The economic influence of prosperity gospel on individual followers in neo-Pentecostal movements in Karingani Ward Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya

Abstract

The study sought to investigate how prosperity gospel influences the economic aspect of its followers in neo-Pentecostal movements in Karingani Ward Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. In Kenya, Neo-Pentecostal movements are growing and spreading from urban to rural areas, as witnessed in Karingani Ward, Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya. There has been an increase in self-founded churches, commonly known as charismatic movements, over the past decade. The Functionalism Theory guided the study in analysing the prosperity gospel's influence on its followers' economic aspect. The theory indicates that religion is a social influencer that leads to changes in behaviour and perception or worldview that are essential to economic growth. The study applied the descriptive survey design. Yamane’s formula was applied to obtain a sample size of 288 respondents. In addition, six pastors were selected from the churches; the total sample was 294 respondents. In the six selected churches, a larger population was between (20-50 years); the majority were women and indicated to be small business owners and employed in the private sector. The research instruments utilised were questionnaires, interviews, and focused group discussions. The study's findings revealed that prosperity teachings in Neo-Pentecostal movements positively influenced its followers. Prosperity teaching with biblical grounding had influenced adherents in these movements to have financial, investment, and entrepreneurial abilities through seminars, idea sharing, and continuous assistance from members, which have impacted their followers to experience social status mobility. This paper recommends a future study on how perceived YouTube or social media incomes can benefit all adherents.