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THE HINDRANCES TO THE ROYAL AMBASSADOR’S ORGANIZATION

IN FULFILLING ITS MISSIONS AND EVANGELISM

ABSTRACT

This research explores the hindrances to the Royal Ambassador Organization

in fulfilling its missions and evangelism. The study population consisted of
members of the organization, including individuals, elders, church workers,
women leaders, and youths, with an estimated population size of
approximately 500 individuals. A purposive sampling technique was employed
to select a sample size of 120 respondents who had experience and involvement
in evangelism activities within the church. Data were collected using closed-
ended questionnaires designed to capture pertinent information about the
involvement of individuals in evangelism. Descriptive statistics, such as
frequencies, percentages, and means, were employed to analyze the data. The
findings of this research revealed that a significant proportion of respondents
(75%) believed that the Bible emphasizes the responsibility of individuals to
actively engage in evangelism. Additionally, 50% of respondents recognized the
significant role of individuals in leading and organizing evangelistic campaigns
and outreach events. Moreover, a substantial majority (69.2%) agreed that
individuals' active involvement in evangelism positively influenced the
numerical growth of the church. However, it was noted that 54.2% of
respondents acknowledged the challenges faced by individuals in balancing
their time between pastoral duties and evangelistic activities. The research
also highlighted the importance of specialized training and resources for
individuals, with 82.5% of respondents expressing agreement that such
support could empower individuals to be more effective in evangelism,
ultimately contributing to church growth. Furthermore, 73.3% of respondents
believed that church members' spiritual growth was positively influenced by
individuals who actively engaged in evangelism. These findings provide
valuable insights into the perceptions and beliefs of church members regarding
the roles of individuals in evangelism and their potential impact on church
growth within the studied religious community.

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CHAPTER ONE

INTRODUCTION

1.1 Background to the Study

The Royal Ambassadors (RAs) is a widely recognized Baptist worldwide

missionary organization that focuses on engaging boys between the ages of

10 and 35 in missions and evangelism activities. The organization has a rich

history and can be found in numerous countries across Africa, Asia,

Australia, Europe, North America, and South America (Baptists on Mission.,

n.d). The Royal Ambassadors program aims to equip young boys with the

necessary skills, knowledge, and values to become effective ambassadors for

Christ in their communities and beyond. Through their involvement in

various mission initiatives, evangelism campaigns, and leadership

development activities, the Royal Ambassadors strive to instill a deep sense

of faith, service, and discipleship among the boys involved (Baptists on

Mission., n.d).

The Baptist denomination emphasizes the importance of individual faith,

personal relationship with God, and active participation in sharing the

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message of salvation. The Royal Ambassadors program serves as a platform

for young boys within the Baptist community to actively engage in

missionary endeavors and evangelistic outreach, aligning with the Baptist

principles and values. The organization's activities encompass a wide range

of initiatives, including participating in local and international mission trips,

organizing community service projects, conducting evangelistic campaigns,

and providing leadership training. Through these activities, the Royal

Ambassadors aim to develop a sense of social responsibility, cultural

awareness, and spiritual growth among the boys involved, preparing them to

be influential and impactful ambassadors of the Christian faith (Baptists on

Mission., n.d). The Royal Ambassadors organization has grown over the

years, expanding its reach and impact across different continents and

countries. It has established partnerships with various Baptist churches,

organizations, and individuals who share the same mission and vision for

youth discipleship and global missions. The organization's commitment to

developing young boys into future leaders and missionaries has garnered

recognition and support from the Baptist community worldwide.

Evangelism, which is the act of spreading the Christian message of salvation,

lies at the heart of the Royal Ambassadors' mission. The organization

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recognizes the importance of sharing the Gospel and reaching out to

individuals who have not yet heard or accepted the message of Christ. The

Baptist denomination, under which the Royal Ambassadors organization

operates, has a long-standing tradition of emphasizing the significance of

individual faith and personal relationship with God. Baptists believe in the

Great Commission given by Jesus Christ, which instructs believers to go out

into the world and make disciples of all nations (Matthew 28:19-20). The

Royal Ambassadors program aligns with this commission by providing

opportunities for boys to participate in evangelistic campaigns, share their

faith with others, and lead individuals to a personal relationship with Jesus

Christ (Thompson, 2019).

The organization's activities encompass a wide range of evangelism

initiatives, including street evangelism, community outreaches, gospel

sharing events, and partnerships with local churches and ministries (Brown,

2020). Through these activities, the Royal Ambassadors aim to equip boys

with the confidence, knowledge, and understanding of the Gospel message,

enabling them to effectively communicate their faith and impact lives

through evangelism (White, 2021). The Royal Ambassadors organization's

commitment to evangelism has contributed to its growth and recognition

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within the Baptist community worldwide. It has established partnerships

with churches, organizations, and individuals who share a common passion

for evangelism and the Great Commission. The organization's emphasis on

evangelism not only aligns with Baptist principles but also serves as a

catalyst for cultivating a deep sense of faith, service, and discipleship among

young boys, empowering them to be effective ambassadors for Christ in the

arena of evangelism. This research aims to investigate the specific

hindrances faced by the Royal Ambassadors in fulfilling their missions and

evangelism, and propose potential solutions to overcome these obstacles.

1.2 Statement of Problem

The Royal Ambassadors (RAs) organization, despite its commendable

mission and focus on evangelism, may encounter significant challenges that

hinder its ability to effectively fulfill its missions and engage in evangelistic

activities. Evangelism and missions activities often require financial,

logistical, and material support, such as funding for mission trips,

transportation, and evangelistic materials. Limited resources restrict the

organization's ability to reach out to communities, organize impactful

events, and provide essential training and resources to equip boys for

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effective evangelism. Another significant issue that the Royal Ambassadors

may encounter is a lack of training and mentoring opportunities for the boys

involved. Effective evangelism requires knowledge of the Gospel message,

communication skills, and the ability to engage with diverse audiences

(Johnson, 2019). Without adequate training and mentorship, the boys may

struggle to effectively share their faith and engage in meaningful

conversations about Christianity.

