Pentecostalization of the Evangelical/Reformed Tradition - Period 2

In the current age, Pentecostalism is the fastest growing movement within global Christianity. Next to the growth of the movement itself by establishing vibrant churches, Pentecostalism influences, challenges and perhaps even alters the Evangelical and Reformed tradition. This so called Pentecostalization of Christianity is observed in the attention for the Holy Spirit, the gifts of the Spirit and the emphasis on religious experience. in this course, the varieties within Pentecostalism (like views on the prosperity gospel), and the development of charismatic renewal movements (for example John Wimber, New Wine) will be discussed as a challenge to The evangelical and Reformed tradition. By taking a lived religion approach, charismatic practices like healing, prophecy, deliverance, the Alpha course, contemporary worship music including the integration of media technology, will be discussed from theological and anthropological/sociological perspectives. These practices will serve as entry points for students to reflect upon and develop their own (theological) position. Also, pentecostalism's distinct spirituality will be discussed to evaluate a worldview approach to religion as used in the evangelical and reformed tradition.

Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam (VU Amsterdam) awards credits based on the ECTS system. Contact hours listed under a course description may vary due to the combination of lecture-based and independent work required for each course therefore, CEA's recommended credits are based on the ECTS credits assigned by VU Amsterdam. 1 ECTS equals 28 contact hours assigned by VU Amsterdam.