SOCIETAL ENLIGHTENMENT THROUGH RELIGIOUS DECONSTRUCTION: THE IMPACT OF ABEL DAMINA’S TEACHINGS ON NIGERIAN CHRISTIANITY

SOCIETAL ENLIGHTENMENT THROUGH RELIGIOUS DECONSTRUCTION: THE IMPACT OF ABEL DAMINA’S TEACHINGS ON NIGERIAN CHRISTIANITY

 

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Abel Damina, founder of PowerCity International Church, has become a prominent voice in Nigerian Christianity by challenging traditional doctrines and advocating a reinterpretation—or deconstruction—of long‐held religious paradigms. His teachings emphasize critical inquiry into scriptural texts, encourage believers to question inherited dogmas, and promote an individualized faith experience (Schwadel & Anderson, 2022). This process of religious deconstruction seeks not to dismantle belief but to foster a more authentic, personally meaningful spirituality that aligns with contemporary social realities (Juergensmeyer, 2017).

 

Sociological studies of religious transformation suggest that deconstruction can lead to societal enlightenment by reducing stigma around doubt, encouraging open dialogue, and fostering greater inclusivity (Clair, 2018). In the Nigerian context—where Christianity often intertwines with cultural expectations and political interests—Damina’s approach represents both a liberation from rigid orthodoxy and a potential source of controversy, as some traditionalists view his critiques as undermining church authority and communal cohesion (Adhikari, 2020).

 

Psychologically, engaging congregants in deconstructive processes may alleviate fear‐based obedience and promote agency, yet it may also provoke anxiety among individuals struggling with existential uncertainty (Arango et al., 2018). Understanding how Damina’s teachings reshape Nigerian Christian practices, self‐concepts, and social norms is therefore crucial to evaluating their broader impact on religious life and social enlightenment.

 

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite Abel Damina’s growing influence, there is a paucity of empirical research on how his deconstructive teachings affect Nigerian Christians’ beliefs, behaviors, and perceptions of religious authority. Anecdotal reports highlight both renewed spiritual vitality among followers and tensions with established church leadership. However, without systematic investigation, stakeholders lack clarity on whether Damina’s approach promotes societal enlightenment or fosters fragmentation within the Christian community.

 

1.3 Objectives of the Study

To analyze the core tenets of Abel Damina’s deconstructive teachings and their theological foundations.

 

To assess the effects of these teachings on adherents’ religious beliefs, practices, and attitudes toward church authority.

 

To evaluate the broader societal implications—such as reduction in stigma, enhancement of critical thinking, or emergence of sectarian tensions—stemming from Damina’s influence.

 

1.4 Research Questions

What are the principal doctrines and methods through which Abel Damina deconstructs traditional Christian beliefs?

 

How do Damina’s followers report changes in their faith experiences, church involvement, and interpersonal relationships?

 

In what ways do these deconstructive practices contribute to—or hinder—societal enlightenment in the Nigerian religious landscape?

 

1.5 Significance of the Study

Christian Congregations & Leaders: Insights will inform church strategies for engaging members experiencing doctrinal doubt and for addressing leadership challenges.

 

Theologians & Social Scientists: Findings will contribute to scholarship on religious deconstruction and its role in social transformation.

 

Policy Makers & NGOs: Understanding the interplay between faith innovation and social norms can guide community programs promoting critical dialogue and tolerance.

 

1.6 Scope and Limitation of the Study

Scope: Focuses on adult members of PowerCity International Church and adjacent congregations in Lagos and Port Harcourt who have engaged with Damina’s teachings over the past three years.

 

Limitations:

 

Selection Bias: Participants drawn from Damina’s network may not represent wider Nigerian Christian populations.

 

Evolving Teachings: As Damina’s ministry evolves rapidly, findings may become outdated if his doctrines shift significantly.

 

1.7 Definition of Terms

Religious Deconstruction: The critical examination and reinterpretation of established religious beliefs and practices.

 

Societal Enlightenment: The process by which societies gain increased critical awareness, tolerance, and reduction of stigma.

 

Orthodoxy: Traditional or established doctrines and practices held by religious institutions.

 

Existential Uncertainty: Psychological discomfort arising from questioning fundamental beliefs about meaning and purpose.

 

Sectarian Tension: Conflict or division that arises when differing doctrinal views lead to social or institutional fragmentation.

 

List of References

Adhikari, B. S. (2020). Fear in religion. Misión Jurídica, 13(18).

 

Arango, C., Díaz‐Caneja, C. M., McGorry, P. D., Rapoport, J., Sommer, I. E., Vorstman, J. A., … Carpenter, W. (2018). Preventive strategies for mental health. The Lancet Psychiatry, 5(7), 591–604.

 

Clair, M. (2018). Stigma. Core concepts in sociology, 318–321.

 

Juergensmeyer, M. (2017). Terror in the mind of God: The global rise of religious violence (Vol. 13). Univ of California Press.

 

Schwadel, P., & Anderson, A. L. (2022). Religion and Americans’ fear of crime in the 21st century. Review of Religious Research, 64(1), 145–162.