Doctor of Ministry (DMin)

Permanent URI for this collectionhttps://192.168.0.29/handle/123456789/131

Browse

Now showing 1 - 20 of 112

A Biblical and Missiological Approach to Discipling Muslim Background Believers in Northern Nigeria
(Adventist University of Africa, 2016-09) Maviah, Ibrahim D.
The Seventh-day Adventist Church was established in northern Nigeria in the 1930s. To-date, the church has grown to a Union Conference of three local Conferences with a total membership of about 39,984 members. In over 80 years of the church’s existence in the north, converts from a Muslim background in the church today still compose less than 0.07% of the total membership. Having served as the Adventist-Muslim Relations Coordinator for three years, it is evident from my experience that the church passionately desires for the conversion and spiritual nurture of Muslims; yet, the active involvement of membership and the achieved results are regrettably below expectations. Over the years, the few converts from Islam that were accommodated in the homes of either pastors or members turned to be a burden to them and to the churches. It is also very unfortunate to hear that some of the converts robbed the churches or families where they were accommodated and ran away. These kinds of experiences raise suspicions, affect mutual relationships, and kill the spirit of witnessing. This dissertation studied the challenges of discipling converts from Muslim religious backgrounds and developed, implemented and evaluated a process for empowering church members to disciple MBBs in a way that will maximize their retention in the church. The study first established a theological foundation for discipling the MBBs. Beginning from the last command of Jesus to his disciples that required them to make disciples of all nations, the study described who a disciple is and what is discipleship. Moreover, reaching all nations entails transcending cultural and language barriers, contextualizing the message become inevitable. Hence, the study defined and provided a biblical basis for contextualization. The study researched literatures to glean what Missiologists and others have said and done in regard to MBBs discipleship. Bevans, Hiebert, and Travis models of contextualization were studied. The two outstanding approaches that are experimented by many in discipling MBBs are Extractionism and FDIC (Insider) methods. However, the form, nature, and extent to which these contextualization approaches are to be done has remained a point of debate. This study agreed with the extraction approach because it is more biblical. In order to increase the retention of the very few converts from Islam, it was necessary to discover the challenges that such converts are faced with and possible factors that give rise to backsliding among them. The study designed survey instruments and gathered information from well informed individuals. It was revealed by the surveys that: The MBBs faced real challenges; The The church needs an MBBs discipleship ministry; Relevant discipleship materials and frequent training are necessary, and there is a need for MBBs empowerment. On the basis of the foregoing findings, the study designed and implemented the following interventions. First, awareness-creating and motivational workshops and seminars were held. Second, a special MBBs discipleship ministry was formed, trained and equipped in the local church. Third, an empowerment scheme for helping the convert to become self-reliant was to be put in place. Fourth, a discipleship manual is developed and members are motivated and trained to disciple MBBs. This project has started well. When this ministry survives and is replicated in all the churches in northern Nigeria, it is potentially going to increase the overall retention of the MBBs.MBBs are better nurtured individually; The Church does not have ongoing Discipleship programs for MBBs;
A Biblical Based Ministry to Seventh-day Adventist Members in Mixed Marriages within Bulawayo Churches of the South Zimbabwe Conference
(Adventist University of Africa, 2016-08) Sibanda, Jefrety
This study sought to trace what the Bible, Ellen White and contemporary writers have said about mixed marriages. Using the mixed methods research approach the study further investigated the prevalence of such marriages amongst Adventists, and the nature of challenges they experienced. Employing the use of questionnaires and purposive focus group interviews and discussion, the researcher identified the predominant challenges that beset Adventists in unequally yoked marriages. This included intolerance of their faith by their spouses and extended families, being coaxed to participate in spiritualistic rituals, raising Godly children, how to win their spouses to their faith and spiritual compromise. Having identified that a significant number of Adventists in mixed marriages experienced myriad challenges, which negatively affected their spiritual, social and marital lives, the researcher designed an intervention strategy to minister to members in such marriages. An implementation of the intervention ministry strategy was implemented and evaluated.
A Biblical Model of Evangelism to Reach the Ijebus in South-West Nigeria
(Adventist University of Africa, 2017-01) Ogunsanya, Sunday Olubunmi
At the departure of Jesus Christ from the earth, he mandated his followers to preach the gospel message to all nations, kindred and to all ethnic groups in which the Ijebus are not left out of this mandate (Matt.28:19 – 20). It has been observed that the gospel message of Seventh-day Adventist Church has not reached the people of Ijebu land, South-West Nigeria in totality, except for few towns and villages around the church institution (Babcock University). Even where the presence of the church had been established, only a few indigenes of Ijebus are members of Adventist Church. The need to reach out to the Ijebus has given birth to this research project where strategies are designed to ameliorate this challenge. The purpose of this study was to develop and implement a biblically based model of evangelism to reach the Ijebu ethnic group with the Adventist message. In the process of investigating this challenge and developing various possible strategies to be implemented, a careful study of the scriptures on God’s purpose to reach other nations of the world was carried out. Then, various literature were consulted and reviewed on church planting and reaching unreached groups of people. Ilisan-west District has been carefully chosen to carry out this study where qualitative research method was used with focus groups and interview. At the end of the focus group discussion, the result was analyzed, and an intervention was designed to meet up this challenge. The intervention designed are; the establishment of an “Indigenous Church: Yoruba Speaking Church” and the second is “Members Involvement in Evangelism.” At the end of the whole exercise, the intervention was evaluated, and it was confirmed successful with the establishment of another Yoruba Church which will serve as a base to send pioneers and missionary teams to the mission field. With the use of Yoruba speaking as members especially, Ijebu indigenes, a church was established in Isara - Remo with many indigenes as members, and the recent baptism records during this program confirms that most of them are the Ijebus. Lastly, members joyfully participated in the two programs which was revealed through their involvement, and the end results really encouraged them to continue. The implementation of the intervention re-generates the awareness of involving the members in evangelism activities. The members and the church leaders appreciate their involvement in this intervention. This has informed them of their participation in witnessing will revive the church, increase soul-winning, and improve their spiritual life.
