Understanding Salvation among Pentecostals/Charismatics in Ghana

Abstract

All religions and or denominations, among other things, seek to provide answers to life-threatening conditions facing their adherents. One of them is the concept of salvation. This paper examines the concept of salvation among Pentecostals/Charismatics in Ghana. Using interviews and secondary materials from some Pentecostal/Charismatic practitioners and scholars, it was identified that salvation is a state that affirms that the soul of an individual is saved from destruction by believing in the atoning works of Jesus Christ. This is received by confessing Jesus Christ as one’s Lord and personal saviour. This makes the believer become like a “spiritual Israelite” who is able to access the promises of God in both the Old and New Testaments in the here and now as well as in the life hereafter. Additionally, receiving salvation gives believers victory over the influence of evil spiritual forces. There are, however, impediments to the progress of the believer which are classified as “spiritual” and “physical” enemies. Notwithstanding, believers are able to overcome these obstacles when they remain students of the word of God and become prayerful. This ensures their continued enjoyment of the blessings of God in the here and now as well as in the life hereafter. The paper recommends that all religions and/or denominations should take a quick look at what constitutes salvation and its implications because it is a meaningful human concern. Additionally, obstacles to salvation should be highlighted along with strategies for overcoming them for believers in the here and now and the hereafter. The study has added to the body of information about the doctrine of salvation from the Pentecostals/Charismatics perspective. Keywords: Salvation, Pentecostals, Charismatics, Ghana