ABSTRACT: This study investigated the impact
of inclusive servanthood on church growth, with particular reference to
selected churches across Tanzania. Inclusive servanthood is understood as a
Christ-centered leadership and ministry model rooted in humility, compassion,
selflessness, empowerment and love-values demonstrated by Jesus Christ
throughout His earthly ministry. This model aligns with Christ’s Great
Commission, grounded in Matthew 28:18–20, which continues to guide the Church
today. It emphasizes service to humanity rather than mere church attendance.
Servanthood, therefore, forms the foundation of true discipleship and effective
evangelism, reflecting the biblical mandate of Jesus Christ to “make disciples of all nations.” The research was guided by three main objectives: (1) to
explore members’ and leaders’ understanding of inclusive servanthood in
relation to church growth, (2) to assess the relationship between inclusive
servanthood and effective evangelism, and (3) to identify the major factors
influencing people to join and remain in churches. A
descriptive research design was employed, combining both quantitative and
qualitative approaches. Data were collected using open- and close-ended
questionnaires and semi-structured interviews from 40 respondents across 24
churches in Tanzania. The participants included 18 church leaders (bishops,
overseers, founders, coordinators, senior pastors, and elders), 9 church
servants (secretaries, children’s teachers, project workers, intercessors, and
ushers), and 13 ordinary members. Secondary data were obtained from relevant handbooks,
theological and academic publications. Quantitative data were analyzed using
SPSS version 27, applying Pearson’s correlation coefficient, while descriptive
statistics such as frequencies, percentages, and charts summarized the
findings.
The results revealed a positive
correlation (r = 0.181) between inclusive servanthood and church growth,
signifying that while the relationship is modest, inclusive servanthood plays a
key role in shaping the culture, accountability, and evangelistic effectiveness
of the church. Most respondents (over 90%) agreed that inclusive servanthood
promotes effective evangelism, strengthens discipleship, and enhances member
retention. However, the findings also showed that many churches lack a
formalized model or documented standards for inclusive servanthood, with
practices often applied informally. Limited awareness, leadership resistance,
and inadequate training were identified as barriers to full implementation. The study concludes that church growth is multidimensional,
but inclusive servanthood remains a vital determinant of sustainable expansion,
unity, and accountability. Where leaders model Christ-like service and empower
all members to participate in ministry, the church experiences increased
effectiveness, transparency and community engagement. Conversely, weak or
authoritarian leadership undermines evangelism and contributes to stagnant
growth.
The research recommends that
churches institutionalize inclusive servanthood by developing documented
models, training programs, and evaluation committees to monitor adherence.
Leaders should embody humility, transparency, and accountability while
encouraging shared responsibility among members. Moreover, youth and family
engagement, mentorship programs, participatory evangelism, and digital ministry
expansion were identified as practical strategies for enhancing church growth. Implications of the study suggest that church growth can be
significantly strengthened through contextualized leadership approaches that
integrate servanthood with evangelistic practice. A values-based model of
inclusive servanthood is essential for fostering unity, spiritual maturity, and
sustainable ministry outcomes. Finally,
the study recommends further research across a broader regional scope,
including East and Central African contexts, and comparative studies between
Pentecostal and non-Pentecostal traditions. Future research should also explore
moderating factors such as church finances, leadership structures, and
socio-economic influences on servanthood practices. In conclusion, inclusive servanthood is not merely a
leadership model but a biblical mandate central to the mission of the Church.
Contact DR RECKNALD through E-Mail: recknald@gmail.com or +255755286021 for more details on this study.