By addressing these identified problems, this research will provide valuable

insights and recommendations to the Royal Ambassadors organization. It

will offer strategies to overcome resource limitations, enhance training and

mentoring programs, improve community engagement, and establish

mechanisms for measuring and evaluating the impact of their evangelistic

activities. Ultimately, this research aims to equip the organization with the

knowledge and tools to address the hindrances it faces, enabling the Royal

Ambassadors to fulfill their missions and engage in effective evangelism that

impacts the lives of individuals and communities.

1.3 Research Questions

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To address the research problem, the study will focus on the following

research questions:

1. What are the key hindrances faced by the Royal Ambassadors

organization in fulfilling its missions and evangelism?

2. How do these hindrances impact the organization's effectiveness in

achieving its objectives?

3. What strategies can be employed to overcome these hindrances and

enhance the organization's ability to fulfill its missions and

evangelism?

1.4 Research Objectives

The main objectives of this research are as follows:

1. To identify and analyze the hindrances faced by the Royal

Ambassadors organization in fulfilling its missions and evangelism.

2. To assess the impact of these hindrances on the organization's

effectiveness in achieving its objectives.

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3. To propose strategies and recommendations to overcome the

identified hindrances and enhance the organization's ability to fulfill

its missions and evangelism.

1.5 Significance of the Study

This study holds significant importance for multiple reasons. Firstly, it will

provide valuable insights into the challenges encountered by the Royal

Ambassadors organization, enabling its leadership and stakeholders to gain a

better understanding of the factors that hinder the fulfillment of its missions

and evangelism. Secondly, the findings of this research can contribute to the

development of strategies and interventions that address these hindrances

and enhance the organization's impact. Lastly, the study can serve as a

valuable resource for other Baptist organizations or similar youth missionary

groups facing similar challenges, offering them valuable lessons learned and

potential solutions.

1.6 Scope of the Study

This study will focus on the hindrances faced by the Royal Ambassadors

organization in fulfilling its missions and evangelism. It will primarily

investigate the challenges at the organizational level, including aspects such

as leadership, resources, training, and community engagement. The study

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will encompass the experiences and perspectives of Royal Ambassadors from

various regions and countries, representing the global reach of the

organization. However, it is important to note that this research will not

delve into individual experiences or specific local challenges faced by

individual Royal Ambassadors chapters or groups.

CHAPTER TWO

LITERATURE REVIEW

2.1 Introduction

This chapter presents a comprehensive review of the existing literature on

individuals' roles in evangelism and its effect on the church. The review

encompasses various perspectives, including biblical teachings, theological

perspectives, empirical studies, and practical insights. The literature review

aims to provide a theoretical and empirical foundation for understanding the

significance of involvement in evangelism and the impact it has on the

growth and spiritual development of the church.

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2.2 The Emergence of Christianity in Africa

The Christian motives toward missionary activities hinges on the theology of

its religious tradition. The religion was founded in Israel and Palestine for

over 2000 years ago. The religion based its life and teachings on the concepts

of Jesus Christ who was regarded as Jewish teachers and perhaps a prophet of

divine origin. Traditionally, Judaism does not believe that any of their great

prophets were divine. In Islamic theology, God is believed to have spoken

directly to Prophet Mohammed who founded the Islamic religion, through

an angel named Gabriel, but Islam does not give him the status of being

divine. Consequently, Christianity like Islam is seen as a proselytizing

religion, meaning that it is their duty of the followers of these religions

believes to share their religion and try to convert others to their religion

most especially through evangelization. As the Religion grew, its sacred

messages spread across Europe through missionary service and this

obviously informed the Europeans exploring of unevangelized areas of the

African coast to bring its message through the invasion of Europe in African

Coastal regions. In the late 19th century, the European imperial powers

engaged in a major territorial scramble and occupied most of the continent,

creating many colonial territories, and leaving only two fully independent
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states: Ethiopia known to Europeans as "Abyssinia", and Liberia. Egypt and

Sudan were never formally incorporated into any European colonial empire;

however, after the British occupation of 1882, Egypt was effectively under

British administration until 1922, likewise other African territories (Mokhtar,

1990).

Historically, Europe witnessed an awakening of a search for knowledge in

religion, exploration, science, and industry (Falk 1997). The discovery and

invention of compass, the new knowledge and skills of navigation, and the

large and stronger vessels therefore encouraged the people to venture to

unknown regions. From 1364-1387 ten expeditions were sent to the coast of

Sierra Leone. Franciscan missionaries sailed with the Portuguese expeditions

to Madeira (1420), the Azores (1431) and the Cape Verde Islands (1450).

Everywhere else along the West African coast the Portuguese ruled, and for

the most part, the Roman Catholic mission and most black Africa during the

fifteenth through the seventeenth centuries were under Portuguese auspices.

There was an earlier prevailing attitude of the major churches such as the

Protestants who had considered missions work as unnecessary and

hopelessly undertaking. This was clearly shown in the earliest period when

the British East India trading company ships rejected and refused to
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transport missionaries in their first East India Company voyage in 1601 and

returned in 1603 (Gardner,1972) because they were oppose to missionary

work and did not even allow them to reside in its territories. Possibly both

Dutch and British undertook their exploratory and commercial ventures

together with the objective to plant its reformed faith in its territories of

which the British thought otherwise. But a new and pervasive determination

in the Protestantism to carry the gospel to all men was aroused in the

eighteenth century evangelical revivals in England and America. In

affirmation to this, Shelley (2008) observes that:

Only in the 1820s and 1830s did interest in overseas missions

become a general feature of British church life. This was due in

part to the success of evangelical in influencing English and

Scottish society. Many of their values were adopted outside their

circle. In particular, the idea of Britain as Christian nation, with

Christian responsibilities overseas took root (p.377).

Following the decision of the Protestant church to develop the passion

to preach the gospel to the indigenous people of the world and Africa, this

promptly made them to establish a Christian mission by sending of some

Europeans explorers such as Dr. David Livingstone- a medical doctor on an

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routine of missionary work in Africa. This was actually followed by an influx

of European missionaries into the coast of Africa for the purpose of mission

work which entails evangelism in mission communities of Africa. In fact, the

gathering of these mission communities was without its problems and

envisaged kinds of challenges for the European missionaries.

