Original Research
Neo-Pentecostal political activism vis-a-vis good governance in Nigeria: A theological analysis
Submitted: 04 August 2022 | Published: 07 February 2023
About the author(s)
Daniel O. Orogun, Department of Historical and Systematic Theology, Faculty of Theology and Religion, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, South AfricaJerry G. Pillay, Department of Historical and Systematic Theology, Faculty of Theology and Religion, University of Pretoria, Hatfield, South Africa
Abstract
This article presented the Nigerian neo-Pentecostal political activism (NNPA) in the last two decades and its impact on good governance. A brief historical analysis shows that pulpit political activism (PPA) may have catalysed some civil actions by civil society, socio-cultural groups, adherents, and the masses; however, the resistance from the government may imply that the struggle is counterproductive. Subsequently, the situation calls for a theological examination of the activists’ praxis through the lens of three sub-theological disciplines, namely social gospel, political and public theologies. It is argued that the NNPA is neither based on any of the three theological sub-disciplines nor any other specific theology. Thus, this article upheld that where a struggle for good governance from a Christian perspective lacks a solid theological foundation, its approach may be counterproductive. The article then recommended the need for NNPA to evolve through a constructive theology with the adoption of some concepts from the three theological sub-disciplines, especially public theology.
Intradisciplinary and/or interdisciplinary implications: This article aligns with the scope of Verbum et Ecclesia as it created a conversation around dogmatic and historical theologies, socio-political interaction and African neo-Pentecostalism.
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Crossref Citations
1. Prophet and politician dining around the same table: God’s message in conflict?
Kelebogile T. Resane
Verbum et Ecclesia vol: 44 issue: 1 year: 2023
doi: 10.4102/ve.v44i1.2835