Department of Christian Studies

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An Exegetical Study of Genesis 2:18-25 vis-a-vis the Agitation for Same-sex Marriage in Nigeria.
(Department of Religious Studies Olabisi Onabanjo University, Ago-Iwoye., 2014) Fawenu Bamidele Olusegun
The quest for acceptance of same-sex marriage as alternative to the traditional heterosexual marriage is a global phenomenon. The popularity of the practice as well as its legal and religious acceptance in the West contrasts the situation in Africa where majority of the countries have officially criminalized it. While most arguments in its favour from the west have centered on the need to respect fundamental human right of people whose sexual orientation prefers same-sex partners, the African’s abhorrence of it hinges on its morality as well as cultural alienation. This Paper, therefore, examines the issues involved in the context of the current agitation for legal recognition of the practice in Nigeria from a Biblical-Cultural perspective. This effort becomes germane given the fact that the practice is thriving in the west probably because of some ecclesiastical accent it enjoys. An exegetical analysis of Genesis 2:18-25 shows that the practice is alien to divine idea of marriage, which affirms gender distinction in marriage as cardinal to social interaction and perpetuation of humanity on earth. This biblical position aligns perfectly with the African cultural standpoint about gender distinction of marriage partners. Therefore, same-sex marriage does not appeal to Christian religious sensibilities and morality.
An Interrogation of Perspectives on Pre-Mosaic Tithe-Related Narratives.
(Department of Religions, Kwara State University, Malete, Nigeria., 2018) Fawenu Bamidele Olusegun
Tithing which describes the giving of ten per cent of one’s income for religious purposes is a popular religious practice among Christians. Its occurrences and practice in the Old Testament can be classified into three era; pre-mosaic, mosaic and post-mosaic. Opinions are divided on Christian adoption of this ancient Israelite practice. The pro-tithing perspective leans strongly on Abraham’s model to argue that contrary to the anti-tithing dubbing of the practice as legalism, the practice predated the Mosaic Law. Therefore, this paper examines the three references (Genesis 4:1-10; Genesis 14:8-24 and Genesis 28:10-22) to tithing before the time of Moses and interrogates the dual perspectives arising from them with the intent to ascertain the tenability of the claim of tithing advocates. Historical and analytical approaches were used in achieving the set goal of this paper. Data from the biblical passages as well as from scholars’ views were critically appraised. It was discovered that the divergent opinions on tithing are due to making of assertions and querying of the narratives beyond what they were scripted to supply. Therefore, while the heroism of the biblical patriarchs of faith can be emulated, on the strength of God’s ownership of man and the inestimable blessing of redemption that believers in Christ enjoy, serving God with material possession should not be conditional neither should it be by compulsion.
ECO-THEOLOGICAL READING OF PSALM 104: IMPLICATIONS FOR AFRICAN CHRISTIANS
(Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria., 2024) Fawenu Bamidele Olusegun
This study investigates the eco-theological dimensions of Psalm 104 and its relevance for African Christians. The text’s profound insights into the harmonious relationship between humanity and the natural world have been overshadowed by more immediate personal concerns particularly in African Christian context. This oversight presents a dual challenge: firstly, the underexplored ecological dimensions of Psalm 104 within African Christian devotional practices, and secondly, the resulting gap in understanding the implications of such ecological teachings on contemporary environmental challenges. The problem addressed hinges on the need to explore how African Christians can engage their natural environment in the light of their faith against the background of contemporary ecological challenges, by the use of Psalm in their worship experience. The objective of the study is to theologically examine the ecological themes present in Psalm 104 and analyze their implications for environmental stewardship in the African context. A qualitative research method is employed, involving textual analysis of Psalm 104 to identify eco-theological themes and their implications. Data were thematically analyzed with focus on key motifs such as ecological spheres in Psalm 104, the interconnectedness of creation, and human responsibility. Findings reveal that Psalm 104 portrays God as the creator and sustainer of all things and emphasizes the interdependence and harmony within the natural world. The text underscores the importance of recognizing the role of humans as stewards of creation who are called to care for and protect the environment. The psalm vividly shows the eco- sapiential attribute of God in a manner that invites humans generally and African Christians in particular to recognize their role as stewards of the earth and to scale up their appreciation for the natural world. Therefore, recommendations are made for African Christians to integrate eco-theological principles into their spiritual and practical lives, promoting environmental conservation, sustainable living practices, and advocacy for ecological justice.
“IMAGO DEI” AND THE SANCTITY OF HUMAN LIFE IN THE CONTEXT OF GENESIS 9:1-6.
(Nigerian Association for the Study of Religions, 2014-07) Fawenu Bamidele Olusegun
The biblical concept of the image of God remains an enigmatic theme in Old Testament Theology. Lack of consensus by biblical and theological experts on the interpretation of the concept makes the discourse a recurring exercise. The link between this theme and the dignity of man with respect to the criminal vice of murder demands attention, especially in the context of Nigeria as a densely religious nation. Therefore, this work argues against the violation of human life via religious violence in Nigerian. The concept of image of God and the various interpretations advanced by different Old Testament scholars and Theologians over the centuries is critically assessed, before running some exegetical comments on the reference text, Genesis 9:1-6 with specific emphasis on grammatical and lexical analysis. A brief reference is made to religious violence from the 1980 Maitasine riot up to the current Boko Haram insurgence and culminates in condemning killings citing that both Christianity and Islam emphasize the sanctity of human life. Calls are made to adherents of various religions to find a meeting point of all humans in the common creator of all and therefore respect the sanctity of humanity.