A Discipleship Approach for Every Member Evangelism in Boronyi Church, South Kenya Conference
(Adventist University of Africa, 2017-02) Ratemo, Clifford Mobisa
This study was to examine how discipling members of Boronyi district, Kisii County, can increase their capacity for every member evangelism. The researcher developed a discipleship model which is in nature indigenous for the church. It was based on field surveys, interviews and questionnaires to analyze the findings. The paper included data from history, ongoing research, surveys, and information of successful discipleship programs some of which have been developed by other churches. The research was guided by three objectives: establish factors that negatively affect non-participation of members in winning others to Christ, investigate strategies to increase participation in activities that contribute to witnessing to faith on an individual basis, develop and implement a discipleship program that empowers church members to be totally involved in telling others the good news. The study was justified based on the facts given by members of Boronyi SDA Church, and available literature on the discipling of Church members was used. The study focused almost entirely on historical, theological and cultural norms of discipleship. Thus, the study contributed to fill this knowledge gap. The research design was descriptive and cross-sectional in nature. The sample size was 150 respondents. This research was guided by the agenda setting theory that if a topic is covered frequently and prominently, the audience will regard the issue as more important and contextual. The research was conducted using questionnaires and interviews in data collection since it contained both quantitative and qualitative information. The researcher used the findings to determine how discipling the members of Boronyi SDA Church can cause every member to be involved in spreading the gospel. Secondary data was obtained from journals and other scholarly works. Using SPSS (Statistical Package for the Social Sciences) data was analyzed and presented by use of tables and graphs. From analyzed data, the researcher discovered that discipleship through effective Biblical methods can guarantee successful equipping of the church with the necessary tools to cause multiplication of members. Other discipleship programs made and done in the West could be contextualized to Boronyi SDA Church as long as the focus of mission was not lost.
A Discipleship Program for the Pygmies of Malondo in Kivu Region of the Democratic Republic of Congo
(Adventist University of Africa, 2017-02) Malembe, Tatasi Fils
Discipling pygmies remains a great challenge for the church in the North Kivu Field of the Democratic Republic of Congo. Since making disciples is the primary activity of the church and the main goal of Christianity, discipling the pygmies is a priority in Malondo. This study investigated various causes of backsliding among pygmies particularly in Malondo SDA Church. The study explores Jesus’ declaration in Matthew 28:18-19 commonly known as the Great Commission as well as other literature on Jesus’ discipleship methodology. Two separate focus groups, comprising Malondo SDA Church members and the pygmies were used to collect data to meet the purpose of the study. Each group was composed of seven members. The researcher developed a Biblical intervention which dealt with discipleship and backsliding challenges. Some were related to social care, others to economic and spiritual care. This intervention was implemented through sermons, seminars, evangelism and social work, over a seven-month period. The evaluation took place at the end of the exercise and results were satisfying. The research findings showed changes in attitudes and perceptions in each group. This is shown by the persistence of the small groups made up of Pygmies and members. The average rate of participation in Sabbath programs during a period of six months was 51.3 percent. This means that half of the baptized pygmies attended church each Sabbath. The researcher recommends that any other person intending to do research work among the pygmies should explore other areas of their lives and contribute new information on the same. From this study, the researcher learned a number of lessons that have enriched spiritual life. The researcher also made a certain number of recommendations that could help the next researcher studying the same people group along with recommendations to the local church leadership as well as to the local conference that will be helpful in doing more to help make pygmies disciples.
