Chapter 1

1.1Introduction

Webber (1994:13) argues that worship, both in its traditional and contemporary forms, finds its basis in the Scriptures. It is important to recognize that worship is not something created by humans, but rather a divine gift bestowed upon us. In the same vein Tozer (2017) asserts that the primary reason for the existence of human beings is worship. God's original intent in creating humanity was to have creatures to him. In support of the above statements Warren (2006:7) states that “Worship is the purpose of your life. When Jesus was asked, (Matthew 22:36-40) “What is the greatest commandment?” he replied, “Love the Lord your God with all your heart and mind and soul and strength.”

Worship is for those who have realized the importance of cultivating a deep connection with the divine and recognizing God's presence in all aspects of our existence. It suggests that true worship involves more than just external rituals or practices; it involves an inner transformation and a conscious alignment of our thoughts, beliefs, and actions with the divine will (Goodwin 2012).

Worship is reserved for Christians who have accepted Jesus as their Lord and Savior through faith. It is seen as a lifestyle and requires obedience to the Word of God. The passage from Matthew 16:24-25 is cited, where Jesus command believers to deny themselves, take up their cross, and follow Him. The worshipers are called to live in obedience to God’s Word, and worship should be aligned with God’s instructions and done His way. The Ten Commandments, particularly the first two, establish that God alone is to be worshiped and that the manner of worship is determined by God. It is argued that worship must be God-centred and not focused on human inventions. The study’s introductory chapter includes background information, problem statement, objectives, research questions, justification, assumptions, research methodology, literature review, and scope.

1.1Background of the Study

Prompted by observation and social media the research focuses to study what the researcher terms a crisis in worship. Though others have researched in the similar topic the researcher fills compelled to express her concerns in worship in some Bulawayo Pentecostal churches lead by some prophets.In an article posted by Banda (2023) where he expressed his concerns about the anointed articles and indirect practice of African Region Tradition (ART). The researcher accordingly is deeply concerned about the trend of worship which is no longer focusing on God but on human beings for blessings BRINGING THE ELEMENTS OF SYNCRITISM. There is a crisis in worship as well as in mission. In contemporary times, there exists a crisis in both worship and mission. This crisis can be attributed to a lack of genuine, biblically grounded worship, which is often overshadowed by fast-paced music that prioritizes entertainment over reverence for God. It is crucial to acknowledge that God's holiness cannot be shared with alternative religious practices (ATR), as doing so would undermine the unique holiness of our Creator. In Matthew 6:33, the Word of God instructs us to prioritize seeking the kingdom of God above all else, with the assurance that everything else will fall into place accordingly. Similarly, in the Gospel of John, Jesus affirms that the time has come, and indeed is already here, when true worshippers will worship the Father in both spirit and truth. This affirmation underscores the fact that the Father actively seeks those who engage in authentic worship (John 4:23-24).

Therefore, it is imperative to address the prevailing crisis by re-establishing a firm theological foundation for worship. This calls for a return to biblical principles and a recognition of the significance of God's holiness. Worship should not be reduced to mere entertainment, but rather it should reflect a deep reverence and awe for the divine. By embracing true worship that is rooted in the truth of God's Word, we align ourselves with the Father's desires and participate in a worshipful relationship with Him. In this instance the research will focus on the problem relevant in The United Family International Church (UFIC) and Pentecostal Healing and Deliverance (PHD). The research question this article attempts to answer is: From a point of view of God’s holiness how can we analyze Pentecostal worship that is centered on entertaining people.

In Pentecostal churches most people are going to church not to worship but to find miracles. Prophets organize churches not for worship of God but to sell the gospel to people and entertain them.

Prosperity gospel has been on the rise in Zimbabwe from as early as 2000 when the likes of Mathias and Mildred Ministries, United Family International Church (UFIC), Prophetic Healing Deliverance (PDH), were birthed. True biblical giving has taken another dimension in which a lot of so called Christians have been misinformed or wrongly taught, which has given rise to false religion (Mapuranga).

The prosperity gospel, under the guise of worship through giving, has caused significant harm within Christian circles. Many individuals who identify as 'Christians' have lost their hard-earned money and property due to being taught the 'give to get' principles by church leaders. Therefore, the researcher aims to examine true biblical worship from a biblical perspective.

1.2Problem Statement

Many people are drawn to Pentecostal churches because of their lively worship. Even mainline traditional churches have adopted Pentecostal worship styles and systems. In view of this the research evaluates the biblical authenticity of Pentecostal approach to worship. The study will mainly focus on the true biblical worship according to God’s holiness. Pentecostal worship appears to lack the guidance of God’s holiness because it more interested in entertaining people.

