Authors
Felix Emefiele Gbenoba, PhD
Department of English
fgbenoba@noun.edu.ng/+2347033279672
Michael Enyinwa Okoronkwo, PhD
Department of Religious Studies
meokoronkwo@noun.edu.ng/+2349058209200
Christopher Chinedu Nwike, PhD
Linguistics and Nigerian Languages
National Open University of Nigeria, Abuja
cnwike@noun.edu.ng/+2348037054985
Abstract
This study examines the role of the English Bible in
promoting religious unity among Christians from
different linguistic backgrounds in multilingual
communities across the six Area Councils of the Federal
Capital Territory (FCT), Abuja. Specifically, it examines
the extent to which the English Bible facilitates joint
worship, reduces linguistic communication barriers,
facilitates the sharing of biblical teachings across
linguistic groups, contributes to consistency in Christian
doctrine, promotes religious unity, and identifies
challenges experienced by Christians who are not proficient in English. The study adopted a mixedmethods descriptive survey design. Using multistage
sampling, 400 questionnaires were administered, of
which 338 valid responses were obtained, representing
an 84.5% response rate; 36 respondents also participated
in the qualitative open-ended component. Quantitative
data were analysed using frequencies, percentages and
mean scores, while open-ended responses were analysed
thematically. Findings revealed a high overall perception
of the English Bible as a unifying religious language
(weighted mean = 4.22). It facilitated joint worship (M =
4.31), reduced communication barriers (M = 4.17),
supported cross-linguistic sharing of biblical teachings
(M = 4.09), and promoted doctrinal consistency (M =
4.32). Qualitative findings identified common worship,
interethnic communication, doctrinal unity, Bible study
and understanding as major unifying functions.
However, limited English proficiency created difficulties
in comprehension, participation, cultural meaning and
independent interpretation. The study concludes that the
English Bible promotes unity-in-diversity as a shared
religious communicative resource, while complementary
indigenous-language practices can enhance inclusive
participation and access.
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