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

The current study also indicates the need for further exploration of three other
vital issues. First, there is a need for a rigorous exploration of the issue of the
missio-ethical dilemma of global Pentecostals. Second, there is the issue of the
over-reliance on the ‘Luke-Acts Pentecostal tradition’ in the explanations of the
Spirit experiences in the formulation of theology and the need for possible
recourse to other sources. For example, the Spirit experiences of Paul and their
role in shaping his mission theology might be investigated in order to further
develop contemporary Pentecostal theologies. Third, the significance of
developing alternative approaches to biblical hermeneutics to construct innovative
mission theologies needs to be explored, such as the reflective method as
suggested by Hollenweger (as used in this study).
Thus in brief, this thesis argues for an indigenous origin of Pentecostalism in India
in general and in Rajasthan in particular, as it is a product of indigenous revivals
in the existing churches as well as the missionary activities of Indian Pentecostals.
Consequently, this study frames an outline for a contextual missiology of the
Spirit, a Pentecostal model of contextual theology. It can be a dynamic model as it
takes into account the Spirit encounter of the faith community as well as their
context, as it recognizes the Spirit empowerment of the faith community, the
church for contextual mission- despite the complex issues it faces, whether
internal or external. It is very significant that a contextual missiology of the Spirit
focuses on the mission of the Spirit through His servant the church, without
excluding any other agencies or mission of the Spirit in the world. This thesis
does not restrict the contextual features only to those which are discussed here;
350