Purpose: The article explores Paul’s model of mediation with a focus on the principles and applications that can inform effective conflict resolution in the contemporary church. Apostle Paul’s letter to Philemon offers valuable insights into conflict resolution and mediation, particularly in respect to conflict management amidst church members. Materials and Methods: Using the method of critical examination and hermeneutical assessment of Paul’s epistle to Philemon, this article identifies and analyses the essential elements of Paul’s mediation model. Findings: It is discovered (...) that Paul’s mediation model as a reconciliatory model of conflict management has the following attributes: establishing authority and rapport, appealing to shared values, reframing the relationship, advocating for the vulnerable party, offering reparation and appealing to conscience rather than coercion. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: This article recommends the adaptation of Paul’s mediation model to conflicts arising in the contemporary church. (shrink)

Purpose: The study evaluates Luther’s theory of sola fide and its relevance to the doctrine of salvation in The Apostolic Church Nigeria, Southwest Zone. The doctrine of sola fide typically entails the notion that salvation is through faith only. Unfortunately, in contemporary times, the concept of salvation has suffered much misunderstanding. It has been a subject of much controversy characterised with so much variations and confusion of thoughts in its art of teaching. Materials and Methods: Employing the tool of hermeneutics (...) and critical assessment, the study comparatively examined the theo-linguistic implications of Luther’s sola fide and TACN’s doctrine of salvation. Findings: The study discovers that TACN’s doctrine of salvation shares fundamental similarities but TACN’s doctrine of salvation extends the doctrine of salvation further than Luther’s sola fide by emphasizing the possibility of a Christian losing his salvation. However, it is discovered and argued that TACN’s commitment to the doctrine of sola fide has not been balanced in practice. While the church professes that salvation is attained through faith only, her officials and members are observed to lay significant emphasis on salvation through works. Implications to Theory, Practice and Policy: This study therefore recommends that the church should be consistent in its commitment to sola fide both in doctrine and practice. This can be achieved through consistency in the art of teaching what is believed by the church. (shrink)