1.3Topic:

An assessment of true biblical worship in relation to prosperity gospel in some Pentecostal churches in Bulawayo

1.4Research Question:

1. From a point of view of God’s holiness how can we analyse Pentecostal worship that is centred on entertaining people?

1.5 Justification of the research

In order to determine true biblical worship and false worship in some Pentecostal churches in Bulawayo that are prosperity gospel centered, it is necessary to examine the teachings and practices of these churches in light of biblical principles. Here are some key considerations to help justify the distinction between true and false worship. True biblical worship should be based on a solid biblical foundation. It involves the sincere reverence and adoration of God, acknowledging His holiness, sovereignty, and attributes, as revealed in Scripture. False worship, on the other hand, may deviate from biblical teachings and prioritize material prosperity over spiritual growth and obedience to God's Word. (Psalm 96:9; Romans 12:1). Sprout. It is characterized by a genuine desire to honor and please Him, rather than seeking personal gain or material wealth. False worship, often associated with prosperity gospel, tends to place excessive emphasis on earthly blessings and personal prosperity as the primary goals of faith, which can distort the true purpose of worship.

True worship involves genuine repentance, sincere confession of sins, and a commitment to holiness and righteous living. False worship may lack these elements, promoting a superficial spirituality that focuses on external displays of faith without genuine heart transformation. This again has brought crisis in missions according to Goodwin as their main focus is on increasing numbers without proper discipleship. True worship acknowledges the sacrificial death and resurrection of Jesus as the means of salvation, and seeks to exalt Him as Lord and Savior. False worship may downplay the centrality of the gospel message and instead emphasize material blessings and worldly success as the primary evidence of faith.

True worship involves a proper understanding of stewardship and generosity. It recognizes that all we have belongs to God, and we are called to use our resources wisely and generously for His purposes and the well-being of others. False worship may promote a self-centered approach to prosperity, focusing on personal accumulation without a genuine concern for others or the advancement of the Kingdom of God.

In similar vein Chapters 4-5 of Revelation depict worship in its loftiest and most majestic form. The climax occurs when the entire universe joins in worshiping God, signified by the resounding "Amen!" This signifies the end of the great controversy, the completion of the Church's work, and the restoration of harmony between the universe and its Creator. The expression "You are worthy" is directed both to the Creator in chapter 4 and the Redeemer in chapter 5. This language of worthiness was familiar in the first century, as it was used to acclaim emperors upon their entrance into a city. In this majestic worship service depicted in Revelation, all created beings humbly surrender their crowns to the Father and the Son, encompassing the unity of creation and redemption, heaven and earth. The centrality of the Father and the Son in worship is established as an eternal truth for Christians.

The posture of worshipers in Revelation 4:10 and 5:14 is one of humility. The twenty-four elders fall down before the One seated on the throne, prostrating themselves in worship. A literal translation would be "fell down and prostrated themselves." This humble posture exemplifies the reverence and submission expressed in worship. (Holmes 1997).

Mugambi (p.39) states that “The fact that God desires social transformation of undesirable circumstances emerges again in the prophetic writings. The so-called “social prophets” are all depicted as God’s spokespersons.”

It is important to note that while these principles can serve as a guide, discerning true and false worship is a complex task that requires careful examination of specific teachings, practices, and the overall spiritual atmosphere within a particular church.

1.6Assumption of the study

Assumption of the study regarding true biblical worship and false worship in some Pentecostal churches in Bulawayo that preach prosperity gospel include:

Are pastors qualified, do they follow God’s design for worship, and are their teaching methods effective, do they divide people into age groups for effective teaching. Are the services too long prompting the congregation to lose focus? Is the prosperity for all or is it a money market for the 'man of God' and his inner circle which are close to the prophet's heart through their giving. Why some of these Pentecostal churches in Bulawayo that preach prosperity gospel and why is it that they prioritize the message of material prosperity and financial blessings as a significant aspect of their teachings. Also find out if they are aware of clear biblical principles and criteria by which worship practices and teachings can be evaluated as either aligning with the true biblical understanding of worship or deviating into false worship.

The research will examine specific Pentecostal churches in Bulawayo focusing on a specific geographical area and analyze the worship practices and teachings of selected churches within that region using the Bible as a standard and reference point to assess the alignment of worship practices and teachings with biblical truth.

