Discerning the Affections
Affect Theory in Conversation with Pentecostal Spirituality on the Problems with the Prosperity Gospel
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.1558/pent.22880Keywords:
mimetic theory, prosperity gospel, Steven Jack Land, René Girard, affect theory, Pentecostal spiritualityAbstract
This article argues that discussions on the biblical interpretation issues that underpin the problematic expressions of the prosperity gospel within Pentecostalism have been helpful. However, given the affect-economic nexus in passages like 1 Tim 6.10, the article also contends that there need to be discussions addressing the affect-related matters of desire, denial, and the mirroring of consumer culture that often characterize these problematic expressions. Therefore, the article will discuss how a combined reading of the affect-related concepts in René Girard’s mimetic theory and Steven Jack Land’s assessment of Pentecostal spirituality can be used as a heuristic device to examine Pentecostal engagement with the prosperity gospel phenomenon. Finally, the article will claim that this combined reading can be instrumental to Pentecostal discernment regarding the contours of a sound Pentecostal engagement with the prosperity gospel.
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