The Hermeneutics of God’s Call: A Theological Inquiry into Pentecostal Pastoral Training

• Mashudu E. Muthivhi University of Venda https://orcid.org/0000-0002-2418-4436
• Ndidzulafhi Mudau University of Venda https://orcid.org/0000-0003-1398-1373
• Lufuluvhi M. Mudimeli University of Venda https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9242-2918

DOI: https://doi.org/10.7833/124-1-2278

Abstract

While the “call to ministry” notion is central to Pentecostal ecclesiology, it often remains under-theorised in academic discourse, particularly in relation to structured theological education. While Pentecostalism has garnered significant scholarly attention about pneumatology and charismatic expressions, a dearth of critical engagement remains about how the call to ministry is theologically understood and operationalised in the formation of pastors. Existing literature tends to treat vocational calling as either a mystical experience or a subjective conviction, often without sufficient theological or pedagogical scrutiny. The problem lies in the tension between institutionalised theological education and the lived, charismatic experiences that characterise Pentecostal spirituality. A Pentecostal pastoral vocation is recognised and affirmed through a blend of theological, experiential, and scriptural interpretive frameworks, which prioritise spiritual encounters and divine calling over academic training. This study aims to examine how Pentecostal communities construct and interpret divine calling through a distinctive hermeneutic that integrates scriptural interpretation with lived spiritual experience. This includes how Pentecostal clergy negotiate God’s call to ministry in the context of theological training. The study explores selected contributions in Pentecostal theology, including Reichard’s exploration of miracle discourse and relational metaphysics, to articulate the evolving interaction between spiritual experience and ministerial legitimacy. It also looks at the metaphysical assumptions and dialogical processes underpinning vocational discernment in Pentecostal contexts. The methodology is a qualitative theological approach, integrating textual analysis with reflective engagement on Pentecostal practice. The findings strive to contribute to Practical Theology discourse, particularly regarding ministerial vocation, charismatic authority, and the formation of ecclesial identity.