WOMEN’S LEADERSHIP IN THE CHURCH: THEOLOGICAL AND PRACTICAL PERSPECTIVES FROM PLATEAU STATE, NIGERIA
Keywords:
Women’s Leadership, Church, Theological Perspectives, Practical Perspectives, Plateau State, Gender EqualityAbstract
This study investigates women’s leadership in the church from theological and practical perspectives in Plateau State, Nigeria. Plateau State has many active Christian women. These women serve in various church roles. However, they face limitations in ascending to top leadership positions. The problem is that cultural traditions and certain biblical interpretations restrict women’s full participation in church leadership. Many churches allow women to teach children or sing in the choir. But fewer churches allow women to become pastors, elders, or bishops. This study used a descriptive survey research design. A sample of 300 church members was selected through stratified random sampling from five denominations in Jos North and Jos South. Data was collected using a structured questionnaire. The data was analyzed using mean scores and chi-square tests. The theoretical framework for this study is the feminist theological hermeneutic. This framework argues that biblical texts must be interpreted within their cultural contexts. Findings showed that most church members support women’s leadership in principle. However, practical barriers remain. These barriers include cultural norms, lack of mentorship, and selective interpretation of Bible passages. The study concludes that women’s leadership is theologically valid but practically hindered by tradition. It recommends theological education for both men and women. It also calls for intentional leadership development programs for women in Plateau State churches.References
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