Frå helgingsrørsle til marknadsrørsle? Endringar i den norske pinserørsla sidan 1977

Abstract

Summary Holiness movement to market movement? – changes in the Norwegian Pentecostal movement since 1977. The Norwegian Pentecostal movement has changed considerably since 1977. In this period, the changes in the movement have increasingly gained speed. The changes can be seen in how the movement has changed its focus from the preaching of eschatology and the struggle against secularism, to be more open to secular thoughts and mass culture. It can also be seen in the decreasing in use of tongues in church gatherings. The diaconal works of the movement, centered on Evangeliesenteret, has changed less than the rest of the movement, and is in many ways conserving to the Norwegian Pentecostal movement. Explanations of these changes can be found both inside and outside the churches. The isolation of the churches as a result of the huge focus on holiness and eschatology, became a considerable problem for the younger generations. Conflicts with the older leaders brought eventually forth changes. An unhealthy charismatic culture gave way for new thoughts on how charismatic expressions, such as tongues, should be practiced. The opening of the movement to society also opened up to secular thought. One result is the market mindset that puts the consumer’s need in focus. Modern Pentecostal churches have therefore much emphasized the relevance of their messages and the way it is presented. Evangeliesenteret has changed less, because the need for change has been less, as a result of the good results in rehabilitation of addicts.