Department of Christian Studies

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A HERMENEUTICAL STUDY OF LEVITICUS 19: 15 AND ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR JUDGES IN NIGERIAN DEMOCRATIC CONTEXT
(Global Journal of Humanities and Social Sciences.Vol.03. Issue.06, 2024) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
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 Africa (Yoruba) Indigenous Churches
(Verbum et Ecclesia, 2024) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
Psalm 35 is one of the most popular, widely read and used Psalm among the African indigenous churches (Yoruba) in Nigeria. This article investigates why and how Psalm 35 vv. 1-3 is used as a plea for vengeance among the Yoruba Christians in African indigenous churches in Nigeria. The article 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 3rd-century Christian era, the book of Psalms was used in the liturgy of the church. The notion of vengeance as found in Psalm 35 vv. 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 article demonstrates how the plea for vengeance 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, memorised, inscribed on parchment, and chanted by African christians and non-christians as expression of faith in God to intervene in the issues confronting them as he did for the Psalmist. Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: The Yoruba Christian readers of Psalm 35vv. 1-3 appeal to God for intervention against their enemies. The article emphasises that Christians should not take laws into their hands but trust in God for justice.
A study of bribery and corruption in Exodus 23: 8 and the Nigerian experience
(Integrity Journal of Arts and Humanities., 2024) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
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 officers and parties with whom they interact. It is widely held that bribery and corruption are the bane of development of many nations in the world today. Previous studies on bribery and corruption have situated its cause in human weakness with little or no attention paid to divine position on the issue. 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 bribery. 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 that makes the Bible relevant in any culture and nation was used for the study. It was discovered that the level of corruption in ancient Israel and Nigeria is very high. Findings revealed that some Nigerian judges and leaders collect bribe to pervert the course of justice. The poor and the less privileged in the society suffer injustice of all sorts in the hands of leaders and judges that have received bribes. These corrupt practices are partly responsible for unrests, banditry, underdevelopment, unemployment and insecurity that have bedeviled our nation today. For Nigeria to stand tall in the comity of Nations her citizens must make justice and equity their watchword. Nigerians that are involved in Bribery and Corruption be sanctioned.
A Theo-Psychological Study of Divine Forgetfulness in Joseph Narrative in Genesis 41: 51.
(AKWA IBOM STATE UNIVERSITY JOURNAL OF ARTS AKSUJA VOL 5 NO 1 2024, 2024) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju & Okunade, Nathaniel Teminijesu
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 stud 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.
Amos’ Oracle on Injustice in Amos 2:6 and Its Implications for Leadership in Nigeria
(Nasara Journal of Humanities. A Publication of Faculty of Arts Nasarawa State University, 2021) Peter Olanrewaju Awojobi
Prophets were restive whenever people and nations were not in right standing with Yahweh. Prophetic vocation comes to the fore when people abandon the way of Yahweh. Amos’ message for Israelite leaders on injustice in the eight century BC has been rated as the most explicit, detailed and timely prophetic warning in the Bible to the leaders and the reflections of the issues addressed by him in any nation have been treated with the utmost caution. Existing studies on injustice in the book of Amos have situated the cause of injustice in bad governance with little or no attention paid to the socio-economic dimension which are central to the understanding of injustice been perpetrated by the leaders in Nigeria today. This paper examined the Socio-economic dimension of injustice in Amos 2: 6 with the view of establishing parallel between the socio-religious landscapes in ancient Israel and contemporary Nigerian society. This is done through the use of the inculturation method which many African Scholars believe to be the way of making the Bible relevant in any generation. It was discovered that the situation in Amos’ time was similar with the present Nigerian society. There is oppression, injustice and moral decadence in Nigeria. This is as a result of greed, bad and corrupt leadership. The rich are getting richer while the poor are getting poorer. The church and her leaders who are supposed to play the role of the Prophets in Nigeria have failed because they are beneficiaries of the loot of corrupt and bad leaders in the society. This situation has hampered development in the land. For any nation to experience meaningful development; the human resources must be properly built up. In this building process, acceptable social norms and values must be operational. It is only with these we can build a virile nation.
