Assessment of Knowledge and Challenges Associated with the Use of Digital Technologies in Evangelistic Outreaches among Selected Pentecostal Churches in Anyigba Community

Abstract

The widespread integration of electronic communication tools has drastically redefined interaction paradigms across multiple sectors, presenting religious bodies with unprecedented avenues to stretch their missionary frontiers beyond conventional spatial limits. This study evaluated the understanding and hurdles related to deploying electronic platforms for gospel outreach within chosen Pentecostal congregations in the Anyigba Community. Specifically, the investigation gauged the digital literacy levels among congregants and mapped out the specific bottlenecks hindering the seamless execution of online evangelical campaigns. The theoretical foundation of this work was built upon the Media System Dependency Theory. Utilizing a survey-based methodology, researchers extracted a sample of 348 individuals from a broader demographic of 3,912 attendees across four designated Pentecostal assemblies, guided by the Krejcie and Morgan sampling matrix. Data gathering was facilitated through well-structured questionnaires, yielding 300 usable responses that were subsequently scrutinized via percentage evaluations, frequency counts, and a One-Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA). The empirical outcomes demonstrated that 78.3% of participants validated their assemblies' proficient application of digital tools for outreach, while 75.0% concurred that virtual networking platforms fostered better fellowship among believers. Furthermore, 66.7% indicated that technological exposure deepened their theological comprehension, and an overwhelming 80.0% recognized a fundamental shift in how the public interfaces with faith-based institutions today. Conversely, significant impediments were noted: 81.6% pointed to a prevailing ignorance regarding digital ministry initiatives, and 80.0% blamed substandard internet signals, exorbitant data tariffs, and a dearth of technical hardware. Hypothesis testing confirmed a statistically meaningful correlation between specific socio-demographic traits and the respondents' technological proficiency. Ultimately, the study deduced that while electronic mediums have undeniably amplified missionary work, tangible logistical barriers remain. To optimize this digital transition, the paper advocated for consistent technical literacy programs for congregants, alongside robust capital injections into IT infrastructure and operational support systems.