DSpace Angular :: Browsing by Author "Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi"

Browsing by Author "Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi"

Now showing 1 - 20 of 29

A Hermeneutical Study of Leviticus 19: 15 and Its Implications for Judges in Nigerian Democratic Context
(Global Journal of Humanities & Social Sciences, 2024) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
Justice is one of the attributes of Yahweh. Judges were appointed in ancient Israel by Yahweh for the Israelites to live in peace and harmony with one another. However, it was observed that the Judges in ancient Israel did not live to expectation. Leviticus 19: 15 was chosen as a text of investigation to determine the response of Yahweh to the Judges and its implications for Judges in Nigerian democratic Context. Historical and Phenomenological methods were used for the research. It was discovered that one of the organs that is expected to play crucial roles in governance is the judiciary. The study revealed that Judges and leaders in ancient Israel failed Yahweh. Also, since the inception of Democracy in Nigeria, the Judiciary has played and is playing important roles to protect the system. One of the major roles of the Judiciary is justice and equity for all and sundry in all election petitions, disputes in political parties, removal and reinstatement of elected officer. It was observed that some members of the judiciary are not living to the expectation of the law and the people. Some of them compromise justice for pecuniary gains. Some Nigerians opined that Judiciary has been compromised and as such cannot be trusted in the events of manipulations of electoral process or results by the politicians and the electoral body that has the responsibility of conducting elections. In view of this, many Nigerians no longer have trust in the Judiciary and this has brought the vocation in to disrepute.
A Plea for Vengeance in Psalm 35: 1-3 and its Reflections in African (Yoruba) Indigenous Churches
(Verbum et Ecclesia, 2024) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
Psalm 35 is one of the most popular, widely read and used Psalm among the African Indigenous Churches (Yoruba) in Nigeria. This study investigates why and how Psalm 35: 1-3 is used as a plea for vengeance among the Yoruba Christians in African Indigenous Churches in Nigeria. The study explores how the plea for vengeance is understood and expressed in the African traditional context. African Biblical Hermeneutics with the view of providing a useful lens to reread biblical text in African context was adopted for the study. It was discovered that as early as the third century Christian era the book of Psalms was used in the liturgy of the church. The notion of vengeance as found in Psalm 35:1-3 is a recurrent theme in African Indigenous Churches in Nigeria. This Psalm is used among the Yoruba Christians in African indigenous Churches as a plea for divine intervention against their enemies. Through a synthesis of biblical and traditional African sources, this paper demonstrates how the plea for vengeance in this is expressed in the cultural practices and beliefs of African Indigenous Churches. The plea for vengeance in this Psalm is a reflection of African Indigenous Churches’ understanding of key social issues such as justice, relationships between individuals and groups, and the need to maintain social integrity. Psalm 35 is usually read, sung, memorized, inscribed in parchment, chanted by African Christians and non-Christian as expression of faith in God to intervene in the issues confronting them as he did for the Psalmist.
A Study of Bribery and Corruption in Exodus 23: 8 and the Nigerian Experience
(Integrity Journal of Arts & Humanities, 2024) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
Bribery and Corruption are social global phenomena that have generated debates among Scholars. They are problem of routine deviation from established standards and norms by public officials and parties with whom they interact. It is widely held that bribery and corruption and the bane of development of many nations in the world today. This study examined Yahweh’s instruction to ancient Israel on bribery and corruption. Exodus 23: 8 was chosen as text of investigation to establish Yahweh’s position on the issues under review. As a corollary, the study explored how Nigerians are expected to handle the issue of bribery and corruption in our contemporary time. African Biblical Hermeneutics was used for the study.