A Discipleship Programme for the Pastors of the Northern Conference of South Africa
(Adventist University of Africa, 2017-02) Fourie, Joseph Johannes
The researcher noticed in his life as a district pastor, as well as in his years as Ministerial Secretary for 65 pastors, that an intimate relationship with Jesus Christ is the only thing that can safeguard a pastor from failure. This is also shown in the Bible with the giants of faith – Abraham, Daniel, David, etc. Too many pastors lose their way or resign because they are not true disciples of God. In doing the research, the goal was to develop a program that pastors can follow to ensure a long pastoral life. From the researcher’s perspective, a sign of a true disciple of the Lord is someone who regularly takes part in spiritual disciplines, such as Bible study, prayer, stewardship, etc. In conducting the research, the researcher decided to use pastors in the conference where he served as the participants in the research project. The group of pastors (N=65) filled out a questionnaire at the beginning of the study, the different interventions followed in the next eighteen-month period, after which the pastors again completed the questionnaire. The results were then analyzed and collated to form the intervention for a discipleship plan. After doing the research, the data was collected, and the results were compared. The researcher hypothesized that the improvement in the time pastors spent in the different spiritual disciplines as outlined in the paper would then give rise to the fundamental premise of a spiritual discipleship program. This research was not considered futile, as it could have been that the time for the intervention implement was too short due to constraints on the researcher and participants. This research study and results could form a foundation for use in further study into the topic of improving and enhancing the spiritual well-being of pastors in their districts. It is generally realized that determining spirituality is not an easy task. In conclusion, to fully realize the potential benefit of the intervention more time should have been given for interventions to continue. As pastors are typically assumed to be at a high level of spirituality, it will, therefore, take time for them to hear, assimilate and implement the different aspects of spiritual maturity into their own lives. A control group of members should have been used to get the comparison between pastor and member spirituality.
A Holistic Strategy to Mentor Persons with an Addiction to Alcohol in the Kanyadhiang Seventh-day Adventist Church, Kenya
(Adventist University of Africa, 2022-04) Otula, Azaria Otieno
This study focused on developing a strategy to mentor persons with an addiction to alcohol and integrate them into church life and ministry. Following an initial non-empirical observation, the researcher observed that newly baptized persons with an addiction to alcohol at the Kanyadhiang Seventh-day Adventist Church quickly relapse after a short stay in the church. The study examined biblical principles of mentoring and reviews related literature to develop a strategy for the recovery of persons with an addiction to alcohol in the church. In addition, the study investigates the reasons why they relapse to drinking after baptism. To solve the problem, the researcher used a mixed research method, which is a combination of qualitative and quantitative methods. This involved digging into concepts, characteristics, symbols, and descriptions. This approach gave the researcher sufficient opportunity to delve into possible solutions to the research questions: What biblical-theological strategies are appropriate for an effective and viable mentorship program in the church community? What reasons make newly baptized members to relapse into alcoholism? And how do old members relate to newly baptized members? The mixed-method helped the researcher to gain a more complete picture of the research than the stand-alone quantitative and qualitative methods would do. The data gathered revealed reasons why persons with an addiction to alcohol are not retained in the Kanyadhiang Seventh-day Adventist Church. The reasons included a poor relationship with church members and a lack of a concrete program to disciple new converts. The study, therefore, attempts to develop a program geared towards teaching and mentoring baptized persons with addiction to alcohol to spiritually support them.
A Missiological Response to Split-Level Christianity among Seventh-day Adventist Christians in South Zimbabwe Conference
(Adventist University of Africa, 2017-02) Ndlovu, Thamsanqa
Missionary activities in Zimbabwe can be traced back to the 1400s. Those activities led to the opening of the first Christian mission station in Inyati, in Matabeleland North, close to Bulawayo in 1859. This mission was established by the London Missionary Society. In 1894, the Seventh-day Adventist Church was established at Solusi, in Matebeleland South, 50 kilometers outside Bulawayo. Therefore, Christianity is almost two centuries old in Zimbabwe. In such a scenario, one would expect that, by now, Christians in Zimbabwe have outgrown challenges emerging from the African traditional religious worldview. While the Seventh-day Adventist Church was established 123 years ago in the South Zimbabwe Conference territory, it is mind boggling to discover that some members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church are still reported to patronize African traditional religious practitioners especially during times of crisis. The concern of this paper was to find practical ways of addressing this problem. In this paper, this phenomenon is referred to as split-level Christianity, it manifests itself as syncretism or dual allegiance. Therefore, to respond appropriately, the researcher set out to investigate the underlying causes of split-level Christianity among members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in South Zimbabwe Conference. A qualitative research approach was used to unravel the issues of concern for this research. Interviews were the main source of data collection. In-depth interviews with three pastors, three elders and six church members were conducted. These interviews were complemented by focus group discussions and general observations. During the interviews, the respondents did not show any lack of Biblical knowledge or requirements regarding both dual allegiance and syncretism. It became apparent that they lacked the fortitude to remain faithful to God during times of crisis. They succumbed to fear and community pressure. Some revealed that they participated in witch-hunting rituals in solidarity with their community. Data significantly showed that a significant number of Seventh-day Adventist Christians visit or are inclined to visit traditional healers and diviners during times of uncertainty and crisis. Respondents also indicated that the church lacked a systematic way of dealing with their needs, hence split-level Christianity. Resultant data was used to develop a worldview transformation program aimed at counteracting split-level Christianity. Consequently, this study culminated with a worldview transformation intervention initiative as a response to split-level Christianity. Several programs were conducted. On evaluating this initiative, there was evidence of a breakthrough. The respondents openly stated their areas of deficiency in their Christian experience as a result of the worldview transformation initiative. Respondents exhibited an understanding of their condition in relation to God’s revelation. They were now also able to identify reliance to God as their only option to a better life. Therefore, a worldview transformation program is recommended as a means of dealing with split-level Christianity in this study.
