David Oluwabukunmi Ogunbiyi
Unknown Affiliation

Published : 3 Documents Claim Missing Document
Claim Missing Document
Check
Articles

Found 3 Documents
Search

Socio-Exegetical Interpretation of 1 Kings 17:13b within the Context of Nigerian Economic Vulnerability and Clerical Authority David Oluwabukunmi Ogunbiyi
Kwaghe International Journal of Arts, Humanities and Religious Studies Vol 2 No 2 (2025): Kwaghe International Journal of Arts, Humanities and Religious Studies
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/kijahrs.v2i2.6354

Abstract

Religion in Nigeria functions as both a source of empowerment and a mechanism of exploitation, particularly within the context of widespread poverty, inflation, and post-COVID socio-economic instability. With over 90 million Nigerians living below the poverty line, Christian clergy have emerged as influential figures not only in spiritual matters but also in economic and psychological spheres. This study examines the intersection of clerical authority and economic vulnerability in Nigerian Christianity through a socio-exegetical analysis of 1 Kings 17:13b, the account of Elijah and the widow of Zarephath. This passage is frequently employed in Nigerian churches to promote sacrificial giving, often presented as a demonstration of faith with the promise of divine reward. However, concerns have been raised regarding the potential manipulation of impoverished or widowed congregants under such teachings. By drawing contextual parallels between the widow’s plight and that of many Nigerian believers, this research explores the theological implications and ethical challenges of applying this text in contemporary preaching. Using a mixed-methods approach, the study combines biblical exegesis with empirical data collected from 274 clergy and laity respondents. The findings reveal a divide: while many interpret Elijah’s request as a test of faith affirming prophetic authority, others caution against its exploitation for personal or institutional gain. Respondents also stress the importance of embodying Elijah’s compassion and tangible support, not merely spiritual exhortation. The study concludes that interpretations of 1 Kings 17:13b must be grounded in pastoral ethics, particularly in economically vulnerable contexts. Churches are urged to promote accountability, encourage voluntary giving, and invest in robust welfare initiatives to fulfill their holistic mission as both spiritual leaders and agents of social support.
“Strangers and Aliens on Earth” (Hebrews 11:13b): A Socio-Exegetical Inquiry into Christians’ Rite of Passage David Oluwabukunmi Ogunbiyi; Babatunde Aderemi Adedibu
Kwaghe International Journal of Arts, Humanities and Religious Studies Vol 2 No 3 (2025): Kwaghe International Journal of Arts, Humanities and Religious Studies
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/kijahrs.v2i3.7344

Abstract

This study examines the theological and sociological significance of Christian rites of passage through the interpretive lens of Hebrews 11:13b, which portrays believers as “strangers and aliens on the earth.” Adopting a socio-exegetical approach, it explores how this pilgrim identity informs Christian perceptions and practices of baptism, marriage, and funeral rites within selected Nigerian denominations, including Anglican, Methodist, Pentecostal, and Indigenous Churches. Guided by Van Gennep’s rites of passage framework and Victor Turner’s concepts of liminality and communitas, the research integrates biblical exegesis with liturgical theology to assess the spiritual meaning of these rituals. Data gathered from 900 respondents indicate strong affirmation of pilgrim theology and broad consensus that Christian rites function as spiritual milestones symbolizing detachment from worldly values and anticipation of eternal life. Baptism and funeral rites are particularly valued for their eschatological significance, while perspectives on marriage as a symbolic pointer to heavenly realities are more diverse. The study also uncovers tensions between Christian doctrine and African traditional death practices, highlighting the need for contextual theological dialogue. It concludes that the Church bears a vital pastoral responsibility in preparing believers for the ultimate transition death by reaffirming the biblical vision of heavenly citizenship. The findings recommend enriched liturgical expression, deeper theological formation, and intentional youth engagement to sustain a spiritually grounded yet culturally sensitive practice of Christian rites. Ultimately, these rites are shown to function not only as markers of life transitions but as embodiments of the Christian journey toward God’s eternal promise.
Nigeria’s Economic Challenges and the Hope of Restoration: A Socio-Theological Reading of Psalm 126:1–6 David Oluwabukunmi Ogunbiyi
Kwaghe International Journal of Arts, Humanities and Religious Studies Vol 3 No 1 (2026): Kwaghe International Journal of Arts, Humanities and Religious Studies
Publisher : Darul Yasin Al Sys

Show Abstract | Download Original | Original Source | Check in Google Scholar | DOI: 10.58578/kijahrs.v3i1.9081

Abstract

Nigeria is a multicultural nation endowed with abundant human and natural resources, yet it currently faces profound economic crises marked by high inflation, unemployment, underemployment, widespread poverty, and social instability, particularly banditry and insurgency. This study examines a socio-theological interpretation of Psalm 126:1–6 in the context of these economic challenges and evaluates how the biblical theme of restoration can inspire hope and positive action among Nigerian citizens. Drawing on classical and Keynesian economic theories alongside biblical exegesis of Psalm 126, the study employs a mixed-methods approach using data from 620 Nigerian Christians to analyze the spiritual, emotional, and socio-economic impacts of the crisis. The findings show that the majority of respondents perceive a direct link between Christian faith and socio-economic resilience, viewing Psalm 126 as a source of national encouragement and as a framework for prayer that integrates divine intervention, human responsibility, and aspirations for national development. The study concludes that churches can play a crucial role in national restoration through spiritual support, socio-ethical advocacy, and community development, and recommends stronger governance, church-led social initiatives, and the integration of moral and theological values into policy-making as key pathways toward socio-economic recovery and holistic restoration in Nigeria.