A Theo-Psychological Study of Divine Forgetfulness in Joseph Narrative in Genesis 41: 51
(Akwa Ibom State University Journal of Arts, 2024) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
Genesis 41:51 is a pivotal verse in the Joseph narrative. This act signifies a profound divine intervention, transforming Joseph’s traumatic past into a future of promise. This study exegetically analyzed the text, delving into its theological and psychological dimensions. Historical and exegetical methods were used for the study. The study reveals how divine forgetfulness is not merely an erasure of memory but a transformative grace. Theologically, it underscores God's active role in alleviating human suffering and facilitating reconciliation and new beginnings. Psychologically, it aligns with contemporary theories on memory and trauma, suggesting that divinely enabled forgetfulness aids in overcoming past adversities and fostering resilience. This study bridges ancient scriptural insights with modern psychological practices, providing valuable perspectives for theologians, scholars, and pastoral caregivers. It redefines forgetfulness as a divine gift, crucial for healing and fulfilling one's potential within God's providential framework. This groundbreaking approach challenges traditional views, presenting divine forgetfulness as a key to spiritual and emotional liberation, making this study a reference point for contemporary theological and psychological discourse.
Biblical Prophecy: A catalyst for National Transformation
(KIU Journal of Social Science: Kampala International University, Uganda, 2020) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
Biblical prophecy in its character and form comprises the classical unity of prediction and proclamation, of foretelling and forth telling. Prophecy is a message from the divinity to humanity. Prophecy is the art of creating a bridge between the natural and the supernatural order. In most cases prophecy is directed at a particular person or group in a given situation. The main aim of prophecy is a positive change of attitude towards God or Man. The aim of this paper was to investigate the role Biblical prophecy played in the transformation of ancient Israel with the view of establishing its relevance in the Nigerian society. Historical method was used. It was discovered that Prophecy was used and still being used to regulate and control human behavior in ancient Israel and in the Nigerian society. The paper established that Prophecy has been instrumental to the growth and transformation of Nations. Prophets are therefore enjoined to use their office to foster unity and peace that will bring growth, development and transformation to the nation in which they serve.
Die by Fire (Isaiah 66: 16): A Study of Divine Justice in Old Testament and in African Yoruba Context
(International Journal of Multidisciplinary Research (IJFMR), 2024) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
This article attempts to reread Isaiah 66: 16 in the light of divine justice with reference to African Yoruba culture in Nigeria. The study examines the text and its recipient with the view to survey various uses of fire in ancient Israel and in the African Yoruba tradition. African Biblical Hermeneutics which makes the Bible relevant at any time and situation was used for the study. It was discovered that fire communicated divine presence and was a medium of divine justice in the Old Testament and the African Yoruba tradition. In African Yoruba tradition a divinity called Sango is believe to a messenger of the gods whose appearance was marked with fire, lightning and thunder as he executes judgement on the wicked. The African Yoruba Christian, in view of their background called down fire to consume their enemies whenever they are faced with difficult situations.
Dynamics of Justice in Light of Isaiah 1: 17 and Its Implication for Church Leaders in Nigeria
(Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies (JAIS), 2024) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
Yahweh is a God of Justice, whereas the poor from time immemorial have continued to suffer injustice in the hands of rulers who are supposed to be the representatives of Yahweh. This study examines Yahweh’s demand for Justice in Isaiah 1: 17 and Its Implications for Church leaders in Nigeria. Historical method was used for the study. It was discovered that as the level of injustice was very high in the time of Isaiah, so it is in contemporary Nigeria. Prophet Isaiah delivered Yahweh’s oracle on what he expected from the leaders of his people. The poor in Nigeria are suffering in the hands of leaders and the wealthy. Injustice has dominated the economic, social, political, judicial, cultural, religious, and ethnic lives of many Nigerians. Injustice in Nigeria has produced groups like Boko Haram, the Niger Delta Militancy, OPC and Bandits. The study concludes that for Nigeria to develop and take her place in the comity of nations, Church leaders in Nigeria are to emulate the life and ministry of Iasiah by speaking out on any issue of injustice in the country. Church leaders are to champion reconciliation and peacebuilding across ethnic, religious, and socio-economic divides. They facilitate dialogue, mediation, and conflict resolution efforts, fostering mutual understanding and solidarity among conflicting parties. They should embrace their prophetic mandate to seek justice and defend the oppressed, the widows and the orphans. Church leaders must contribute significantly to the advancement of human rights, peace, and development in Nigeria through continued dedication, collaboration, and advocacy. Through these efforts, Church leaders can help build a society where all individuals are treated with dignity, fairness, and respect, regardless of their social status or background.
