The Pentecostal Gender Paradox - Eschatology and the Search for Equality

The distinct subjects of eschatology and gender equality have seen an explosion of interest in recent decades, particularly within the Pentecostal movement. Pentecostalism is regarded ideally as both an eschatological and egalitarian movement, reflecting the "last days" outpouring of the Spirit on "all flesh . . . sons and daughters . . . both men and women" (Acts 2:16¬¬¬-18). However, many Pentecostals have lamented the inconsistency between this core egalitarian impulse and the often-restrictive practices within the movement. This situation is described by sociologist Bernice Martin as the so-called Pentecostal "gender paradox," a helpful phrase adopted in this work to refer to the conflicting freedoms and limitations experienced by women in the Pentecostal movement. This paradox has plagued the movement for a century and resulted in constant tension and uncertainty concerning women''s roles in Pentecostal churches and organizations.Despite the renewed interest in both eschatology and women''s equality, little research has been done to put these two areas into conversation with each other: eschatological convictions are often absent in the debate on gender roles in the church. In the rare occasions they are discussed together, eschatology is often dismissed as incompatible with, irrelevant to, or insufficient for advancing women''s equality in the church. For Pentecostals, eschatology has often been about urgency in "saving souls" rather than attending to social issues. The question might be asked: can Pentecostal eschatology make a positive contribution for those seeking greater equality for women in the church?>

Product details

• Authors: Joseph Lee Dutko
• Publisher: T. & T. Clark Ltd.
• Languages: English
• Product format: Hardback
• Released: 14.12.2023
• EAN: 9780567713681
• ISBN: 978-0-567-71368-1
• No. of pages: 312
• Series: T&T Clark Systematic Pentecostal and Charismatic Theology
• Subjects: Humanities, art, music > Religion/theology > Christianity; Non-fiction book > Philosophy, religion > Religion: general, reference works; RELIGION / Christian Theology / Eschatology, RELIGION / Sexuality & Gender Studies, Theology, Christian theology, Religious aspects of sexuality, gender and relationships, Christian aspects of sexuality, gender & relationships, RELIGION: Eschatology, Pentecostal or Charismatic Churches