The Worldview of the Word of Faith Movement: Eden Redeemed

Description

This volume approaches the Word of Faith as a worldview, and analyses the movement through N. T. Wright's model for worldview-analysis in order to provide necessary nuance and complexity to scholarly interpretations of the Word of Faith. The reader receives insights into the movement's narrative, semiotic, practical and propositional dimensions, which cumulatively offer a multifaceted understanding of how the Word of Faith interprets reality and engages with the world. The analysis shows that there is a narrative core to Word of Faith beliefs in the form of a unique theological story with focus set on the present restoration of Eden's authority and blessings. This study demonstrates how the Word of Faith operates as a distinct worldview that parses the world through the lens of faith's causative power to affect a direct correspondence between present reality and Eden's perfection. The findings advance a critical and therapeutic approach that acknowledges how the worldview both strengthens and subverts Pentecostalism.

Mikael Stenhammar is Lecturer in systematic theology and worldview studies at the Academy for Leadership and Theology, Sweden.

With thoughtful scholarship, lucid prose, and independent-minded analysis, Stenhammar unravels the inner beauty and mysteries of the Word of Faith movement. This book displays analytical sharpness, plumbs the depths of knowledge, and stages rousing nuances of interpretation to explain the theological vision of the movement. More than anyone before him, Stenhammar elevates the distinct worldview of the movement into the realm of rigorous scholarship and first-class theological studies. -- Nimi Wariboko, Boston University, USA Stenhammar's highly articulate work examines the Word of Faith movement as a worldview, does so in original depth and detail, and in so doing makes a bold new contribution to this field of scholarship. It needs to be taken seriously by both the academy and the church. -- William Atkinson, London School of Theology, UK Gaining prominence by its controversial prosperity theology marker, the Word of Faith movement earns an illustrious status in global Christianity. Pursuing a cohesive exploration of the Word of Faith hermeneutical design and praxis appeal, the author envisages a constructive discourse and captures a critical Pentecostal insider's perspective simultaneously. -- Andreas Heuser, University of Basel, Switzerland This is a critically important book from someone once intimately involved in the Word of Faith movement. Stenhammar explains this growing worldwide movement by reference to its worldview, while being acutely aware of its inherent dangers. Essential reading for anyone looking for a comprehensive understanding. -- Allan H. Anderson, University of Birmingham, UK