This book explores the question of whether or not Pentecostalism in
Nigeria is all about business and the quest for wealth – is the church
now a business enterprise or a charitable organization? Thus it is
contended that religion is a decisive social construct variant in
Nigeria. While concurring with the imperative that Pentecostalism
occupies a central place in Christianity, there is a rising section of
deviant elements in this sector, wherein the normative influence of
Christianity has been deserted for an insatiable quest for riches. Thus,
it is not surprising that a vast number of Pentecostal pastors are worshiped by their parishioners as they would God.What could have led to this conversion from worshipping God Almighty to
venerating mere mortals? The great absurdity of the Nigerian situation
is that it is perhaps the most religious country globally, yet the most
corrupt nation at the same time. Therefore, given the depth of her
religiosity, it is not surprising that Pentecostalism is perhaps the
fastest growing commercial industry in Nigeria. In other words,
Nigeria’s rate of church growth as ‘business centres,” as it were, is
perhaps the fastest in the world. This conceivably has placed an
indelible stain on Christianity, making it a source for concern in
Nigeria. In spite of these consistent challenges, what is striking
however, is that the growth of Pentecostalism has remained unhindered
even when its adherents are aware that although Jesus fed the 5,000
hungry people (Matthew 14:13-21), today in some Pentecostal churches,
5,000 people or more are feeding the pastor. To understand the
complexities of this discourse demands the consideration of perspectives
of individuals, especially students and people at the grassroots. The
book further sheds light on understanding how Pentecostalism connects
with the Nigerian society, in explaining and evaluating the symbiotic
relationship between Pentecostalism and its influence in Nigerian
culture. While conceding that the Church is not the enemy of Nigeria,
there are nonetheless charlatans in the Pentecostal church as there are
in the other sectors of human endeavour. Therefore, if the Church and
her Bridegroom who are victims of differing antagonisms all through the
ages are yet to go extinct, then there must be such an intriguing
substance that still enables the Church to command such unceasing deluge
of attention.