CHAPTER TWO: LITERATURE REVIEW
2.1 Introduction
This chapter reviews existing literature on Pentecostalism, succession planning, and church
leadership, with a focus on Kisii County, Kenya. It explores theoretical frameworks, empirical
studies, and research gaps to contextualize the study’s objectives. The review is structured
around the research questions, emphasizing theological, cultural, and institutional factors
influencing succession planning in Pentecostal churches.
2.2 Theoretical Review
2.2.1 Theory to Back the Factor Under Study in the First Research Question
Research Question 1: How does Pentecostal theology impact succession planning in churches?
Transformational Leadership Theory:
Explains how charismatic, "anointed" leaders in Pentecostalism may resist structured
succession due to perceived divine appointment. The theory highlights the tension
between Spirit-led authority and institutionalized transitions.
2.2.2 Theory to Back the Factor Under Study in the Second Research Question
Research Question 2: What are the common succession practices in Kisii Pentecostal
churches?
Institutional Theory (DiMaggio & Powell, 1983):
Analyzes how informal practices e.g., family succession become entrenched due to
cultural norms and lack of formal policies. Explores mimicry of secular patriarchal
systems in church leadership.
2.2.3 Theory to Back the Factor Under Study in the Third Research Question
Research Question 3: What challenges do these churches face in leadership transitions?
Principal-Agent Theory (Jensen & Meckling, 1976):
Examines conflicts when outgoing leaders (principals) fail to align interests with
successors (agents), leading to power struggles and resource mismanagement.
2.2.4 Theory to Back the Factor Under Study in the Fourth Research Question
Research Question 4: What strategies can enhance succession planning?
Situational Leadership Theory:
Advocates for adaptive strategies, such as mentorship and phased transitions, to address
contextual challenges (e.g., theological resistance or cultural biases).
2.2.5 Theory to Back the Dependent Variable
Dependent Variable: Sustainability of Pentecostal churches in Kisii County.
Resource Dependency Theory:
Links church stability to effective leadership transitions, where poor succession planning
risks membership decline and financial instability.
2.3 Empirical Review
2.3.1 Factor Under Study in the First Research Question
Pentecostal Theology and Succession:
Studies e.g., Jones, 2005 show that emphasis on "divine calling" discourages structured
planning. Case studies from Nigeria (Ukah, 2018) reveal similar patterns of leadership
crises post-founder exit.
2.3.2 Factor Under Study in the Second Research Question
Succession Practices in Kisii:
Field data indicate reliance on familial succession or internal appointments without clear
criteria, mirroring Gusii cultural norms, Nyambega, 2020).
2.3.3 Factor Under Study in the Third Research Question
Challenges in Transitions:
Research (Mwangi, 2019) identifies resistance from founders, lack of mentorship, and
doctrinal conflicts as key barriers, corroborated by cases like Full Gospel Church Suneka.
2.3.4 Factor Under Study in the Fourth Research Question
Strategies for Improvement:
Successful models e.g., New Life Pentecostal Church, Chapter 9, highlight mentorship,
policy formalization, and congregational involvement as best practices.
2.4 Literature Summary and Research Gaps
Summary: Existing literature underscores the interplay of theology, culture, and
institutional weakness in succession crises. Transformational and institutional theories
dominate explanations.
Gaps: Few studies address contextual solutions for Kisii’s unique cultural-theological
blend. This study fills this gap by proposing actionable strategies (Chapter 9).
2.5 Conceptual Framework
The framework integrates:
1. Independent Variables:
o Pentecostal theology (divine calling vs. planning).
o Cultural norms (patriarchal succession).
o Leadership styles (autocratic vs. transformational).
2. Dependent Variable:
o Church sustainability such as growth, unity, financial health.
3. Mediating Factors:
o Succession policies, mentorship programs.
Key References:
Bass, B. M. 2006. Transformational Leadership.
DiMaggio, P. J. 1983. Institutional Theory.
Jones, A. 2005. Pentecostalism in Africa.
Field data from Kisii County in Chapters 4–7.