Abstract
The article uses the motif of salvation as adoption as God’s children to critique the African neo-Pentecostal (ANP) belief that generational curses remain on Christians after conversion. A prominent mark that distinguishes ANP churches from classical Pentecostal churches is the prophet-pastors and prophet-apostles whose prophetic stature is foundational to the existence of these churches. The main question answered in the article is: in the light of biblical description of Christians as adopted children of God how should we soteriologically evaluate the ANP claim that born-again Christians remain under curses inherited from their ancestors? Therefore, the ANP view of generational curses is explained, and soteriological adoption is described in relation to the believers’ spiritual liberation and security. A proposal is made of how adoption should liberate ANP Christians from the fear of generational curses. The article challenges ANP prophets to critique their teaching on generational curses on Christians by using biblical images of salvation.
Highlights
The belief in generational curses is prominent in many African neo-Pentecostal (ANP) churches (Biri 2012:3–4, 2018:83–85; Chitando & Biri 2016:76; Maxwell 1998:361)
It has become common to hear many African Christians, even those from traditional mainline churches attributing their suffering to generational curses
The article attempted to answer the question: in light of the biblical description of Christians as adopted children of God, how should we soteriologically evaluate the ANP claim that born again Christians remain subject to curses inherited from their ancestors? The article challenged ANP Christians to use biblical soteriological motifs in addressing the fear of generational curses among their followers
Summary
The belief in generational curses is prominent in many African neo-Pentecostal (ANP) churches (Biri 2012:3–4, 2018:83–85; Chitando & Biri 2016:76; Maxwell 1998:361). The motif challenges ANP prophets to stop their relentless weakening of Christian confidence by teaching unbiblical speculations about the great power of generational curses Rather, they should empower the Christians by grounding them on the biblical fact that God has transformed his blessed children through adoption in Christ. God the Father relates directly with the Christian in whom the Holy Spirit cries, ‘Abba, Father’ This family relationship between God and the believer challenges the spiritual insecurity that arises from the need to depend on the mediatory role of the ANP prophets to connect with God or to receive God’s blessings. The motif of adoption should remind African Christians that God is on their side (Rm 8:31) and he has granted them his Holy Spirit to give them ‘power, love and self-discipline’ (2 Tm 1:7) and make them courageous active participants in solving their problems
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
