Wealth and political influence in the expansion of Christian frontiers in contemporary Nigeria: the Clapham sect lesson

Abstract

The business of the expansion of any religious frontier is highly demanding. It is a business that has both spiritual and physical components for its effectiveness in the society. Spiritually, it demands prayers while physically; material possessions like money and political influence become veritable tools in enhancing its effectiveness in the world. Historically, the declaration of the Christian faith as legal religion in the Roman Empire by Constantine in the fourth century played a major role in the expansion and the subsequent consolidation of the Church. Likewise, the Clapham sect of the 18th and 19th centuries played a significant role in the expansion of the Church beyond the shores of Europe. Their role shows that money and political influence are good vehicles for expanding the gospel of Christ in every part of the world. This work is aimed at a espousing the role of the Clapham sect in the expansion of Christianity in the 19th century. The aim is to use it as a guide on the best way for Christians to use their wealth and influence towards the expansion of Christianity in contemporary Nigeria. Hence, the work will apply historical method in its evaluation and interpretation.