The Fourth Pentecostal Wave in South Africa: A Critical Engagement (Routledge New Critical Thinking in Religion, Theology and Biblical Studies)

"This book critically examines contemporary Pentecostalism in South Africa and its influence on some of the countries that surround it. Pentecostalism plays a significant role in the religious life of this region and so evaluating its impact is key to understanding how religion functions in Twenty-First Century Africa. Beginning with an overview of the roots of Pentecostalism in Southern Africa, the book moves on to identify a current "fourth" wave of this form of Christianity. It sets out the factors that have given rise to this movement and then offers the first academic evaluation of its theology and practice. Positive aspects as well as extreme or negative practices are all identified in order to give a balanced and nuanced assessment of this religious group and allow the reader to gain valuable insight into how it interacts with wider African society. This book is cutting-edge look at an emerging form of one of the fastest-growing religions in the world. It will, therefore, be of great use to scholars working in Pentecostalism, Theology, Religious Studies and African Religion as well as African Studies more generally"-- Provided by publisher Cover Half Title Series Title Copyright Contents Foreword Preface Acknowledgements List of abbreviations 1 Introducing the Pentecostal waves 2 The fourth wave 3 The faces of the fourth wave 4 The catalysts of the fourth wave 5 The strengths of the fourth wave 6 The weaknesses of the fourth wave 7 The abuse of religion and gullibility of society 8 Reflections on the weaknesses of the fourth wave Epilogue References Index