A Missiological Strategy to Address Witchcraft Allegations at Matingo Seventh-day Adventist Church in Central Malawi Conference
(Adventist University of Africa, 2017-02) Gumbala, Joe Elliott Noah
This dissertation was an attempt to develop a missiological strategy as a response to the adverse impact of witchcraft allegations found among the members of the Matingo Seventh-day Adventist Church (SDA) in Central Malawi Conference. Since many members of this church were alleged to practice witchcraft, the doctrines of the church were no longer valued, church attendance had greatly dropped, and the mission of the church had been seriously obstructed. Furthermore, these witchcraft allegations had brought reproach upon the church. The purpose of this dissertation was to develop, implement, and evaluate a strategy to respond to the underlying reasons, reduce witchcraft allegations, and enhance member's church attendance. Towards this endeavor, the study tried to explore what precipitated these allegations. It deduced that witchcraft practices were almost a daily occurrence among the dwellers of Chimowa Village. The majority of members of the Matingo SDA Church hailed from this village. Witchcraft practices, including sorcery, magic, divinations, and ancestral worship were accepted as part and parcel of their culture. The villagers considered that witchcraft and ancestors were the main causes of diseases and unexplainable misfortunes. Although they accepted that nature, ecological factors, and environmental dangers could bring about calamities, the people still believed that someone was responsible for these. Witch-hunts and allegations then followed the day-to-day life of the villagers. Thus, the people lived in fear. They did not trust each other, even those who lived in the same household. This was the worldview of Chimowa villagers. Consequently, the people who joined the Matingo SDA Church, which is within their reach, continued to harness this mindset. So, whatever took place in the village spilled over into the church. This was understandable because some of the church members were heads of their clans. As such, they were traditional protectors of their clans. This was the hypothesis behind witchcraft allegations in the church. The qualitative approach which was used in this research revealed this hypothesis to be apparent. This research method used personal interviews and focus groups to collect data. Since witchcraft is a mystic phenomenon, a twenty-one evangelistic campaign was held in Chimowa Village to help both the villagers and the church members to banish away the fear of witchcraft practices and avail themselves of the power of the gospel as found in the Bible. Sermons on power encounters, Bible studies on God’s admonitions on witchcraft practices, a one-week seminar on the great controversy theme, and follow-up visits to the entire village augmented the evangelistic campaign. Through this intervention, it was hoped that witchcraft practices would be reduced in the church. Members would trust each other and experience the power of God which saves to the uttermost. The fear of evil spirits which hovered over the people as a thick cloud would vanish away. This would enhance church attendance which had dwindled downwards. Recommendations were suggested to the conference, and a working manual would be developed.
A Premarital Family Life Enrichment Curriculum for Adventist Youth Educators in Kasama Central, Lualuo and New Town Churches of Kasama West Mission District, Zambia
(Adventist University of Africa, 2016-09-01) Sichilima, Willard
A problem and concern within the Seventh-day Adventist Church is that many young people are getting married without having sufficient knowledge about marriage before they get married. This lack of information may lead to problems later in the marriage. Kasama Central, New Town, and Lualuo Churches do not have an intensive preventive premarital family life program, no qualified personnel and inadequate family life materials dedicated to helping young people through the personnel who would be trained to handle issues of marriage. Therefore, there is need to develop a premarital family life curriculum and enrichment seminars for Adventist youths in these targeted churches. The purpose of the dissertation was to develop, then implement and evaluate family enrichment seminar materials and training of premarital Family Life Educators to help youths benefit from preventive premarital family life education. The method used was the closed questionnaire. The approach used was qualitative so that the information helped in achieving workable solutions and helped the researcher to understand the problem from the point of view of the people who responded to the questionnaire. The researcher used the logframe matrix to map out the study aim, goal and objective that verify the key assumptions of the premarital family life education activities. Then the Gantt chart was used to map out the project over time and the project implementation. The results and findings of the research revealed that though there is normalcy in Kasama Central, New Town and Lualuo Church with regard to marriage but the influence of modernity and postmodernity is influencing marriages negatively. Thus, the conclusion show that if there is an emphasis on the family life education, some young people would be reclaimed so that they have better marriages and families other than following the evasion that is not according to God’s will. The programs could act as preventive measures towards the negative vices that affect young people. Therefore, if the unique work of premarital family life education which deals with prevention therapy would be implemented it could reduce the crucible that the youths would get involved if taught before they enter into marriage. It would help those who want to marry to understand the strength and weakness found in each partner. The recommendation is that there be an intense training of trainers who can help train the personnel who, in turn, would train others so that young people can be prepared to meet the challenges found in marriage. Another recommendation is to also provide materials that can be used by marriage educators.
