PARADIGM FOR EXPRESSION OF GRATITUDE IN PENTECOSTAL CHURCHES IN IKALAND

Abstract

The significance of gratitude is widely perceived as a vital social bond that promotes connection among people, functioning as a backbone for the church and society at large. However, sparks of ingratitude within Pentecostal churches have continued to result in the breakup of congregations, conflicts, misunderstanding, and poor social relationships. This study examines a paradigm for the expression of gratitude in Pentecostal Churches in Ikaland, addressing a significant lacuna in the existing literature regarding local expressions of this virtue. Adopting historical and phenomenological methods of religious research, the paper identifies a lack of structured gratitude expression in these churches. It proposes a paradigm for the practice of gratitude deduced from Luke 17:11–19, as demonstrated by the grateful Samaritan leper. This paradigm focuses on the pillars of celebration, humility, and faith. This paradigm will help stem the tide of ingratitude and enhance peaceful co-existence. The paper recommends that the Bible, as the constitution of the Christian faith, should serve as the primary guide for the expression of gratitude among believers.