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Periodical article Periodical article Leiden University catalogue Leiden University catalogue WorldCat catalogue WorldCat
Title:The Pentecostal gospel of prosperity in African contexts of poverty: an appraisal
Author:Togarasei, LovemoreISNI
Year:2011
Periodical:Exchange: Journal of Contemporary Christianities in Context (ISSN 0166-2740)
Volume:40
Issue:4
Pages:336-350
Language:English
Geographic terms:Subsaharan Africa
Botswana
Zimbabwe
Subjects:Pentecostalism
poverty reduction
External link:https://doi.org/10.1163/157254311X600744
Abstract:This paper discusses the paradox presented by two realities: the situation of extreme poverty in sub-Saharan Africa and the rapid growth of charismatic Pentecostal Christianity with its emphasis on prosperity. Earlier studies on Pentecostalism have identified its success among the poor as a result of its promise of prosperity. Indeed others have viewed this doctrine as an impetus for delusion. This paper critically reviews the Pentecostal gospel of prosperity in the context of the poverty experienced in sub-Saharan Africa. In particular, it discusses the possible contribution of this doctrine to sustainable development. Over and above a theorization of how this gospel can contribute to sustainable development for poverty reduction, the paper also discusses specific cases of how Pentecostal Christianity is contributing to poverty reduction in Zimbabwe and Botswana, for example. The paper concludes that the gospel is indeed contributing to poverty alleviation in five ways: encouraging entrepreneurship, employment creation, encouraging members to be generous, giving people a positive mindset and encouraging a holistic approach to life. Notes, ref., sum. [Journal abstract]
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