A Program for Minimizing Divorce Rate among Seventh-day Adventist Church Members in Central Zimbabwe Conference
(Adventist University of Africa, 2017-02) Ncube, Dumisani
As a response to the alarming upward trend of the divorce rate in Central Zimbabwe Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the researcher developed and implemented a comprehensive intervention strategy as a way of minimizing the divorce rate among couples in cognizance of the contributory factors. It was observed that divorce hinders the well-being of families and the missionary work of the church. Divorce was found to be a real problem—one that God did not command, but only permitted as a concession. The intervention strategy was developed based on the survey involving 178 participants, who were both males and females. The quantitative methodology of research was used and questionnaires were administered. A total number of 80 people participated in the implementation of the program of which 70 were couples and 10 were female spouses. The study involved males and females aged eighteen years and above. The marriage institution and the development of divorce were thoroughly investigated with reference to cultural diversity and significance. Data was collected using questionnaires, analysed and interpreted accordingly. The program was then evaluated in line with the responses. The major findings revealed that unfaithfulness among couples was the chief cause of divorce which represents 67%. The other contributory factors were money issues and sexual deprivation among couples which represents 10% and 8%, respectively. A comprehensive curriculum was designed in response to the findings and three seminars with 18 sessions were conducted. Five facilitators, including the researcher, took part in the program from start to finish. Almost all of the participants indicated that the intervention program benefited them and minimized divorce. The whole program culminated with a couples outing held at a local primary school. During this time all couples who participated were certificated in marriage vows renewal. Finally, it was found that marriage is a God-oriented institution and divorce was born through the hard heartedness of the human race. The initial purpose of the research was to develop and implement a strategy aimed at minimizing divorce through seminars. The goal was realised, but there remains a lot to be researched in this area. Based on the findings, recommendations are made to pastors that they be skilled in topics relating to sexuality in order to assist congregations in this area. It is recommended that educational institutions that offer church growth studies make family matters part of the curriculum since it has proved to be fruitful in terms of evangelism. Further research on the subject is recommended since culture is dynamic and impacting factors may change.
A skills acquisition program to empower abused young girls in Epworth suburb, Harare, Zimbabwe
(Adventist University of Africa, 2023-04) Mashonganyika, Kenneth Tamuka
Aim The aim of this project is to alleviate the attitude of neglecting and disregarding of the young girls in the satellite town of Epworth. I observed that many families give no respect or even listen to the girl child in the informal settlements of this town. The girls are left to fend for themselves from the age of ten until they reach womanhood. This neglect and disregard have led many girls into prostitution and abuse by the same community which acts as guardians to them. Purpose The purpose of this project is to develop, implement and evaluate a viable intervention program of action to empower the young girls in Epworth with projects such as dressmaking, computer learning, commercial gardening, poultry, hairdressing, vending and social activities such as soccer. The program was supported by the community, and all the stakeholders to determine its impact on reliability and validity. Method To meaningfully empower the girl child in the informal settlements of Epworth, the researcher used the qualitative method for the research process. After an examination of the problem through data derived from three focus groups and observations, the researcher and the trainer of trainers (TOT) designed a training program of dressmaking for the forty-five abused girls which started from March 4, 2019, to April 12, 2019, at the Oasis Centre (a Non-governmental Organization) supported by Overspill Seventh-day Adventist Church in Epworth. The training program went on very well and achieved its desired objectives which are not exhaustive: identifying basic tools, recognizing the parts of the sewing machine, identifying characteristics of common fabrics, and estimating the amount of fabric needed for garments. Results To measure the outcome of the program, the researcher and the trainer of trainers, examined the data of the focus group discussions. Both the trainer of trainers, the focus groups and stakeholders concurred that the dressmaking training program was a success. There was a consensus that the program must be extended to all the young girls of Epworth, including those who drop-out of school for any other reasons and be replicated in the Province of Harare. Conclusion When the quality of life for the girl child in Epworth is changed, there may be a notable improvement in productivity and family happiness. Subsequently, this may pave the way to transform the community’s thinking toward the vulnerable girl child in Epworth.
A strategy for an effective small group ministry to foster discipleship in Kegue Seventh-day Adventist Church, Lome, Togo
(Adventist University of Africa, 2017-02) Amegan, Semenu K.
The mission of the Church is to make disciples of all nations as stated in Matthew 28: 18 – 20. Both Scriptures and Ellen G. White’s Writings show evidences that small groups constitute an environment propitious for the fulfillment of this God-given mandate. The Church in Togo has been introduced to this particular ministry since 1995. Kegue Seventh-day Adventist Church where this project was carried out, was established in 2000. From inception, it experienced a massive and rapid backsliding phenomenon which was a clear indication of a poor discipleship process. Many attempts to have small group ministry as a way of life in the church have been made, but they all failed. As soon as they were formed, they died out. The purpose of this dissertation was to design and implement an effective strategy for small group ministry to foster discipleship in Kegue Church . To fulfill this purpose, a theological and biblical foundation of small group ministry was laid from both Old and New Testaments. Then, a review of literature made to discover what scholars said about small groups as an instrument for Christian discipleship. Afterwards, a survey through a questionnaire was conducted to discover the perception of Kegue Church members on this ministry. The data collected through the survey were analyzed. The results of this analysis, combined with insights from the biblical foundation and the review of literature in relation with small group ministry, led to the design of a fourteen-point strategy to address the above-mentioned problem. As the end of the program implementation, seven small groups were formed. However, the success of such a program should not be measured by the number of groups constituted, but by the commitment of those involved in this ministry. These seven small groups are lively and are well prospering. Their members are enthusiastic about attending their meetings. Group members testify that they are committed to their group’s meeting because of the new insights they received on the biblical foundation of small group ministry. According to testimonies, the community factor of small group ministry gave them an altogether perception of this ministry. They have all written their group covenant in which everyone participated and have already their Relief Funds operational. Every third Sabbath of the sixth month has been voted as Small Group Ministry Day for the church. It can therefore be said that the program has been a successful one. It is true that more time is needed to say how successful was the program, but there are some signs--like the commitment of group members to gather besides the agreed meeting days to write the group covenant and the community bond they are already experiencing, which presage a better future for small group ministry in the Kegue Seventh-day Adventist Church.
