Pentecostal Approaches to Ecotheology: Reviewing the Literature

Abstract

The relatively recent maturing of Pentecostal theology as an academic discipline has included consideration of a theology of ecology – the relation of God, human and nonhuman creation. A significant focus of the literature has been to provide a theological foundation for ecological interest and action from doctrinal and pneumatological, hermeneutical, and practical perspectives. Particular attention has been paid to expanding the horizon of a gospel proclamation of the salvation of individual souls and an otherworldly heaven to reveal the material and cosmic scope of the Spirit’s redemptive and transformative work – a truly “full gospel” proclamation. On this basis, to steward and address injustices against creation can be understood as Spirit empowered eschatological mission. The literature has also drawn attention to global practical examples of Pentecostal ecological mission and action. The review concludes Pentecostal interest in the ecological implications of the gospel of Christ is the continuation of a trajectory originating in the earliest phase of the movement; and there is considerable potential to further resource Pentecostals to embrace this expanded horizon.