Interpretation of Mark 9:14-26 and child witchcraft discourses in transnational Yoruba Pentecostalism: a theological reflection

Abstract

ABSTRACT Contemporary child witchcraft accusation is a socio-religious phenomenon regarded as collective faith-based child cruelty, which has reached epidemic proportions in many countries, including Nigeria. This article discusses the biblical eisegesis of Mark 9:14–29 regarding its implications for practical theology, identifying how socio-religio-cultural beliefs conflate with the misinterpretation of specific biblical texts, leading to an increase in witchcraft accusations. Thus, this research adopts an interdisciplinary qualitative approach by applying an interview method targeted at selected Yoruba Pentecostal leaders. This study’s theoretical framework is based on symbolic interactionism. The findings formed part of a doctoral inquiry into selected Yoruba Pentecostal pastors in London, UK, and Nigeria. The conclusions are that child deliverance practices are both biblically and culturally influenced, and that deeper theological formation of Pentecostal leaders would prevent the abuse associated with child witchcraft accusation.