A pastoral-theological re-conceptualisation of pentecostal prosperity gospel, toward alleviation of poverty in South Africa.

Abstract

This research critically examines how a liberative pastoral theology can effectively address the enduring impacts of colonisation and systemic oppression by rethinking the Prosperity Gospel within the South African context. While focusing on South Africa, the study situates this analysis within the broader historical and contemporary socio-political landscapes of Africa. The study investigates how proponents of the Prosperity Gospel approach poverty through theological concepts and evaluates the real-world impact of these efforts on the lived experiences of the poor. By engaging critically with theological, social, and biblical perspectives, it seeks to determine whether the Prosperity Gospel’s approach to poverty empowers individuals or merely distracts from the structural and systemic causes of inequality. This theological reconstruction aligns with decolonial and liberationist approaches, aiming to confront the lingering legacies of colonialism and apartheid that continue to shape poverty dynamics in the region. Methodologically, the research employs pastoral cycle model, which incorporates the four tasks of practical theology, descriptive-empirical, interpretive, normative, and pragmatic. This model provides a structured approach for analysing the relationship between theology, sociological factors, and systemic change, in line with practical theology’s pastoral goals. Additionally, a Pneumatological hermeneutic is used as a guiding theoretical lens, emphasising the role of the Holy Spirit in theological reflection and action. This approach is relevant for a Christian expression that highlights the guidance of the Holy Spirit in both practice and interpretation. Ultimately, this study argues that pastoral theology, in addressing poverty, must go beyond welfare initiatives and the mere restoration of hope to engage in a comprehensive, rehumanising process. It seeks to construct a restorative preaching and practice aimed at liberation by advocating for a theology that prioritises human dignity, rehumanisation, and liberation, as reflected in scripture. By addressing the structural aspects of poverty and oppression through a decolonial lens, it aims to move beyond the individualistic focus of the Prosperity Gospel, promoting collective liberation and social justice. The study emphasises the need for a theologically informed and contextually relevant pastoral response to poverty in South Africa. It calls for transformative engagement that integrates biblical, theological, and decolonial perspectives to confront the dehumanising effects of systemic oppression and poverty. This contribution to pastoral theology offers a renewed vision of preaching and doing that aligns with the pursuit of justice, equity, and humanisation.