Full Project – MARRIAGE AND MINISTRY: THE ROLE OF SPOUSES IN ACHIEVING SUCCESS – A STUDY OF RCCG, LAGOS

Full Project – MARRIAGE AND MINISTRY: THE ROLE OF SPOUSES IN ACHIEVING SUCCESS – A STUDY OF RCCG, LAGOS.

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1. Background to the Study

The role of spouses in the success of ministry work is a topic that has been extensively studied in the field of religious studies and sociology. According to a study by Balswick and Balswick (1989), the success of a ministry is often directly linked to the strength of the marital relationship. They argue that a strong, supportive spouse can provide emotional support, encouragement, and practical help, which can significantly contribute to the success of the ministry. This perspective is supported by a study by Frame and Shehan (1994), who found that ministers with supportive spouses were more likely to report high levels of job satisfaction and less likely to experience burnout.

In contrast, a study by Carroll (2006) suggests that the role of the spouse in ministry success may be more complex. Carroll argues that while a supportive spouse can certainly contribute to ministry success, the demands of ministry work can also place significant strain on a marriage. This strain can, in turn, negatively impact the success of the ministry. This perspective is supported by a study by Hoge and Wenger (2005), who found that ministers who reported high levels of marital strain were also more likely to report lower levels of job satisfaction and higher levels of burnout.

However, it’s important to note that the relationship between marriage and ministry success is not solely negative. According to a study by Lee and Balswick (1986), many ministers and their spouses report that their marriage has been strengthened by their shared commitment to their ministry work. They argue that the shared sense of purpose and mutual support can help to strengthen the marital relationship, which in turn can contribute to the success of the ministry.

Furthermore, a study by Francis and Rutledge (2000) suggests that the role of the spouse in ministry success may also depend on the specific context of the ministry. They found that in ministries where the spouse was actively involved in the work of the ministry, the ministry was more likely to be successful. However, in ministries where the spouse was not actively involved, the success of the ministry was less likely to be influenced by the marital relationship.

The role of spouses in achieving success in ministry is a complex and multifaceted issue. While a supportive spouse can certainly contribute to ministry success, the demands of ministry work can also place significant strain on a marriage. However, a shared commitment to ministry work can also strengthen the marital relationship, and the active involvement of the spouse in the work of the ministry can also contribute to its success.

 

1.2. Statement of the Problem

The problem of understanding the role of spouses in achieving success in ministry within the context of Nigeria is multifaceted. The traditional Nigerian society places a significant emphasis on marriage as a social institution, and this has a profound impact on various aspects of life, including religious ministry. However, the specific role of spouses in the success of ministry work is not well-defined or understood, leading to a lack of clarity and potential conflicts.

The first issue is the lack of empirical research on the subject. While there are numerous studies on the role of marriage in Nigerian society, there is a dearth of research focusing specifically on the role of spouses in ministry. This lack of research makes it difficult to draw definitive conclusions about the impact of spouses on ministry success. It also hinders the development of effective strategies for involving spouses in ministry work.

Another problem is the cultural and societal expectations placed on spouses, particularly women, in Nigeria. Women are often expected to play supportive roles in their husbands’ careers, including ministry (Oyediran, 2005). However, these expectations may not align with the aspirations and abilities of the women themselves, leading to potential conflicts and dissatisfaction. This issue is further complicated by the patriarchal nature of many Nigerian societies, which may limit the opportunities for women to participate fully in ministry work (Adegoke, 2013).

The third issue is the lack of formal training and support for spouses involved in ministry. While there are numerous training programs for ministers in Nigeria, there is a lack of similar resources for their spouses (Oyediran, 2005). This lack of training can leave spouses ill-prepared to handle the challenges and responsibilities associated with ministry work. It can also lead to feelings of inadequacy and frustration, which can negatively impact the success of the ministry.

The fourth issue is the potential for conflict between the demands of ministry work and the needs of the marriage. Ministry work can be demanding and time-consuming, and this can put a strain on marriages (Adegoke, 2013). Without proper support and understanding, this can lead to marital discord, which can in turn negatively impact the success of the ministry.

The role of spouses in achieving success in ministry in Nigeria is a complex issue that requires further research and attention. Addressing this issue will require a multifaceted approach, including empirical research, cultural sensitivity, and the development of appropriate training and support resources for spouses involved in ministry.