Economic Motivation of Prophetic Vocation in Ancient Israel: Reflections in Nigeria
(Lafia Journal of Religion & Humanities, 2022) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
From the eight century BC, the phenomenon of false prophecy has become a controversial issue in Old Testament studies because; sometimes, it is very difficult to distinguish true prophecy from false. Previous studies on false prophecies have focused on its existence and consequences in ancient Israel, with little or no attention paid to the economic dimension, which is central to understanding prophetic ministry crises, in ancient Israel and the contemporary Nigerian society. This study, therefore, examined economic motivations for false prophecies in ancient Israel, with a view to establishing their reflections in the prophetic ministry in Nigerian context. The study adopted the historical and phenomenological methods. It discovered that there were false Prophets in ancient Israel and Nigerian society. Prophets in both contexts operated in groups and as such it was common to see one group making derogatory remarks about the other. This study further revealed that, some of the Prophets in ancient Israel who were part of the power structure and economically buoyant were called false Prophets by those who distant themselves from the reigning monarch. Therefore, economic hardships in a nation can make Prophets to compromise prophetic oracles on the altar of pecuniary benefits. The paper concluded that Prophets in Nigeria, like some Prophets in ancient Israel should condemn in clear terms, the unjust socio-political structure and elements that are responsible for the present economic predicament. Hence, the paper recommended that Prophets in Nigeria should focus on their calling and trust in God to meet their economic needs.
Jesus’ Methods of Communication and Its Implications for Nigerian Pastors.
(International Journal of Biblical & Cognate Studies (IJBCS): Benue State University, 2020) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
Good communication is key to sound organizational practice and successful group relationship. Leaders are expected to give accurate and clear information to their followers. The leadership is to provide clear, accurate facts and figures so that their followers can effectively complete their tasks. This paper examined Jesus’ methods of Communication and its Implications for Pastors in Nigeria. The study through the use of Historical method discovered that methods used by Jesus were not strange to his audience. Jesus’ audience had a good understanding of what he was trying to communicate to them because he spoke in clear terms and in the language they understood. Nigerian is in need of leaders like Jesus that will communicate divine message clearly and boldly.
Leadership Conflict: an Impetus for Church Growth in Nigeria
(Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies (JAIS), 2021) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
Conflict always has negative connotation. Humans have made concerted efforts to prevent conflict in their day to day relationship; however, conflicts are inevitable in any human relationship. Leadership conflict is very common in the church from the New Testament time till today. Previous studies on leadership conflicts in the Church have always centered on the evils of conflicts with little or no attention paid to the role in Church growth. The aim of this paper is to examine leadership conflict as an impetus for church growth in Nigeria. The method used was historical. It was discovered that leadership conflicts have been used by God for the growth of the Church in Nigeria. Christianity has the record of expansion by reason of conflicts. From the era of Apostles in the Acts of the Apostles through the reformation period to the time of the 21st century, the church grew rapidly in conflict times. In Nigeria, the mission church had their own share of leadership conflict. The Aladura and the Pentecostals that are spreading like wild fire today is mostly product of conflicts. Conflict could be a divine instrument for church growth. It is therefore hoped that Nigerian Christian Leaders in our Churches today will use conflict to achieve Church growth.
Predictive Prophecy: A Catalyst for the Growth of Christ Apostolic Church in Nigeria
(Lafia Journal of Religion & Humanities, 2023) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
From the study of biblical literature, prophecies are in twofold: fore telling (predictive) and forth telling (exhortation). The most popular among these two in Nigeria is the fore telling (predictive) because of its futuristic nature. Most Nigerians, regardless of their religious affiliation would like to know what the future holds for them. It is believe in some quarters that one of the fastest growing African Indigenous Church in Nigeria is the Christ Apostolic Church (CAC). Some Scholars have attributed the growth of this Church to predictive prophecy. The thrust of this paper is to investigate the place of predictive prophecy in the growth of CAC in Nigeria. Having considered the study from the standpoints of historical, participants’ observation, and interviews, it was discovered that predictive prophecy played a crucial role in the growth of the CAC. CAC, with the emphasis on predictive prophecy and Prophets brought growth to the Church as Christian faithful and non-Christians who were previously consulting Ifa priest and Babalawo started coming to the Church to seek solutions to their problems from the Prophets. The Prophets through prophetic oracles restored the Church back to its evangelistic and missionary enterprise without adulteration. The paper concludes that prophecy has to do with the meditation and interpretation of the mind and the will of Yahweh or spiritual things in day to day human relationship. Predictive prophecy had been used and is still being used to influence socio-religious space in Nigeria. The CAC, Nigeria grew in lips and bounds through the instrumentality of predictive prophecy.
