inception, has always been associated with persecution. The early apostles, from Peter to Paul, faced severe trials, imprisonment, and even martyrdom for their faith in Jesus Christ. The New Testament records numerous instances of persecution against the early believers, beginning with Stephen, the first Christian martyr (Acts 7:54–60), and continuing through the trials faced by the apostles in the Roman Empire. Historically, persecution has often served not only as a test of faith but also as a catalyst for spiritual renewal and numerical growth within the church (Tertullian, 197 AD). The oft-quoted saying, “The blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church,” encapsulates this paradox — that oppression frequently fuels the spread and vitality of Christianity (Garrison, 2018).

In the African context, and particularly in Nigeria, persecution has taken various forms ranging from discrimination and social exclusion to violent attacks and mass killings. Nigeria, Africa’s most populous nation, has a deeply religious landscape marked by Christianity, Islam, and African Traditional Religions. Unfortunately, these religious diversities have often led to violent clashes, especially in the Middle Belt region, where Christian and Muslim populations meet. States such as Plateau and Benue have, over the years, become flashpoints for ethno-religious violence, often resulting in significant loss of lives, destruction of property, and displacement of communities (Kukah, 2019).

Persecution in this context is not only religious but also socio-political. The frequent clashes between predominantly Christian farming communities and largely Muslim Fulani herders have deepened communal tensions. Many church buildings have been destroyed, congregations scattered, and pastors forced to flee their places of assignment. Yet, paradoxically, despite these challenges, reports indicate that many churches continue to experience spiritual revival, growth in membership, and increased missionary zeal among survivors (Adetunji, 2020).

The phenomenon raises a theological and sociological question: How does persecution influence church growth? From a biblical standpoint, persecution often serves to purify the faith of believers, strengthen communal unity, and stimulate evangelistic fervor (Matthew 5:10–12; Acts 8:1–4). Historically, periods of oppression have often preceded revivals and expansion in Christian missions. For example, during the Roman Empire’s persecution, Christianity spread across Europe and Asia Minor. Similarly, in modern times, the church in China and other restricted nations has grown exponentially despite intense oppression (Johnson & Zurlo, 2021).

In the Nigerian context, particularly in Plateau and Benue States, persecution has tested the faith of believers and reshaped church structures. Many Christians have been displaced from their ancestral homes, forcing churches to relocate or function in refugee camps. Yet, such adversity has also given birth to resilience and creativity in ministry. Churches have initiated relief missions, evangelistic outreaches, and interdenominational cooperation that were previously uncommon (Okonkwo, 2022).

However, the impact of persecution on church growth is complex. While persecution may lead to spiritual revival and commitment among believers, it can also result in trauma, fear, and decline in attendance due to insecurity. Some pastors have abandoned their ministries, and some members have migrated to safer regions or lost faith due to repeated violence (Eze, 2020). Therefore, there is a need for empirical research to examine the dual nature of persecution — whether it hinders or enhances church growth — with specific reference to the Plateau and Benue crises.

This study thus seeks to investigate how persecution has affected church growth in these conflict-prone regions. It will assess the effects of persecution on membership strength, evangelism, discipleship, and church expansion, as well as explore how churches have responded to violence with faith, resilience, and renewed commitment to their mission.

1.2 Statement of the Problem

The Middle Belt of Nigeria, particularly Plateau and Benue States, has for over two decades experienced recurring violent conflicts that have claimed thousands of lives and displaced entire communities. These crises, though often described as “farmer-herder” or “ethno-political,” have deep religious undertones, as attacks are frequently directed against Christian communities, churches, and clergy (International Crisis Group, 2018).

In Plateau State, especially in areas such as Barkin Ladi, Riyom, and Jos South, numerous church buildings have been burned, worshippers killed, and properties destroyed. Similarly, in Benue State, Christian-majority areas such as Guma, Logo, and Gwer have suffered repeated attacks from armed herders, forcing congregations to flee into internally displaced persons (IDP) camps. The aftermath of these incidents has been devastating for local churches, with many losing members, resources, and infrastructure vital for ministry (Adetunji, 2020).

