Impact of Pauline Household Codes on Igbo Apprenticeship System: Insights from Colossians.

Abstract

The study examines the impact of Paul’s ethical stipulations for the Christian household and its possible lessons for the revitalization of Igbo apprenticeship scheme. Igbo apprenticeship scheme sets out the Igbo people remarkably as resourceful and innovative in economic development of Igboland and Nigeria. As an informal business incubation scheme, it has produced many successful businesses. Notably, there are several factors that affects the system in the recent times. These are mostly associated with modernity and globalization. They include; dishonesty, risk of fraud, weak economic system, shortage of skilled professionals, unwillingness and impatience of some youths to learn. It is for this reason that the prescriptions of Paul in Colossians 3: 22-4: 1 must be evaluated. This is qualitative research that adopts exegesis and hermeneutical for its data analysis of the text. Also, it will analyze data obtained from various primary sources by imploring observation and interviews. The study examines the extent to which Paul’s position on masterservant relations in the Christian household provides a paradigm for the revivification of Igbo apprenticeship. The social learning theory and andragogy were adopted. Both theories relate to adult learning experience where learners move from dependency to self-directedness. The research concludes that appropriate re-interpretation is liberative and promotes responsible Christian attitude to work and civil duty. Clearly, the text highlights corresponding duties/responsibilities for both masters and slaves. A deconstructive reading is necessary for the promotion and revitalization of Igbo apprenticeship.