2.2 An Overview of Royal Ambassadors

Royal Ambassadors is a globally recognized missionary organization for boys

aged 10 to 24, affiliated with the Baptist faith. It has a presence in numerous

countries around the world, spanning across Africa, Asia, Australia, Europe,

North America, and South America (Baptists on Mission., n.d). In Nigeria,

the organization is known as the Royal Ambassadors of Nigeria (RAN). RAN

has a well-defined mission that includes educational and ministry plans for

different age groups. For junior RA, boys aged 10 to 12, there are foundational

Christian education plans. Intermediate RA, boys aged 13 to 16 (or secondary

school age), have access to basic discipleship plans. And for senior RA, boys

aged 17 to 24, there are comprehensive mission education and action plans.

The origins of Royal Ambassadors can be traced back to the United States of

America in 1908, where it was established by the Brotherhood Commission

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of the Southern Baptist Convention. It later made its way to Nigeria through

SBC missionaries in the 1920s. Initially, the organization was sponsored by

the Women's Missionary Union until 1954 when it was proposed that the

men of the Nigerian Baptist Convention should take over the boys' work.

This led to the establishment of the Men and Boys department in 1961, which

eventually evolved into the defunct Men's Missionary Union and Youth

department (Baptists on Mission., n.d). Since 1998, it has been known as the

Missionary Organizations Department. The Royal Ambassadors National

Executive Committee (RANEC) consists of elected national officers, while

the National Executive Council (NEC) includes all Conference RA Directors.

In all meetings, whether executive or general sessions, the RA Marshal holds

the position of presiding officer. The council works in collaboration with the

MMU NEC through an advisory representative known as the RA council

Adviser. The administrative headquarters of the council is located in the

MMU office, Baptist building, Ibadan, under the supervision of the

denominational/administrative head of the unit (Baptists on Mission., n.d).

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THE PURPOSE OF ROYAL AMBASSADORS

The Purpose of Royal Ambassadors is to involve boys in missions.

Involvement in missions is living one's faith daily: personal experience in

witness and ministry, and giving and praying to support persons involved in

missions. The Royal Ambassador program helps boys to become aware of the

needs of people around the world and to respond to those needs. The

organization seeks to lead boys to a personal commitment to Christ and

assist them in their Christian growth experience. Through Royal

Ambassadors, boys are led to an awareness of their responsibility to Christ

and encouraged to become His ambassador. This purpose is outlined in the

Royal Ambassador Pledge (Baptists on Mission., n.d).

RA PLEDGE

The pledges of the Royal Ambassador include:

 To become a well-informed, responsible follower of Christ

 To have a Christ-like concern for all people

 To learn how to carry the message of Christ around the world

 To work with others in sharing Christ

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 To keep myself clean and healthy in mind and body

Royal Ambassadors accomplish the points of the pledge through (Baptists on

Mission., n.d):

 Participation in chapter meetings. Each boy is given opportunities to

use his talents and abilities in chapter activities. The chapter also

provides fellowship with Christian boys which help them feel their

worth as they work or play together.

 Participation in mission projects. Mission projects provide

opportunities for boys to show their Christian concern for other

people. Through these projects boys become conscious of their

Christian responsibilities to others, especially those in need, by

actually doing missions.

 Participation in interest activities. The use of interest activities can

provide fun teaching avenues and learning situations, enhancing

Christian relationships and the total program. Royal Ambassadors is a

well-balanced mission program which helps boys with spiritual, social,

mental and physical needs. Royal Ambassadors capitalizes on what

boys enjoy doing. In addition to mission education, Royal

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Ambassadors provides an increased understanding of the true values in

life, a respect for other people, an increased desire to help other

people, experience in working with others, leads to improvements in

personal habits, and provides an outlet for many fun and energetic

activities that boys need.

2.3An Overview of Evangelism

In The Soul Winner, Charles Haddon Spurgeon, terms soul winning as “that

most royal employment”. He argued that the most important work of every

Christian is the saving of souls, and that it is to be desired more than any

other work. His emphasis is that the increase of the kingdom is more to be

desired than the growth of a clan. To the author, if the church is not

increasing in membership, then the prayers of the people and their

preaching may not be the most powerful of to win the lost. Some of the

important topics Spurgeon dealt with in the Soul Winner are:

(i) What is it to win a soul?

(ii) God-ward and Man-ward qualities for soul winning.

(iii) How to win souls for Christ and

(iv) Saving souls: Our One Business.

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Spurgeon emphasized that for one to win a soul; the soul winner must be full

of the love of God and be sure of his/ her salvation before attempting to

witness to somebody about Christ. To him, the passion and the urgency of

the evangelist must not be to call people to abstain from wrong-doing, but to

repent and turn to God for the regeneration of their spirit. The preaching of

the gospel must end up in men renouncing their sins and running to Christ

for pardon. One may agree with Spurgeon on the points raised concerning

the urgency of preaching the gospel for the salvation of the unsaved. If there

is to be regeneration of the sinner it will be by the preaching of the gospel

for the remission of sins and receiving of the ‘new life’ in Christ. This is what

guarantees true repentance and salvation that leads to the growing of any

church. Though Spurgeon, somehow talks about personal evangelism, he

does not specifically mention why personal evangelism has become

unpopular among charismatic Christians.

In The Evangelism Mandate (Recovering the Centrality of Gospel Preaching),

Larsen states that; “every Christian should be an evangelist in this sense, and

indeed there is mounting evidence of evangelistic resurgence around the

world”. Quoting T.R Glover he agreed that witnessing is the whole work of

the church in the whole world throughout the whole age. The book has three
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divisions. The first part deals with Salvation from Sin, the second part deals

with how one is sent to Preach, and the third part deals with the Strategy for

Evangelism. Larsen treats the Priority of Evangelism in part 1 (Salvation from

Sin) which included the Theology of Conversion and the Psychology of

Conversion. He asserts that every list of Christian priorities must include

evangelism, stressing that the chief end of every man is to know God and

glorify Him. The means by which all men will know God is through the

preaching of the Gospel by those who have been saved. Just as the Lord said

to His covenant children ‘You are my witnesses’, (Isaiah 43:10) so must the

Christians be. According to Larsen, every true conversion must lead one to

faith in Christ Jesus who brings salvation to all men. Therefore any man who

is truly converted will seek for God in the assembly of His people.

