DEBUNKING THE "ONE-MAN CHURCH" ASSERTION.

Abeiku Okai 

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The term "one-man church" is often used derogatorily against newly founded charismatic churches or those not yet well-established, particularly those led by a single prominent individual who is seen as the central figure of the congregation. While it is true that some of these churches may exhibit characteristics that align with this label, the blanket use of the term to describe every new church or those with a single well-known leader is neither fair nor accurate. Here’s why:

1. Every Church is Ultimately a "One-Man Church".

Every church denomination, if it is truly of Christ and for Christ, is ultimately headed by one man—Jesus Christ. He is the cornerstone and the head of the Church:

"And he put all things under his feet and gave him as head over all things to the church, which is his body, the fullness of him who fills all in all" (Ephesians 1:22-23).

"And he is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in everything he might be preeminent" (Colossians 1:18).

In this sense, every genuine church is a "one-man church," with Christ as its supreme leader. Human leaders, regardless of their prominence, are merely stewards serving under His authority.

2. Even Established Churches Have a Central Leader.

Even in well-established churches with structured boards or presbytery, there is typically one individual who serves as the head of the board or the primary leader. For instance, in most denominations:

✓ The general overseer, moderator, or bishop often plays the most significant role in steering the church’s vision and operations.

✓ The presence of a leadership team does not negate the reality that leadership often centers around one visionary figure supported by a team.

This highlights that central leadership is not exclusive to newer or less-structured churches.

3. Historical Precedent: All Churches Begin with a Visionary Leader.

Many well-established orthodox and Pentecostal churches that now distance themselves from the "one-man church" label began in a similar manner—with one visionary leader who started, led, and eventually established structures to bring more people on board. For example:

✓ The Methodist movement was spearheaded by John Wesley, whose personal leadership and itinerant preaching laid its foundation.

✓ The Presbyterian Church traces its roots to reformers like John Calvin and John Knox, who were central figures in its early development.

✓ The Church of Pentecost, one of Ghana’s largest denominations, was founded by Rev. James McKeown, who played a pivotal role in shaping its early years.

These movements were initially led by "one man" and his inner circle, and their current structures evolved over time.

4. Building Structures Takes Time and Effort.

If the term "one-man church" refers to the absence of a formal leadership structure, it is important to recognize that building such structures takes significant time, effort, and resources. Many of the churches labeled as "one-man churches" are simply in the process of developing their governance models.

Additionally:

Leadership structures in the early stages of a church may appear centralized as the visionary leader establishes foundational principles and values. This is not inherently a flaw but rather a transitional phase in the church’s growth and maturation.

5. The Role of Visionary Leadership in Church Planting.

Church planting often requires a strong, visionary leader to lay the foundation and guide the congregation in its early stages. This is a biblical pattern seen throughout the New Testament:

✓ Paul was instrumental in planting and nurturing churches across Asia Minor and Europe (Acts 14:23). He often functioned as the primary leader until elders could be appointed.

✓Timothy and Titus served as single leaders sent to strengthen churches, with instructions to develop local leadership structures (Titus 1:5, 1 Timothy 3:1-7).

✓Visionary leadership, especially in a church’s infancy, provides clarity, direction, and momentum. Over time, these leaders are expected to develop a team-oriented governance model.

6. Cultural and Contextual Considerations.

In regions like Africa and other parts of the Global South, the so-called "one-man church" phenomenon often arises out of necessity due to limited access to trained clergy or resources to establish formal structures immediately.

Rather than dismissing these churches as "one-man churches," it is essential to consider the cultural and socio-economic realities that shape their formation and growth. After all, a church described as one-man church may even be more aligned with the gospel and sound doctrine than the so-called well established and well governed churches with bureaucratic leadership structures. 

Abeiku Okai

Anathallo Grace Chapel

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