Introduction

Christianity remains deeply rooted in many African nations, especially Nigeria. In cities and rural areas alike, churches are everywhere—from small, makeshift structures to grand cathedrals. Their presence reflects a passionate spiritual culture and a desire to honor God. As you walk through a typical Nigerian neighborhood, you’ll likely see a church on almost every street. Some have handwritten signs, while others feature flashy billboards with portraits of their founders.

Yet this widespread visibility raises a vital question: Does the number of churches indicate genuine spiritual growth, or are we simply misplacing our priorities? This article invites a thoughtful examination of African church growth, how we allocate resources, practice worship, and engage in outreach. It will help leaders and members alike to reflect deeply, pursue church realignment, and shift toward meaningful, Kingdom-focused ministry.

Importantly, this is not a critique of faith itself. Rather, it is a loving reminder to return to the core of Christianity—serving God, discipling people, and meeting real needs.

Are Buildings Overshadowing the Mission?

In recent years, constructing beautiful buildings has become a major focus for many ministries. These structures often require significant financial investment. For some, the appeal lies in attracting well-off attendees or enhancing public image. However, the question remains: Are these resources best spent on buildings, or could they be used more effectively elsewhere?

When Appearance Takes Priority

Churches often choose premium materials, high-tech equipment, and cutting-edge designs. While these may impress visitors, they most times come at a cost. The church’s ability to feed the hungry, fund education, or support healthcare often suffers in comparison.

Consider this: a church repaints its building for the second time in a year while several members struggle to pay school fees or hospital bills. Does the polished exterior reflect true spiritual vitality? Or does it mask a lack of internal growth and compassion?

The Influence of Wealth and Class

Wealthy members sometimes expect luxurious worship spaces. In response, leaders may feel pressure to prioritize style over substance. While attracting the affluent might grow numbers, it risks shifting focus away from the Gospel’s heart—caring for souls and transforming lives. This is one of the reasons it is now hard to find true discipleship in African church.

Paul reminded the early followers of Christ not to show favoritism based on status. James 2:1- 4 echoes this, warning against giving special treatment to the rich while ignoring the poor.

Denominational Competition: A Divided House

Throughout history, Christianity has seen many splits. While some arose from theological differences, many today result from personal disagreements, ambition, or the desire for recognition, church unity in our time has become something that is far fetched.

A Culture of Rivalry

Sadly, this spirit of competition has fragmented the Body of Christ. Churches often compete for members, prestige, and influence. This division undermines the Gospel’s message of unity and weakens our collective power to address societal challenges.

But it doesn’t have to be this way. Rethinking church success is the better way to go. Leaders must look beyond denominational walls. Collaboration—rather than competition—can restore believers’ effectiveness and credibility. As Jesus prayed in John 17:21 (NLT), “I pray that they will all be one, just as you and I are one” This is how we can achieve spiritual growth in Africa.

Reimagining Evangelism: Beyond “Come to My Church”

In many places, evangelism has shifted away from its biblical roots. It’s become more about filling seats than transforming lives. The invitation is no longer to know Christ, but to “come to my church.”

This approach is shallow. True evangelism involves living out the Gospel daily, not just inviting people to Sunday service.

Discipleship Over Attendance

Worship is more than singing songs in a building. In John 4:21–23, Jesus told the Samaritan woman that true worship isn’t about location. It’s about spirit and truth. Likewise, 1 Corinthians 6:19–20 reminds us that our bodies are temples of the Holy Spirit, and we honor God by how we live.

Yet, many believers limit their faith to church attendance. Monday through Saturday, their lives often contradict what they profess on Sunday.

The Great Commission Still Stands

Jesus gave His followers a clear mission in Matthew 28:19–20 (NLT):

“Therefore, go and make disciples of all the nations… Teach these new disciples to obey all the commands I have given you.”

The focus here is on discipleship, not just gatherings. Building relationships, understanding people’s struggles, and sharing Christ in relevant ways should be our priority. Believers must move from event-based ministry to everyday mission.

True Worship: A Life of Obedience

Worship isn’t confined to Sunday services or grand auditoriums. It’s a lifestyle of obedience, humility, and love. The New Testament consistently teaches that the presence of God isn’t limited to physical spaces.

Worship includes how we speak, how we treat others, and how we handle responsibilities. It’s how we respond to injustice, forgive enemies, and serve the vulnerable.

The Church’s Role in a Changing World

The world is changing—fast. Poverty, inequality, unemployment, and corruption remain persistent issues. Our idea of worship centers must evolve in its response.

Empowering the People

Churches should equip members with practical tools, not just spiritual advice. Literacy programs, vocational training, health campaigns, and business support are examples of how the church can empower people.

When we lift individuals, we lift communities. This is Christ’s model—meeting needs before preaching sermons.

Compassion Beyond the Pulpit

Ministry must go beyond church walls. True outreach happens in hospitals, prisons, schools, markets, and slums. Jesus walked among people, healed their wounds, and offered hope. Today’s church must do the same.

Refocusing Priorities from Church Building

To truly grow, the Christian leadership in Africa must shift its focus. It’s time to emphasize people over programs and impact over infrastructure.

How Can the Church Realign?

• Prioritize Discipleship: Train believers to mature spiritually, not just to attend regularly.
  
• Invest in People: Develop mentoring systems and nurture spiritual gifts in members.
  
• Promote Unity: Partner across denominations to tackle community issues together.
  
• Redefine Success: Judge success by lives changed and needs met, not by building size or membership numbers.
  

As 1 Timothy 2:9 reminds us, believers are called to live modestly and focus on godliness over grandeur.

Conclusion

The African church stands at a crossroads. It can continue building outward—or it can start building inward and upward.

To reflect Christ in a broken world, we must return to our roots: community development through church, loving God, serving our neighbors, and walking in unity. Leaders must lead with humility, and believers must live out their faith beyond Sunday mornings.

The time has come to move beyond the physical buildings and focus on what truly matters—transformed lives, empowered communities, and a Gospel that is both preached and lived