DOCTRINAL CONTROVERSIES AND ITS EFFECTS TO THE GROWTH OF CHRISTIANITY

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

• Background to the Study

Christianity, as one of the world’s major religions, has experienced numerous doctrinal controversies throughout its history. These controversies have significantly influenced the growth and development of the religion. The Arian controversy, for instance, was a significant theological dispute concerning the nature of Christ that occurred in the 4th century. Arius, a priest from Alexandria, argued that Jesus Christ was not of the same substance as God the Father, a view that was considered heretical by the mainstream church. This controversy led to the convening of the First Council of Nicaica in 325 AD, which affirmed the doctrine of the Trinity and significantly shaped the future of Christianity (Rubenstein, 1999).

The Pelagian controversy is another significant doctrinal dispute that had a profound impact on the growth of Christianity. Pelagius, a British monk, argued against the doctrine of original sin and asserted that humans could achieve salvation through their own efforts, without divine grace. This controversy led to the development of the doctrine of predestination, which became a central tenet of many Christian denominations, particularly Calvinism (Bonner, 2002).

The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century was a major doctrinal controversy that led to the fragmentation of Western Christianity. Martin Luther’s Ninety-Five Theses challenged the authority of the Pope and the doctrine of indulgences, leading to the formation of Protestant denominations. This controversy significantly altered the religious landscape of Europe and had profound social, political, and economic effects (MacCulloch, 2005).

The modern era has also seen its share of doctrinal controversies, such as the debate over the ordination of women and the acceptance of homosexuality. These controversies have led to further divisions within Christianity, with some denominations embracing progressive views and others adhering to traditional interpretations of scripture. These debates continue to shape the growth and development of Christianity in the contemporary world (Boswell, 1980).

Doctrinal controversies have played a significant role in the growth of Christianity. They have led to the formation of new denominations, the development of new doctrines, and significant changes in the social and political landscape. While these controversies have often been divisive, they have also been a source of dynamism and change within the religion (McManners, 2001).

• Statement of the Problem

The problem of doctrinal controversies and their effects on the growth of Christianity is a complex and multifaceted issue. The Christian faith, since its inception, has been marked by a series of doctrinal disputes that have shaped its development and expansion. These controversies have often led to schisms, creating a multitude of denominations each with their unique interpretations of Christian doctrine (McManners, 2001).

The first major doctrinal controversy in Christianity was the Arian controversy in the 4th century, which questioned the divine nature of Jesus Christ (Rubenstein, 1999). This controversy led to the Council of Nicaea in 325 AD, which affirmed the divinity of Christ but also led to a split between those who accepted the council’s decision and those who did not. This split hindered the growth of a unified Christian church and led to the formation of separate Christian communities.

The Protestant Reformation in the 16th century, led by Martin Luther, was another significant doctrinal controversy that had a profound impact on the growth of Christianity (MacCulloch, 2005). Luther’s challenge to the authority of the Pope and the Catholic Church’s teachings on salvation led to a major schism in Christianity, resulting in the formation of Protestant churches. This controversy not only divided Christianity but also led to religious wars that further hindered its growth.

In the modern era, doctrinal controversies continue to affect the growth of Christianity. Issues such as the ordination of women, homosexuality, and the interpretation of the Bible have led to divisions within denominations and have often resulted in the formation of new churches (Woodhead, 2016). These controversies have also led to a decline in church attendance in some regions, as people become disillusioned with the church’s inability to resolve these issues.

However, it is also important to note that doctrinal controversies have not always had a negative impact on the growth of Christianity. In some cases, these controversies have led to a clarification of Christian beliefs and have spurred on evangelistic efforts to spread the Christian faith (Stark, 1997). For example, the Arian controversy led to the development of the Nicene Creed, a statement of faith that has been used by many Christian churches to articulate their beliefs.

Doctrinal controversies have had a significant impact on the growth of Christianity, often leading to divisions and the formation of new churches. However, these controversies have also played a role in shaping Christian beliefs and have sometimes spurred on the growth of Christianity. Further research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between doctrinal controversies and the growth of Christianity.