A Strategy for Church Planting Among the Unreached People Groups of Northern Nigeria: Kambari People of Kebbi State, A Case Study
(Adventist University of Africa, 2016-09) Dangana, Yohanna Musa
PROBLEM: Elder Jacob J. Hyde was the missionary that brought the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) message to northern Nigeria in 1932. His objective was to establish Adventism among every tribe and people group of northern Nigeria with Southern Kaduna as his base. Northern Nigeria accounts for about half of the population of the country which is about 90 million people, whereas the current Adventist membership in the northern Nigerian union is only 45,000 baptized. Out of this, about 80% come from one ethnic group, leaving scores of ethnicities un-entered. As a result, there is a desperate need to develop a church planting strategy for the aggressive expansion of the SDA mission in Northern Nigeria. METHOD: Current relevant literature on church planting was consulted which gave rise to the need of qualitative and quantitative approach of research. The quantitative method exposed the researcher to the feelings of people through the analysis conducted in the questionnaires, while the qualitative aspect explains why those feelings exist. The results of the interviews, focused groups discussions and key informant interactions, armed the researcher enough to organize an evangelism summit themed “MISSION REFOCUSING CONFERENCE” as an intervention strategy aimed at ameliorating the condition of the church in northern Nigeria by making it a church planting movement. At the summit, church planting funds were solicited, church planting teams were established who received various trainings on church planting and were put to work. RESULT: After the summit, these church planting teams were giving various trainings on how to give contextual bible studies, conduct cultural exegesis, prayer as a strategy, and how to contextualize as missionaries in new cultures. After receiving training, one team was sent out for a church planting expedition in Kambari land, Kebbi state. As a result, a church was planted with 7 people baptized, which also gave birth to another church instantly. CONCLUSION: The implementation of the intervention strategy underpinned and stimulated the yearnings of most pastors and laity on the need to spread out the Adventist mission across all ethnicities in northern Nigeria. The result of the church plant confirmed that the mission of evangelization is a possible task.
A strategy for discipling Sabbath School small group leaders in the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Ngoma, Rwanda
(Adventist University of Africa, 2023-04) Ruhongeka, Abidan
Problem This dissertation analyzes the impact of the Sabbath School small groups in discipleship. The experience and the observation disclosed that the Sabbath School small groups are not discipling the members of Ngoma Seventh-day Adventist Church as it is expected. Purpose This project's goal is to create a training curriculum for Sabbath School small group leaders, put it into practice, and then assess it to see how well it promotes discipleship. Discipling the leaders of the Sabbath School small groups is the proper way to disciple the participants. The similar approach was utilized by God in the Bible; before beginning any significant action for His people, He first trained the leaders. Moses' pre-mission preparation is a classic illustration of how to prepare. Therefore, it's crucial to disciple the Sabbath School small group leaders using the Bible approach before releasing them. Method The researcher used a qualitative approach to train the small group leaders in the Ngoma Seventh-Day Adventist congregation. The researcher created a program to train the Sabbath School small group leaders after analyzing the findings from focus group data and team observations. The Sabbath School small groups become an effective hub for discipleship when their leaders are discipled. The program began on April 22, 2022, in the Ngoma Seventh-day Adventist Church, and it ended there on September 30, 2022. In order to disciple the Sabbath School small group leaders, a number of thorough training programs were implemented. Result The pre and post-focus groups' data examination outcomes were used to measure the program. The pre-program disclosed that the members of Ngoma Seventh-day Adventist Church believe that the poor quality of discipleship in the Sabbath School small groups is mainly the result of undisciplined Sabbath school small group leaders. The post-program discussion examination of data revealed that discipling the leaders of the small groups brought a positive change in discipleship and leadership in Ngoma Seventh-day Adventist Church. Conclusion In conclusion, the program has addressed difficulties with poor participation, discipleship, and leadership in the Sabbath School small group activities at the Ngoma Seventh-day Adventist Church. According to the program review, untrained small group leaders are to blame for the members' lack of discipleship and bad leadership. Success in leadership development is essential for success in discipleship. Recommendations More discoveries are needed. The project focused more on the adult and young adult Sabbath School small group leaders. But the children in the Sabbath School were not the focus. The research is needed to know what is going on in the children's Sabbath School and their challenges and find out how to minister to them effectively through the Sabbath School. To disciple small group leaders is recommended to the churches that want to develop the Sabbath School small groups in discipleship. The success of Sabbath School small groups depends on the success of the church in discipling the leaders of the Sabbath School small groups. Furthermore, the researcher suggests to churches that are willing to disciple church leaders consider this approach to disciple the Sabbath School small group leaders. This approach can be a way to develop many church leaders who can serve the church effectively in many capacities, with less cost. To keep alive the Sabbath School small groups, it is necessary to disciple the Sabbath School small group leaders continually not just once but keep them growing and encourage them. It is also important to keep recruiting and training the new leaders to cover the gap that can occur in the leadership of the Sabbath School small groups, because Sabbath School small group leaders can change responsibilities in their local church for many reasons. Therefore, to keep on training the new leaders is important. Completing and keeping the records of the Sabbath School small group activities is important for the follow-up, the plan, and future research. How the local church in the Seventh-day Adventist Church keeps the records need further research. Training and involving the Sabbath School small group members in personal evangelism is one of the objectives of the Sabbath School small groups. This area needs to be researched more to see how the Sabbath School small groups can be a center for church evangelism.
