Project – A comparative analysis of Financial Prosperity among Selected Churches in Nigeria.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background of The Study

Financial prosperity among churches is a topic that has been extensively studied, with a focus on the factors that contribute to the financial health and growth of these institutions. According to Chaves and Miller (1999), the financial prosperity of churches is often linked to the size of the congregation, the level of member commitment, and the effectiveness of fundraising strategies. They argue that larger congregations tend to have more financial resources due to the higher number of contributors, while smaller churches may struggle to maintain financial stability.

In contrast, a study by Hoge et al. (2006) suggests that the financial prosperity of churches is not solely dependent on the size of the congregation. They found that churches with a strong sense of community and high levels of member engagement often have better financial health, regardless of their size. This suggests that the relationship between congregation size and financial prosperity is not as straightforward as previously thought.

Another perspective is offered by Zech (2011), who argues that the financial prosperity of churches is closely tied to their management practices. Churches that employ sound financial management strategies, such as budgeting and financial planning, tend to be more financially prosperous. This view is supported by a study by Brierley (2013), who found a positive correlation between financial management practices and financial prosperity among churches.

However, not all researchers agree with this perspective. For instance, a study by Roozen (2014) suggests that the financial prosperity of churches is more closely related to their theological orientation than their management practices. According to Roozen, churches that adhere to a more conservative theological orientation tend to be more financially prosperous, possibly due to the higher levels of member commitment and giving.

In conclusion, the financial prosperity of churches is a complex issue that is influenced by a variety of factors. While some researchers argue that congregation size and management practices are key determinants, others suggest that community engagement and theological orientation play a more significant role. Further research is needed to fully understand the dynamics of financial prosperity among churches.

Webster’s defines prosperity as ”flourishing, thriving, or experiencing good fortune.” When many looked at this definition, I’m sure they think it has something to do with money, possessions, or achievement. This is definitely not the way the church should look at it because this is not the Lord’s definition.

Prosperity for the church must always have to do with the spiritual and must always include God’s blessings. There are churches that God cannot bless. The most prosperous churches may not be the largest.

Given the current proliferation of Christians’ believe in financial prosperity of a social gathering like churches, financial prosperity is increasingly becoming a prominent feature of Christianity. Its popularity premised mostly on the following factors: firstly, this believe presents itself as holding the key to the material prosperity of members and as being the embodiment of modernity. Secondly, it promises members with the arsenal for overcoming financial threats, depressions, unhappiness and any malignant spirit through a living hope in the all-sufficient God.

Adherents also tend to interpret the new testament as portraying Jesus as a relatively rich figure who used his wealth to feed the needy on several occasion and to finance what they argue to had been a fairly costly itinerate ministry. As such, prosperity adherents of The Gospel Faith Mission International, God’s Mercy Assembly, Odopetu district and Winners Chapel, Oda road province, Akure. Argue that Christians should model their lives after Jesus by living in financial prosperity.

Project – A comparative analysis of Financial Prosperity among Selected Churches in Nigeria