Prophetic Conflict in Ancient Israel and Its Reflections in the Christian Community in Nigeria
(NIU Journal of Humanities : Nexus International University, 2024) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
This study argued that the activities of the prophetic groups in ancient Israel brought prophetic ministry into disrepute. As a corollary, the study explored the parallel between prophetic groups in ancient Israel and different Christian groups and denominations in Nigeria. The study was premised on Historical and African Biblical Hermeneutics. It was discovered that there existed parallel between prophetic groups in ancient Israel and the Christian Community in Nigeria. Study revealed that despite the Prophets’ and the Church leaders’ claims to have been divinely called and commissioned the duo were defending and protecting their group, identity, doctrines and interest at the detriment of their divine call as the mouthpiece of God. This action brought the ministries in both contexts into disrepute and decline, for their audience no longer take their oracles and ministries seriously. Their audience see them more of representatives of their prophetic group or church affiliation than of God. The study concludes that church leaders and members of the Christian community in Nigeria should intentionally build a good interpersonal and interdenominational relationship that will cut across group and denominational boundaries in order to foster unity and peaceful coexistence among Christians and non-Christians in Nigeria.
Prophetic Ethics in Ancient Israel: Implications for Nigerian Prophets
(International Journal of Biblical Cognate Studies (IJBCS): Benue State University, 2020) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
Prophecy is a divine oracle delivered by a Prophet to a particular audience. A prophet is a person that has been divinely appointed and inspired to communicate the mind of God to a specific individual or group. In most cases a positive response is expected from the recipient of the oracle. Gleaning from the biblical literature, we discovered that whenever people respond positively to prophecy what follows is blessings. To some people, prophecy is prediction of the future. However, a deeper study of the Old Testament prophetic books reveals that prophecy is forth-telling and fore-telling. Forth-telling is preaching, teaching and encouraging while fore –telling is prediction. The intention of this paper is to show the place of Ethics in prophecy in ancient Israel and the Nigerian context. In other words, what is the place of forth-telling in prophecy? Historical method was used in this research. It was discovered that forth-telling is deeply rooted in ethical teachings and it covers a larger percentage of prophetic words. It is therefore recommended that people should give more attention to forth-telling for us to build a virile nation.
Rape of Tamar in 2 Samuel 13: 1-22, 32 and Its Implications for Nigerian Youths in the 21st Century
(Anyingba Journal of Arts and Humanities: Kogi State University, 2024) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
The story of Tamar’s rape in the Bible by her brother Amnon is a pivotal part of the narrative in 2 Samuel and the decline of the reign of King David their father. By situating the passage within the broader context of gender dynamics and societal norms in Nigeria, this study seeks to explore the socio-cultural and legal implications of rape on Nigerian Youth in the 21st Century. Historical and exegetical methods were used for the study. The study argues that the consequences of Tamar’s rape are still relevant today, and that it is important to understand the issue within the broader context of gender dynamics and societal norms in Nigeria. The study identifies the following implications: First, the narrative includes a troubling message about the power dynamics between men and women in Nigerian society, implying that women are vulnerable to abuse by men in positions of power. Second, the narrative reveals the prevalence of rape culture in Nigeria, which has been perpetuated by a lack of education and enforcement of laws to protect the rights of women and girls. Finally, the narrative serves as a cautionary tale about the importance of taking action against gender-based violence. The study concluded that, the narrative of Tamar’s rape in 2 Samuel 13 has a significant impact on Nigerian youth in the 21st century. The story serves as a powerful reminder of the consequences of gender-based violence, and the need for better education and enforcement of laws to protect women and girls. It is hoped that through continued academic discourse and dialogue, the implications of this narrative will be fully explored and integrated into Nigerian society.
