SUB TOPIC: Exploring the Nuances of Dogmatism and Pragmatism in the Christian Faith: A Closer Look at their Philosophical and Theological Implications on the Church of Pentecost; the Past, Present, and Future Outlook in the Possessing the Nations’ Agenda.
PROLUSION: DOGMA, A KILLER OR RHEMA, A LIFE-GIVER?
The dichotomy between dogmatism and pragmatism as conceptual frameworks within Christian theology has been a subject of considerable importance. With the spotlight on one of the fastest-growing Pentecostal denominations in the world, this piece attempts to look into the subject matter of the concepts through a nuanced exploration of the biblical verse, “The letter killeth but the Spirit giveth life” (2 Corinthians 3:6), to elucidate the dynamic interplay between adherence to dogma as doctrinal orthodoxy and receptiveness to rhema for the remarkable responsiveness to contextual challenges in Christian life and ministry in light of the Church of Pentecost.
UNDERSTANDING DOGMATISM: PRESERVING TRUTH OR STIFLING GROWTH?
Dogmatism, at its core, represents a commitment to established doctrines, traditions, and interpretations of Scripture within Christian theology. It serves as a defence against doctrinal drift and ensures fidelity to the foundational truths of the faith. Dogmatism provides stability and guarantees continuity, thus ensuring the anchorage of believers in the timeless wisdom of the Christian tradition.
However, dogmatism becomes problematic when it translates into a rigid adherence to orthodoxy that stifles intellectual inquiry and spiritual growth. When the letter of the law takes precedence over the Spirit of love and grace, dogmatism can lead to division, exclusivism, and legalism within the body of Christ (Luke 11:47-52; Colossians 2:16-17; 1 Timothy 4:3-5). It thus hampers our faith by becoming a stumbling block rather than a stepping-stone in our spiritual pilgrimage.
EXPLORING PRAGMATISM: ADAPTING TRUTH TO CONTEXT OR COMPROMISING CONVICTION?
Conversely, pragmatism embodies adaptability, flexibility, and responsiveness to the diverse contexts and challenges encountered in Christian life. It recognizes the need to translate timeless truths into relevant practices that address contemporary issues and engage with the world’s complexities. Pragmatism fosters innovation and creativity in ministry, allowing the Gospel to permeate different cultural, social, and historical settings (1 Corinthians 9:20-22). Yet, unchecked pragmatism can slide into relativism, diluting the distinctiveness of Christian doctrine and compromising essential truths for expediency or relevance. When pragmatism prioritizes cultural accommodation over biblical fidelity, it risks conforming to the patterns of this world rather than being transformed by the renewing of the mind (Romans 12:2).
THE FOCUS: WHY THE CHURCH OF PENTECOST?
The Church of Pentecost has undoubtedly become a prominent figure in the landscape of global Christianity and, over the years, has successfully managed and sustained its image amidst its stance at the intersection of tradition and innovation, dogmatism, and pragmatism in respect of its beliefs, practices and strategies for possessing the nations and establishing churches globally. These establishments organically serve as solution centres to the myriad of psycho-social and spiritual challenges facing humanity and, organizationally, present as equipping and unleashing centres poised to prepare members to transform societies. This dynamic transformation of the Church’s vision and mission is not a deviation from its fundamental principles and practices handed down by its forebears but rather a tripartite approach, which is culturally relevant to contemporary times, with a focus on fostering the relationship between God, man and his environment as a way of demonstrating a holistically practical Christian living, where humanity epitomizes divinity in all aspects of life.
As it grapples with the tension between dogmatism and pragmatism in a changing world system, the Church reflects on its past, navigates its present challenges, and envisions its future role while embodying the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in possessing the nation’s agenda.
THE PAST: FOUNDATION AND IDENTITY
Founded on the mighty outpouring of the Holy Spirit with a great revival in the early 20th century in Ghana (then Gold Coast), the Church of Pentecost emerged as a vibrant expression of Pentecostalism, emphasizing believers’ spiritual gifts and empowerment. In its formative years, dogmatism played a pivotal role in shaping the denomination’s identity, anchoring it in the foundational truths of Pentecostal doctrine.
The Church of Pentecost’s adherence to doctrinal orthodoxy provided stability and unity among its members while fostering a strong sense of identity and purpose. The emphasis on spiritual experiences, including speaking in tongues, divine healing, prophetic ministry, sacrificial giving, and ministry excellence, fueled its growth and expansion, particularly in Ghana and other parts of Africa and the world at large (Acts 2:42-44).
THE PRESENT: CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES
Following the Church’s significant global presence in the present era, it faces a rapidly changing world characterized by shifting social, cultural, and political landscapes. The rise of secularism, globalization, and technological advancement presents both challenges and opportunities for the Church as it seeks to execute the possessing the nations’ agenda (Matthew 28:19-20). While dogmatism remains a cornerstone of the Church of Pentecost’s theology, pragmatism has become increasingly crucial in navigating the complexities of contemporary society. The Church seeks to strike a delicate balance between holding fast to its core beliefs and adapting its methods and strategies to address the pressing issues facing communities worldwide (Acts 2:42).
THE FUTURE OUTLOOK: VISION (THE PLAN), MINISTRY (THE PEOPLE) AND MISSION (THE PURPOSE)
Looking ahead, the Church of Pentecost seeks to embrace a forward-looking vision that encompasses both spiritual and social transformation. Possessing the nations’ agenda requires a holistic approach beyond traditional evangelism, thereby instilling in its members contemporary methods of reaching souls far and near with the Gospel of Jesus Christ. By the Gospel’s transformative power, the Church envisages her unleashed members to influence their spheres of life by pursuing and demonstrating good governance and citizenship, patriotism and environmental stewardship to address systemic issues such as poverty, injustice, inequality, and social apathy. Thus, this reinforces the mission-mindedness of every ministry in the Church.
Furthermore, the Church seeks to leverage its global network and diverse membership to advocate for positive change in critical areas such as education, healthcare, and economic development. By partnering with like-minded organizations and institutions, the Church of Pentecost, in its strides to exemplify the teachings of Christ Jesus, is progressively amplifying its impact and has significantly contributed meaningfully to the well-being of society (1 Peter 2:9-12).
CONCLUSION: EMBRACING THE SPIRIT’S LEADING AMIDST THE CAPRICES OF DOGMA AND THE WHIMS OF RHEMA.
The tension between dogmatism and pragmatism finds resolution in the discernment of the Holy Spirit. As the manifest presence of God within believers, the Spirit illuminates the Scriptures, convicts the heart, and guides discernment. Through a surrendered and Spirit-led life, believers navigate the delicate balance between fidelity to truth and responsiveness to context.
Ultimately, “the letter killeth but the Spirit giveth life” encapsulates the ethics and ethos of the Church of Pentecost as it navigates the trajectory of maintaining a balance between dogmatism reflecting dogma and pragmatism, a function of rhema towards fulfilling its mission in possessing the nation’s agenda in an ever-changing world. By remaining grounded in the foundational truths of Pentecostal doctrine while embracing the leading of the Holy Spirit, the Church will continue to be a force full of spiritual vitality for positive change and transformation in a dying world in need of hope, redemption and restoration.
Written by Emmanuel A. Asiamah (Ho Bankoe District, Ghana/Durban District, South Africa)