Developing effective strategies for urban ministry in the Lagos Mainland Conference of the Seventh-day Adventist Church, Nigeria

Abstract

Problem There is great concern regarding the impact the Seventh-day Adventist (SDA) message has made in urban centers, especially in Lagos where there is a population of 18 million based on last census. Thiose are the census numbers, but in a real sense, Lagos harbors 24million inhabitants and a church membership of 12,000. Several evangelistic methods have been used but with little success. There is an urgent need to meet the people where they are and to reach the unreached and the unchurched. It was, therefore, the purpose of this dissertation to develop, implement and evaluate biblically based effective strategies for urban ministry. Method In view of the above and in line with the biblical foundation for urban ministry, the literature review, survey and questionnaires distributed all pointed to the method Jesus used 2,000 years ago while He was on earth. A community based/multi-dimensional strategies was proposed to reach the unreached people groups with the everlasting gospel. Five effective strategies were used, namely: prayer intercession, establishment of schools, establishment of professionals associations, intentional meeting of felt-need of the community and media evangelism. Results Following the implementation of the multi-dimensional strategies, the church became more relevant to her communities. The result is that a total of 130 persons have been baptized into the church. The love of Christ is now shared freely with the inhabitants of Lagos on radio and television. The schools have not only brought new members through baptism, but also are a great financial boost to the conference treasury and source of employment to members. Conclusion The strategies put forth in this dissertation have proved successful for urban ministry—even in the 21st century. It is recommended as a great tool to make a difference in proclaiming the gospel in all the cities of the world to share the joy of the Second Advent and impending doom for the disobedient. Christ’s model of ministry was a comprehensive one and every church must imbibe Christ’s mission of loving service in their community to be able to impact the people positively. There is need of coming close to the people as Christ did over 2,000 years ago to be able to win their confidence as He did. The wonderful love of Christ will melt and subdue hearts, where the mere reiteration of doctrines will accomplish nothing for the gospel.