READING PSALM 115: 4-8 IN RELATION TO ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCE IN YORUBA- AFRICAN CONTEXT
(Social Science and Huamnities Journal, 2025) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
This study examined Psalms 115:4-8 in relation to artificial intelligence (AI), in Yoruba - African context. The study explored how this text is understood and expressed in ancient Israel and in Yoruba - African tradition. This study considered whether contemporary AI reliance mirrors the misplaced trust condemned by the psalmist and examines how Yoruba spiritual beliefs shape the ethical perception of AI. African biblical hermeneutics that provide useful lens for rereading the text was adopted for the study. It was discovered that the text critiques the reliance on human - made objects devoid of life and the dangers of misplaced trust. AI is presented as a potential “modern idol,” wherein people place faith in a technology that lacks genuine autonomy and spirit. In Yoruba culture, material objects often carry symbolic or spiritual significance, making exploring AI’s role and ethical boundaries particularly significant. While AI can offer profound benefits, it remains a creation of human hands, inherently limited and devoid of proper spiritual agency. A balanced approach to AI that values technological progress without compromising foundational spiritual values is essential for a future where AI complements human dignity and spiritual reverence and faith.
Reading Psalm 46: 1-2 in Africa (Yoruba) Context in the light of Security in Nigeria
(International Journal of Humanities Social Science & Management (IJHSSM), 2024) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
This study is an attempt to reread Psalm 46: 1-2 in African Yoruba context in the light of Security in Nigeria. The article considers the ancient Israel who were the immediate recipient and composer of this Psalm in their context with reference to the African Yoruba Christians in Nigeria which is fundamental to the African people. The study adopts the African Biblical Hermeneutics which provides a useful lens to reread biblical text in African context. It was discovered that Psalm 46 is a Psalm of confidence and trust in Yahweh in the time of Israel’s crisis. This Psalm celebrates the presence and the power of God. The author had a strong faith in God for the salvation of Israel and as such encouraged his people to put their trust in Yahweh who is their sure place of refuge. Many Yoruba Christians and members of African indigenous churches in Nigeria believe that the words of this Psalm are divine and potent. They invoke Psalm 46 like incantations (ogede) for security purposes at home, work places and as they journey within and outside the nation. For the Bible to be relevant in Africa, it must be seen to be addressing contemporary issues that are critical to the life and existence of the African people.
Rereading Psalm 121 in African (Yoruba) Context
(Integrity Journal of Arts and Humanities, 2021) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
This article is an attempt to reread Psalm 121 in an African context with reference to the culture of the Yoruba people of Nigeria. The study considers certain Eurocentric interpretation of the Book of Psalms which Africans maintained do not meet their social, physical and spiritual aspirations. An African interpretation of the Bible is an interpretation which adopts the African world view. In this study, Psalm 121 is interpreted in the light of help and protection which are the greatest needs of the African people. The study adopts the African Biblical Hermeneutics. The central focus of this approach is to provide a useful lens to reread biblical text in African context. It was discovered that as early as the third century Christian era, worshippers in the temple chanted, and sung on a regular basis from Psalms. The Psalms were popular in the fourth century with the rise of monasticism as monks chanted the psalms as daily prayer not only for personal guidance but also for spiritual warfare against demons. The ancient Israelites who were the original authors of the Psalter wrote from their experiences. Many biblical scholars and members of African indigenous churches in Nigeria, see the Psalter as divine and potent words. Psalm 121 can be used to invoke help and protection on those who desire them in the same way as words of incantation (ogede) are used among the Yoruba ethnic group of Nigeria. It is hoped that the Psalms and the entire Bible will be properly contextualized to address the challenges that Africans are currently facing.