Interpreting Psalm 82 in the Context of Social Injustice in Nigeria.
(Department of Religious Studies and Philosophy, Delta State University, Abraka, Nigeria., 2023) Fawenu Bamidele Olusegun
Social injustice, a pervasive societal affliction, knows no bounds in terms of race or geography. Its crippling ramifications within Nigeria have become glaring, manifesting in a deteriorating economy, escalating insecurity, heightened youth unrest, and a relentless cycle of poverty. The dire state of education and healthcare underscores the distressing reality. Concurrently, income disparities continue to widen, casting a shadow of doubt over the prospect of any imminent closure of these gaps. This prevailing socio-economic landscape has seemingly propelled the popularity of three successive political campaign slogans - "change agenda," "next level," and "renewed hope" - touted by the present ruling political party. Hence, this paper delves into the hermeneutical significance of the enigmatic Psalm 82 in revitalizing Nigeria's ailing social fabric. Grounded in scholarly efforts that center on unraveling the identity of the 'elohim (gods) in verses 1 and 6 of the text, a historical-grammatical exegesis of verses 2-7 is conducted, drawing connections to the deprivation of healthcare, education, and socio-economic empowerment in Nigeria. The study employs a discussion analysis approach enriched by contextual hermeneutics to effectively contextualize the text's implications for Nigeria. The findings illuminate Psalm 82's original intent, namely, the reformation of the society for its initial audience through the conduit of leadership, leveraging the deeply ingrained religious sentiments within its socio-religious context. Furthermore, it underscores the cardinal role of social justice as a divine expectation from any human government. An appreciation of the devastating impact of social injustice on society, coupled with the prospect of divine retribution for errant leaders as delineated in Psalm 82, holds the potential to catalyze genuine change, usher in a more promising future, and materialize the long-elusive hope for improved living conditions for Nigerians.
THE CONFESSIONS OF JEREMIAH IN CHAPTER 20:7-18 VIS-À-VIS PROPHETIC VOICES IN NIGERIA RELIGIO-POLITICAL SPACE
(Department of Christian Religious Studies, Kaduna State State University, Kaduna, 2021-01) Fawenu Bamidele Olusegun
Prophets occupied central position in the social, religious and political space of ancient Israel just as it is experienced in contemporary Nigeria. As mouth pieces of God for the regulation of the activities of the people particularly the aristocrats, their messages attracts intense criticism and persecution. The inner burden of a prophet was clearly exemplified in the confessions of Jeremiah as recorded in chapters 11:18-23; 12:1-6; 15:10-21; 17:12-18; 18:18-23 and 20:7-18. Were the confessions of Jeremiah literary device from the editorial pen to give credence to the prophet’s oracles or the true experience of the burden the prophet bore as peril of ministry? How do the confessions resonate with prophetic voices in the Religio-political context in Nigeria? Therefore, this paper examines Jeremiah 20:7-18 with the intention of addressing the theological as well as interpretation problems imbedded in the text and draw lessons for Prophetic ministry in Nigeria. Historical-critical method of exegesis and content analysis of relevant literature were used to achieve the objectives of the paper. Findings show that the confessions of Jeremiah were his personal inner conflicts arising from the ridicule and persecution he experienced because of his stern opposition to the corrupt political and religious establishment of his day. Prophetic voices in Nigeria have a lot to model from Jeremiah in terms of dauntless attitude in the face of stern persecution consequent upon speaking the truth to political leadership for the betterment of the Nigerian society.
“The Earth Mourns”: The Intersectionality of Social Justice Movement in Isaiah 24:1-6 and Environmental Issue.
(Department of Religion and Cultural Studies, University of Nigeria, Nsukka, Enugu State, Nigeria., 2024) Fawenu Bamidele Olusegun
In this paper, the theme of environmental desolation and social justice in Isaiah 24:1-6 is explored, motivated by the increasing relevance of ecological and social issues in contemporary theological discourse. Existing scholarship often treats environmental and social justice separately, overlooking their interconnectedness in biblical texts. Therefore, the problem addressed is the lack of a holistic understanding of justice and environmental sustainability presented in Isaiah 24:1-6. This study provides a comprehensive analysis of the prophetic message in Isaiah 24:1-6, highlighting its implications for modern discussions on environmental sustainability and social equity. The objectives are to: Analyze the themes of environmental desolation and social justice; explore the links between human behaviour and environmental impact; contextualize these themes within current debates on sustainability and equity; demonstrate the relevance of ancient prophetic wisdom in addressing contemporary global challenges, particularly in line with SDGs 10 and 15. A qualitative research method is employed, involving historical-grammatical exegesis of Isaiah 24:1-6. Findings suggest that ancient prophetic insights can inform current efforts to address environmental and social injustices. Recommendations include integrating eco-theological principles into contemporary ethical frameworks and policymaking to promote sustainability and equity. Therefore, Isaiah 24:1-6 offers valuable perspectives for addressing ecological challenges.

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