• Aim and Objectives of the Study

The study examines doctrinal controversies and effects on the growth of Christianity. The specific objectives are:

1. To examine the historical context of doctrinal controversies within Christianity and their origins.
2. To analyze the specific doctrinal controversies and their impact on the growth and development of Christianity.
3. To understand the role of these controversies in shaping the different denominations within Christianity.
4. To evaluate the responses of Christian communities and leaders to these doctrinal controversies.

• Research Questions

The research questions are buttressed below:

1. What is the historical context of doctrinal controversies within Christianity and how did they originate?
2. How have specific doctrinal controversies impacted the growth and development of Christianity?
3. What role have these controversies played in shaping the different denominations within Christianity?
4. How have Christian communities and leaders responded to these doctrinal controversies?

• Research Hypothesis

The hypothetical statement of the study is buttressed below:

Ho: Doctrinal controversies have no significant impact on the growth and development of Christianity

H1: Doctrinal controversies have significant impact on the growth and development of Christianity

 Significance of the Stud

The study of doctrinal controversies and their effects on the growth of Christianity holds significant value in multiple aspects. Firstly, it provides a comprehensive understanding of the historical context of these controversies. This understanding is crucial as it sheds light on the origins and evolution of different Christian doctrines, thereby offering a deeper insight into the history of Christianity itself.

Secondly, this study is significant as it analyzes the specific doctrinal controversies and their impact on the growth and development of Christianity. By doing so, it helps in understanding how these controversies have shaped the course of Christianity over centuries. It also provides a perspective on how these controversies have influenced the theological, social, and political aspects of Christian communities.

Thirdly, the study is important as it explores the role of these controversies in shaping the different denominations within Christianity. This exploration is essential to comprehend the diversity within Christianity and to appreciate the unique characteristics of each denomination. It also helps in fostering a spirit of ecumenism by promoting mutual understanding and respect among different Christian denominations.

Fourthly, the study holds significance as it evaluates the responses of Christian communities and leaders to these doctrinal controversies. This evaluation is vital to understand the dynamics of power, authority, and decision-making within Christian communities. It also provides insights into the strategies adopted by Christian leaders to manage these controversies and to maintain the unity and integrity of their communities.

Fifthly, the study is significant as it contributes to the field of Christian theology by providing a critical analysis of doctrinal controversies. This contribution is important as it enriches the theological discourse and stimulates further research on related topics. It also helps in refining the theological understanding and interpretation of Christian doctrines.

Lastly, the study is significant as it has practical implications for contemporary Christian communities. By learning from the past, these communities can develop effective strategies to manage potential doctrinal controversies in the future. They can also use this knowledge to promote dialogue, reconciliation, and unity within and among different Christian denominations.

 Scope of the Study

The study examines doctrinal controversies and effects on the growth of Christianity. The study is restricted to selected Pentecostal Churches in Lagos Nigeria.

1.8   Operational Definition of Terms

“Doctrinal Controversies” refer to disagreements or disputes over the interpretation of religious doctrine, particularly within the context of Christianity. These controversies often arise from differing interpretations of the Bible, the primary religious text of Christianity, and can lead to significant divisions within the Christian community.

“Effects” in this context refers to the outcomes or consequences that result from these doctrinal controversies. This can include a wide range of impacts, from changes in church policy and practice, to the creation of new denominations, to shifts in the beliefs and behaviors of individual Christians.

“Growth” in the context of Christianity typically refers to the increase in the number of adherents or followers of the religion. This can be measured in a number of ways, including church membership, attendance at religious services, or self-identification as Christian in surveys and censuses. Growth can also refer to the spread of Christianity to new geographic areas or populations.

“Christianity” is a monotheistic religion based on the life and teachings of Jesus Christ, as recorded in the New Testament of the Bible. It is one of the world’s largest religions, with billions of followers worldwide. Christianity is divided into several major branches, including Roman Catholicism, Eastern Orthodoxy, and Protestantism, each of which has its own unique beliefs and practices.

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