The Impact of Alexander Banfield Literature Ministry on the Church Growth among the Nupe people of Northern Nigeria
(The American Journal of Humanities & Social Science Research (THE AJHSSR), 2024) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
Alexander William Banfield is rated as one of the greatest Missionary that had ever lived among the Nupe people of Nigeria because his literature ministry had great impacts on the lives of Christians and non-Christians. Existing works on the development of the Nupe have paid little or no attention to the contributions of Alexander Banfield to the growth of Christianity among the Nupe in Nigeria. This study attempts to investigate the transformational role of Banfield’s literature ministry on the Nupe people of Nigeria. Historical method was used for the study. It was discovered that, Banfield was among the Sudan Interior Mission (SIM) Missionaries that came to Nigeria in 1901. He sailed in company of Albert Taylor, Charles Robinson and Anthony from Liverpool and established their first station in Pategi. By reason of the needs in the mission field Banfield started learning the Nupe Language from a teacher that knew nothing about English language. In less than 12 month he was able to hold service in Nupe Language. In 18 months Banfield had finished translation work on the Gospel of John. He had also translated six (6) Chapters in Mark’s Gospel. By 1910, Banfield had established a printing press called Niger press in Tsonga. By 1912, Banfield had translated the book of Acts into Nupe. Between 1914 to1916 a Nupe Dictionary in two volumes of over 13,000 words was published. 623 Nupe Proverbs in English was published in 1916. He completed the translation of New Testament in 1914. Banfield printing press provided jobs for many Nigerians. Publications from the press were used in Government offices, Missions stations, Churches, and schools. By reason of these publications several became educated and many became Christians. The study concluded that Banfield literature ministry had great impacts not only in the lives of the Christians and non-Christians in Nupe land but in the lives of many Nigerians. Therefore, contemporary Missionaries and Church Leaders are enjoined to emulate Banfield by making the Bible and other learning materials available in the mother tongue of the people to reduce the high level of illiteracy in our nation.
The Impacts of Pentecostal Churches on the Growth of Christianity in Nigeria
(Sapientia Global Journal of Arts, Humanities and Developmental Studies (SGOJAHDS), 2020) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
Christianity came to the African continent many centuries ago as a small mustard seed. Today, it has recorded tremendous growth after undergoing some changes; in form of renewal, transformation, reformation, and revivals. Volumes have been written on the Impacts of the Mission Established Churches to the growth of Christianity in Nigeria with little or no attention paid to the Pentecostal Churches that emerged around the turn of the 20th century. This study therefore, is an attempt to bring to the fore the impacts of the Pentecostal on the growth of Christianity in Africa with reference to Nigeria. The Method used is historical. It was discovered that Pentecostal Churches through their style of worship have been able to contextualise the Christian faith and thus enhanced growth. Hence, for Christianity to make the expected impacts in Africa it must embrace the African worldview.
The Ministry of Moses Orimolade and the Prophetic tradition of Israel: An Ecclesio-historical Study
(ASEMKA: Bilingual Literary Journal of the University of Cape Coast, 2021) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
The phenomenon of religious ecstasy has been the focus of scholarly investigations and debate for centuries. Israel was believed to have gotten her culture, values and religion from Yahweh through prophetic oracles. The Israelites were warned many time by Yahweh and the prophets to distant themselves from her neighbours and their gods. However, some scholars claimed that Israel borrowed ecstatic prophecy from her neighbours. The thrust of this paper is to investigate the origin, and the place of ecstatic prophecy in ancient Israel and its reflections in Moses Orimolade’s prophetic ministry in Nigeria. Historical and Interviewed methods were used for the research. It was discovered that Israel’s prophetic tradition started before she settled in Canaan where she interacted with other nations. While it cannot be disputed that Israel must have been influenced by the culture of its neighbours, there were some elements in the religion that were peculiar to Israel. Israelite prophetic heritage cannot be compared with the divination in ancient Near East. There exist parallel between ecstatic prophetic ministry in ancient Israel and Moses Orimolade prophetic ministry in Nigeria. The Cherubim & Seraphim (C&S) church established by Orimolade grew through the instrumentality of ecstatic prophecy. The paper recommends that contemporary Prophets in Nigeria and beyond must strive to fulfill divine mandate at all cost.

Browsing by Author "Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi"

Results Per Page

Sort Options