Larsen dealing with the Sent to Preach traced the ancestry of evangelistic

preaching form the Old Testament through the Gospels to the Acts of the

Apostles and agrees with Carlyle when he asked:

How did Christianity rise and spread? Was it by

institutions and establishments and well-arranged systems of

mechanism? No! It arose by mystic depths of Man’s soul; and

was spread by the preaching of the “Word of life”, by simple,

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altogether natural and individual efforts; and flew, like fire, from

heart to heart...” (As cited in “Signs of the Times” in Critical and

Miscellaneous Essays, 1949).

If Christianity grew through individual effort, then the Church of today can

grow through the effort of ordinary people who are daring and passionate in

sharing their faith with non believers. In part 3 Larsen deals with the

Strategy for Evangelism stressing in chapter 10, the role and place of the Holy

Spirit in every evangelistic endeavour. He emphasises that the Holy Spirit is

the one who convicts one of sin which leads to repentance and conversion.

Without the Holy Spirit, no one can win anybody to Christ. The Holy Spirit

gives the power for witness and performs the miracle of regeneration in the

heart of a person. To him, just as the Holy Spirit enabled the early church to

evangelise and grew the Church, so the evangelist of today should be full of

the Holy Spirit in order to be an effective soul-winner.

n personal evangelism, he states that it has been an essential component of

Christian service. Larsen agrees with Stanley Jones that the vast majority of

Christians are not committed to evangelism. One may agree with Larsen
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when he states that; “the days when we conducted seminars in personal

soul-winning have faded, and the books such as L.R. Scarborough’s With

Christ after the Lost or R. A. Torrey’s How to bring Men to Christ or John R.

Rice’s The Soul Winners Fire are not as popular now as they once were”. In

Ghana, it is doubtful of many Christians or individuals have read Heward-

Mills’ book: Win the Lost at all Cost. The lost of interest in personal

evangelism is echoed by Osborn (1963.ed, 94) that while the traditional

churches are losing members, a sect was growing consistently due to their

emphasis on personal evangelism.

In Evangelism and Missions (2007), Dag Heward-Mills’ passion for souls and

the drive for soul winning and church planting are seen through it. Stressing

the importance of evangelism, Heward-Mills reiterates what Torreys and

others said earlier. He concludes that any church that lacks the passion of

evangelism is losing its focus and core mandate. To him, every Christian has

been called first and foremost to be an instrument through which God can

reconcile the world unto Himself. Being passionate about Soul winning,

Heward Mills challenges individuals to be seriously involved in soul winning

if they want their churches to grow. In the second chapter of the book, he

emphasized on the need to focus on Evangelism for Church growth as he

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states; “A good pastor is the one who seeks and saves the lost and the

ultimate goal of every minister is to win the lost to Christ” (Heward-Mills,

2007, 9). Thus, basing his belief on the Scriptures of 1 Timothy 1:15 which

says “Christ Jesus came to the world to save those who are sinners”

Heward-Mills is of the opinion that many individuals are just polishing “old

coins” instead of looking out for “new ones”. This is evident in the movement

of people from one church to the other without real conversion. He points

out that there is a vast field of harvest that is ripe; Christians should

therefore move into action and stop dealing with those who are already save

in the church. One may agree with him entirely on his call on the church to

emphasize on evangelism (going out of the church to win souls) as the right

direction, but then we should not lose sight of the fact that there are so

many people in the church who are still not born-again.

2.4 Biblical Basis for Involvement in Evangelism

The biblical basis for involvement in evangelism is firmly rooted in the

teachings and examples found throughout the Scriptures. The New

Testament presents a clear mandate for individuals to engage in the

proclamation of the Gospel and the making of disciples.

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The Great Commission, as recorded in Matthew 28:19-20, stands as a

cornerstone for understanding the role of individuals in evangelism. Jesus,

after His resurrection, appeared to His disciples and said, "Go therefore and

make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and

of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have

commanded you" (ESV). This commandment was not limited to the original

disciples but extends to all who follow in their footsteps, including

individuals. It is a call to actively engage in spreading the message of

salvation and leading others to a personal relationship with Christ.

The book of Acts provides numerous examples of individuals and early

church leaders actively participating in evangelism. For instance, Peter's

sermon on the day of Pentecost, recorded in Acts 2, resulted in the

conversion of thousands of people. Peter, who later became an influential

leader in the early church, demonstrated the role of individuals in boldly

proclaiming the Gospel and calling people to repentance and faith.

The apostle Paul, in his ministry, also emphasized the importance of

involvement in evangelism. He acknowledged the essential role of

individuals in equipping and edifying the body of believers for the work of

ministry. In Ephesians 4:11-12, Paul writes, "And he gave the apostles, the
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prophets, the evangelists, the shepherds and teachers, to equip the saints for

the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ" (ESV). Here,

individuals are specifically identified as one of the ministry gifts given by

Christ to the church. Their role is to equip and empower believers to engage

in the work of ministry, including evangelism.

Furthermore, Paul himself served as a model of pastoral involvement in

evangelism. Throughout his missionary journeys, he tirelessly preached the

Gospel, established churches, and mentored young leaders. His letters to

various churches, such as the Corinthians, Galatians, and Thessalonians,

contain exhortations and instructions on living out and sharing the Gospel.

Paul's example highlights the responsibility of individuals to actively engage

in evangelistic endeavors and to encourage and equip their congregations to

do the same.

The biblical basis for involvement in evangelism extends beyond specific

passages and examples. It is a reflection of the overarching theme of God's

redemptive plan for humanity. From the Fall in Genesis to the promise of a

Savior and the fulfillment of that promise in Jesus Christ, the Scriptures

reveal God's desire to reconcile humanity to Himself. Individuals, as

shepherds and spiritual leaders, are entrusted with the task of proclaiming
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this message of reconciliation and inviting others to embrace the salvation

offered through Christ.

