The Pentecostal theologian

This article discusses the question of what makes a Pentecostal theologian? More specifically, by engaging in philosophical and theological reflections on epistemology, spirituality, and mission within Global Pentecostalism, the thrust of the article asks how spiritual epistemologies and narratives of revival may inform and challenge theological reflection and ecclesial practice, both within and outside Pentecostalism, and within and outside the academic context. The question is asked in the context of the uniqueness of the character of Pentecostal theology and approach to theology, representing a tradition that largely reflects grounded and “lived” faith. In contrast to past misconceptions of Pentecostalism as anti-intellectual, however, in recent years there has been an increasing awareness of and a series of contributions dealing with philosophical perspectives on Pentecostalism. Drawing on insights from lived theology and past and current perspectives on Pentecostal spirituality and epistemology, and especially looking at the case and work of the Norwegian Pentecostal theologian Øyvind Gaarder Andersen, the author discusses what this may mean in the context of academics and mission in global Christianity. In particular, the article highlights how a Scripturally oriented and experience-based spirituality represents a key locus theologicus for the Pentecostal theologian and his/her theological reflection. The wider context of the discussion relates to the fluid, diverse, and dynamic nature of global Pentecostalism today. Given the narrative, experiential, and globally diverse nature of Pentecostalism, the article also seeks to shed light on how a Pentecostal theologian may challenge theological and epistemological reflection more broadly, and how a global perspective on Pentecostalism may challenge Western (Pentecostal) theological reflection. Concluding, the author points out how the interconnectedness of Pentecostal spirituality, epistemology, and mission, which both informs and challenges the Pentecostal theologian to be contextually embedded while at the same time globally attuned, having an open mind to new ‘worlds’ and “what is possible with God” through the Spirit, while at the same time being rooted in the Scriptures and engaged in rigorous critical reflection.