Introduction to Syncretism and Pentecostalism in the Global South

Abstract

Critiquing current neo-Pentecostal practices is complex and requires a nuanced approach because this movement's wide range of beliefs and practices. Scholars refer to syncretism as a significant factor in the phenomenal growth of this movement, especially in the Global South (Maxon 2019). It functions within general areas of concern raised by leaders and scholars. Two areas of concern are relevant. Theologically, neo-Pentecostalism is influenced by prosperity theology, emphasising material blessings and personal wealth as a sign of God's favour while exploiting vulnerable individuals and establishing a culture of consumerism, constituting a hierarchical leadership reflecting authoritarian leadership structures that concentrate power in the hands of pastors or prophets, potentially leading to abuse and exploitation and the selective interpretation of scripture, cherry-picking verses to support its teachings, neglecting the broader context and potentially distorting the overall message (Bafford 2019). The sociocultural concerns are the promotion of traditional gender roles by some members, which are limiting and oppressive for women and hinder gender equality as well as a negative, prejudiced approach to homosexuality, leading to the discrimination and exclusion of LGBTQ+ individuals and the exploitation of vulnerable people, promising miraculous solutions to poverty while extracting financial and emotional resources. Syncretistic elements colour all these concerns, reflecting, in many instances, traditional cultural and religious values that may compromise the essence of the gospel of Jesus Christ (Dube 2014).