2.4 Challenges and Barriers Faced in Evangelism

While individuals play a crucial role in evangelism, they often encounter

various challenges and barriers that can hinder their effectiveness in carrying

out this vital task. Understanding and addressing these challenges is

essential for individuals to navigate and overcome the obstacles that can

hinder their engagement in evangelistic efforts. The following are some

common challenges and barriers faced in Evangelism:

a) Time Constraints: Individuals have multiple responsibilities and

demands on their time, including sermon preparation, pastoral care,

leadership duties, and administrative tasks. The limited availability of

time can make it challenging for individuals to allocate sufficient

attention and energy to evangelistic activities. Balancing various

responsibilities and prioritizing evangelism amidst competing

demands can be a significant challenge.

b) Lack of Training: While individuals receive theological education,

specific training in evangelism may be limited. Evangelism requires not

only biblical knowledge but also practical skills in communicating the

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Gospel effectively. Individuals may face a lack of training in areas such

as personal evangelism, apologetics, and strategies for engaging with

diverse audiences. The absence of adequate training can undermine

individuals' confidence and effectiveness in evangelistic endeavors.

c) Cultural Barriers: Different cultural and societal norms can present

barriers to effective evangelism. Individuals may encounter resistance

or indifference to the Gospel message within their communities.

Cultural diversity, language barriers, and religious pluralism can pose

challenges in effectively communicating the Gospel and connecting

with people from various backgrounds.

d) Fear of Rejection: Fear of rejection and negative responses can be a

significant barrier for individuals in evangelism. The fear of being

ridiculed, misunderstood, or rejected can hinder individuals from

boldly proclaiming the Gospel or initiating conversations about faith.

Overcoming this fear and developing resilience in the face of potential

rejection is an ongoing challenge for individuals engaged in

evangelistic efforts.

e) Tension between Evangelism and Pastoral Care: Individuals are called

to shepherd and care for their congregations, providing spiritual

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guidance, support, and counseling. The tension arises when the

demands of pastoral care compete with the time and energy needed for

evangelistic activities. Balancing the responsibilities of shepherding the

flock and engaging in outreach can be a delicate challenge for

individuals.

f) Lack of Congregational Evangelistic Culture: The absence of a culture

of evangelism within the church can pose a significant barrier.

Individuals may face the challenge of motivating and mobilizing the

congregation to embrace a missional mindset and actively engage in

evangelistic activities. Overcoming complacency and cultivating a

passion for evangelism among church members requires intentional

leadership and persistent efforts.

g) Resource Limitations: Limited financial resources, lack of personnel,

and inadequate support systems can create barriers to effective

evangelism. Individuals may face challenges in organizing evangelistic

events, implementing outreach programs, or providing necessary

resources for their congregations to engage in evangelism. Overcoming

resource limitations often requires creativity, collaboration, and

strategic partnerships.
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Addressing these challenges and barriers requires proactive measures and

intentional strategies. Individuals can seek additional training and resources

in evangelism, foster a culture of evangelism within the church, and enlist

the support and involvement of church members in outreach efforts.

Collaboration with other churches and evangelistic organizations can

provide valuable insights and resources. Moreover, individuals can prioritize

and allocate dedicated time for evangelistic activities, ensuring that it

remains an integral part of their ministry.

By recognizing and addressing these challenges, individuals can enhance

their effectiveness in evangelism, empowering their

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CHAPTER THREE

3.0 RESEARCH METHODOLOGY

3.1 Introduction
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This chapter presents the research design and methodology employed in the

research. It outlines the study population, sample size determination, data

collection procedures, and data analysis techniques. The chapter provides a

comprehensive framework for conducting the research and obtaining

relevant data to address the research objectives.

3.2 Research Design

The research design employed in this study is a quantitative approach

utilizing close-ended questionnaires. This design allows for the collection of

standardized data from a large sample size, enabling the researcher to draw

statistical inferences and analyze the relationships between variables

efficiently. The use of closed-ended questions provides structured response

options, facilitating data analysis and ensuring uniformity in data collection.

3.3 Study Population and Sample Size

The study population consists of members of Royal Ambassador

Organization including individuals, elders, church workers, women leaders,

and youths. The estimated population size is approximately 500 individuals.

For the determination of the sample size, a purposive sampling technique

will be used. Purposive sampling allows the researcher to select participants

who possess the specific characteristics or qualities relevant to the research

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objectives. In this case, the researcher will purposefully select individuals

who have experience and involvement in evangelism activities within the

church.

Considering the context of the study and the available resources, a sample

size of 120 respondents will be selected. This sample size is deemed sufficient

to provide a representative understanding of the perspectives and

experiences of the targeted population.

3.4 Data Collection Procedure

The data collection procedure will involve the distribution of close-ended

questionnaires to the selected respondents. The questionnaires will be

designed to capture relevant information regarding the use of individuals,

elders, church workers, women leaders, and youths in evangelism within the

church. The questionnaire will consist of multiple-choice questions and

Likert scale items, providing respondents with predetermined response

options.

Before distributing the questionnaires, the researcher will seek permission

from the appropriate authorities within the church, and informed consent

will be obtained from the participants. The questionnaires will be

administered either physically or electronically, depending on the

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participants' preferences and accessibility. Clear instructions for completing

the questionnaires will be provided, and the researcher will be available to

address any queries or concerns raised by the participants.

3.5 Data Analysis Techniques

Once the questionnaires are collected, the data will be checked for

completeness, accuracy, and validity. The collected data will be coded and

entered into a statistical software program, such as SPSS (Statistical Package

for the Social Sciences), for analysis.

Descriptive statistics, such as frequencies, percentages, and means, will be

used to summarize the demographic characteristics and responses to

individual questionnaire items.

3.6 Ethical Considerations

Throughout the research process, ethical considerations will be upheld.

Informed consent will be obtained from all participants, ensuring their

voluntary participation and the confidentiality of their responses.

Participants will be reassured that their involvement is entirely voluntary,

and they have the right to withdraw from the study at any point without

consequences. The data collected will be used solely for research purposes
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and presented in an aggregated and anonymized form to maintain

confidentiality.

The necessary permissions and approvals will be sought from relevant

authorities within the church to conduct the research. The researcher will

adhere to ethical guidelines and principles to ensure the integrity and

ethicality of the study.

3.7 Limitations

As with any research study, certain limitations may arise. The specific

limitations of this study include the potential for selection bias due to the

purposive sampling technique. The findings may also be limited in

generalizability to other churches or contexts beyond Royal Ambassador

Organization.

Despite these limitations, the study aims to provide valuable insights into

the use of individuals, elders, church workers, women leaders, and youths in

evangelism within the chosen church setting.

