Evaluation of Modern Evangelization Strategies in Christianity: 1990-2010

ABSTRACT Evangelization was the mark of bedrock for Christianity; as Jesus gave it as the great commission to his apostles. It has thrived to the modern era trying to survive the complexity of societal values. Hence various evangelization strategies to suit the demand of the modern era are in vogue. This research work presents how evangelization originated and came to be part of religious practices among the Igbo through the propagated effort of European missionaries who established Christianity in Igboland. With the trend of development; independence, Nigeria-Biafra civil war and the demands of the modern era of science and technological advancement, evangelization took a new turn. The modern gadgets such as the internet, television, discs, prints etc, have formed avenues for the evangelists, pastors and the lay people to preach the Gospel to the people. The Pentecostals led the blaze of this radical approach to evangelization and the Mainline Churches joined the trend. The methods used for this research work include making use of: primary and secondary sources; the library; interviews end observations; crusades and revival centres; internet materials; television and radio stations and; Priests and Evangelists were consulted. Data was critically analyzed and it was found out that converts were made into Christianity through this evangelization strategies. Some Churches organize crusade not for any financial benefit but solely for spiritual development of the people, while others have financial benefit attached to their crusade organisation. The hallmark of the evangelization of the recent time has been to address peoples’ problems, while the people troop to the Churches and their organisations in search of solution to their problems. This situation has resulted into proliferation of Churches as a means of taking care of peoples’ problems. Wealth and prosperity has become the acceptable attribute of God for modern Christians. Antagonism has continued between the Christian denominations, while prayers are turned into battle fields with the devil.