The Foundations of the Early Church and Their Parallels in the Growth of Pentecostal Christianity in Nigeria

Abstract

This study looks at the historical and theological roots of Pentecostal Christianity in Nigeria, from early 20th-century Bible schools to its contemporary status as a vibrant religious movement. It employs a qualitative research design, combining historical records, church documents, and modern interpretations to present a detailed view of the growth of Pentecostalism. The study focuses on specific examples, such as Bible lessons in Lagos, Ijebu-Ode, and Ilesa, as well as the Deeper Christian Life Ministry, which were chosen for their historical significance and representativeness of varied settings. These stories demonstrate how grassroots initiatives, scriptural teachings, and lay leadership all contributed to the growth of Pentecostalism. The findings not only show striking similarities between Nigerian Pentecostalism and the Early Church, especially in their focus on faith healing, prayer, and Holy Spirit-led worship, but also how the contemporary Church adjusts to local cultural and sociopolitical contexts. However, the study identifies gaps in theological continuity, such as a lack of emphasis on sacramental rituals and community ethics, which raises serious concerns about the selective appropriation of Early Church traditions. Finally, the study indicates that the long-standing influence of fundamental Christian teachings has profoundly altered Nigerian Pentecostalism, establishing it as a transformative movement with substantial theological and socioeconomic implications for the Nigerian religious landscape.