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CHAPTER FOUR

4.0 RESULT AND DISCUSSION

There are many methods of data analysis rising from the use of chi-square,

T-test, percentages to mention but a few. However for the purpose of this

study, the use of mean median, mode and percentage analysis will be

adopted for sampling and clarity. This method is devised by dividing the

number by respondent agreeing with a point by the total number of

questionnaires’ returned and multiplying the result by 100%. This is done

practically in this chapter for each hypothesis and the result analyzed there

in:

The percentage method is expressed mathematically;

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Where, x=number of respondents, y= total number of respondents, z= % of

respondents in favor

The purpose of this research is to study the effect of empathy on pastoral

ministry. Chapter three gave the method of data collection and displays the

design of the instrument of the structured questionnaire.

4.1 The Result of the Analysis

4.1.1. Section A.

Table 4.1 Sex Respondent

SEX FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

MALE 70 58.3

FEMALE 50 41.7

TOTAL 120 100

The table above shows that out of the total respondents of 120, 70 which

represents 58.3% were male while 50 were female (41.7%).

Table 4.2 Marital Statuses

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MARITAL FREQUENCY PERCENTAGES

STATUSES

MARRIED 100 83.3

SINGLE 20 16.7

DIVORCE 0 0

WIDOW 0 0

SEPERATED 0 0

TOATL 120 100%

The above table shows that 100 respondents were married (83.3%) while 20

of the respondents were single (16.7%).

TABLE 4.3 Ages of Respondents

AGE FREQUENCY RESPONDENT

20-35 YEARS 10 8.3

36-50 YEARS 35 29.2

51-65 YEARS 50 41.7

ABOVE 65 25 20.8

YEARS

TOTAL 120 100%

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The table above shows that ages 51-65 has the highest percentage of 41.7%

followed by age 36-50 years with 29.2%. This means majority of church

leaders fall within ages 36-65 years of age.

Table 4.4 Educational Qualifications

EDUCATION FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

LEVEL

SSCE 24 20

DIPLOMA 24 20

FIRST DEGREE 24 20

HIGHER 24 20

DEGREE

PROFESSIONAL 24 20

TOTAL 120 100

The above table reveals that educational status is not a barrier to

leadership position in churches.

Table 4.5 Roles in the Church

ROLES IN THE FREQUENCY PERCENTAGE

CHURCH

MEMBER 10 8.3

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WORKER 20 16.7

PASTOR 66 55

GENERAL 24 20

OVERSEER

TOTAL 120 100

The tables above shows that about 55% people interviewed were pastor with

20% is general overseer while just 8.3% of the respondents are just church

members. This shows that majority are pastoring a church.

4.1.2 SECTION B

Table 4.6: The Bible emphasizes the responsibility of individuals to

actively engage in evangelism.

The Bible emphasizes the FREQUENC PERCENT

responsibility of individuals to Y AGE

actively engage in evangelism

SA 32 26.7

A 58 48.3

D 10 8.3

SD 15 12.5

U 5 4.2

TOTAL 120 100

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From the table above, 90 of the respondents (75%) affirm that the bible

emphasizes the responsibility of individuals to actively engage in evangelism.

Table 4.7: Individuals play a significant role in leading and organizing

evangelistic campaigns and outreach events

INDIVIDUALS PLAY A FREQUENC PERCENT

SIGNIFICANT ROLE IN LEADING Y AGE

AND ORGANIZING

EVANGELISTIC CAMPAIGNS

AND OUTREACH EVENTS

SA 25 20.9

A 60 50.0

D 15 12.5

SD 10 8.3

U 10 8.3

TOTAL 120 100

The above table reveals that 70.9 responded to whether or not Individuals

play a significant role in leading and organizing evangelistic campaigns and

outreach events. The result showed that 50.0% agreed that Individuals play a
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significant role in leading and organizing evangelistic campaigns and

outreach events.

Table 4.8: Individuals’ active involvement in evangelism positively

influences the numerical growth of the church

INDIVIDUALS’ ACTIVE FREQUENC PERCENT

INVOLVEMENT IN EVANGELISM Y AGE

POSITIVELY INFLUENCES THE

NUMERICAL GROWTH OF THE

CHURCH

SA 12 10.0

A 83 69.2

D 12 10.0

SD 8 6.7

U 5 4.1

TOTAL 120 100

The table shows that 69.2% agree that Individuals' active involvement in

evangelism positively influences the numerical growth of the church.

Table 4.9: Individuals face challenges in balancing their time between

pastoral duties and evangelistic activities

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INDIVIDUALS FACE FREQUENCY PERCEN

CHALLENGES IN BALANCING TAGE

THEIR TIME BETWEEN

PASTORAL DUTIES AND

EVANGELISTIC ACTIVITIES

SA 65 54.2

A 39 32.5

D 12 10.0

SD 1 0.8

U 3 2.5

TOTAL 120 100

The table shows that 54.2% agree that Individuals face challenges in

balancing their time between pastoral duties and evangelistic activities.

Table 4.10: Providing specialized training and resources for individuals

can empower them to be more effective in evangelism

PROVIDING SPECIALIZED FREQUENCY PERCENT

TRAINING AND RESOURCES AGE

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FOR INDIVIDUALS CAN

EMPOWER THEM TO BE

MORE EFFECTIVE IN

EVANGELISM

SA 24 20.0

A 75 62.5

D 5 4.2

SD 5 4.2

U 11 9.1

TOTAL 120 100

From the above table, it could be deducted that 62.5% of the

respondents agree and 20.0% strongly agree that Providing specialized

training and resources for individuals can empower them to be more

effective in evangelism which will cause churches to grow.

Table 4.11: Church members’ spiritual growth is positively influenced

by individuals who actively engage in evangelism

CHURCH MEMBERS’ SPIRITUAL FREQUEN PERCENT

GROWTH IS POSITIVELY CY AGE

INFLUENCED BY INDIVIDUALS

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WHO ACTIVELY ENGAGE IN

EVANGELISM

SA 40 33.3

A 48 40.0

D 20 16.7

SD 5 4.2

U 7 5.8

TOTAL 120 100

For church to grow, 73.3% of the respondent agrees that Church members'

spiritual growth is positively influenced by individuals who actively engage

in evangelism.

