Project – Sustaining Pentecostal Revival in curbing communal hostility in Oredo local government Benin, Edo State.
CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
- Background to the Study
Pentecostalism, with its emphasis on the Holy Spirit, revival, and personal transformation, has emerged as a significant force in contemporary Christianity. One of the core theological principles of Pentecostalism is the belief in the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, which is viewed as pivotal in addressing the spiritual and societal issues of believers. In particular, Pentecostalism has been lauded for its potential to bridge communal divisions, reduce hostility, and promote peace. The relevance of sustaining Pentecostal revival in curbing communal hostility remains an important area of study, especially in contexts marked by ethnic, religious, and social tensions. This review examines existing literature on the role of Pentecostal revival in mitigating communal conflict, with a focus on its practices, theological underpinnings, and impact on social cohesion.
Pentecostalism’s revivalist nature often results in a focus on transformative spiritual experiences, which have profound social implications. Scholars such as Allan Anderson (2014) and David B. Barrett (2001) emphasize that Pentecostal revivals tend to foster a communal sense of belonging and shared identity, which can be a powerful tool for mitigating communal hostility. The revivalist ethos fosters unity among believers, encouraging them to focus on shared spiritual experiences rather than ethnic or political differences. In this way, Pentecostal revival serves as a catalyst for social change by promoting a community-oriented, inclusive spiritual practice. Anderson further suggests that the personal transformation undergone through Pentecostal conversion leads individuals to prioritize peace and reconciliation over animosity.
Theologically, Pentecostalism holds a unique understanding of the power of the Holy Spirit, often emphasizing its role in breaking down societal barriers. The biblical concept of the “new creation” in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17) resonates deeply within Pentecostal communities and underscores a theological basis for peace and reconciliation. Pentecostal teachings advocate for forgiveness, love, and the overcoming of division through the transformative power of the Spirit. According to scholars like Frank Macchia (2006), the Pentecostal doctrine of “baptism in the Holy Spirit” is seen as a spiritual experience that not only empowers the individual but also enables communities to transcend division and hostility. Pentecostalism’s focus on personal holiness and communal reconciliation provides a framework for curbing ethnic and sectarian violence, promoting a message of unity under the guiding influence of the Spirit.
Pentecostal revivals have been particularly significant in regions experiencing ethnic and religious conflict. In Nigeria, for instance, Pentecostalism has been identified as an effective counterforce to the deeply entrenched ethnic and religious divisions that characterize the country’s social landscape. According to Ojo (2015), Pentecostalism’s emphasis on spiritual renewal offers a model for resolving communal conflicts, as believers are encouraged to view others not through the lens of ethnicity or religion but through the shared experience of the Holy Spirit. This theological framework has been particularly beneficial in fostering interfaith dialogue, reducing violence, and promoting understanding between communities that would otherwise be in conflict. The revitalization of spiritual practices through Pentecostal revival has been credited with contributing to both individual and collective healing in conflict-ridden areas.
Pentecostal worship practices, characterized by intense prayer, spontaneous singing, and collective participation, are essential in promoting communal solidarity. These practices foster a sense of collective identity and spiritual renewal that transcends individual differences. As S. N. Nwachukwu (2014) argues, Pentecostal worship spaces function as places of healing, where individuals can reconcile with one another and with God. This communal aspect of Pentecostalism is particularly relevant in areas with entrenched communal divisions. The practice of speaking in tongues, a hallmark of Pentecostal worship, is also seen as a symbol of unity, as it transcends linguistic and cultural barriers, fostering a deeper sense of connection among believers. The impact of these practices on curbing communal hostility is seen in the ways Pentecostal communities prioritize reconciliation, forgiveness, and mutual respect.
Despite the potential of Pentecostal revival to mitigate communal hostility, challenges remain in sustaining its impact. The rapid expansion of Pentecostalism in Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia has led to varying interpretations of revivalist movements. While some emphasize social engagement and conflict resolution, others focus more on individual salvation and prosperity. As suggested by Brian Stanley (2016), the future of Pentecostalism’s role in curbing communal hostility lies in its ability to maintain a balanced focus on both personal transformation and collective social responsibility. Scholars argue that for Pentecostalism to remain effective in promoting peace, there needs to be a greater emphasis on social justice, civic engagement, and interreligious dialogue. Further research into the long-term impact of Pentecostal revival on societal structures will be crucial in understanding its sustained role in peacebuilding efforts across the globe.
1.2. Statement of the Problem
Communal hostility, often manifested as ethnic, religious, or political conflicts, remains a significant challenge in many societies across the globe. These tensions frequently lead to violence, social fragmentation, and long-lasting societal harm. While various approaches have been proposed to address these conflicts, including political interventions, economic reforms, and social justice movements, the potential role of religion, specifically Pentecostalism, in alleviating communal hostility has not been fully explored. Pentecostalism, with its emphasis on spiritual renewal, community building, and transformative practices, offers a unique framework for addressing such tensions. However, the challenge lies in sustaining Pentecostal revival as an effective means of curbing communal hostility in the long term.
