Date of Award

Fall 11-2017

Document Type

Thesis

Primary Advisor

Dr. Kenneth J. Archer

Abstract

This purpose of this thesis is to develop a theological foundation for a Pentecostal theology of discipleship. I begin with an analysis of the early Pentecostal movement and its implications on Pentecostal theology. This is to develop a framework within which my proposed theology can be developed. Next, I assess discipleship from a broader perspective, identifying crucial aspects of it that are not specific to Pentecostalism. I appeal to the Anabaptist tradition’s understanding of discipleship specifically, recognizing key components which allowed their theology to be so effective. In light of this I summarize and assess existing Pentecostal literature on discipleship in order to give an overview of its current landscape and need for future development. I then put forward hermeneutical strategy that will allow me to develop my theology through an interpretation of Psalm 23 as a paradigm for discipleship. This strategy is developed primarily by placing Ken Archer in conversation with Chris Green so that a contemporary strategy can be developed that also reflects the interpretive methods of early Pentecostals. I then interpret Psalm 23 as a paradigm for the life of an individual-in- community following the path of discipleship. From this interpretation I emphasize four dimensions of the discipleship process that can function as a theological foundation for further work on the subject. These dimensions are: the soteriological nature of the discipling process, its eschatological orientation, its pneumatological affection, and the ecclesiological context within which it must occur.

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