What happens when a key theological concept is almost entirely missing from a statement of faith? In this groundbreaking study, candid interviews with current and former clergy reveal how the absence of theological anthropology (the technical term for thinking Christianly about human beings) has resulted in the systemic power-abuse of clergy within the Pentecostal Assemblies of Canada (PAOC). Key issues, such as exploitive employment arrangements, spiritualization of mistreatment, sexism, bullying, and even whistleblower retaliation punctuate the research and shine a light on a critical problem underlying Canada's largest Pentecostal movement.
Featuring rich and varied interviews alongside thoughtful analysis, the strength of this study is in its ability to go beyond merely diagnosing problems; drawing on Cameron et al.'s "Four Voices of Theology," Power in Practice proposes a bold and intentional series of recommendations for the PAOC and other evangelical movements wrestling with their conviction that a Christian ethic of power must be practiced in order to be faithful. Complete with practical steps for restoring accountability, responding to narcissism, and renewing theology, Power in Practice ultimately reminds the reader that power, when transformed by Christ, is expressed as an ethic of love.
