A Practical Pentecostal Theodicy?

Abstract

A common critique of Pentecostalism from other Christian traditions is that Pentecostals lack an adequate response to evil and chronic and unrelieved suffering. I will propose a response to evil and suffering that is not expressed solely in repeated calls to faith or in stark black and white terms of faith versus doubt. This essay will address the role of the pentecostal faith community in its social dimension in response to suffering. I will also suggest a “practical” pentecostal theodicy, one grounded in the stories of the outpouring of the Spirit in the book of Acts and in deep pastoral concern. Finally, I will address the inscrutable activity of God, who often works ad hoc, mysteriously, variously through miracle, pentecostal pastoral concern, or deep existential encounter.