Paul’s discourse on Romans 1:1-6 as a basis for authentic evangelism for Christians in the Southeast of Nigeria

Abstract

This article examines Paul’s discourse on Romans 1:1-6 as a basis for authentic evangelism for Christians in south-eastern Nigeria. The approach was qualitative as it enabled the writer to have an in-depth exploration of words, ideas, meaning and experience. The historical critical method and contextual tools were used in the interpretation of biblical text. The study revealed that the gospel as presented by Paul has Jesus Christ as its substance and content; its origin traceable to the heart of the Father; its attestation by the prophets in the Old Testament and apostles in the New Testament; its scope as universal; its purpose as obedience of faith and, its goal as the honour of Christ’s name. It is expected that if the gospel is faithfully preached in the south-eastern Nigerian as presented by Paul, although it will not be without ridicule, contempt and opposition, yet it will undermine denominational superiority and arrogance, challenge monopoly of truth, self-indulgence and apathy, pull down divisible walls and proffer holistic healings to entire body of Christ. More so, there will likely be even distribution and allocation of state resources as well as equity and fair play in the management of material and human resources.