Before we start discussion on this topic, let us examine the following words;
1. CONCEPT: According to Encarta dictionary, the word concept means broad principle affecting perception and behaviour: a broad abstract idea or guiding general principle, e.g. one that determines how a person or culture behaves, or how nature, reality, or events are percieved.
2. RESTORATION: Restoring of something to former condition: the restoring of something such as building or furniture to an earlier and usually better condition.
3. PARADIGM: The word 'paradigm' refers to a general example, pattern or model that is reflected in our behaviour from our old views.
When we talk of paradigm shift we mean that the whole pattern of our behaviour changes as a result of understanding things from a different point of view. Religious paradigm shifts often take place when cultures change. They take place when honest men and women re-discover the simplicity of old truth (Jer.7:16-30),.
4. DENOMINATION: The word in religious sense means division, not whole, fractionalizing into small fragmented groups of bodies which often see themselves as oppose to one another, though they may believe in one idea. In reference to the Church of God, the church as examplified in the New Testament was united (1Cor.3:1-11; 1Cor.1:4-21). The church can never be denominated.
There is need for paradigm shift from institutional and traditional religiosity of our day to a relational Christianity, such that will engender peace,harmonious relationship among Christians as oppose to the present day commercial houses which preach prosperity at the expense of impoverished members. The display of show manship and sophistry in Christianity has lifted a once simple 'WAY' into a money spinning venture where men would go to any lenght to gain prominence as they occupy their highly exalted office of overseership. This same flagrant disregard for God's standard led Jesus to set things straight as He delivered the Sermon on the Mount. TB CONTINUED