Project – THE IMPACT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT ON CHURCH LEADERSHIP

 

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background Of The Study

During the time of Augustine and Chrysostom, a major proponent of this view who was also the first articulate spokesman is Hippolytus, a contemporary of Tertullian. He held the view that prophecy ended with Apostle John whose apocalypse was the last valid prophecy to have come from the Holy Spirit.[1] According to Arthur cited in Asamoah, tongue speaking as a gift of the Holy Spirit is for a sign not to believers but to unbelievers. It was never intended for only believers but to also convince unbelievers.[2] To him, miracles, healings and tongue speaking were used to confirm believers and to convince unbelievers; and after the New Testament work has been completed, nothing in Scripture indicates miracle, healings and deliverance of the apostolic era were to continue.

The Holy Spirit is one of the most neglected and abandoned aspects of Christian theology.[3] The strict puritanical control of behavior leads to a dispensational view of the Holy Spirit confining Him to the early church. The Holy Spirit is treated in popular Christianity basically for healing and performing miracles. The classical dispensationalist

believers but convince unbelievers.[4] To him, miracles, healings and tongue speaking were used to confirm believers and to convince unbelievers; and after the New Testament work has been completed, nothing in Scripture indicates miracle, healings and deliverance of the apostolic era were to continue.

In the West, in Latin orthodoxy, the work of the Holy Spirit has not received the prominence He deserves. The Western orthodoxy traces the Holy Spirit to the Father and the Son. This is reflected in the Filioque debate between the Greek East and Latin West. However, the Eastern orthodoxy church subordinates the Holy Spirit to the Father only, it rejects the procession of the Holy Spirit from the Son.[5] The Holy Spirit personality and function have been denied in a most open and undisguised manner. Unsettled opinion and doubt prevail on this issue of the Holy Spirit to a surprising degree everywhere even among those who profess to accept the authoritative words of the prophet, apostles and the sayings of Jesus Christ. Yet this is the truth which is firmly embedded in Scriptures and unmistakable teaching of Christ.[6]

However, proponents of the Holy Spirit such as Michael Green, boldly declared, It is simply not the case that healing, prophecy, exorcism and speaking in tongues died out with the last apostle’. Scholars including Calkins have observed that wherever Christianity has become a living power, the personality, functions and the role of the Holy Spirit has uniformly been regarded equally with the atonement and justification by faith as the article of a standing or a falling church. Other theologians advocate the view that a vital apprehension of this truth of the Holy Spirit as the energizing force can redeem the individual and the corporate church from the apathy of an uninspired orthodoxy, of a formal ritual or a purely secular activity and cause it to be what God designed it to be.[7] This study will focus on the Impact of the Holy Spirit on Church leadership in contemporary church.

1.2 Statement of the problem

The researcher observed that though some Pentecostal churches in Nigeria profess spirituality but there is a gross neglect of the place and role of the Holy Spirit in both their administrative and spiritual work-frame. Most of who only use human psychology and philosophy to organize programmes and church activities professing them to be by the leading of the Holy Spirit which is not. It is thus, very crucial to have a recall to this problem and proffer a probable solution.

1.3 Purpose of Study

The researcher purposes that this work would be an eye opener to all members and ministers alike of the Pentecostal churches in order to see the missing point and have a quick turnaround as to the priority of the ministry of the Holy Spirit as they await the second advent of Christ and elucidate the Impact of the Holy Spirit on Church leadership. The specific objectives are:

1. To find out who is the Holy Spirit
2. To examine the Gift of the Holy Spirit
3. To Evaluate the Role of the Holy Spirit in Pentecostal churches
4. To find out the Ministry of the Holy Spirit
5. Examine the Impact of the Holy Spirit on Church leadership the contemporary church.

1.4. Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. Who is the Holy Spirit according to theological interpretations and traditions?
2. What are the characteristics and significance of the Gift of the Holy Spirit in various Christian denominations?
3. How is the role of the Holy Spirit perceived and practiced within Pentecostal churches?
4. What is the nature and scope of the Ministry of the Holy Spirit in contemporary Christian contexts?
5. How does the Holy Spirit influence leadership practices within the contemporary church?

1.5 Significance of the study

The impact of the Holy Spirit on church leadership is a critical area of study that offers profound insights into the dynamics of faith communities. Understanding how the Holy Spirit influences leadership practices can enhance the effectiveness of church governance and foster a deeper spiritual connection among leaders and congregants. This research holds significance for both theoretical and practical applications, as it bridges the gap between theology and lived experience within church communities.

