Pentecostalism and the Transformation of Christianity in Ghana : Pneuma, Mission and Praxis

This book draws on historical, theological, and sociological analysis to examine how Ghanaian Pentecostals understand Spirit baptism and infilling as foundational to their missional identity and practice.

Peter White situates Ghana as a critical case within world Christianity. He explores the Trinitarian foundations of Pentecostal mission and the biblical roots of pneumatology, and it analyses Spirit baptism, infilling, and spiritual gifts—such as tongues and prophecy—as lived and regulated practices within Ghanaian churches.

It considers the full range of Pentecostal mission activity, including evangelistic methods, leadership and governance structures, discipleship models, and processes for integrating new believers into congregational life. The book also engages the movement’s extensive social involvement, examining initiatives in poverty alleviation, education, healthcare, economic empowerment, civic responsibility, and anti-corruption efforts.

Finally, it identifies the contemporary challenges Ghanaian Pentecostalism faces, including digital ministry, generational transitions, the development of women’s leadership, and the global implications of “reverse mission” and diasporic networks. Addressing a clear gap in scholarship on the missiological significance of pneumatological experience in Ghana, the volume offers a framework that connects doctrine and practice for scholars of Pentecostalism, world Christianity, African Christianity, and mission studies