Pentecostalism is a rapidly growing religion, expected to have 10% of the world's population by 2050, fueled by conversions from other denominations and appealing to the working poor with promises of a better life.
Pentecostalism exhibits a unique spiritual and individualistic faith that differs from traditional hierarchical religions, making it attractive to a wide range of people and creating a connection with populist authoritarians such as Donald Trump and Jair Bolsonaro.
Pentecostal churches serve as community hubs, providing support for everyday life, fostering a sense of belonging, and addressing the practical needs of their congregations and communities.
The podcast discusses the existence of the controversial new apostolic reformation within Pentecostalism and the evolution of end times theology, highlighting a shift towards post-millennialism and the growing emphasis on common goals and societal engagement.
Deep dives
Rise of Pentecostal Christianity
Pentecostal Christianity, a religion less than a century old, is rapidly growing and is expected to have about 10% of the world's population adhering to it by 2050. With 600 million current followers, Pentecostalism is experiencing explosive growth, particularly in the developing world. The movement is fueled by conversions from other Christian denominations, particularly Catholicism in Latin America. Pentecostalism appeals to the working poor by offering promises of a better life through community, wealth, and health. The movement's rise is driven by a combination of factors, including fecundity, conversion, and its ability to meet the practical needs of its followers. Pentecostalism also exhibits a unique spiritual and individualistic faith that differs from traditional hierarchical religions, making it attractive to a wide range of people.
The Influence of Pentecostalism on Politics
There is a strong connection between Pentecostalism and populist authoritarians like Donald Trump and Jair Bolsonaro. Pentecostalism's emphasis on charismatic leadership and its theatrical style resonate with the showmanship and crowd interaction seen in political rallies. Pentecostalism also taps into the sense of being besieged by secularism, creating an 'us against the world' mentality that aligns with the grievances of these political movements. While not all Pentecostals align with right-wing politics, there is a notable connection between the movement and conservative causes, particularly on social issues. Pentecostalism's decentralized structure allows for a range of political beliefs, but social conservatives often find common cause within the movement.
The Role of Pentecostalism in Community and Charity
Pentecostalism places importance on community, communitarianism, and support for the poor. Pentecostal churches often serve as community hubs, providing support for everyday life and fostering a sense of belonging. Through charitable initiatives, such as medical clinics or food distribution programs, Pentecostal churches aim to address the practical needs of their congregations and their communities.
The New Apostolic Reformation and Splitting Pentecostalism
The podcast discusses the existence of the new apostolic reformation within the Pentecostal movement. This controversial movement, influenced by theologian C. Peter Wagner, attempts to establish a separate denomination for Pentecostalism. It promotes the reimplementation of practices like the five-fold ministry, which includes apostles and prophets. While some members deny its existence, this movement has caused academic debates about its definition and importance.
End Times Theology and Post-Millennialism
The podcast explores the evolution of end times theology within evangelicalism, specifically among Pentecostals. Traditionally, Pentecostals embraced a dispensational pre-millennialist view, which emphasized the imminent return of Jesus and apocalyptic events. However, there has been a shift towards post-millennialism, which suggests the need to actively work towards establishing better conditions on earth before Jesus' return. The discussion highlights the simplification of end times theology and the growing focus on common goals rather than contentious arguments.
Seven Mountains Mandate for Societal Transformation
The podcast mentions the concept of the Seven Mountains Mandate, which advocates for Pentecostals and evangelicals to engage in all areas of society, including education, religion, family, business, government, arts, and media. This movement, inspired by figures like Lauren Cunningham and popularized by Lance Wallnau, aims to bring about societal change by gaining influence in these spheres. The discussion points out the overlap between this movement and right-wing politics, and how it has led to controversial actions like the Capitol riots. It also highlights the appeal of such movements to individuals seeking guidance and a sense of purpose in uncertain times.
Influence and Transformation in Pentecostal Faith
Pentecostal faith has a transformative aspect that extends beyond individual salvation. The movement emphasizes the desire to transform society and enact moral change. This political element, coupled with a willingness to regulate behavior and vice, can be concerning. However, the movement also fosters a sense of community and a desire to do good in the world, which can be appealing to many believers.
Religion, Sex Work, and Morality
Pentecostalism in Texas is involved in efforts to combat prostitution by targeting the buyers, also known as Johns, instead of the sex workers themselves. This approach stems from a belief that saving souls and transforming society requires addressing issues that go against moral values. While this perspective has its critics, the movement's leaders and followers see their actions as part of a mission to uphold family values and advocate for female empowerment.
Shermer and Hardy discuss: Hardy’s religious journey (raised Catholic, now agnostic) • origin of Pentecostalism and its biblical basis Pentecostalism in Korea North and South, and Israel • the structure of the Pentecostal church and how it differs from other churches • Seven Mountain Mandate • how religions grow • pentecostalism and politics • the psychology of the believer • dispensationalism and the Rapture • prophecy • glossolalia • snake handling • eschatology and end-times theology • sin and redemption • prostitution • Jordan Peterson and secular religion.
Elle Hardy is a journalist and foreign correspondent who has reported from the United States, the former USSR and North Korea, among a long list of places. Her work has appeared in GQ, Lonely Planet, Foreign Policy and Business Insider, and on ABC Australia. Her new book is Beyond Belief: How Pentecostal Christianity is Taking Over the World.
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