Barrenness in Old Testament and African and Scientific Perspectives.
(nternational Journal of Humanities Social Science and Management (IJHSSM) Volume 5, Issue 3, May-June, 2025, pp: 512-522, 2025) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju & Okunade, Nathaniel Teminijesu
Quest to overcome barrenness has been a persistent concern across cultures, religions, and scientific disciplines. In various contexts, childlessness is not merely viewed as a personal or medical issue but as a social, spiritual, and existential challenge that affects individuals, families, and communities. This study examines the Old Testament, African (Yoruba), and scientific (In Vitro Fertilization, IVF) approaches to barrenness. Historical and comparative methodologies were used. In the Old Testament, barrenness is portrayed as a divine test, often overcome through faith, prayer, and divine intervention. The Yoruba culture, integrates spiritual consultations, herbal remedies, and communal support in addressing infertility. Scientific advancements such as In Vitro Fertilization, IVF and other assisted reproductive technologies (ART) offer medical solutions but failed to address the psychological and cultural dimensions of infertility. While scientific interventions emphasize technological mastery over reproduction, the Yoruba tradition focuses on communal and spiritual practices.
Biblical Prophecy: A Catalyst for National Transformation
(KIU Journal of Social Science. Volume 6(2): 419-425, June. A Publication of College of Humanities and Social Science, Kampala International University, Uganda., 2020) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
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.
Conspiratorial Politics in Jesus’ Ministry and Its Implications for Christians in Politics
(Jos Journal of Religion and Philosophy. Vol. 6. No. 1. June, 2025: 37-54. A Publication of the Department of Religion and Philosophy, University of Jos., 2025) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju & Malomo, Emmanuel Olumuyiwa
This study investigates the role of conspiratorial politics during Jesus' ministry and its implications for contemporary Christian engagement in political spheres. By examining key Gospel narratives, including the plots against Jesus orchestrated by religious and political authorities, this study reveals the intricate interplay between power, secrecy, and manipulation that defined the socio-political context of first-century Judea. It argues that Jesus' approach to these conspiratorial dynamics-characterized by a commitment to truth, justice, and radical inclusivity-provides a vital framework for contemporary Christians navigating an increasingly polarized and conspiratorial political landscape. The analysis highlights how Jesus confronted both overt and covert opposition, advocating for a transformative vision of community rooted in love and integrity. In contrast to the prevailing culture of deceit and self-interest, his ministry exemplifies a call to ethical political engagement. The study further discusses the need for Christians today to critically assess contemporary political narratives that often rely on conspiracy theories, misinformation, and fear-mongering. By drawing parallels between Jesus' experiences and present-day political challenges, this study emphasizes the importance of cultivating a culture of accountability, transparency, and truth in Christian political activism. Ultimately, it calls for a renewed commitment among believers to embody the values of the Kingdom of God, resisting the seductive allure of conspiratorial thinking while promoting justice and reconciliation in their political interactions. This study contributes to the broader discourse on faith and politics, encouraging a responsible and principled approach to civic engagement among Christians.
Court Prophets as Political Activists in Ancient Israel and the Nigerian Context
(Journal of Religion and Culture. Volume 20. Number 1: 141-149. A Publication of Department of Religious and Cultural Studies, University of Port Harcourt, Port Harcourt., 2020) Awojobi Peter Olanrewaju
Prophets in ancient Israel were regarded as distinct people called to their vocation by Yahweh. The prophet was a person sent by Yahweh with a definite message. The prophets have the responsibility of delivering the message as received. However, these prophets belonged to different groups. The Court prophets were one of the prophetic groups or guilds in ancient Israel. Most of them were hired by the monarchy of their time. The court prophets were part of the palace staff and work directly with the reigning monarch. This view is based on the believe that if it was from Yahweh it must surely be fulfilled. Previous studies have situated the cause of non fulfillment of prophetic declaration in lack of divine call with little or no attention paid to its socio-economic dimension which is central to the understanding of the motive for prophetic ministry in the contemporary Nigerian society. The thrust of this paper is the socio-economic dimension of the reception and the delivery of prophetic message by the prophets in ancient Israel and the Nigerian society with the view of establishing parallel in both contexts.