Pentecostalism’s rapid growth in regions marked by ethnic and religious conflicts, such as sub-Saharan Africa, Latin America, and parts of Asia, raises critical questions about the movement’s ability to transcend divisive identities and promote unity. While Pentecostal revivals have been credited with fostering personal transformation and social cohesion, there is a need for deeper understanding of how these revivals can be sustained and scaled to have a long-lasting impact on communal relations. Pentecostal teachings emphasize reconciliation, peace, and love, yet the question arises whether these teachings are genuinely effective in mitigating the deep-rooted tensions between various communal groups. Additionally, it remains uncertain how Pentecostalism can continue to engage with broader social issues such as inequality, corruption, and political power struggles, which often fuel communal hostility.
Moreover, while the Pentecostal movement’s influence on individuals has been well-documented, there is a lack of scholarly attention given to the communal and societal impacts of sustained Pentecostal revival. Many studies focus on individual transformation through Pentecostal spirituality, but the collective impact—especially in terms of reducing intercommunal conflict—is underexplored. Existing literature does not sufficiently address how Pentecostal communities can play an active role in peacebuilding and conflict resolution within their wider socio-political contexts. Without a clear understanding of these dynamics, there is a risk that Pentecostal revivals may become insular or disconnected from the broader societal need for communal harmony.
One of the key challenges in sustaining Pentecostal revival in curbing communal hostility lies in the tension between personal salvation and social transformation. While Pentecostalism’s focus on individual renewal is widely celebrated, critics argue that its emphasis on personal spiritual experiences might unintentionally minimize the importance of collective societal change. This focus on the individual, combined with the prosperity gospel’s emphasis on material success, has been criticized for undermining the movement’s potential to address the structural causes of communal conflict, such as poverty, inequality, and political marginalization. As such, Pentecostal communities may struggle to shift from individual-focused spirituality to a more collective, social justice-oriented approach that actively engages with the root causes of communal hostility.
The issue of leadership within Pentecostal communities also presents a challenge in sustaining revival efforts. Many Pentecostal leaders, especially in rapidly growing churches, may prioritize numerical growth and individual empowerment over broader social engagement. As a result, there may be a disconnect between the revivalist ethos of personal transformation and the need for intentional peacebuilding initiatives within communities. Additionally, the diversity of leadership styles within Pentecostalism complicates the implementation of a unified, coherent strategy for curbing communal hostility. Without a consistent theological and practical framework that emphasizes reconciliation and intergroup cooperation, Pentecostal movements may struggle to maintain their role in addressing communal conflicts.
Finally, the broader societal and political context in which Pentecostal revivals occur cannot be ignored. In many regions marked by communal hostility, political and social systems often reinforce divisions rather than promote unity. Pentecostal movements, while offering spiritual transformation, cannot operate in isolation from these larger systemic issues. Without addressing the broader socio-political factors that exacerbate communal tensions, such as corruption, poor governance, and ethnic favoritism, Pentecostal revival may fail to create lasting peace. The challenge, therefore, is not only sustaining the spiritual aspects of revival but also engaging with the social, economic, and political systems that perpetuate communal hostility.
1.3. Aim and Objectives of the Study
The aim of the study is to examine Sustaining Pentecostal Revival in curbing communal hostility in Oredo local government Benin, Edo State. The specific objectives are:
- To analyze the impact of Pentecostal revival on reducing communal hostility in specific communities.
- To identify the key factors that contribute to the sustainability of Pentecostal revival efforts in promoting peace and harmony.
- To assess the effectiveness of Pentecostal teachings and practices in addressing underlying causes of communal hostility.
- To explore the role of Pentecostal leaders and congregations in fostering reconciliation and unity among diverse groups.
1.4. Research Questions
The research questions are buttressed below:
- How does Pentecostal revival impact the reduction of communal hostility in specific communities?
- What are the key factors that contribute to the sustainability of Pentecostal revival efforts in promoting peace and harmony?
- How effective are Pentecostal teachings and practices in addressing the underlying causes of communal hostility?
- What is the role of Pentecostal leaders and congregations in fostering reconciliation and unity among diverse groups?
1.5. Research Hypothesis
The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:
Ho: Pentecostal revival will not reduce communal hostility in specific communities.
H1: Pentecostal revival will reduce communal hostility in specific communities.
