Paper short abstract:

This paper will argue that Pentecostalism is not only about prosperity and health Gospel. There are cases of Pentecostal religio-political organizations operating outside the purview of mainline churches that have been involved in urban protests in pursuit of democratization.

Paper long abstract:

Advocates of secularism and liberalism tend to rule out Pentecostal Charismatic Churches (PCCs) as a force to reckon with in socio-economic and political transformation, on allegation that PCCs emphasize the prosperity and wealth Gospel that promises fortunes to those who faithfully support the ministry of the church. They argue that, while PCCs might inspire people with ideas on how to save money, start small businesses, for the success of these initiatives, members revert to the miraculous powers of the prophets.

This paper will argue for the ambivalence of Pentecostalism in political transformation, by asserting that, while the democratic spirit among Pentecostals in Zimbabwe is very low, there are cases of PCCs-influenced religio-political organizations operating outside the purview of mainline churches that have been involved in protests in pursuit of democratization. I will make reference to the urban activism of Bishop Ancelimo Magaya of Grace Ablaze Ministries International and Evan Mawarire's #ThisFlag movement. Such individuals and organizations practice faith-based activism through which their objective is to transform the socio-economic and political situation in Zimbabwe. Their discourses and practices emphasize flexible structures as opposed to hierarchic and bureaucratic systems and structures, and embodiment of values of civility and public reason. These have an elective affinity with the priesthood of all believers out of which they problematize citizenship in Zimbabwe, hence elective affinity between Pentecostalism and democracy. These organizations assert that they are based on biblical principles and narratives. They engage in activities such as prayer rallies and demonstrations.