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) Vol. 6. Issue 2, 2024) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
This study attempts to reread Isaiah 66: 16 in the light of divine justice in African Yoruba culture in Nigeria. The study survey various uses of fire in ancient Israel and in the African Yoruba tradition. In the event of justice, a parallel is sought between Yahweh and a Yoruba deified divinity called Sango whose presence is marked by fire, thunder and lightning. The parallel is with the view to establish the significance of fire on justice in African Yoruba Christianity. African Biblical Hermeneutics was used for the study. It was discovered that fire was used as medium of divine justice and mercy in African Yoruba tradition. Fire marked divine presence, manifestation of the glory of God, revelation of God’s power, cleansing of human and vessels for holy use, and use for domestic purposes especially cooking. The African Yoruba Christians in Nigeria see fire as a weapon of divine justice. Therefore, in their prayers to God they call down fire to kill their spiritual and physical enemies. They are fond of using the words: ‘die by fire’. In this way, the Bible becomes a sure and reliable weapon in the battles of life and thus makes the biblical text relevant in any context, condition and generation.
Dominion Theology in Genesis 1: 26 in Nigerian Context
(Insight: Journal of Religious Studies. A Publication of Babcock University Religious Studies Department, 2019) Awojobi Peter Olanrewaju
Human beings are believed to be the crown of God’s creation and were divinely given the responsibility of having dominion over other creations. Some scholars are of the opinion that men who were appointed the managers of the earth have degraded it. This has resulted in a lot of crises. Humans are also accused of polluting the earth they were created to protect through emission of dangerous chemicals that are hazardous to the general health of the creation. The aim of this paper was to investigate the nature of the dominion that man is commanded to have over the trees, animals, seas, and the environment in general with reference to Nigeria. This was done by carrying out the exegesis of key words in Genesis 1:26 in relation to the Nigeria context. It was discovered that environmental degradation is one of the banes of the Nigerian society. This has resulted in health, socio-economic, ethnic and political crises in Nigeria. These have negative impacts on the growth and development of the nation.
Dynamics of Justice in the Light of Isaiah 1: 17 and Its Implications for Church Leaders in Nigeria
(Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies (JAIS) Volume 8(11). 99-110, 2024) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju, et al
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 and Humanities Vol.1 & 2, June / July, 2022. A Publication of Christian Religious Studies, Federal University of Lafia, Nasarawa State, 2022) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
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 dissociated 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 predicaments. Hence, the paper recommended that Prophets in Nigeria should focus on their calling and trust in God to meet their economic needs.
EXAMINATION OF THE ETHICS AND THEOLOGY OF IN VITRO FERTILIZATION IN LIGHT OF OLD TESTAMENT FERTILITY NARRATIVES WITHIN THE AFRICAN CONTEXT
(Akwa Ibom State University Journal of Arts (AKSUJA). Volume 5. No. 2: 17-24. A Publication of Faculty of Arts, Akwa Ibom State University, Obio Akpa Campus, Nigeria, 2024) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju & Okunade, Nathaniel Teminijesu
This paper examines the ethical and theological dimensions of In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) in light of Old Testament fertility narratives within the African context. Fertility in African societies is deeply intertwined with cultural and religious values, often seen as governed by divine or spiritual forces. The Old Testament offers key narratives, such as those of Sarah, Rachel, and Hannah, where fertility is portrayed as a divine gift, highlighting God's sovereignty over reproduction. These stories resonate with African Christian communities, where infertility is also understood as a spiritual matter. IVF presents an ethical challenge by introducing medical intervention into what has traditionally been a domain of divine control. Through an exegetical study of these biblical texts, this paper explores the implications of IVF for African Christian communities, offering a nuanced understanding of how biblical theology and African fertility beliefs intersect in evaluating reproductive technologies.
