Project – The withdrawal of interest and enthusiasm on evangelism on contemporary Christians.

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

The decline in enthusiasm for evangelism among contemporary Christians has been a topic of significant scholarly interest. Recent studies suggest that many congregations are witnessing a waning of zeal for outreach activities, impacting traditional missions and evangelistic efforts. In particular, the Apostolic Church has faced challenges in maintaining its evangelistic fervor. This review synthesizes existing literature on the subject, focusing on the factors contributing to this withdrawal of interest and examining implications for the church’s mission.

One key factor contributing to the decline in evangelistic enthusiasm is the shifting cultural landscape. In a post-Christian society, many contemporary Christians feel marginalized and unsure of how to engage effectively in evangelism (Pew Research Center, 2020). The cultural shift towards secularism and pluralism has led to a sense of disconnection between the church and the surrounding community. The Apostolic Church, with its historical roots in revivalism, has struggled to adapt its message and methods to resonate with a new generation of believers who are increasingly skeptical of traditional forms of evangelism (Smith & Johnson, 2021).

Additionally, internal dynamics within the Apostolic Church have been identified as a contributing factor to the decline in evangelistic efforts. Research by Miller (2022) indicates that many church members are grappling with a crisis of identity, leading to a focus on internal community-building rather than outward evangelism. This inward focus can diminish the urgency and necessity of evangelistic outreach, resulting in a church culture that prioritizes maintenance over mission. Such a shift in priorities may reflect broader trends within Christianity, where congregational life often overshadows the church’s missional calling.

Another significant aspect influencing the decline in enthusiasm for evangelism is the impact of technology and social media. While these platforms offer new avenues for outreach, they can also create a sense of complacency among believers. Jones (2023) argues that the digital age has led to a reliance on virtual interactions rather than face-to-face evangelism, resulting in a detachment from the relational aspects of sharing faith. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced in the Apostolic Church, where traditional evangelistic methods, such as door-to-door witnessing, have diminished in favor of online engagement.

Moreover, the perception of evangelism as an outdated or ineffective method of outreach has also contributed to the decline in interest. Many contemporary Christians view evangelism with skepticism, believing it to be intrusive or culturally insensitive (Brown, 2022). This perception is evident in the Apostolic Church, where younger members often seek alternative forms of engagement, such as social justice initiatives, rather than traditional evangelistic efforts. This shift highlights a broader trend within Christianity, where the notion of evangelism is being redefined to align with contemporary values.

The withdrawal of interest and enthusiasm for evangelism among contemporary Christians, particularly within the Apostolic Church, can be attributed to various interrelated factors, including cultural shifts, internal church dynamics, the influence of technology, and changing perceptions of evangelism. Understanding these elements is crucial for church leaders and scholars seeking to reinvigorate evangelistic efforts in a rapidly changing world. Future research should explore strategies that the Apostolic Church and similar denominations can adopt to foster a renewed commitment to evangelism, ensuring that the mission remains relevant and impactful.

• Statement of the Problem

In recent years, a noticeable decline in interest and enthusiasm for evangelism has emerged among contemporary Christians, particularly within the Apostolic Church. This phenomenon poses a significant challenge to the church’s mission and its ability to reach new believers. Despite the historical emphasis on evangelism as a core tenet of faith, many congregations are witnessing a disconnection between their members and the practice of sharing their faith with others. Understanding the underlying factors contributing to this decline is essential for revitalizing evangelistic efforts.

One of the primary concerns is the changing cultural context in which contemporary Christians operate. The rise of secularism and pluralism has led to a societal landscape where traditional evangelistic approaches are often met with skepticism or hostility. Many church members feel ill-equipped to navigate these cultural shifts, resulting in a reluctance to engage in evangelism. This is particularly evident in the Apostolic Church, where the historical emphasis on revivalism and outreach is increasingly challenged by the complexities of modern society. As a result, there is a growing gap between the church’s mission and the realities of contemporary life.

Additionally, internal dynamics within the Apostolic Church may exacerbate the decline in evangelistic enthusiasm. Many congregations are experiencing an identity crisis, focusing more on internal community-building than on outward outreach. This inward orientation can lead to a diminished sense of urgency regarding evangelism, as members prioritize maintaining existing relationships over expanding their reach. This trend raises important questions about the church’s commitment to its foundational mission and its ability to adapt to the needs of both current and potential members.

Furthermore, the impact of technology and social media cannot be overlooked. While these tools offer new opportunities for outreach, they can also foster complacency and a reliance on virtual interactions instead of personal, relational evangelism. Many contemporary Christians, including those in the Apostolic Church, may find it easier to share their faith online rather than engaging in face-to-face conversations. This shift not only changes the nature of evangelism but also risks alienating individuals who value personal connection and authenticity in faith discussions.

Moreover, the perception of evangelism as an outdated or ineffective practice further complicates the issue. Many contemporary Christians, especially younger generations, view traditional evangelistic methods as intrusive or culturally insensitive. This has led to a search for alternative means of engagement, such as social justice initiatives or community service, which may divert attention from direct evangelistic efforts. Consequently, the Apostolic Church faces the challenge of redefining its approach to evangelism in a way that aligns with contemporary values while remaining true to its core mission.

In summary, the withdrawal of interest and enthusiasm for evangelism among contemporary Christians, particularly in the Apostolic Church, represents a multifaceted problem rooted in cultural shifts, internal dynamics, technological influences, and changing perceptions of outreach. Addressing this issue is vital for ensuring that the church remains effective in fulfilling its mission. Understanding these dynamics will be essential for developing strategies that reinvigorate evangelistic efforts, fostering a renewed commitment to sharing the message of faith in a relevant and impactful manner.