1.7Limitations

When conduction a study on true biblical worship and false worship in some Pentecostal churches in Bulawayo that preach prosperity gospel, there are several limitations that should be taken into consideration. These limitations may include:-

Subjective and Interpretation: Evaluation worship practices and teachings can involve subjective judgments. The researcher’s interpretation of what constitutes true biblical worship and false worship may differ from the perspectives of others. Different individuals and churches may have varying understandings of worship, and it can be challenging to establish definitive criteria for evaluation.

Access and Cooperation: Gaining access to some Pentecostal churches in Bulawayo that preach prosperity gospel and securing their cooperation for the study may present challenges. Some churches might be hesitant to participate or provide complete transparency regarding their teachings and practices, potentially limiting the depth and accuracy of the data collected.

Time Constraints: Conducting an in-depth study on worship practices and teachings requires significant time and resources. Given limitations on time, it may not be possible to thoroughly examine all aspects of worship within the selected churches.

1.8Delimitations

The study will be confined on true biblical worship and false worship in some Pentecostal churches in Bulawayo that preach prosperity gospel, it is important to establish the delimitations, which define the scope and boundaries of the research. The delimitations for this study will include:

Geographic Focus: The study will specifically focus on two Pentecostal churches in Bulawayo, Zimbabwe, UFIC and PHD. The findings and conclusions may not be generalizable to other religions or countries with different cultural, social and religions contexts.

Prosperity Gospel Emphasis: The study will specifically examine churches that preach prosperity gospel as a significant component of their teachings. The research will focus on the impact of prosperity theology on worship practices, rather than exploring other theological aspects or denominational differences within Pentecostalism.

Qualitative Approach: The study will adopt a qualitative research approach, such as interviews or observations, to gain in-depth insights into worship practices and teachings. It may not incorporate quantitative methods or statistical analysis due to the nature of the research objectives.

Time Limitations: The study will be conducted within a specific timeframe, which may impose limitations on the depth and breadth of data collection. Long-term trends or changes over time may not be fully captured within the research scope.

Language Limitations: The study assumes that the primary language used in the selected churches is accessible to the researcher. If language barriers exist, the study may be limited to churches where the researcher can effectively communicate and understand the worship practices and teachings.

Church Selection: Due to logistical constraints, the study will focus on a limited number of Pentecostal churches in Bulawayo, specifically on those that are at the forefront.

The delimitations help define the boundaries of the study and provide clarity on what aspects will be included and excluded from the research. It is important to consider these delimitations laying them to a broader context or population.

1.9Research Methodology

A suitable research methodology for studying true biblical worship and false worship in some Pentecostal churches in Bulawayo that preach prosperity gospel can incorporate a combination of qualitative and quantitative research methods. The following research methodology is a suggestion, but the specific approach can be adapted based on the researcher’s preferences and available resources:

Literature Review: Begin by conducting a comprehensive review of existing literature on biblical worship, prosperity gospel, and related topics. This will provide a theological framework and help identify key concepts, theories, and previous research findings.

Selection of Churches: Select a representative sample of some Pentecostal churches in Bulawayo that preach prosperity gospel. Consider factors such as church size, prominence, diversity, and accessibility. Aim for a sample size that is manageable within the scope of the study.

The study can employ qualitative methods such as interviews, surveys, and observations to gather data and analyze the perceptions and experiences of church members. The findings of this research will contribute to a deeper understanding of the worship dynamics within these Pentecostal churches and may have implications for theological discussions, pastoral practices, and the development of a more balanced and biblical approach to worship.

ü External manifestations.

ü The influence of the prosperity gospel

ü The reliance on spiritual leaders

Qualitative DataCollection:

i. Interviews: Conduct semi-structured interviews with church leaders, pastors, and members to explore their beliefs, understanding of worship, and the role of prosperity gospel in their church. Focus on understanding their perspectives, experiences, and practices related to worship.

ii. Observations: Attend worship services and other church activities to observe the actual worship practices, rituals and teachings. Take notes on the elements of worship, sermon content, use of music, and any other relevant observations.

iii. Interpretation and Conclusion: Interpret the research findings in light of the existing literature and theoretical framework. Draw conclusions about the nature of true biblical worship and false worship within the selected churches and discuss the implications of prosperity gospel teachings on worship practices.

1.10Conclusion

The body of Christ must get out of their comfort zone and do what is in God's, heart, to proclaim the Good News. Raise evangelists and follow up teams to avoid spiritual babies who will nature God's people through the Word and prayer until they are mature Christians and desist from baby dumping. Failure by the church is the root of crisis. Without the true gospel being preached not everyone who goes to church is born again, they are attendants and not Christians. The church must lead people to repentance, God building his church, reconciling people to himself and by so doing God gets the glory he deserves and we are channels that God uses - ministry belongs to God. If the church will walk in the footsteps of our LORD Jesus Christ, false gospels will be less as people will be exposed to the truth and know that there is only one God to be worshipped.