A strategy for effective membership retention in the Gisenyi District of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in the North-West Rwanda Field
(Adventist University of Africa, 2025-04) Mutuyimana Nkundakozera
The Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) churches globally face the challenge of members dropping out. The Northwest Rwanda Field (NWRF) is no exception. For instance, a church membership audit conducted in 2017 among churches in the Gisenyi district of the Seventh-day Adventist , Rwanda, revealed that the church had lost 35% of its members. Furthermore, the second quarter of the 2017 NWRF report indicated that 45% of members were not attending church services regularly. This study investigated the strategies for retaining church members in the NWRF. The guiding study questions were: What are the participants’ demographic information on gender, age, and church experience in the churches of the Gisenyi district SDA, Rwanda? Why do church members stop attending church services in churches in the Gisenyi district SDA, Rwanda? What strategies can be used to help retain church members from leaving the churches in the Gisenyi district SDA, Rwanda? The study employed a mixed-methods approach using the descriptive research design. The study involved church members from five churches of the Gisenyi district SDA, alongside 27 pastors, 27 first-church elders, and 13 NWRF office workers, and 60 heads of departments of five churches participated in the study. Purposive and simple random sampling techniques were used. Data was collected using questionnaires and interview guides. Data were analyzed using descriptive statistics and thematic analysis, and results were presented in percentages, tables, and themes. Results indicated that church member dropouts were primarily due to church programs, the behavior and actions of church members who included leaders, and various social and individual factors. Results on the members’ retention strategies included promoting inclusive participation in church programs, providing support for the needy, and forming small group practices. The study recommended implementing a designed intervention strategy to address retention issues among church members.
A Strategy for Reducing Marital Infidelity among Young Couples in Heaven Bound District, South Zimbabwe Conference
(Adventist University of Africa, 2016-07) Ndhlovu, Alvern Wabile
Marital infidelity among church members seems to be a perennial problem. However, this problem is so hidden that one might assume it is non-existent. Seemingly, it is more prevalent than many believe. This is evidenced by the number of couples seeking counselling, separating, divorcing and at times being involved in serious squabbles. In the majority of cases, marital unfaithfulness is the main cause of the dysfunction in the families This realisation prompted the research on this particular area. Furthermore, the social media posts on a daily basis the social problems affecting marriages in the country and how the people are flooding the courts seeking restitution. Whatever is happening in the social world is reflective of what is occurring in the church. In view of the above recognition, this paper sought to discover the risk factors associated with marital infidelity. Furthermore, a strategy will be developed that would be useful in restoring dysfunctional marriages among young Christian couples. In the minds of many people, there is a common belief that those who have “been saved” are free from temptations and sin. This research meant to disprove the fact that Christians are immune to temptation. Like the rest of the human society, Christians are subjected to situations that test their faith on a daily basis. Temptations do assail everyone but the outcome determines the difference. Therefore, this research examined the risk factors associated with marital infidelity and suggested remedial actions to reduce this phenomenon. The strategy that was adopted was that of a purposive seminar based on the responses of the respondents. Young couples were engaged in this exercise and they gave insightful responses to the problem. The Bible served as one of the sources of the research. The writings of Ellen G. White and other literature were used to define the biblical interpretation of a covenantal marriage and determine the risk factors associated with infidelity. The mixed method approach was used in the acquisition of data. Heaven Bound district (a pseudonym) was selected as the research area of concentration. There were 24 respondents—eleven men and thirteen women who formed the basis of the investigation. A survey was done using questionnaires and interviews. As a result, an intervention program was developed that followed a progressive sequence for a period of nine months. Six seminars were held for all the couples in the district. The seminars were open to all who wanted to participate. It was discovered during the seminars that some people engage in either one form or the other of marital infidelity. The main focus was on sexual, emotional and cyber forms of infidelity. Ways of curbing the spread of unfaithfulness were discussed. All this was in a bid to save the marriages from imminent collapse. Resultantly, the research concluded by stating the need for having periodic check-ups in the marriages. The recommendation was made for more seminars to be conducted not only at district level, but at conference level as well. Partners were encouraged to be faithful to their spouses and to maintain a high level of spirituality. The final recommendation is that pastors and leaders of the church be professionally trained as counselors and lead exemplary lives.
