Commercialisation of theological education as a challenge in the Neo-Pentecostal Charismatic churches

Abstract

Commercialisation, technology, and globalisation impact all facets of religion. Commercialisation of religion contributes towards society's obsession with success. One area through which commercialisation manifests itself is in theological education. This is exacerbated by the celebrity cult whereby the leader's success is measured by wealthy appearance. The current legal accreditation requirements put pressure on the Neo-Pentecostal Charismatic ministerial formation. The online courses come at a high price, as they also promote the popular literature that is not scholarly insightful. The Neo-Charismatic leaders undermine the formal theological training, since they claim to be taught by the Holy Spirit.