1.11. Definition of Key Terms:

1.11.1 Pentecostal Churches

A church is a gathering of the called ones, called out from the world John Calvin (1509-1564): Calvin's theological system, known as Reformed theology or Calvinism, had a significant impact on the understanding of the church. He emphasized the sovereignty of God and the authority of Scripture. Calvin viewed the church as a community of believers, organized for worship, preaching, sacraments, and discipline. His understanding of the church helped shape Reformed and Presbyterian ecclesiology.Calvin viewed the church as a community of believers, emphasizing the importance of the fellowship and mutual support among believers. He emphasized that the church is not merely an institution, but a living body of Christ.

1.10.2 Sergler (1989:5) states that “Worship is an end in itself; it is not a means to something else; Karl Barth has appropriately declared that the “church’s worship is the Opus Dei, the work of God, which is carried out for its own sake.” When we try to worship forthe sake of certain benefits that may be received, the act ceases to be worship; forthen it attempts to use God as a means to something else. We worship God purely for the sake of worshiping God.”

To worship is:

§ To quicken the conscience by the holiness of God,

§ To feed the mind with the truth of God,

§ To purge the imagination by the beauty of God,

§ To open the heart to the love of God,

§ To devote the will to the purpose of God.

1.11.2 Covenant

1.0.3.1Karl Barth (1886-1968): Barth, a Swiss theologian, offered a distinctive understanding of the covenant in his theology. He viewed the covenant primarily in terms of God's self-revelation and God's gracious initiative toward humanity. Barth emphasized the covenant as the foundation for understanding God's relationship with humanity and the basis for ethical living in response to God's grace.

For Barth, the covenant was not primarily viewed as a legal contract or agreement between two parties, but as an expression of God's gracious initiative and self-disclosure. He emphasized that God takes the initiative in establishing and maintaining the covenant, revealing Himself and His purposes to humanity. In this understanding, the covenant becomes a means by which God enters into a personal and dynamic relationship with humanity.

1.11.3 Pentecostal

1.11.4.1 Charles Fox Parham (1873-1929): Parham was a prominent figure in the early days of the Pentecostal movement. He is known for his emphasis on the baptism of the Holy Spirit as evidenced by speaking in tongues. Parham's teachings and experiences laid the foundation for the Pentecostal understanding of the baptism of the Holy Spirit as a distinct experience subsequent to conversion.

1.11.4.2 William J. Seymour (1870-1922): Seymour was a key leader in the Azusa Street Revival, a significant event in the early history of Pentecostalism. He emphasized the work of the Holy Spirit and the restoration of spiritual gifts, particularly speaking in tongues, as evidence of the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Seymour's teachings and experiences at the Azusa Street Revival helped shape the theological emphasis on the ongoing work of the Spirit in the Pentecostal movement.

1.11.4.3 Howard M. Ervin (1921-2014): Ervin, an American theologian, made significant contributions to Pentecostal theology. He emphasized the theological foundations of the baptism of the Holy Spirit and the ongoing work of the Spirit in the life of believers. Ervin's work, particularly in his book "These Are Not Drunken As Ye Suppose," sought to articulate a theological framework for understanding the baptism of the Holy Spirit as a distinct experience subsequent to conversion.

1.11.4.4 Stanley M. Horton (1916-2014): Horton was an influential Pentecostal theologian who made significant contributions to systematic theology from a Pentecostal perspective. His works, such as "What the Bible Says About the Holy Spirit" and "Systematic Theology: A Pentecostal Perspective," provided a comprehensive Pentecostal theological framework. Horton addressed various theological topics, including the baptism of the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts, and the nature of the church, from a Pentecostal perspective.

These theologians, among others, have played significant roles in defining and shaping Pentecostal theology. Their writings and teachings have contributed to the theological distinctive of the Pentecostal movement, including the emphasis on the baptism of the Holy Spirit, spiritual gifts, and the ongoing work of the Spirit in the life of believers. It is important to note that Pentecostal theology is diverse, and different theologians within the movement may hold varying perspectives on specific theological issues.

Reference:

Banda, C. (2022). Propagating Afro-pessimism? The Power of neo-Pentecostal prophetic objects on human agency and transcendence in Afric. In D

Bowler, C. C. (2010). Blessed: A history of the American prosperity gospel (Doctoral dissertation).

