Biblical Ethics and Integrity in The 21st Century's Pulpit Ministry

Abstract

The lack of theological training by some 21st Century ministers has affected both their Biblical Ethics and Integrity. This ignorance has become a crucial issue in times like these when prosperity has taken over the pulpit of many Nigerian churches. This paper therefore examines the ethics behind the biblical interpretation and behaviour of many of these ministries in the light of Titus 2:7-8. The methodology adopted consists of the exegesis of the chosen passage as well as Reader Response hermeneutical principle to investigate the contextual understanding of the passage to show how Christians in Nigeria understand the pulpit ministry differently from the Titus’ presentation of what the life of a Christian minister should reflect. The result shows that many of what could be said about some modern ministers is nothing to write home about contrary to the advice Paul gave that the integrity of a pastor should be taken seriously in a way that their critics would have nothing bad to say about them. The paper recommends that Nigerian Church leaders should place greater emphasis on training and living their lives as example to members.