Church Growth and Denominational Identity Among Evangelical Churches in Makurdi, Benue State

This study investigates the patterns of church growth and the maintenance of denominational identity among selected evangelical churches in Makurdi, the capital of Benue State, North Central Nigeria. Makurdi is a rapidly urbanising city with a significant Christian population and a diverse denominational landscape, making it a productive context for examining how evangelical churches grow while navigating the pressures of homogenisation and institutional competition. Using a descriptive survey design, data are collected from 240 church members and 20 senior pastors across eight evangelical denominations including ECWA, Baptist, Church of Christ, and Brethren in Christ. Questionnaires assess membership growth trends, factors attracting new members, and indicators of denominational distinctiveness in worship, doctrine, and community engagement. Findings indicate that the fastest-growing evangelical churches in Makurdi are those that combine strong doctrinal formation with vibrant expressive worship, intentional small group fellowship, and visible community service. Denominational identity remains important to members but is expressed through practice and community ethos rather than rigid boundary enforcement. Churches that have abandoned doctrinal formation in favour of emotional programming experience faster short-term growth but higher member attrition. The study recommends a dual emphasis on theological formation and relational community building as the foundation for sustainable church growth in Makurdi's evangelical landscape. Keywords: church growth, denominational identity, evangelical churches, Makurdi, Benue State