Hebrews 5:5–10: A synthesis for the hermeneutical challenge in Pentecostalism on suffering?

Abstract

Pentecostals adopt a distinct hermeneutical approach when reading and interpreting the Bible, emphasising the New Testament more than the Old Testament and, when they do engage the Old Testament, are more inclined to focus on narratives of victory, success and triumph, which align with their emphasis on triumphalistic faith. Conversely, texts addressing lament, suffering, persecution and defeat receive less attention in Pentecostal hermeneutics. It is important to recognise the perplexity that not all prayers are answered, not all Christians succeed and sometimes believers endure severe hardships without expecting any change in their circumstances. Hebrews 5:5–10 is a passage that discourses the suffering of the Messiah and how he achieved perfection through suffering. This text may serve as an exemplum to challenge Pentecostals to consider a new hermeneutical approach when dealing with texts on suffering. Pentecostals often read the Bible with the expectation to share in the same spiritual experiences as the biblical characters, particularly focusing on breakthroughs and victories. However, the message in Hebrews 5:5–10, on the suffering Messiah, may invite Pentecostals to reconsider their emphasis on triumphalism and to engage with biblical themes of suffering and perseverance.

Contribution: This article aims to provide Christian believers, particularly Pentecostal believers, with an alternative perspective on suffering. It emphasises that suffering does not necessarily indicate a deficiency in faith or prayer. By reconsidering their hermeneutical approach to biblical texts on suffering, Pentecostals can find meaningful insights and perspectives to help them navigate their experiences of suffering.