THE INFLUENCE OF EVANGELIZATION ON CHRISTIAN MARRIAGE STABILITY AMONG COUPLES IN METHODIST CHURCH NAIROBI SYNOD, KENYA

Purpose: This study examined the influence of evangelization on Christian marriage stability among couples in the Methodist Church Nairobi Synod, Kenya, addressing the gap in empirical evidence on how church-based spiritual practices shape marital outcomes within Methodist congregations. Methodology: Guided by Social Exchange Theory, the study adopted a mixed-methods research design integrating quantitative and qualitative approaches. The target population comprised 4,010 married adults across 17 circuits of the MCK Nairobi Synod. A sample of 194 respondents was selected using stratified random sampling for quantitative data and purposive sampling for interviews and focus groups. Data were collected through structured questionnaires and in-depth interviews, yielding a 72.2% response rate (n = 140). Quantitative data were analyzed using descriptive statistics, Pearson correlation, and multiple regression analysis, while qualitative data were analyzed thematically. Findings: The findings indicated that evangelization has a statistically significant and positive influence on Christian marriage stability (r = .714, p < 0.05; R² = 0.674; F = 27.384, p < 0.001). Key evangelization practices—such as prayer, Bible study, pastoral counseling, Christian fellowship, and consistent church attendance—were identified as strong predictors of marital stability. Conclusion: The study concludes that intentional and structured evangelization programs play a critical role in promoting stable and fulfilling Christian marriages. Strengthening church-based spiritual engagement enhances relational commitment and resilience among couples.