Abstract:
Many African neo-Pentecostal churches today face doctrinal and ethical challenges that
compromise their theological integrity and witness. These challenges include the rise of
prosperity gospel theology, commercialisation of the Gospel, spiritual abuse, and works
based salvation theology. The research problem this article addresses is the erosion of
biblical foundations in teaching and practice within these churches. The paper
investigates the theological and ethical significance of Ephesians 5:1-14, considering
these challenges. It explores the original intent of this passage, the theological truth and
ethical imperatives it conveys, and the practical relevance it holds for the African church
today. Using a literary-theological approach, this study combines exegetical analysis with
theological and practical reflection. The main argument is that Ephesians 5:1-14 calls
believers to imitate God through self-sacrificial love, holiness, and discernment, offering
a corrective to contemporary theological distortions. Key findings reveal that the passage
promotes a biblically grounded vision of identity in Christ, sanctification, and teaching
that challenges exploitative and unbiblical church practices. This article concludes that
Ephesians 5:1-14 provides a biblically grounded ethical and theological framework for
reform in African neo-Pentecostalism. The paper contributes to knowledge by offering a
contextualised biblical response to concerns regarding African Neo-Pentecostal churches
while urging a return to Christ-centred doctrine, leadership, and discipleship.