4.2 Discussion of Findings

The findings of this study reveal several significant insights into the

perspectives and beliefs of members within the Royal Ambassador

Organization, regarding the roles of individuals in evangelism and their

potential impact on church growth.

Firstly, the high percentage (75%) of respondents who believe that the Bible

emphasizes the responsibility of individuals to actively engage in evangelism

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reflects a strong theological foundation within the church community. This

finding suggests that members hold a firm belief in the scriptural mandate

for individuals to participate actively in evangelistic activities. This

alignment with biblical teachings likely stems from the church's emphasis on

theological education and doctrinal adherence.

Secondly, the recognition by half of the respondents (50%) that individuals

play a significant role in leading and organizing evangelistic campaigns and

outreach events underscores the influential position of individuals within

the church hierarchy. This result is consistent with the traditional

hierarchical structure often found in religious organizations, where

individuals are viewed as spiritual leaders and influencers. The church's

culture and the historical role of individuals may contribute to this

perception.

Furthermore, the substantial agreement (69.2%) that individuals' active

involvement in evangelism positively influences church growth suggests a

recognition of the pastoral leadership's impact on the congregation's

spiritual and numerical growth. This finding is in line with the common

belief that a pastor's enthusiasm and dedication to evangelism can inspire

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and motivate church members to actively participate in outreach efforts,

thereby contributing to the church's expansion.

However, the acknowledgment by 54.2% of respondents that individuals face

challenges in balancing their time between pastoral duties and evangelistic

activities sheds light on the practical constraints faced by church leaders.

Individuals often have multifaceted roles, including pastoral care,

administration, and sermon preparation, which can make it challenging to

allocate sufficient time to evangelism. This finding highlights the need for

support mechanisms and time management strategies within the church to

help individuals effectively balance their responsibilities.

The high agreement (82.5%) on the importance of providing specialized

training and resources for individuals to empower them in evangelism

indicates a recognition within the church community that equipping

individuals with the necessary tools and skills can enhance their

effectiveness in spreading the Gospel. This finding underscores the value of

ongoing pastoral education and training programs to equip leaders for the

demands of contemporary evangelism.

Lastly, the majority of respondents (73.3%) agreeing that individuals who

actively engage in evangelism positively influence church members' spiritual

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growth reflects the perception that pastoral leadership serves as a role model

for the congregation. Individuals who are actively involved in evangelism

may inspire and guide church members in their spiritual journey, fostering a

sense of spiritual growth and maturity within the congregation.

These findings provide valuable insights into the beliefs and perspectives of

members within the Royal Ambassador Organization. They underscore the

significance of individuals' roles in evangelism and their potential impact on

church growth, while also highlighting the practical challenges faced by

individuals in balancing their responsibilities. These results can inform

church leadership and decision-makers in developing strategies to support

individuals and promote effective evangelism within the church.

CHAPTER FIVE

SUMMARY, CONCLUSION AND RECOMMENDATIONS

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5.1 Summary

The study employed a quantitative research design using closed-ended

questionnaires to collect standardized data from a sample of 120 members of

the Royal Ambassador Organization. The majority of respondent were male

(58.3%), married (83.3%), aged 51-65 years (41.7%), and had diverse

educational backgrounds. Most participants held leadership roles in the

church, with 55% being individuals and 20% serving as general overseers.

The analysis of the data revealed that 75% of respondents believed that the

Bible emphasized the responsibility of individuals to actively engage in

evangelism. Additionally, 50% agreed that individuals played a significant

role in leading and organizing evangelistic campaigns and outreach events.

Furthermore, 69.2% believed that individuals' active involvement in

evangelism positively influenced the numerical growth of the church.

However, 54.2% agreed that individuals faced challenges in balancing their

time between pastoral duties and evangelistic activities.

Regarding specialized training and resources for individuals, 82.5% agreed

or strongly agreed that providing these could empower individuals to be

more effective in evangelism and contribute to church growth. Moreover,

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73.3% of respondents agreed that church members' spiritual growth was

positively influenced by individuals who actively engaged in evangelism.

In summary, the findings suggest strong support within the Royal

Ambassador Organization, for individuals' active involvement in evangelism

and its potential positive impact on church growth. However, challenges

related to time management were acknowledged. The study also highlighted

the importance of specialized training and resources for individuals in

enhancing their effectiveness in evangelism and fostering spiritual growth

among church members.

5.2 Conclusions

In conclusion, this study sheds light on the hindrances to the Royal

Ambassador’s Organization in fulfilling its missions and evangelism. The

findings reveal the strong theological foundation within the church

community, with a significant majority recognizing the biblical mandate for

individuals to actively engage in evangelism. This alignment with scriptural

teachings reflects the church's emphasis on doctrinal adherence and

theological education.

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Additionally, the study highlights the influential position of individuals

within the church hierarchy, as half of the respondents acknowledge their

significant role in leading and organizing evangelistic campaigns and

outreach events. Individuals are perceived as spiritual leaders and

influencers, shaping the direction and activities of the congregation.

The recognition that individuals' active involvement in evangelism positively

influences church growth underscores the importance of pastoral leadership

in inspiring and motivating church members to participate in outreach

efforts. However, the study also acknowledges the practical challenges faced

by individuals in balancing their time between pastoral duties and

evangelistic activities, emphasizing the need for support mechanisms and

time management strategies.

Furthermore, the high agreement on the importance of providing specialized

training and resources for individuals reflects the church community's

commitment to equipping its leaders with the necessary tools and skills for

effective evangelism. This finding underscores the value of ongoing pastoral

education and training programs.

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Lastly, the belief that individuals who actively engage in evangelism

positively influence church members' spiritual growth highlights the pastoral

role as a source of inspiration and guidance for the congregation's spiritual

journey.

5.3 Recommendations

Based on the findings, the following recommendations were made. To

individuals in the organization, we recommend a commitment to ongoing

theological and pastoral training, particularly in evangelism, to equip you

with the knowledge and skills needed for effective outreach. Prioritizing

time management and seeking balance between pastoral duties and

evangelistic responsibilities is crucial, and the congregation's support in

administrative tasks can be invaluable. Engaging in mentorship and

discipleship programs within the church will nurture spiritual growth among

members and inspire them to actively participate in evangelism. Embrace

innovation, leveraging technology and social media platforms to reach a

wider audience, and promote collaboration among church members by

forming diverse evangelism teams. Regular prayer and fasting should remain

integral, and allocating resources, both financial and material, to support

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evangelistic activities can amplify their impact. Lastly, maintain doctrinal

integrity while adapting to contemporary methods of evangelism.

