THE EFFECT OF SERVANT LEADERSHIP IN CHURCH GROWTH AMONG CHURCHES IN NIGERIA
| Format: Ms Word | 1-5 Chapters | Table of Content|
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CHAPTER ONE
INTRODUCTION
1.1 Background to the Study
The process of persuading others to achieve a goal and steering the organization in a direction that strengthens its coherence and cohesiveness is known as leadership. Applying their leadership qualities—beliefs, values, ethics, character, knowledge, and skills—leaders carry out this process. One could argue that honorable conduct and unselfish commitment to the organization are the cornerstones of excellent leadership. From the perspective of the staff, leadership is defined as whatever you do that impacts both their well-being and the organization’s goals (Atowoju, 2023).
A multifaceted leadership theory known as “servant leadership” (Greenleaf, 1998) begins with the desire to serve, then moves on to the intention of leading and developing others (Spears, 2010), and ends with achieving a higher purpose objective that benefits people, organizations, and societies as a whole (van Dierendonck, 2017).
The Bible contains the fundamental ideas of servant leadership, even though it was developed by Greenleaf in 1998 (Coetzer et al., 2017). Jesus stated, “You know that their high officials exercise authority over them, and those who are regarded as rulers of the Gentiles lord it over them,” as an example. Not in the case of you. Rather, the one who aspires to be the greatest among you needs to be your servant. (Mark10:42–45, King James Bible, 2021).
Numerous leadership theories are in line with servant leadership (Coetzer et al., 2017). It is distinct, yet, in that it possesses humanitarian qualities as well as leadership aim, focus, and other aspects. Furthermore, it prioritizes servicing people (Stone et al., 2004). From its conceptual and philosophical beginnings in the 1970s, servant leadership has evolved over time to become a theory supported by an increasing number of robust empirical research and reliable, valid instruments. In recent years, servant leadership has drawn a lot of attention (Singfiel, 2017).
During his research, the number of servant leadership practitioners grew from a trickle to a river (Spears, 2010). It is believed that Jesus modeled servant leadership and that this is how future leaders should lead (Ebener & O’Connell, 2010; King James Bible, 2021, Matthew 20:27). While the leader in a servant leader characterizes the task at hand, the servant leader defines the leader’s inner essence, character, and spirit. A leader actively seeks to modify behaviors, attitudes, and environments in order to affect change in an individual, a group of individuals, or an organization (Agee, 2001).
Servant leaders embody humility, peace, and a clear goal while focusing on their team members. Holst (2001) argues that true weakness can reveal a convincing interior strength. Holst emphasized the importance of involving the entire congregation in servant leadership as part of a church’s renewed mission. This requires a commitment to change for both organizations and individuals. Servant leadership has been linked to positive outcomes in the church, including leader effectiveness, church health perceptions, trust in the leader, trust in the organization, and follower satisfaction.
However, effective commitment received only marginal support. In addition, Scuderi (2014) found that servant leadership predicts normative commitment. Warren (2018) notes that while many great preachers deliver excellent sermons, they often lack a commitment component. While there has been more research into the development of conceptual models and questionnaires, little is known about the conditions that promote servant leadership (Yukl 2010).
This inclusive form of leadership structure is what servant-leadership is, it is the leadership that seeks the effectiveness of the organization by motivating, caring and developing the team. This study intended to scientifically assess the role of servant leadership techniques, particularly in today’s emergent churches, where some stardom-type leadership is rapidly rising, leaving many followers in denial.
1.2 STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM
Church leaders in Nigeria report a lack of dedication among church workers, as seen by their participation in worship services and church activities. A study was necessary to determine the cause of this encounter. The study aimed to assess how servant leadership style affects employee commitment. In Shiloh, 5000 committed individuals were researched before its eventual collapse. Goldman (1995) revealed that congregations influenced their priorities and life choices. Given the lack of dedication in many Nigerian churches, this investigation was necessary.