Historical Perspectives on Pentecostal Missionaries in Situations of Conflict and Violence

Early Pentecostal missions in this century resonated with the belief that the signs and wonders of the apostolic age had been restored for the evangelization of the world before the imminent return of Christ. By mid-century, permanent overseas ministries were beginning to flourish. To maintain freedom for ministry, Pentecostal missionaries have usually avoided taking sides on political, social, and economic issues. Even though preaching the gospel has sometimes jeopardized their safety, identification with Western powers frequently accounts for the turbulence they have experienced. Following an apolitical course has generally paid dividends, but in some circumstances only at the risk of creating a fundamental contradiction to the gospel itself.