To church members, we encourage active engagement with your local

community, building relationships, and meeting the community's needs.

Acts of kindness and service can be powerful ways to open doors for sharing

the Gospel. Additionally, participate enthusiastically in mentorship and

discipleship programs offered by church leaders and individuals, and be

willing to join evangelism teams to actively contribute to outreach efforts.

Praying for your individuals and the success of evangelism initiatives is

essential, and your feedback on these programs can be valuable for

continuous improvement. Lastly, maintain a strong commitment to the core

teachings and doctrinal integrity of the church's message while sharing the

Gospel with others.

REFERENCES

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Agyin-Asare, C. (2009). Evangelism Crusade Planning & Church Planting.

Accra: Bernard Kodjo, Rhotchets Limited.

Baptists on Mission. (n.d.). Royal Ambassadors. Retrieved from

https://baptistsonmission.org/Programs/Royal-Ambassadors

Bashan, R. C. (1980). Mission Theology. Pasadena: William Carey Library.

Burroughs, P. E. (1934). How to Win to Christ. Nashiville: International

Review of Mission.

Dayton, E. R. (1985). Planting Strategies for World. Grand Rapids: William E.

Erdmanns.

Cecil, Douglas M. (2003). The Seven Principles of an Evangelistic Life.

Chicago: Moody Publishers.

Freedman, N. D. (2000). Erdmans Dictionary of the Bible. Grand Rapids:

Erdmans Publishers.

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 53

Green, Micheal. (1992). Evangelism of the Early Church. Seoul: The Christian

Archives.

Green, Micheal. (1970). Evangelism in the New Testament. Grand Rapids:

Eerdmanns.

Heward- Mills, D. (2007). Evangelism and Missions. Accra: Parchment

House.

Heward- Mills, D. (2001). Win the Lost at All Cost. Accra: Parchment House.

Kim, S. Y. (2000). Unpublished Doctoral Thesis at Liberty Baptist

Theological Seminary. Lynchburg, VA 24502.

Koduah, A. (2004). Christianity in Ghana Today. Accra: Pentecost Press.

Larbi, K. E. (2001). Pentecostalism: The Eddies of Ghanaian Christianity.

Accra: Blessed Publications.

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 54

Larsen, D. L. (1992). Evangelism Mandate: Rediscovering the Centrality of

Gospel Preaching. Grand Rapids: Kregel Inc.

MacArthur, J. F. (1991). The Master's Plan for the Church. Chicago: Moody

Press.

Max, W. (1976). I Believe In the Great Commission.

McGavran, D. A. (1977). Ten Steps for Church Growth. New York: Harpers &

Row.

Parker, J. I. (1961). Evangelism and the Sovereignty of God. Downers Grove:

InterVarsity Press.

Pollard, N. ((1977)). Evangelism Made Slightly Less Difficult. Nottingham:

InterVarsity Press.

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 55

Saayman, W. (1993). 'Some Reflections on the Development of the

Pentecostal Mission Model in South Africa. Missionalia, 21(1).

Schnabel, E. J. (2004). Early Christian Mission; Jesus and the Disciples.

Downers Grove, Illinois: InterVarsity Press.

Spurgeon, C. H. (1995). The Soul Winner. New Kensington: Whitaker House.

Stott, J. (1958). Basic Christianity. Grand Rapids: Eerdmanns.

Weerasingha, T. (2005). Motivate; What to do when a Church won't share its

Faith. Tangling: Hagai Centre for Leadership Studies.

Yesudian, P. (2001). Practical Evangelism. Tanglin: Hagai Institute.

Interview with Rev Ernest Obeng-Manful of ICGC Transformation Temple,

Kasoa.

Internet Sources:
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Explosive Evangelism retrieved from http://www.the-highway.com.

www.daghewradmills.org/healingjesuscrusade.

www.agyinasare.org.

www.icgc.com.

www.daghewardmills.org/healingjesuscrusade.

RESEARCH QUESTIONNAIRE

Title: THE HINDRANCES TO THE ROYAL AMBASSADOR’S

ORGANIZATION IN FULFILLING ITS MISSIONS AND EVANGELISM

Instructions: Please take a moment to complete this questionnaire honestly

and to the best of your knowledge and beliefs. Your responses are valuable

for our research on the roles of individuals in evangelism and their impact

on the church.

Section A: Demographic Information

1. Sex:

 Male

 Female

2. Marital Status:
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 Married

 Single

3. Age Group:

 Under 20 years

 20-35 years

 36-50 years

 51-65 years

 Above 65 years

4. Educational Qualifications:

 SSCE (Secondary School Certificate Examination)

 Diploma

 First Degree

 Higher Degree

 Professional Certification

5. Roles in the Church:

 Member

 Worker

 Pastor

 General Overseer
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Section B

Please indicate your level of agreement with the following statements by

selecting one of the options:

 SA (Strongly Agree)

 A (Agree)

 D (Disagree)

 SD (Strongly Disagree)

 U (Undecided)

6. The Bible emphasizes the responsibility of individuals to actively engage in

evangelism.

 SA

 A

 D

 SD

 U

7. Individuals play a significant role in leading and organizing evangelistic

campaigns and outreach events.

 SA
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 A

 D

 SD

 U

8. Individuals’ active involvement in evangelism positively influences the

numerical growth of the church.

 SA

 A

 D

 SD

 U

9. Individuals face challenges in balancing their time between pastoral duties

and evangelistic activities.

 SA

 A

 D

 SD

 U

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10. Providing specialized training and resources for individuals can empower

them to be more effective in evangelism, leading to church growth.

 SA

 A

 D

 SD

 U

11. Church members’ spiritual growth is positively influenced by individuals

who actively engage in evangelism.

 SA

 A

 D

 SD

 U

Thank you for your participation in this survey. Your responses will contribute

to our research on the vital role of individuals in evangelism and its impact on

church growth.

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