2. Theological Seminary : Projects, Theses and Dissertations

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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 biblical perspective of inter-religious marriage: Implication for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in New Tafo, Ghana
(Adventist University of Africa, 2023-11) Fosu Christian
Marriage is in every respect a great concern in every socio-cultural affair and more so in every socio-religious culture. Within the religio-cultural factors is the dynamics of mixed marriage which is well featured in the Scriptures. Though the biblical information concerning mixed marriage is not subpar, the phenomenon still seems unimportant in Christendom today. While Christians could be well informed with the biblical instructions on the subject, it continues to plague many Christian marriages today because of people’s ignorance about it. This is perhaps because the Scriptures’ view concerning mixed marriage still lacks the utmost concern it deserves. It is the deductive conclusion of this research that the concept of mixed marriage is well-featured in the Scriptures. However, the biblical situation under which mixed marriage is featured is in many respects different from the situational underpinnings of mixed marriage in today’s contemporary context. Yet, the knowledge of Scripture about mixed marriage can provide significant guiding principles for what we face today. In other words, the setting within which the Bible discusses mixed marriage seems fairly contemporarily different. However, it can still provide some essential principles on the subject for us today. This research dips into this so-called sensitive issue of mixed marriage which seems outdated today and calls attention to its ignored relevance. It discusses the issue of mixed marriages both in the Old Testament (OT) and the New Testament (NT). The project peruses the possible instances of mixed marriages in the Scriptures and evaluates and discusses their implications then and now. The OT has some stern instructions against mixed marriage that should not be ignored. In almost all of the categories of the OT (Pentateuch, Historical Books, and the Prophets), some instances call attention to mixed marriage. The NT has little to say about mixed marriage. However, the issue is well featured in the writings of Paul, particularly in both Corinthian correspondences. The method of discussion features biblical analysis, exegetical analysis, and theological analysis, to bring into perspective the biblical information concerning mixed marriage and its contemporary relevance. The project uncovers the knowledge gap around the issue of mixed marriage and calls attention to scholars’ need to have their contributions felt on the issue.
A Biblical Perspective on the Use of שֵׁכָר and יִ ן : An Exegetical Analysis of Proverbs 31:6–7 Keywords:
(Adventist University of Africa, 2024-04-17) Muhoko, Patrick John
This study aimed to explore the biblical stance regarding the endorsement of שֵׁכר (shekar) and יַיִן (yayin) in Proverbs 31:6-7. Historical evidence suggests that both שֵׁכָָ֣ר and יַיִן were commonly utilized as medicinal remedies in ancient times. In the analysis of the directive in Proverbs 31:6-7, several key conclusions emerge. Firstly, the reference to שֵׁכָָ֣ר and יַיִן in the passage denotes fermented beverages. Secondly, although Proverbs 31:6-7 doesn't explicitly state that strong drink and wine are intended for medicinal use. However, certain aspects of the passage suggest a potential therapeutic purpose. The phrase "give strong drink unto him that is ready to perish" implies offering strong drink and wine as solace for someone in extreme distress or nearing death, potentially to alleviate physical or emotional pain. This aligns with the idea of using strong drink and wine for therapeutic purposes. Likewise, providing "wine unto those that be of heavy hearts" hints at offering wine to those experiencing profound sadness or distress, possibly as a temporary means of escape or comfort from psychological suffering. Though not explicitly medical, this implies a therapeutic function. Despite the lack of specific medical terms in the passage, the context of offering strong drink and wine to those in distress suggests a possible therapeutic benefit. Nevertheless, it's essential to interpret these verses within the broader context of the Bible and to exercise caution when drawing medical conclusions from ancient texts. Thirdly, historical documentation supports the medicinal utilization of שֵׁכָר and יַיִן , lending weight to the interpretation of the command as endorsing their medicinal properties. Lastly, while contemporary fermented שֵׁכר and יַיִן are not commonly employed for medicinal purposes as in antiquity, there are modern alcohol-containing medications prescribed for specific patients under particular circumstances.
A biblical theological evaluation of John Wesley’s view of modesty in dressing and adornment
(Adventist University of Africa, 2022-03) Mugo, Gakono Stephen
This study is a biblical theological evaluation of John Wesley’s view of modesty in dressing and adornment. In his writings, Wesley distinguishes between modesty in the dressing and adornment of kings and government officers, and ordinary people. He favors kings and government officers, dressing and adornment with expensive clothes and jewelry. But, he disfavors ordinary Christians dressing and adorning themselves with fine clothing, gold, silver, and other costly jewelry. The study examines Luke 7:24-25, 1 Tim 2:9-10, 1 Pet 3:3-4, and other Scriptures he uses to support his distinction of modesty in dressing and adornment. In conclusion, the study shows that Wesley’s modesty distinction between kings and government officers, and ordinary people is not biblical. This is because even though the Bible indicates that Christians may wear distinctive clothes based on gender, function, and climate, all people should observe principles of modesty, decency, and inner beauty and avoid all expressions of selfishness, pride, extravagancy, harlotry, and idolatry.
