Function Of Prophecy Research Articles

Charismatic Catholicism, Pentecostal Prophetism and the Question of Influence in Nigeria


 There are notable operational and theological similarities between Pentecostalism and the Charismatic movements in Nigeria. This has led to many studies about the influence between the two. With regard to similarities between Pentecostals and Charismatic Catholics in Nigeria, such studies often assume the former as influencing the latter. In this paper, however, we demonstrate that the similarities and difference between the two movements in Nigeria have more complex origins than just one copying from the other. The cultural environment and a shared New Testament Canon in spite of the varied hermeneutics between Catholics and Pentecostals explain a good deal of the similarities. The doctrinal and liturgical frameworks of Catholicism and Pentecostalism explain the difference especially with respect to the understanding and function of prophecy among these Christian groups. Despite the complexity in the explanation of influence between the two movements, we note that an undeniable influence of Pentecostalism on the Catholic Charismatic movement, theologically and operationally represented by Ejike Mbaka, is the use of the charism of prophecy to influence political affairs.

예후의 군사정변에 이용된 예언의 성격과 기능

예후의 군사정변에 이용된 예언의 성격과 기능

The Function of Prophetic Forthtelling in Roho Christianity

This paper examines the forms and function of prophecy in Roho (Spirit-led) Christianity in Africa. It seeks to situate this function within the rubric of biblical prophecy. It takes seriously their beliefs and theological reasoning that informs their practice. We look at forms of biblical prophecy that generally serve as their guiding principle, namely: foretelling and forthtelling. The literature available on Roho Christianity largely focuses on the historical, sociological, and anthropological aspects of this brand of Christianity. Majority of scholars have paid attention to their origins, rituals, and interaction with the larger society. While this is important, there is very little attention given to one of their principal characteristics--an active prophetic ministry. This paper seeks to satisfy the following seven objectives. Firstly, we look at the prophetic role of the church in African society. Secondly, we try to establish the nexus between prophecy and salvation in Roho Christianity. Thirdly, we look at the forthtelling character and function of Jewish prophecy. Fourthly, we look at prophecy as a community constitution in Roho churches. Fifthly, we assess how prophecy acts as group ritual for identity maintenance. Sixthly, we examine ways in which prophecy acts as symbolic Christian ethics. Finally, we explore how prophetic forthtelling enhances socioeconomic support among Roho churches. In order to achieve the foregoing, we look at concepts common to Roho Christianity in an attempt to draw conclusions about the concept and nature of prophecy in Roho churches and convictions connected with them.

The Second Century Through the Eyes of Hermas: Continuity and Change

The Shepherd of Hermas yields important information about church developments in the early second century, an important and little-documented period. Generally recognized characteristics of the Roman church in the early centuries are confirmed for Hermas, suggesting that it is not sectarian but mainstream. It further suggests three developments: social fragmentation, a process toward ordering and recognition of authority, and evolution of the function of prophecy.