While some churches have managed to recover and even grow through evangelistic efforts in IDP camps and urban areas, others have struggled to survive. Many pastors now lead congregations scattered across refugee settlements, where worship is conducted under trees or makeshift tents. The psychological trauma, poverty, and insecurity experienced by these displaced believers have further strained church activities and hindered spiritual development (Eze, 2020).

Despite these challenges, anecdotal evidence suggests that persecution has also produced positive spiritual outcomes. Some churches have reported revival experiences, stronger prayer movements, and increased evangelism efforts among displaced Christians. This paradox — that persecution seems both destructive and revitalizing — creates a gap in understanding its true impact on church growth.

Most existing studies on the Plateau and Benue crises have focused on their political, ethnic, or humanitarian dimensions, with little attention paid to their spiritual and ecclesiastical implications. Thus, this study seeks to fill that gap by investigating how persecution has affected church growth — numerically, spiritually, and structurally — in Plateau and Benue States.

The central question is: Does persecution hinder or promote church growth? Addressing this question will not only provide insight into the resilience of the Nigerian church but also help Christian leaders develop strategies to strengthen faith and ministry amid adversity.

1.3 Purpose of the Study (Objectives)

The main purpose of this study is to examine the impact of persecution on church growth, using the Plateau and Benue crises as a case study. Specifically, the study seeks to:

1. Examine the forms and causes of persecution experienced by churches in Plateau and Benue States.

2. Assess the effects of persecution on church membership, evangelism, and discipleship.

3. Investigate how churches have responded to persecution and adapted their ministries during crises.

4. Determine whether persecution has promoted or hindered church growth in the affected regions.

1.4 Research Questions

The study will be guided by the following research questions:

1. What are the major forms and causes of persecution faced by churches in Plateau and Benue States?

2. How has persecution affected church membership, evangelism, and discipleship in the study areas?

3. In what ways have churches responded to persecution during the Plateau and Benue crises?

4. To what extent has persecution influenced church growth — positively or negatively — in these regions?

1.5 Research Hypothesis

The study will test the following null hypothesis:

• H₀: There is no significant relationship between persecution and church growth in Plateau and Benue States.

1.6 Significance of the Study

This study is significant in several respects. For church leaders and ministers, it provides insight into how persecution shapes church growth and offers lessons on resilience, faith, and leadership under crisis. For theological institutions and researchers, it contributes to academic discourse on the theology of suffering, persecution, and church growth in contemporary Africa.

For Christian organizations and mission agencies, the findings will help in formulating strategies to support persecuted churches and strengthen evangelism in conflict zones. Moreover, for policy makers and humanitarian bodies, the study highlights the religious dimensions of conflict and the need for peacebuilding interventions that protect the rights and safety of worship communities.

Spiritually, the study reinforces the biblical truth that persecution, though painful, can refine the faith of believers and advance the gospel when met with perseverance and unity (Romans 8:35–39; 2 Timothy 3:12).

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study focuses on selected churches in conflict-affected communities in Plateau and Benue States, Nigeria. It examines the nature, causes, and effects of persecution on church growth, particularly looking at church attendance, evangelism, discipleship, and leadership responses. The study is limited to the period between 2010 and 2024, during which both states witnessed recurrent violent crises.

1.8 Definition of Terms

• Persecution: Hostile treatment, harassment, or violence directed toward individuals or groups because of their religious beliefs.

• Church Growth: The numerical, spiritual, and structural expansion of a Christian congregation or denomination.

• Crisis: A period of intense conflict, violence, or social upheaval affecting communities and institutions.

• Evangelism: The act of proclaiming the gospel message of Jesus Christ to non-believers with the aim of conversion.

• Discipleship: The process of nurturing believers to grow in faith, knowledge, and obedience to Christ.

Project – The Impact of Persecution on Church Growth: A Study of the Plateau and Benue Crisis