A biblical-theological analysis of John 17:20-23 in the context of modern ecumenism and implications for the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Kenya
(Adventist University of Africa, 2023-04) Mung’athia, Kaindio Wilson
The ecumenical movement is the movement for the amalgamation of all religions, Christian denominations and cults as the remedy to the divisions prevailing within Christian churches and other religious set-ups. The ecumenical councils, whereby the World Council of Churches is the principal promoter, are the machinery for achieving the aims of ecumenism. The membership comprises of the Protestants, the Anglicans, the Orthodox and the Roman Catholics, all aiming at uniting all religious groups, Christian denominations and cultic traditions into one entity globally in terms of doctrinal agreement through their document, Baptism, Eucharist and Ministry (BEM). Proponents of this movement depend on their understanding of the subordinate clause, in Greek, ἵνα πάντες ἓν ὦσιν, translated, “that they all may be one” in John 17:20-23. Thus, the term, “all” presumes the collective uniting of religious bodies and Christian denominations physically, mindless of their spiritual faith-connections with the Godhead, although their spiritual faith-connections with the Trinity should be the key factor in this unification. Its literal implication is suggested by the bringing of religious bodies as a global group to answer the prayer of Jesus, and the allegory here is presumed by the interpretation of the oneness in the passage as having the nuance of ecumenism. An allegorical or a literal interpretation to John 17:20-23 distorts the very intention of the perfect spiritual oneness among true believers Jesus implied in His prayer: “may they be brought to complete (perfect) unity” (17:23a). The challenge that arises from such an interpretation involves reconciling the differences in doctrinal truths that prevail in some of these churches pushing for ecumenical identity of Christianity. This research sought an interpretation of this Johannine pericope linguistically and theologically. The study found that the ecumenists misread the syntax of the subordinate clause as, “that they may be all one,” instead of, “that they all may be one.” They wrest its literal meaning for an allegorical interpretation against its own context to fit a literal global church. This study concludes that John 17:20-23 focuses on the essence of divine unity among believers in Christ and this profound Christian unity emanates from the union of the Godhead. It focuses on a faith-based, spiritual unity of believers shaped by the Holy Spirit founded on the union existing between the Father and the Son. It is a spiritual unity of purpose with missiological and fellowship of love elements, founded on divine principles. The true biblical unity of the followers of Christ essentially favors their global mission. Thus, it was recommended based on the concept of unity in the passage, that the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Kenya should seek this kind of unity in its internal and missiological relationships. This should strengthen fundamental hallmarks of the local and global church towards profound foundations for enduring universal unity.
A biblical-theological critique of Martin Luther’s view on rebaptism
(Adventist University of Africa, 2025-05) Lagat, Elicky Kiplimo
This study offers a biblical-theological critique of Martin Luther’s position on rebaptism, with particular attention to his rejection of the practice in cases involving individuals baptized as infants, as believers, or after falling into apostasy. Through a careful examination of key biblical texts—especially Acts 19—it is argued that rebaptism should not be construed as a repudiation of the initial baptism, but rather as an expression of spiritual renewal, genuine repentance, and an enriched understanding of divine truth. The findings suggest that, although Luther’s emphasis on the singular nature of baptism rightly underscores its sacramental significance, his dismissal of rebaptism fails to account for the transformative power of faith and the ongoing process of repentance. The biblical and theological insights emerging from this study affirm that rebaptism can be a personal and meaningful act of recommitment to God. Ultimately, the study concludes that rebaptism is both biblically and theologically defensible, serving as a public declaration of renewed faith and deeper spiritual conviction.
