Towards a distinct classical Pentecostal method of practical theology

ABSTRACT

It is notable that few Pentecostals have engaged with the discipline of Practical Theology (PT). Whilst those who have often include a helpful emphasis on pneumatology in their methodological work, they generally do not incorporate a fuller range of Pentecostal nuances beyond pneumatology. This paper seeks to address this by considering how Pentecostal theology can more broadly resource a PT method. This is important because Pentecostalism has its own way of generating knowledge, which emerges from these broader theological distinctives. In doing so, it suggests a step-by-step method, framed around the questions posed by the crowd at Pentecost, and draws from theological ideas present in the Acts 2 narrative. Furthermore, it is characterised by the predisposition of the theologian to seek what Christ and the Spirit are saying or doing in the experience.

KEYWORDS:

• Pentecostal
• hermeneutics
• pentecost
• praxis
• practical theology

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Notes

1 Notably, some scholars argue that the Pentecostal theology described here is broadly reflective of Pentecostal churches and denominations that emerged in the first half of the twentieth century and in a Western context (what is known as classical Pentecostalism), with later and non-Western Pentecostalism developing their own theological nuances. As such, for clarity, this paper is classically Pentecostal in its theological perspective.

Additional information

Notes on contributors

James Seager

James Seager MA is a PhD student, studying with Bangor University and based at Regent’s Theological College, Malvern. His research reflects on the experience and practice of Pentecostal Church Leadership, in relation to the movements’ distinct theology, and works within a Practical Theology framework.