C. Raymond Holmes Retired (1997), Seventh-day Adventist Theological Seminary Andrews University.file:///E:/Research%20on%20Worship/1997_01.pdf%20worship%20in%20the%20book%20of%20Revelation.pdf. Retrieved 28/12/2023.

Goodwin, R. (2012). Eclipse in Mission; Dispelling the Shadow of Our Idols. An Imprint of Wipf and Stock Publishers, USA.

Mapuranga, T.P. (2018). Power by Faith; Pentecostal Businesswomen in Harare. Resource Publications; Eugene, Oregon, USA.

Molnar, P. D. (2020). Do Christians Worship the Same God As Those from Other Abrahamic Faiths? Cultural Encounters, 15(2), 39-71.

Muchow, R. (2006). The Worship Answer Book: More than a Music Experience. Harper Collins.

Segler, F.M. (1996). Understand, Preparing For, and Practicing Christian Worship; Second Edition. Broadman & Holman Publishers, USA.

Tozer, A.W. (2017). Worship: The Reason We Were Created. Moody Publishers, USA.

Wells, C. (2010). How Did God Get Started? Arion: A Journal of Humanities and the Classics, 18(2), 1–28. http://www.jstor.org/stable/27896813.

https://www.facebook.com/Churchgist.org/photos/a.616403835170158/1764800416997155/?type=3

Chapter 2

Literature Review

Introduction

What are the challenges being faced by the people in the prosperity gospel centred churches?

Challenges

What are the dominant perceptions about worship in the selected Pentecostal churches in Bulawayo?

How can these perceptions be corrected and strengthened from a perceptive of God’s holiness?

How can these churches and their followers be assisted to rediscover true biblical worship through scripture?

God’s holiness

Worship – definition

Worship is about God’s holiness through which the ministry of the Holy Spirit in biblical worship transforms us to be holy. Ethical the Holy Spirit transforms creation theological life

Pentecostalism is experiential and not informed by biblical worship. Azusa Street revival where there was a great move of the Holy Spirit people gathered to worship God to be immense in his presence and enjoy his presence which brought about healing and numerous blessings. The bible says in his presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore (Psalm 16:11). Pentecostalism focuses in making life better for self rather than focusing on God and his ability to heal and bless in abundance according to scripture (Matthew 6:33).

You make known to me the path of life; in your presence there is fullness of joy; at your right hand are pleasures forevermore.

Banda, C. (2021). Whatever happened to God's holiness? The holiness of God and the theological authenticity of the South African neo-Pentecostal prophetic activities. Verbum et Ecclesia, 42(1), 1-10.

CHAPTER 3

Research Methodology

3.1 Introduction

Research

A number of definitions of research have been proposed by different scholars and Researchers, working in different fields. According to the Oxford Advanced Learners’ Dictionary of Current English (1986:720) research is defined as “systematic investigation undertaken in order to discover new facts, get additional information.” Saunders, Lewis and Thornhill (2003) define research as “something that people undertake in order to find out new things in a systematic way, thereby increasing their knowledge.”

Research Design

Leedy (1997:195) defines research design as a plan for a study, providing the overall framework for collecting data. MacMillan and Schumacher (2001:166) define it as a plan for selecting subjects, research sites, and data collection procedures to answer the research question(s). They further indicate that the goal of a sound research design is to provide results that are judged to be credible. For Durrheim (2004L29, research design is a strategic framework for action that serves as a bridge between research questions and the execution or implement of the research strategy.

In concurrence to the above research design outlines the steps and methods to be employed to gather relevant information and address the research problem. This includes decisions about the selection of subjects, research sites, and date collection procedures.

Research Methodology

Schwardt (2007:195) defines research methodology as a theory of how an inquiry should proceed. It involves analysis of the assumptions, principles and procedures in a particular approach. It involves analysis of the assumptions, principles and procedures ina particular approach to inquiry. According to Schwardt (2007), creswell and Tashakkori (2007), and Teddlie and Tashakkori (2007), methodologies explicate and dine the kinds of problems that are worth investigating; what constitutes a researchable problem; testable hypotheses; how to frame a problem in such a way tht it can be investigated using particular designs and procedures; and how to select and develop appropriate means of collecting data.

Population

Population Sample

Coppedge, A. (2009). Portraits of God: A biblical theology of holiness. InterVarsity Press.

https://www.biblicalstudies.org.uk/pdf/ajet/29-1_029.pdf

Shenk, J. S., & Westerhaus, M. O. (1991). Population definition, sample selection, and calibration procedures for near infrared reflectance spectroscopy. Crop science, 31(2), 469-474.