1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine Marriage and Ministry: The role of spouses in achieving success. The specific objectives of the Study are:

  1. To explore the influence of marital relationships on the success of ministry work.
  2. To understand the roles spouses play in supporting their partners in ministry.
  3. To investigate the challenges and benefits experienced by spouses involved in ministry work.
  4. To examine the coping strategies employed by spouses in managing both marriage and ministry responsibilities.
  5. To identify the factors that contribute to a successful balance between marriage and ministry.

1.4. Research Questions

The following research questions were buttressed for the study:

  1. How does the marital relationship influence the success of ministry work?
  2. What roles do spouses play in supporting their partners in ministry?
  3. What are the challenges and benefits experienced by spouses involved in ministry work?
  4. What coping strategies are employed by spouses in managing both marriage and ministry responsibilities?
  5. What factors contribute to a successful balance between marriage and ministry?

 1.5  Research Hypothesis

The following hypothetical statement was developed for the study.

Ho:  Spousal role has no significant contribution to successful marriage and ministry.

H1:  Spousal role has significant contribution to successful marriage and ministry

1.6. Significance of the Study

The study “Marriage and Ministry: The Role of Spouses in Achieving Success” holds significant value in understanding the dynamics of marital relationships within the context of ministry work. It provides a comprehensive analysis of how marital relationships can influence the success of ministry work. This is crucial as it can help religious institutions and couples involved in ministry to understand the importance of a healthy marital relationship in achieving their ministry goals.

The second significance of this study lies in its exploration of the roles spouses play in supporting their partners in ministry. This aspect is often overlooked in traditional ministry studies, but it is a critical factor in the success or failure of ministry work. By shedding light on this, the study can help couples in ministry to better understand and appreciate each other’s roles, leading to more effective teamwork and a more successful ministry.

Thirdly, the study investigates the challenges and benefits experienced by spouses involved in ministry work. This is significant as it provides a balanced view of the realities of being involved in ministry work as a couple. The findings from this aspect of the study can be used to provide guidance and support for couples considering entering ministry work, as well as those already involved.

The fourth significance of this study is its examination of the coping strategies employed by spouses in managing both marriage and ministry responsibilities. This is a unique aspect of the study that can provide valuable insights for couples struggling to balance their marital and ministry responsibilities. The coping strategies identified in the study can serve as a guide for these couples, helping them to manage their responsibilities more effectively.

Fifthly, the study identifies the factors that contribute to a successful balance between marriage and ministry. This is significant as it can help couples in ministry to prioritize and focus on the factors that will most likely lead to success in both their marriage and ministry work. This can lead to more successful ministries and healthier marriages.

Lastly, the study’s significance extends beyond the couples involved in ministry work. It can also be a valuable resource for religious institutions, marriage counselors, and anyone interested in understanding the dynamics of marriage and ministry. The findings from the study can be used to develop programs and interventions aimed at supporting couples in ministry, ultimately leading to stronger religious communities.

1.7 Scope of the Study

The study examines marriage and Ministry: The role of spouses in achieving success. The study is restricted to RCCG Church in Lagos, Nigeria.

 

1.8  Operational Definition of Terms

The definition of terms are stated below:

  1. Marriage: This is a legally or formally recognized union of two people as partners in a personal relationship, typically a union between a man and a woman. It is often viewed as a contract.
  1. Ministry: In a religious context, ministry is the service, functions, or profession of a minister of religion. It involves preaching, conducting religious services, administering sacraments, and providing other services to the community.
  1. Spouses: A spouse is a significant other in a marriage, civil union, or common-law marriage. The term is gender neutral, whereas a male spouse is a husband and a female spouse is a wife.
  1. Success: Success can be defined as the accomplishment of an aim or purpose. It is often measured as the result of hard work and dedication. In the context of this study, success could refer to the effective functioning of a ministry or a harmonious marital relationship.
  1. Church: A church is a building used for public Christian worship. It can also refer to the worldwide body of Christian believers, a local Christian congregation, or a Christian denomination.
  1. RCCG: The Redeemed Christian Church of God (RCCG) is a Pentecostal megachurch and denomination founded in Lagos, Nigeria. The General overseer (most senior pastor) is Enoch Adeboye. The church in Lagos has an average church attendance of 100,000.

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