a contextual missiology of the spirit - eTheses Repository ...

All the above studies have certain weaknesses. All have focused on only one
particular denomination, the FFCI, although there are other churches. Moreover,
there is considerable overlap in the different studies. Furthermore, the major
weakness of these works is that most lack critical evaluation. Thus, there is a need
for a more in-depth study of Pentecostalism in Rajasthan in order to construct a
viable Pentecostal missiology.
1.4. Key Definitions and Limitations
Most of the significant terms and concepts as well as the geographical regions
related to the discussion will be introduced and defined in the course of the study.
However, it may be helpful at this stage to briefly explain some of them.
1.4.1. Definition of Terms
Firstly, it is important to define ‘Pentecostalism’. As Anderson observed, it is an
enormous task to define ‘Pentecostal’ as the term refers to various movements,
including the indigenous movements in the Majority World ‘that have adapted to
their cultural and religious contexts to such an extent that many western
Pentecostals would probably doubt their qualifications as “Christian”
movements.’ 48 Who Pentecostals are in Rajasthan will be discussed in chapter
three. The present study adopts a more inclusive definition, following Walter
48 Allan Anderson, ‘Introduction: World Pentecostalism at a Crossroads,’ in Pentecostals after a
Century: Global Perspectives on a Movement in Transition, JPTS 15, ed. Allan H. Anderson and
Walter J. Hollenweger (Sheffield: SAP, 1999), 19-20.
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