HDR Candidate: Olushola, Adeboye (David)
Title of Project | An investigation into human experiences and perspectives on miracles, signs, and wonders: Comparative analyses between Pentecostal Churches in Scandinavia and Nigeria |
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Course of Study | Master of Philosophy |
Language of Instruction | English |
Abstract | While some research is available on the origin and the global spread of Pentecostalism in Europe and Africa, there is a lack of research regarding a comparative investigation between Pentecostalism in Europe and Africa, particularly regarding miracles, signs, and wonders. This thesis seeks to fill this gap through a comparative study of miracles in Europe and Africa. The thesis will investigate human experiences and perspectives on miracles, signs, and wonders with a comparative analysis between Scandinavia and Nigeria. Scandinavia has a population of around 25 million compared to Nigeria with over 200 million people. The primary research question for this thesis is, “What is the perceived role of miracles, signs, and wonders in evangelism among Pentecostal ministry leaders in Scandinavia and Nigeria?” This thesis argues that miracles, signs, and wonders play a significant role in evangelism among Pentecostal ministry leaders, particularly in Africa, making it possible for the continued growth of Pentecostalism. Jesus’ disciples believed in him when they saw the miracle he performed (John 2:11). Miracles are essential in Christ’s charge to believers on evangelism ((Mark 16:15-20, John 14:12-14, Mathew 28:19-20). The apostles won many to the Lord because of the performance of miracles (Acts 3:11, 8:6, 13:44). The research utilises a mixed methods approach of quantitative and qualitative data analyses. The quantitative approach allows a more significant number of participants than the qualitative method. It allows 150 participants and uses a survey questionnaire to evaluate the role and the significance of miracles, signs, and wonders among Pentecostals. The 150 will include 50 participants from Nigeria, 50 from the African diaspora in Scandinavia, and 50 from Scandinavia without any connections to Africa. The qualitative approach will provide a deeper understanding of the role of miracles through semi-structured interviews with 30 participants. The 30 will include 10 participants from Nigeria, 10 from the African diaspora in Scandinavia, and 10 from Scandinavia without any connections to Africa. The participants should be a fair representation of Pentecostal ministry leaders, members with testimonies of miracles, and other Christian members. |