Finacial Sustainability of Theological Education and Its Implications for Some Theological Institutions in Nigeria
(West Africa Journal of Higher Education. Vol. 2. A Publication of International Council for Higher Education (West Africa), 2021) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
One of the greatest challenges theological seminaries are facing today is funding. Most of these schools were started and are being run by faith. In the past, missionaries who pioneered most of these institutions took responsibilities for funding the school. Now, however, they have either withdrawn or are about to withdraw funding.Foreign donations or gifts continue to decrease . This development has negative implications on theological education. Moreover, it is becoming increasingly difficult to fund theological education today by reason of the recent global economic crisis or meltdown
Hermeneutical Study of Psalm 23: 6 in the Light of Insecurity in Nigeria
(Global Journal of Human Social Sciences: A Arts & Humanities - Psychology Volume 22 Issue 11 Version 1.0., 2022) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
In recent times, some Christian faithful in nearly all Church traditions in Africa especially Nigeria have always close worship services or any Christian event in churches or homes with the recitation of Psalm 23: 6 as against the long standing tradition of closing these with Benediction or Grace. Attempt is made in this study to investigate the reasons for this change. In this Study, Psalm 23:6 is interpreted in the light of Security which is fundamental to the survival of the African people. The study adopted the African Biblical Hermeneutics which provides a useful lens to reread biblical text in African Context so that the Bible can be relevant in African situations and times. It was discovered that the book of Psalms was very popular and used by ancient Israel and by the early Christians. Portions of Psalms were written on parchment, clothes, houses, and any other things that are associated with them. They recited, sung and prayed from the Psalms. In the same way, some churches in Nigeria held that the contents of the Psalms are divinely potent and as such they recite, sing and pray from the Psalms especially in difficult times.
Implications of Migration of Christians from the Mainline to Neo-Pentecostal Churches in Nigeria
(Journal of Religion and Culture. A Publication of Department of Religious and Cultural Studies, University of Port Harcourt, 2020) Awojobi Peter Olanrewaju
Migration is a global phenomenon among humans. It is an activity that is carried out by humans in every generation. People migrate from one place to another for different reasons such as economy, social, religious and so on. Individuals migrate because they think that they can improve their own lives or those of their families by doing so. The individual’s decision to migrate involves a process of weighing up potential costs and benefits. Contemporary Christian faithful are fond of migrating from one Church or denomination to another. This paper examined the factors responsible for migration of Christians from the mainline to the Neo-Pentecostals churches in Nigeria and its Implications. Historical and Interview methods were used for the study.
Jesus’ Methods of Communication and Its Implications for Nigerian Pastors
(International Journal of Biblical and Cognate Studies (IJBCS). Volume 2, October: 151-166. A Publication of Department of Religion and Cultural Studies, Benue State University, Makurdi., 2020) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
One of the crucial issues that have marred leadership in the Church today is the inability of the Pastors to communicate effectively with Church members at various levels. Good communication is the 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. Existing studies on communication in the Church have not considered holistically Jesus’ methods of communication. This researcher examines holistically Jesus’ methods of Communication and their Implications for Pastors in Nigeria. The study adopted historical and descriptive approaches and uses relevant literature on the subject matter. The research reveals 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. Nigeria is in need of leaders that will holistically adopt Jesus’ methods of communication so that divine mandate on the Church can be realized.
Leadership Conflict in the Nigerian Church
(Light in a Once-Dark world: Contemporary Issues in Nigerian Christianity. John W. (Jack) Carter (ed): 217-229. Volume One July (Hayesville, NC: American Journal of Biblical Theology (AJBT), 2019) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
Leadership conflict has been an age long challenge to humanity. From biblical records it started between God and Satan (Isaiah 14:12-14). Satan wanted to topple God’s administration in heaven. Thus, he rebelled against the leadership of God with some angels we referred to as demons. Leadership is consider as exercising control over someone or thing. Human beings generally love to exercise control over fellow man or resource. Behind conflict in most societies in the world is the desire to control. People aspire into leadership positions today because of a strong desire to control human and material resources.
Leadership Conflict: An Impetus to Church Growth in Nigeria
(Journal of African Interdisciplinary Studies. A Publication of Multimedia University of Kenya, 2021) Awojobi, Peter Olanrewaju
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.

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