A Comparative Analysis of the Apostle John’s Theology of the Incarnate Christ and Contemporary Christological Views (Seventh-day Adventists versus Jehovah’s Witnesses)
(Adventist University of Africa, 2017-03) Simweemba, Nelson Muchindu
Scholars have viewed the doctrine of the Incarnation of Christ differently. Those who argue against the teaching, such as Jehovah’s Witnesses (JWs), emphasize that the Word “Incarnation” is not found in the Bible and that Jesus never claimed to be an incarnate being. On the other hand, those who support the teaching, such as Seventh-day Adventists (SDAs), argue that though the term “Incarnation” is not found in the Bible, the teaching is there, basing their argument primarily on the theology of the Apostle John. These contrasting views prompted the research to be undertaken. The study takes into account John’s theological view as the basis for establishing the biblical stand and thereafter compares the contemporary teachings of the JWs against the SDA Church view. Bible commentaries, lexicons and other syntactical resource materials have been used to establish a balanced and correct understanding of the teaching. According to the JWs, the teaching of the Incarnation of Jesus Christ does not exist and only false religions teach it. They argue that God cannot become a human being, and that Jesus was never God but a spirit creature, the first born of all created beings and for that reason His coming to live among human beings cannot translate to an incarnation. They explain their position using John 1: 1, they translate the “The Word was God” as “The Word was a god”. Their position is not new in the history of Christological debates, which started as far back as the first century A.D. The teaching of Arius was similar. To the contrary, the SDA Church teaches and emphasizes that Jesus is the second person of the Godhead and is the Incarnate Son of God. Their position resonates with teachings of the early Church Councils such as those of Nicaea (325 A.D.) and Constantinople (381 A. D.). The position of the researcher is that Jesus preexisted as God the Son together with God the Father before He was born on earth. The aspect of God becoming flesh is what is known as Incarnation. Accepting and understanding this teaching has a bearing on how one perceives God’s free gift of salvation to humanity. Rejection of the same leads the Bible student to have a wrong concept of God’s plan of salvation for humanity.
A Comparative Study of Ezra–Nehemiah and Malachi on Divorce: Exploring Perspectives in Historical and Theological Contexts
(Adventist University of Africa, 2024-04) Rwizi, Russel
The purpose of this research is to conduct a comprehensive study of divorce in the books of Ezra-Nehemiah and Malachi, with a focus on exploring the perspectives within these texts in light of their historical and theological contexts. By examining the textual evidence and analyzing the social and religious background during the respective periods of these books, this study aims to shed light on the complexities of divorce as portrayed in ancient Jewish society. The research method employed in this study involves a careful examination of the relevant passages regarding divorce from the books of Ezra-Nehemiah and Malachi. The analysis includes a comparison of the language, themes, and implications of these passages, highlighting any apparent conflicts or discrepancies. Additionally, this study delves into the historical and theological contexts of these books, considering the cultural norms, religious practices, and sociopolitical circumstances that might have influenced the perspectives on divorce through a comparative approach. This comparative study's findings reveal divergent divorce stances within Ezra-Nehemiah and Malachi. Ezra-Nehemiah viewed the post-exilic marriages to pagan women as rebellious and invalid, recognizing Israel’s history of apostasy through similar intermarriages. Here, divorce was used as an instrument to restore purity, identity, and covenant faithfulness. On the contrary, Malachi criticizes the practice of divorcing one’s wife, emphasizing the unfaithfulness and violation of the covenant that divorce presents. These contrasting messages can be attributed to the differing historical contexts, social and cultural changes, as well as evolving theological understandings during this period. The conclusions drawn from this research highlight the complexities of forming a coherent and consistent position on divorce by examining seemingly contradictory messages within religious texts. Nevertheless, the research emphasized that divorce goes against God’s blueprint and is not sanctioned within His intended framework. Instead, God’s ideal for marriage is an everlasting dedication demonstrated through a solemn promise made before Him. Although divorce is not part of God’s plan, it is an unfortunate occurrence in human existence that cannot be disregarded. Thus, it should be acknowledged as a backdrop in which God persists in actively pursuing His redemptive objectives. Therefore, this study contributes to the scholarships on biblical texts elucidating the multi-layered nature of ancient Jewish attitudes towards divorce and provides a foundation for further research and discussion on this topic.
A comparative study of Luther’s and Zwingli’s understanding of the Lord’s Supper
(Adventist University of Africa, 2016-08) Kwadwo, Osei Solomon
Luther’s and Zwingli’s understanding of the Lord’s Supper is the main focus that forms the framework of this research. Prior to the Reformation, several divergent views had been expressed among scholars to resolve the controversy over the substance of the Lord’s Supper. However, it was in the Marburg debate between Luther and Zwingli that the doctrine met the needed consideration in scholarship. This study reviewed the theology of Luther and Zwingli in relation to the Lord’s Supper. The purpose of the study is to compare and contrast the views of the reformers, namely, Luther and Zwingli on the Lord’s Supper, and to examine their influence in the theological enterprise and Christian denominations as a whole. Theologically, the study has revealed that the words of Jesus “this is my Body” should not be viewed in the context of its literal sense, but rather in a symbolic or figurative sense. The body of Christ has been crucified once for humanity and it makes no sense for Christ to be crucified again at the Lord’s Supper. This can be clearly discerned from the words of Jesus Christ “do this in remembrance of me” (Luke 22:19). This fixes the biblical doctrine of the Lord’s Supper. Thus, the bread is a figure (sign), which points to the death of Christ. Therefore, Christians celebrate this ordinance to commemorate the death of Christ.
