2025 - Year of Increase!
The Assemblies of God Nigeria was known in the past as a significant force in the Christian community. It is known for its focus on biblical teaching, spiritual discipline, and dynamic worship. However, in recent years, there has been growing concern about a noticeable decline in the spiritual quality of both pastors and members in it. This article explores the key factors contributing to this trend. It provide an in-depth analysis of the underlying issues. Then, it makes a few suggestions on what can be done, going forward.
1. Erosion of Doctrinal Integrity in Assemblies of God
One of the foundational pillars of Assemblies of God Nigeria has been its commitment to sound biblical doctrine. Unfortunately, a gradual shift toward the dilution of core doctrinal teachings has been observed. Some pastors in Assemblies of God seem to have sworn to preach nothing else except messages that appeal to emotions, stirring in people few moments of short-lived happiness.
Others have combined these emotional triggers with material prosperity messages to sound modern as well. Yet, a close look at all they can offer show that most of them draw their inspirations from motivational speakers, psychology and philosophy books. They do this at the expense of the uncompromising truth of the Gospel on which Assemblies of God Nigeria was planted. This shift has weakened the theological foundation of the church. Hence, it has led to a loss of spiritual depth in the larger part of the entire organization.
2. Materialism and Prosperity Theology Now Revered in Assemblies of God
The rise of prosperity theology has deeply affected the spiritual atmosphere of many churches. Many Assemblies of God Nigeria have lost the discerning grace to notice this. And so, they seem to have been swallowed up by what appears to be the reigning gospel truth.
A growing focus on material wealth, success, and personal gain has overshadowed the central message of self-denial, sacrifice, and holiness. Assemblies of God Nigeria was known for advocating for these strong truths before. But, the emphasis on materialism has not only distracted its members from pursuing genuine spiritual growth and goals; it has also influenced many pastors to measure their success by material standards rather than spiritual conquest.
3. Lack of Discipleship and Mentorship
Effective discipleship and mentorship have historically been critical for fostering spiritual maturity. However, in recent years, there appears to be a decline in structured discipleship programs within Assemblies of God Nigeria. Baptismal class has disappeared completely from many AG churches. Some don’t even know what it is now.
Most Bible Study Classes lack edifying substance – those deep spiritual and practical food that can feed the soul and spirit in man. Hence, most members don’t even see the need to attend such meetings any more. Many pastors congregate themselves with administrative responsibilities. And so, they leave little time to personally mentor their members. Instead, they delegate it to ne brother, sister, or deacon. Consequently, spiritual growth has become stagnant. Members now lack the guidance they need to deepen their faith and walk with God.
4. Moral Compromise and Scandals
The prevalence of moral compromise and scandals among some church leaders has also contributed to the decline in spiritual quality. When pastors and other leaders fail to uphold the moral and ethical standards they preach, it creates disillusionment among members. This disconnection between words and actions undermines the credibility of the church. And so, it weakens the resolve of members to maintain that high spiritual standards and holy living AG was known for.
5. Worldliness and Cultural Assimilation
The increasing influence of secular culture on the church has led to the erosion of spiritual distinctiveness. Today, choreography and comedy have come to stay in some Assemblies of God churches, not minding the deceptions they carry. Candle night has eaten the youths to the bones. Unregulated music concerts christened gospel vibes, etc. have become avenues for breeding immoral connections. Replicating worldly tunes and mixing them with religious terms seems good and innocent. We can go on and on to point out areas our dear AG has gone out of the track.
Many members, and even leaders, have adopted worldly practices and lifestyles. They know all these are inconsistent with biblical teachings, yet they feel they cannot do anything to stop it. This assimilation into a culture of entertainment, instant gratification, and moral relaxation has made it difficult for the church to maintain its spiritual integrity and superiority.
6. Prayerlessness and Neglect of Spiritual Disciplines
Prayer and spiritual disciplines like fasting, Bible study, and worship have historically been central to the spiritual vibrancy of Assemblies of God Nigeria. However, there has been a noticeable decline in the emphasis on these practices.
Prayer meetings are less attended and the reason is not far from here – there’s nothing spiritually interesting happening there. They can only make it look like something is happening when they tailor the prayer points to dwell more on individual wants and needs of people in attendance.
Personal devotional habits among members and leaders have weakened. Ever wonder why so many preachers now appear with pot-bellies. And you are tempted to ask if this one can ever fast and do the impossible as he used to do before. They have so amassed weight and even their voices are sounding dirty from overweight and indulgences. If you insist on the church observing fasting, some of them would hide food and drinks in their offices. They must eat at intervals while they sheep pray on empty stomachs. This neglect has grievously resulted in a diminished connection with God. It makes it harder for the church to experience strange spiritual events are renewal as before.
7. Leadership Challenges and Division
Leadership conflicts and divisions have plagued Assemblies of God Nigeria in recent years. Internal disputes have distracted the church from its mission. This has created an air of distrust and disunity brethren. Such divisions not only hinder the spiritual growth of members but also tarnish the church’s public image. It makes it difficult to attract new members or believers. While it is clear that the leadership is working to make sure the present divide in the church dies completely, someone has suggested that in such effort, they should consider this approach and see if it would work, even as the church keeps praying.
8. Neglect of Evangelism and Outreach
Assemblies of God Nigeria was naturally known for its strong evangelical zeal. However, there has been a decline in its evangelistic efforts. The reasons are two: Firstly, most members have become inwardly-focused rather than outwardly-reaching. Secondly, many of the pastors and their members no longer can see nor talk about the monumental rewards that God will give to evangelists on the Resurrection Morning.
The result is that members don’t see the need to go out again. In fact, they are even more conscious of the dangers attached to evangelism than the eternal rewards that goes with it. The lack of emphasis on sharing the Gospel and engaging with communities has diminished the church’s spiritual impact and relevance in society.
Conclusion
The decline in spiritual quality among pastors and members of Assemblies of God Nigeria comes from many issues. Some of them are rooted in doctrinal erosion, materialism, lack of mentorship, moral compromise, cultural assimilation, prayerlessness, leadership challenges, and neglect of evangelism. Addressing these challenges requires a deliberate return to the foundational principles of the faith. By prioritizing sound doctrine, fostering discipleship, embracing spiritual disciplines, and reviving the spirit of evangelism, the Assemblies of God Nigeria can experience a revival that would restore its spiritual vitality and impact.
A noteworthy line has to be drawn here and now. The ongoing Ministers’ Challenge that the General Council is conducting nationwide is a welcome development. They messages dished out in these programmes are great. Our prayers are that with what this post has revealed, may our pastors see the clarion call of our fathers and retrace their steps back to the Bethel where they once met with God in Jesus’ name. Amen.
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