A Strategy for the Financial Stability of the Restructured Imo Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Nigeria
(Adventist University of Africa, 2017-02) Okpulor, Ephraim Uzodinma
Problem The research dissertation is about an effort to re-strategize how to sustain the financial strength of Imo Conference following a process of reorganization in December 2012. The inability of the Conference Administration to meet financial obligations with ease spurred the researcher to use the existing financial indexes of the Conference as a baseline for the study. A historical reflection of the emergence of the Seventh-day Adventist Church assisted in discovering the struggle that the church went through before arriving at the present financial system of the gospel order. Poorly remunerated ministers could not do much, as their time and efforts were divided between providing for their families and preaching the gospel. Strong voices of the pioneers awakened the Millerites to the enormity of the task of giving the “three Angels’ messages” a distinctive sound which could not be without a defined financial system that could support the preachers and their families. This background knowledge was applied to the post reorganizational situation of Imo Conference and the insight were the basis for the strategies that were designed and implemented to increase the income to 22% within the first quarter of its implementation. To sustain the increase, the required stewardship materials were provided and the financial leakages were blocked with the opening of bank accounts for the majority of the churches. A new approach that emphasized wealth creation as a stewardship model assisted in the establishment of a revolving loan program for those operating small scale businesses that grow fast and contribute to the income of the conference via tithes and offerings. A combination of these multiple approaches to stewardship promotion offered a replacement to the traditional methods that had not yielded the expected result. The close monitoring and evaluation were the secrets behind the success. Method This academic research adopted both qualitative and quantitative methods to garner desired data for the informed decisions required for a new strategy and its implementation. It combined the use of questionnaires, focus group discussions, seminars and lectures to obtain the data. Consultations were made about the topic from relevant literature and resources beginning with the Bible and Spirit of prophecy to form a strong theological and spiritual foundation for the research. Also consulted were related books, journals, magazines, internet sources, published and unpublished works on financial stability for a restructured conference. It is on this basis that the research emphasized and supported an implementation strategy for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Imo Conference. The project was implemented and evaluated within a period of one year. Result The reasons proffered for the low financial instability were obtained and examined. Therefore the call for a strategy to forestall the downward trend of the revenue base became important for growth. From this standpoint, the survey result from the number of interactive sessions and intervention programmes which aimed at adopting a strategy for financial stability of the conference was successful. The conclusion and recommendations were thereafter given to church members and district quarters in Imo Conference. Conclusion The researcher found that when members are encouraged by self-development, self-supporting programmes and initiatives they will do more to give to the cause of God and return that which is a blessing to all. As a result, the bottom line of the conference will increase to bring about the stability of the newly restructured Imo Conference.
A strategy for the rehabilitation of people with alcohol dependency in the Benfica District of Huambo, Angola
(Adventist University of Africa, 2025-01) Lemos, Jose Pereira
The use of alcoholic drinks in the Benfica district of Huambo, Angola, has been identified as the primary cause of many car accidents. As will be seen in this study, road accidents arise from driver-related issues, including impatience, lack of rest, pride, greed, ego, alcohol use, and lack of driving skills. It is evident from records that alcohol is one of the top causes of accidents worldwide. Alcohol not only leads to antisocial behavior, school dropout, domestic violence, and numerous health problems but has also resulted in the breakdown of many families. Considering this, the study focused on the prevalence of alcohol abuse in the district by developing a program that could effectively reach out to alcoholics, provide training to churches and the community on how to support those who have abstained from alcohol, and select some churches to be rehabilitation centers for alcoholics. The research design employed questionnaires administered to collect information on issues concerning alcoholism and the rate of alcohol consumption in the Benfica district of Huambo, Angola. The data were analyzed descriptively and presented in charts using percentile scores. The data analysis results revealed that the primary factor contributing to the higher rate of alcoholic beverage consumption in the Benfica district of Huambo is social connections, accounting for 33%. This emphasizes the influence of one’s social circle on alcohol-related behavior. Furthermore, when examining the frequency of drinking, men exhibited a higher percentage (46%) of consuming alcoholic beverages at very frequent intervals compared to women (23%). The study yielded significant conclusions, highlighting the severe consequences associated with alcohol consumption, including death, injuries, disabilities, and divorce. It emphasized that individuals struggling with alcoholism require not only medical treatment but also spiritual healing. The conclusions and recommendations derived from the study are considered pertinent and reliable, as they are based on concrete findings and insights from carefully selected participants.
A Strategy to Address the Challenge of Power Struggle During Sessions in Midlands Zambia Conference
(Adventist University of Africa, 2016-08) Liywalii, Mundia
Sessions for election of officers in Midlands Zambia Conference are divisive in nature as people who consider themselves candidates for elective positions engage in activities that leave the workforce divided. This negatively impacts the church in carrying out its God-given mandate of spreading the gospel. The purpose of this dissertation was to design and implement an intervention in a seminar form for pastors aimed at addressing politicking. It is anticipated that the intervention, if used, would have long term effects on the way pastors view sessions and positions in the church. This research used interviews to gather data from six pastors who were selected at random. Their years of service ranged from three to 40 years. It was found that power struggle among pastors in the run up to sessions has a negative impact on the pastors, members, and the work of the church in general. Character assassination, mudslinging, and name-calling suggest the need for an intervention to address power struggle. The implications are that if this is not done, open conflict among pastors and stagnation of the work may be experienced in Midlands Conference. Future research in areas not covered by this project, such as the effectiveness of the election process used by the Seventh-day Adventist Church, the emotional, physical, and spiritual impact of power struggle on those removed from office because of politicking are all areas that warrant further consideration.

Browse

Browsing Doctor of Ministry (DMin) by Title