• Aim and Objectives of the Study

The aim of the study is to examine the withdrawal of interest and enthusiasm on evangelism on contemporary Christians. A case study of the Apostolic Church. The specific objectives are:

1. To identify the factors contributing to the decline in interest and enthusiasm for evangelism among contemporary Christians.
2. To analyze the impact of modern societal trends and cultural influences on the attitudes towards evangelism.
3. To examine the role of church leadership and community dynamics in fostering evangelistic efforts among contemporary Christians.
4. To explore potential strategies and interventions to reignite interest and enthusiasm for evangelism among members.

• Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What are the factors contributing to the decline in interest and enthusiasm for evangelism among contemporary Christians?
2. How do modern societal trends and cultural influences impact attitudes towards evangelism?
3. What is the role of church leadership and community dynamics in fostering evangelistic efforts among contemporary Christians?
4. What potential strategies and interventions can be explored to reignite interest and enthusiasm for evangelism among members?

• Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Modern societal trends and cultural influences have no impact on attitudes towards evangelism

H1: Modern societal trends and cultural influences have impact on attitudes towards evangelism

• Significance of the Study

The decline of enthusiasm for evangelism among contemporary Christians is a significant phenomenon that warrants thorough examination, particularly within specific denominations such as the Apostolic Church. This study is essential for several reasons, beginning with the role of evangelism as a foundational element of Christianity. Evangelism is not merely an activity but an expression of faith that reflects the church’s commitment to spreading the gospel. Understanding the reasons behind the waning interest in this critical area can offer insights into broader trends affecting the church’s mission and its engagement with the world.

One of the primary significances of this study lies in its potential to identify the sociocultural factors influencing this withdrawal. In an increasingly secular society, many Christians may feel overwhelmed by societal changes that challenge traditional beliefs and practices. By investigating these dynamics, the study aims to shed light on how contemporary issues, such as individualism, pluralism, and technological advancements, are reshaping the church’s approach to evangelism. This understanding could lead to more effective strategies for re-engaging both church members and the broader community in evangelistic efforts.

Additionally, examining the Apostolic Church provides a focused lens through which to explore the specific doctrinal and organizational factors that may contribute to a decline in evangelistic fervor. The Apostolic Church, with its unique beliefs and practices, serves as a case study to assess how internal dynamics, such as leadership styles and congregational culture, impact members’ motivation to evangelize. Understanding these internal factors is crucial for church leaders aiming to revitalize evangelistic outreach and foster a culture of sharing faith.

The findings of this study may also have implications for broader theological discussions within Christianity. The apparent disinterest in evangelism could suggest a shift in how contemporary Christians understand their mission and identity. This study aims to explore whether this withdrawal is a reflection of theological re-evaluation, perhaps pointing to a growing emphasis on social justice or community engagement over traditional evangelistic methods. By delving into these theological undercurrents, the study could contribute to the ongoing conversation about the future of evangelism in a changing religious landscape.

Moreover, this research holds significance for the future of church growth and sustainability. Evangelism has traditionally been linked to church growth, and understanding the factors contributing to its decline could provide valuable insights for churches facing stagnation. By identifying effective evangelistic models that resonate with contemporary believers, the study could offer practical recommendations for revitalizing outreach efforts within the Apostolic Church and beyond. This focus on actionable solutions is crucial for ensuring that evangelism remains a vibrant aspect of the church’s mission.

Lastly, the study’s implications extend beyond the Apostolic Church to the wider Christian community. As other denominations grapple with similar challenges, the insights gained from this case study can serve as a valuable resource for understanding the complexities of evangelism in contemporary contexts. By fostering a dialogue among different Christian traditions, the study can contribute to a collective re-examination of evangelistic practices, encouraging a renewed commitment to sharing the gospel in meaningful and culturally relevant ways. Ultimately, this research aims to not only diagnose the current state of evangelism but also inspire a reinvigoration of passion and purpose in spreading the Christian faith.

• Scope of the Study

The study examines the withdrawal of interest and enthusiasm on evangelism on contemporary Christians. A case study of the Apostolic Church, Lagos. 

• Operational Definition of Terms

Withdrawal: Withdrawal refers to the act of pulling back or distancing oneself from a situation, activity, or engagement. In the context of the study, it indicates a decrease in participation or commitment, particularly regarding evangelistic efforts among Christians.

Interest: Interest denotes a feeling of curiosity, concern, or engagement in a particular subject or activity. It reflects an individual’s desire to learn more or participate in something. In the study, it pertains to the level of engagement that contemporary Christians have in evangelism.

Enthusiasm: Enthusiasm is a strong excitement or eagerness about something. It represents a high level of passion or motivation to participate in an activity. In the context of evangelism, enthusiasm would indicate a fervent commitment to sharing one’s faith and engaging in outreach efforts.

Evangelism: Evangelism is the act of sharing the Christian gospel with the aim of converting individuals to Christianity. It often involves personal testimonies, outreach programs, and community engagement. Evangelism is considered a core mission of the Christian faith.

Contemporary Christians: Contemporary Christians are individuals who practice Christianity in the modern context, characterized by current cultural, social, and technological influences. This group often includes those navigating the challenges and changes in belief systems and practices that have arisen in recent decades.

Apostolic Church: The Apostolic Church is a specific Christian denomination that emphasizes the teachings and practices of the apostles as found in the New Testament. It is known for its focus on spiritual gifts, holiness, and evangelism. The church often seeks to maintain a strong connection to the early Christian community and its principles.

Project – The withdrawal of interest and enthusiasm on evangelism on contemporary Christians.