Miracle Healing and Pentecostalism

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Miracle Healing and Pentecostalism

In the fourth century, Christianity became more mainstream. Constantine converted in 312 and, with the Edict of Milan, Christianity gained toleration. Church membership soared from five million to thirty million people. Most new believers joined after receiving a healing or deliverance. Yet, in Western countries, the conversion of a non-Christian was considered dangerous, with the risk of imprisonment or execution.

True Christians can discern a false prophet by the inward testimony of the Spirit. Throughout Scripture, prophecy is mentioned in various forms, but the New Testament doesn’t elevate prophecy to a high position of authority. As such, it’s always prudent to seek approval from church leaders before making a sweeping statement or prophecy.

The ethos of charismatic faith is rooted in the long apostolic tradition. Pentecostalism is characterized by signs and wonders, including the use of tongues. It is also known for its practice of deliverance from evil spirits. Pentecostal missions in Africa were central to the Pentecostal tradition from its early days. These missions grew alongside indigenous Christian prophetic movements in colonial Africa.

However, the militant evangelical Christian subjectivity of these groups has a major problem for modern democracy. It is akin to a fundamentalist ideology that denies reasoned debate, the concept of a moral order, and the freedom of speech and conscience. As such, it can lead to violence.