1.6. Significance of the Study
The study on sustaining Pentecostal revival in curbing communal hostility in Oredo Local Government Area (LGA) of Benin, Edo State, holds significant relevance, given the pervasive issues of communal violence and societal unrest in the region. In many parts of Nigeria, including Edo State, religious institutions, particularly Pentecostal churches, have increasingly become influential in shaping community dynamics. The Pentecostal movement, known for its emphasis on spiritual empowerment, faith-based teachings, and social transformation, holds potential as a powerful tool for fostering peace and unity in divided communities. This study is vital for understanding how the ongoing Pentecostal revival can be harnessed as a force for peace-building, helping to mitigate communal conflicts that threaten local security and social cohesion.
One of the central areas of significance lies in how Pentecostalism can contribute to reducing communal hostility in Oredo LGA. Historically, communal violence in the area has been driven by ethnic, religious, and resource-based tensions, which have sometimes led to loss of lives, destruction of property, and an overall breakdown of peace. By examining the role of Pentecostal churches in addressing these issues, this study will offer insights into how faith-based initiatives can mediate between different groups, promoting inter-ethnic and inter-religious harmony. In particular, Pentecostal teachings on forgiveness, reconciliation, and the power of the Holy Spirit are critical in transforming hostile mindsets and fostering a culture of peace within local communities.
The study is also significant in that it contributes to the broader discourse on the social impact of religion in African societies. While much research has focused on the negative aspects of religious influence, such as contributing to religious intolerance or violence, this study highlights the positive role that Pentecostalism can play in peacebuilding. By identifying and documenting successful strategies employed by Pentecostal churches in curbing communal conflict in Oredo, the study will provide valuable lessons for other regions with similar challenges. It will also serve as a resource for policy-makers and community leaders seeking to integrate religious interventions into conflict resolution and peacebuilding frameworks.
In addition to its contributions to peace studies, this research will have a profound impact on the Pentecostal movement itself. As the Pentecostal revival continues to gain momentum in Nigeria, particularly in the southern regions, this study will evaluate how the movement’s theological and social teachings can be sustained to promote a more peaceful and cohesive society. Pentecostal churches are often deeply embedded in their local communities, and their influence can transcend the pulpit to affect tangible social changes. This study will examine how the churches can evolve and continue to engage in advocacy for peace, while ensuring that their efforts do not inadvertently exacerbate existing tensions. This will be important for sustaining their relevance and influence in the long term.
Furthermore, this study holds significance in terms of contributing to community development in Oredo LGA. The relationship between religion and development in Nigeria has been a topic of increasing academic and practical interest. By focusing on how Pentecostal revivals can be sustained to prevent communal hostility, the research will highlight the role of faith-based organizations in fostering community cohesion, providing social services, and promoting development. The insights gained could help in fostering collaborations between religious groups, local government authorities, and civil society organizations, contributing to broader development goals such as improved education, healthcare, and infrastructure in the region.
Finally, the findings of this study will be crucial for fostering a more nuanced understanding of the relationship between religion, peace, and conflict. In Nigeria, where religious and ethnic identities often intersect with issues of power and resources, understanding how Pentecostal revival can impact communal relations is essential for developing holistic peacebuilding strategies. By investigating the intersection of Pentecostal revival and communal conflict resolution in Oredo, this study will not only contribute to academic knowledge but also provide actionable strategies for enhancing the capacity of religious groups to be agents of peace and unity in their communities.
1.7. Scope of the Study
The study examines Sustaining Pentecostal Revival in curbing communal hostility in Oredo local government Benin, Edo State. The study is limited to selected Churches in Oredo local government Benin.
1.8. Operational Definition of Terms
- Sustaining: Sustainingrefers to the act of maintaining, supporting, or keeping something going over a period of time. In the context of the study, sustaining involves ensuring the continuity, growth, and impact of the Pentecostal revival, ensuring that its influence remains effective and positive in the long term.
- Pentecostal Revival: Pentecostal Revivalrefers to a renewed and intensified period of religious activity and spiritual awakening within Pentecostal Christianity. It often involves a deepened emphasis on spiritual renewal, evangelism, prayer, and the experience of the Holy Spirit’s power, particularly through practices such as speaking in tongues, healing, and prophetic ministry. A revival usually marks a period of heightened religious fervor, bringing individuals and communities closer to their faith and often encouraging social and moral transformation.
- Curbing: Curbingmeans to restrain, limit, or reduce something, often to control or prevent its negative impact. In the context of the study, curbing refers to taking actions to reduce or stop the harmful effects of communal hostility, such as violence, hatred, and division within a community.
- Communal Hostility: Communal Hostilityrefers to conflicts, animosities, or antagonisms between different groups within a community. These conflicts often arise from differences in ethnicity, religion, culture, or resources. Communal hostility can manifest in violence, discrimination, and social unrest, disrupting the peace and harmony of the community. In this context, it describes the negative tensions and conflicts that the Pentecostal revival seeks to address and reduce.