TITUS 1: 9-10 AND CHURCH LEADERSHIP: TOWARDS AN ANTIDOTE TO FALSE TEACHING AND DOCTRINAL ERRORS IN THE CHURCH OF RWANDA
Abstract
Purpose: The study sought to examine the application of Titus 1:9–10 in addressing false teachings and the issue of unqualified church leadership in Rwanda. The research re-reads this biblical text through the lens of African Hermeneutics, emphasizing the Rwandan church context, with the goal of offering scriptural guidance for leadership appointment and doctrinal correction.
Methodology: The study employed a qualitative theological approach based on exegetical and contextual analysis. Using African Hermeneutics with Rwandan cultural characteristics, the research critically examined Titus 1:9–10 to explore its relevance and applicability to the modern Rwandan church. Key historical events, including the closure of over 10,000 churches between 2018 and 2024, were analyzed alongside ethical and leadership concerns within the religious sector.
Results: The study reveals that the crisis of false teachings and lack of theologically trained leaders in Rwanda mirrors the situation in the Cretan church addressed in Titus. It found that poor doctrinal grounding and the absence of ethical leadership have contributed to church closures and the erosion of public trust. The text of Titus 1:9–10 provides clear qualifications for church leadership, including the ability to encourage with sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. If embraced, this biblical standard can serve as a corrective framework for appointing credible leaders and safeguarding the integrity of church teachings.
Conclusion: The analysis affirms the enduring relevance of Titus 1:9–10 as a manual for evaluating church leaders and addressing doctrinal error. The study concludes that the Rwandan church, and indeed the broader African church, stands to benefit from returning to scriptural criteria in leadership selection and training.
Recommendation: Church regulatory bodies in Rwanda should enforce theological training as a minimum standard for pastoral ordination. Additionally, seminaries and Bible colleges should integrate contextual African Hermeneutics in their curriculum to ensure doctrinal soundness and cultural relevance. Churches should also conduct regular doctrinal reviews to safeguard against false teachings and reinforce ethical leadership.
Keywords: Church Leadership, False Teachings, Titus 1:9–10, African Hermeneutics, Rwandan Church, Theological Education, Ethical Standards, Church Closures, Sound Doctrine, Scriptural Application
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