A contextual study on lived experiences of new Adventist Islam converts in Dodoma Central Church District, Tanzania: Implications for mission
(Adventist University of Africa, 2025-05) Khaniki, Richard
This study explores the lived experience of new Adventist converts from Islam in the Dodoma Central Church District, Tanzania, with the aim of identifying contextual implications for mission work. Using a qualitative phenomenological approach, the research captures the voices and perspectives of recent converts who embraced the Seventh-day Adventist faith between 2015 and 2024. Through in-depth interviews and thematic analysis, the study uncovers key factors influencing their conversion journey, including spiritual convictions, personal encounters, social dynamics, and doctrinal challenges. The findings reveal that both the opportunities and barriers faced in the conversion process, highlighting issues such as familial rejection, identity negotiation, and the need for culturally sensitive discipleship. Based on these insights, the study proposes mission strategies that respect Islamic backgrounds, promote inclusive faith communities, and strengthen pastoral care for new converts. The result offer valuable guidance for Adventist mission planners, evangelists, and church leaders engaged in Muslim-majority or mixed-faith contexts.
A contextualized mission approach for engaging the Hausa Muslims in Uyo, Nigeria through intentional friendship
(Adventist University of Africa, 2025-04) Aniefiok Joseph Oyuhontem
This research explored a contextualized mission approach for engaging the Hausa Muslim community in Uyo, Nigeria, through intentional friendship. It was observed that conventional evangelistic methods, such as public preaching and open-air evangelism, often yield minimal results among Hausa Muslims due to their deep-rooted culture and religious perceptions. Many in the community view Christianity, particularly the Seventh-day Adventist Church, with suspicion; this is often due to misunderstandings of its beliefs and a lack of sensitivity to their worldview. The purpose of this study was to identify the perceived barriers to effective evangelism among Hausa Muslims in Uyo, explore mission strategies appropriate for their context, and develop a relational approach, which can be implemented for engaging them with the gospel. A descriptive research design was employed, involving interviews and focus group discussions. Based on the findings, the researcher developed a friendship-based evangelism model aimed at building trust and relationships as a bridge for gospel outreach. The study found that intentional friendship can be a highly effective method for reaching Hausa Muslims. This approach leads to a noticeable change in the community’s perception of the Adventist Church, and opened doors for spiritual conversations. The results demonstrated that relational evangelism builds trust, fosters mutual respect, and paves the way for meaningful gospel engagement. The study concluded that building intentional friendships is important to reaching the resistant community, like the Hausa Muslims in Uyo. It is recommended that the Church should train members in relational witnessing on how to communicate the gospel in a culturally sensitive manner.
A critical examination of speaking in tongues as evidence of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Pentecostalism
(Adventist University of Africa, 2017-03) Mandina, Hopewell
In the last few decades, we have seen the rise and cropping up of different Pentecostal groups whose teaching and preaching are inclined to the gift of tongues as the main evidence of the manifestation of the Holy Spirit. Some scholars clearly state that Pentecostals value the gift of tongues to the extent that it should be a physical sign that the Holy Spirit has been poured upon a believer. The role of the Holy Spirit from the Old Testament to Jesus’ time was highlighted to establish His ministry in different times. The difference in opinion and views in the correct understanding of the outpouring of the Holy Spirit as evidenced by speaking in tongues resulted in the study of this research. As a result, a clear understanding on the gift of tongues is necessary not only for the purpose of correct biblical position of the topic under discussion, but also for other issues. These include the role of the Holy Spirit in the Old and New Testaments, and the understanding of the Holy Spirit from Early Christian Church to the 20th century. Then, the purpose of the spiritual gifts, understanding of Holy Spirit and gift of tongues in the books of Mark, Acts, and 1 Corinthians. After careful biblical and theological analysis of different scholars and Scripture, the researcher concluded that the gift of tongues is not the only gift which is a manifestation of the Holy Spirit. The presence of the Holy Spirit since creation was not experienced by the physical sign of the gift of tongues, which does not stand the test of Scripture.
