Black Pentecostal reflections on the inward-looking approach in classical Pentecostalism
kgatle, mookgo solomon
This article problematises the inward-looking approach adopted by classical Pentecostalism in a South African context. A literature review on White-led classical Pentecostal churches reveals that in their early development, these churches were inward-looking and only concentrated on their theology of Spirit baptism,evangelism, and eschatological expectations. This inward-looking
approach made classical Pentecostalism passive in response to
socio-economic and socio-political issues. Issues such as racial
segregation and economic challenges are highlighted here to
demonstrate classical Pentecostalism’s non-engagement. The aim
of this article is the rationale the benefits for classical Pentecostal
churches in broadening their ways of engaging with South
African society. This can be done by learning from African
Independent Pentecostal Churches whose theology on socioeconomic
and socio-political issues is exceedingly outwardlooking.
These lessons have implications for Blackness as they
demonstrate that Black leaders can change their circumstances
without the supervision of Whiteness.
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