RELIGIOUS LEADERSHIP AND SOCIETAL CHANGE: HOW ABEL DAMINA’S TEACHINGS INFLUENCE BELIEF SYSTEMS

RELIGIOUS LEADERSHIP AND SOCIETAL CHANGE: HOW ABEL DAMINA’S TEACHINGS INFLUENCE BELIEF SYSTEMS

 

CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background of the Study

Religious leaders have historically served as catalysts for social transformation, guiding moral values, shaping community norms, and influencing public discourse. In Nigeria, Abel Damina—founder of PowerCity International Church—has emerged as a transformative figure by challenging established doctrines and encouraging critical engagement with scripture. Through televised sermons, social-media outreach, and interactive workshops, Damina advocates a shift from unquestioning adherence to inherited beliefs toward a faith grounded in personal understanding and societal relevance (Schwadel & Anderson, 2022).

 

This form of leadership aligns with sociological theories of charismatic authority, whereby leaders mobilize followers through compelling vision and rhetorical skill, precipitating changes in collective belief systems (Juergensmeyer, 2017). Damina’s emphasis on deconstructing dogma and reconstructing belief frameworks resonates with younger, urban congregants seeking authenticity in faith. His approach invites believers to interrogate traditions that no longer serve social progress—ranging from exclusionary rituals to stigmatizing teachings about illness or gender roles (Clair, 2018)—thus positioning religious leadership as an agent of societal enlightenment.

 

1.2 Statement of the Problem

Despite the prominence of Abel Damina’s ministry, scant research exists on how his leadership style and doctrinal innovations concretely reshape individual and communal belief systems. While anecdotal testimonies celebrate newfound spiritual agency, critics warn of doctrinal fragmentation and erosion of institutional cohesion. Without empirical study, religious scholars and policymakers lack insight into the mechanisms through which Damina’s teachings effect change and the extent to which they contribute to broader social development.

 

1.3 Objectives of the Study

To analyze the leadership strategies Abel Damina employs to promote doctrinal reevaluation among Nigerian Christians.

 

To assess the ways in which his teachings transform adherents’ core beliefs—about authority, morality, and communal obligation.

 

To evaluate the downstream societal effects of these belief changes, such as shifts in stigma reduction, civic engagement, or interfaith relations.

 

1.4 Research Questions

What methods does Abel Damina use to articulate and disseminate his deconstructive theological vision?

 

How do followers describe changes in their understanding of religious authority and personal faith as a result of his teachings?

 

In what ways do these altered belief systems manifest in social attitudes and behaviors beyond the church context?

 

1.5 Significance of the Study

Religious Scholars & Theologians: Will gain a deeper understanding of modern charismatic leadership and its role in doctrinal evolution.

 

Church Leaders & Denominational Bodies: Insights can inform dialogue on balancing doctrinal integrity with adaptive innovation.

 

Policy Makers & Civil Society: Evidence of links between faith-based belief change and social outcomes may guide partnerships with religious actors to address stigma, civic apathy, or intergroup tensions.

 

1.6 Scope and Limitation of the Study

Scope: Focuses on adult members of PowerCity International Church in Lagos and Port Harcourt who have followed Damina’s teachings for at least one year.

 

Limitations:

 

Selection Bias: Study participants drawn from Damina’s own congregations may overrepresent positive experiences.

 

Temporal Dynamics: As Damina’s ministry evolves rapidly, findings may not capture future doctrinal developments.

 

1.7 Definition of Terms

Charismatic Authority: Influence derived from perceived extraordinary qualities of a leader, enabling doctrinal innovation (Juergensmeyer, 2017).

 

Doctrinal Deconstruction: The critical unpacking of established religious teachings to assess their relevance and validity (Clair, 2018).

 

Belief System: An interrelated set of religious, moral, and social convictions shaping individual and collective behavior.

 

Stigma Reduction: The process of weakening negative social attitudes toward marginalized groups (Clair, 2018).

 

Civic Engagement: Participation in activities aimed at improving community welfare and democratic governance.

 

List of References

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

 

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

 

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