A Development of a Workable Chaplaincy Service in Nyacyina Secondary School, Rwanda
(Adventist University of Africa, 2023-08) Ntabumwe, Schadrack
The chaplaincy services are considered in many schools to bring spiritual care not only to students, but also to teachers, parents, and administrators. The purpose of the study was therefore to develop a workable chaplaincy service in Nyacyina Secondary School. To address this issue, qualitative and quantitative approaches were used. A descriptive survey design based on the questionnaire, interview and focus group discussion was used to collect data from teachers, school administrators, students, and parents to fulfill the purpose of the study. The findings revealed that most respondents either do not understand chaplaincy and its role in the school, either do not know anything about it. Therefore, there was a need to conduct a seminar on the meaning and the role of chaplaincy. The study recommended to hire a school chaplain.
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 Historical Development of Tithe Returning and Growth in East-Central Africa Division of the Seventh-day Adventists (2012–2021)
(Adventist University of Africa, 2024-08) Ndengeyinka, Emmanuel
This research is conducted on Tithe returning and growth in East Central Africa Division of the Seventh-day Adventists with the aim of conducting a thorough investigation to determine whether the tithe is increasing or decreasing over a ten year period (2012-2021) and to suggest suitable methods and principles appropriate for raising it. The Scholars and churchgoers have been contesting the idea of tithe returning. While some support the continuity to keep returning it because it is a commandment from the Lord, others advocate for a discontinuity, because the need to return tithe ended at the crucifixion of Jesus Christ on the cross and ask church members to stop tithing. The ideas disseminating propaganda against the returning of tithes, whether in writing or in preaching, as well as the differences in opinion and perspectives of the accurate understanding of the tithing system bring confusion among the church members. This disagreement poses a potential dilemma for members of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, particularly those in the East Central Africa Division. While substantial research exists on tithe returning within the Seventh-day Adventist Church globally, an examination specific to the perspectives and practices within the East Central Africa Division has not been undertaken. To achieve the goal of this study several steps have been taken including the historical overview of the tithing system in the Old and New Testaments, the historical overview of tithing in church fathers period and tithing in Medieval and Reformation periods. The tithing system in Seventh-day Adventism and the historical development of tithes in the East Central Africa Division were the main focus of this study. Finally the challenges and prospects of the tithing system in the East Central Africa Division were identified and analyzed. Different books, archival materials, journals, articles, or documents discussing tithe are considered and analyzed in order to arrive at the conclusions. The research concluded that the tithe was not abolished by Jesus Christ’s death because it was not the component of the ceremonial laws; rather, it was practiced during the time of the church fathers, and the teachings of the dissident groups who opposed tithe returning had no negative impact on tithing. This was determined after a thorough analysis of biblical verses concerning tithing in the New Testament, as well as research on tithing practices during the apostolic and church fathers’ periods, the Reformation period, and the research on tithes conducted on the various Unions that comprise the East Central Africa Division. Finally, the analysis demonstrates that the tithe has increased significantly in the East Central Africa Division over the last decade (2012-2021). It is recommended that church pastors have to ensure that the local church be led by church elders who are trustworthy, competent, exemplary to believers in all that they say, preach and especially in returning tithes. The local church elders should be educated in the tithing system by reading their responsibilities in the church manual. This revival and training have to take an important place after the local church elders are elected before they start their new functions.
A History of Adventism in Western North Ghana (1932–2016): Prospects and Challenges
(Adventist University of Africa, 2021-05) Gyedu, Emmanuel
The Seventh-day Adventist Church (SDAC) in Western North Ghana has contributed significantly to the national development of Ghana. Its contribution expands from religion to socio-political, which calls for proper documentation. Hence, this study examined the missionary enterprise; their evangelistic approaches; their prospects and the challenges they faced during the establishment of the SDAC faith in Western North Ghana. This study employed a historical research method through a descriptive approach by addressing the topic under study. This study used primary sources such as oral tradition and archival documents like church board minutes books, quarterly reports, conference documents, session reports, educational statistics, records on health/temperance, general developments, and executive committee’s reports were consulted. Secondary sources such as books, journals, relevant internet materials and official records were also utilized. In all, fifteen people were interviewed. Findings from the study revealed that the Seventh-day Adventist Church in Western North Ghana has grown so admirably without adequate records. This has made it difficult for clergies, administrators, researchers and the public in general in their research about the Church in the Region. Therefore, this study has filled a gap. The SDAC in Western North Ghana has influenced both the indigenous people and those outside Western North Ghana commendably.

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