Firstly, exploring the role of the Holy Spirit in church leadership provides a theological framework that enriches leadership practices. The Holy Spirit is often seen as the divine guide who empowers leaders to make decisions rooted in faith rather than purely human wisdom. By studying this influence, church leaders can gain a more profound understanding of their spiritual responsibilities, leading to decisions that reflect biblical principles and values. This theological foundation serves to align the leadership’s mission with a higher purpose, fostering a more authentic expression of faith within the church.

Secondly, this study highlights the transformative nature of spiritual leadership. When leaders are attuned to the guidance of the Holy Spirit, they are more likely to cultivate an environment of trust, inspiration, and collaboration within their congregations. This research can illuminate the ways in which leaders who rely on the Holy Spirit can inspire and motivate their congregants, leading to increased engagement and participation in church activities. Understanding these dynamics can empower leaders to develop strategies that foster spiritual growth and community building.

Moreover, examining the impact of the Holy Spirit on leadership can enhance conflict resolution strategies within church settings. Conflicts are inevitable in any organization, but leaders who are sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance may approach disputes with a spirit of reconciliation and humility. This study can reveal methods for leaders to seek divine wisdom during challenging situations, promoting harmony and unity within the church. As leaders embody the principles of grace and forgiveness, congregations can witness the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in action.

Additionally, this research underscores the importance of discernment in leadership. The Holy Spirit is often associated with wisdom and understanding, qualities essential for effective decision-making. By exploring how church leaders cultivate discernment through prayer, scripture, and community engagement, this study can provide practical insights into fostering a culture of spiritual sensitivity. Such discernment can lead to more informed and spiritually aligned decisions that resonate with the needs of the congregation and the broader community.

Furthermore, the impact of the Holy Spirit on leadership extends beyond the church walls, influencing how leaders engage with the surrounding community. Leaders who are guided by the Holy Spirit are often more attuned to social justice issues, compassion, and outreach initiatives. This research can illuminate how spiritual leadership translates into action, encouraging churches to actively participate in addressing societal challenges. By understanding this connection, church leaders can enhance their role as agents of change in their communities, embodying the mission of the church beyond its internal dynamics.

In conclusion, studying the impact of the Holy Spirit on church leadership is significant for its theological, practical, and social implications. It equips leaders with the understanding and tools necessary to navigate the complexities of modern church life while remaining faithful to their spiritual calling. As leaders grow in their relationship with the Holy Spirit, they can foster vibrant, transformative communities that reflect the love and mission of Christ, ultimately impacting both the church and the world around them.

This study will be of great benefit to;

1. All Pentecostal ministers. To re-awaking those who have neglected the place of the Holy Spirit and encourage those who are been discouraged due to the influence of others.
2. All those who yearn to experience the move of the Holy Spirit as at Pentecost.
3. The church at large to examine the authenticity of the usual programmes if they are actually led by the Holy Spirit.
4. All intending ministers to prioritize right relationship with the Holy Spirit as the tutor and mentor of their ministries.

1.6          Limitation to the study

Parts of the constraints that the researcher was faced with during this work were inadequacy of handy materials, lack of personal electronic gadget (Laptop), internet-enabled phones and finances. More so, unwillingness of several ministers to say the truth about either been led by the Holy Spirit for a programme or not.

1.7          Delimitation of the study.

This study is basically focused on the Impact of the Holy Spirit on Church leadership. So administration of questionnaire are limited to Pentecostal pastors and leaders.

1.8          Research Methodology

This research is mainly library based. Libraries were consulted such as LIFE Theological Seminary Library and other libraries available to the researcher. Information was also gotten from friends and folks of the researcher while internet sources were greatly used and referenced.

1.9          Definitions of Terms.

Church: A group of Christians.

Contemporary: A person or thing living or existing at the same time as another.

Holy Spirit: The Spirit of God who dwells in the lives of Christians and governs the Church.

Pentecostal: Constituting any various Christian religious bodies that emphasize individual experiences of grace, spiritual gift (such as glossolalia and faith healing), expressive worship, and evangelism.

Role: A prescribed or expected behavior associated with a particular position or status in a group or organization.

Project – THE IMPACT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT ON CHURCH LEADERSHIP