Religious Discourse: A Study of How to Maintain a Spirit-Filled Life by Rev. Dr. David Ogbueli

Abstract

The study examines religious discourse through a critical analysis of a sermon titled "How to Maintain a Spirit-Filled Life," delivered by Rev. Dr. David Ogbueli. The study adopts the framework of Critical Discourse Analysis (CDA).  It explores how linguistic choices in the sermon construct spiritual authority, reinforce doctrinal beliefs, and shape the identity of the audience. Data were collected from YouTube.  The analysis focuses on the use of rhetorical strategies, biblical references, imperative structures, and evaluative language in the sermon. It investigates how the preacher engages the audience through inclusive pronouns and persuasive appeals, delegitimizes secular solutions, while simultaneously positioning himself as a spiritual authority. The study also highlights how the sermon reflects broader socio-religious contexts, particularly within contemporary Nigerian Christianity. Furthermore, the research explores how religious discourse functions as a medium for ideological transmission, emphasizing themes such as spiritual discipline, personal transformation, and divine relationship. The findings reveal that the sermon employs strategic linguistic features to legitimize its message, delegitimize secular solutions, and sustain religious ideology. Ultimately, this study contributes to the understanding of how religious discourse operates not only as a form of communication but also as a powerful mechanism for shaping belief, identity, and society at large.