The Origin, Impact and Challenges of Pentecostal Churches in Nigeria 1930-2018

Abstract

Pentecostal Church started many years ago as a small
mustard seed. Presently it has recorded various social,
spiritual and economic growths. More so, it has
contributed in the building of mission schools and other
noticeable economic ventures that continued to change
the social and spiritual life of many in Nigeria. The
study adopted analytical, descriptive and historical
methods of research and brought to the fore the impacts
of the Pentecostal churches on the growth of
Christianity in Nigeria. Most of the Pentecostal
churches have become a stakeholder in the annals of
Christianity in Nigeria and beyond. Structurally, many
Universities, industries and other establishments have
been built by some of these Pentecostal churches. It
was however discovered that through the style of
worship adopted by Pentecostal churches they were
able to contextualise the Christian faith and thus
enhanced growth. Moreover, the study recommends
that Pentecostal churches should concentrate on the
message of the cross that led to the death of Jesus Christ
at the Cross of Calvary. In addition, a message of total
unity should be placed at a high premium particularly as
it concerns all Pentecostal churches in Nigeria.