Acts 17, the Seven Mountain Mandate, and the New Apostolic Reformation
Introduction
The intersection of biblical interpretation, political ideology, and modern Christian movements has given rise to contentious debates within evangelical circles. This essay examines three interconnected subjects: Acts 17 (Paul's engagement with Athenian culture), the Seven Mountain Mandate (7M), and the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). These topics intersect in their approach to cultural influence, eschatology, and the role of the church in society. Drawing on scholarly critiques, theological analyses, and historical context, this paper explores their implications for contemporary Christianity and democracy.
I. Acts 17: Paul's Cultural Engagement in Athens
Context and Key Themes
Acts 17 chronicles Paul's missionary journey to Thessalonica, Berea, and Athens, culminating in his famous Areopagus sermon (Acts 17:16–34). In Athens, Paul engages Epicurean and Stoic philosophers, quoting Greek poets to bridge cultural gaps:
"In Him we live and move and have our being" (Acts 17:28, referencing Epimenides and Aratus).
Paul's approach emphasizes contextualization—using familiar cultural touchstones to communicate the Gospel. However, his message rejects idolatry and asserts Christ's resurrection, a radical departure from Athenian polytheism.
Relevance to Modern Movements
Proponents of the Seven Mountain Mandate often cite Acts 17 to justify cultural dominion, arguing that Christians must actively reshape societal institutions. However, critics note that Paul's goal was evangelism, not political control. His focus on individual transformation contrasts with 7M's emphasis on systemic takeover.
II. The Seven Mountain Mandate: Theology and Controversy
Origins and Key Tenets
The 7M movement, popularized by Lance Wallnau and Bill Johnson, asserts that Christians must dominate seven societal "mountains":
- Religion
- Family
- Education
- Media
- Arts/Entertainment
- Business
- Government
Rooted in dominion theology, it claims biblical support from Genesis 1:28 ("subdue the earth") and Revelation 17:9 ("seven mountains"). Adherents believe societal control will hasten Christ's return, blending postmillennial eschatology with political activism.
Criticisms and Theological Concerns
- Misinterpretation of Scripture:
- Revelation 17's "seven mountains" historically symbolize Rome, not modern institutions.
- Jesus' declaration that His kingdom is "not of this world" (John 18:36) challenges 7M's political focus.
- Eschatological Distortions:
Critics argue that 7M inverts biblical eschatology by making Christ's return contingent on human achievement—a concept absent in Scripture.
- Cult-like Behavior:
Organizations like 7M Films and Ziklag (exclusive to high-net-worth individuals) have faced accusations of authoritarianism and financial exploitation.
III. The New Apostolic Reformation: Structure and Influence
Foundations and Beliefs
The NAR, coined by C. Peter Wagner, is a network of charismatic churches emphasizing modern apostles/prophets and spiritual warfare. Key tenets include:
- Dominionism: Establishing "God's government" through control of societal institutions.
- Third Wave Theology: A focus on miracles, prophecy, and direct revelation.
Political Ambitions
The NAR gained prominence through alliances with figures like Donald Trump, whose 2016 campaign was framed as a "Cyrus anointing" to restore Christian governance. Leaders such as Paula White and Lance Wallnau advocate for merging spiritual and political authority, often targeting "demonic strongholds" in media and education.
Controversies
- Anti-Democratic Tendencies:
The Southern Poverty Law Center labels the NAR a "threat to democracy" for its theocratic goals.
- Rejection of Traditional Eschatology:
The NAR's "Kingdom Now" theology contradicts orthodox views of Christ's return, prioritizing human agency over divine sovereignty.
IV. Scholarly and Theological Critiques
Dominion Theology's Dangers
- André Gagné (Concordia University) warns that NAR's "inherently political" agenda risks subverting democratic norms.
- Roland Chia (Trinity Theological College) argues that 7M distorts the Great Commission, reducing discipleship to political conquest.
Biblical Rebuttals
- Matthew 28:19–20: The Great Commission emphasizes evangelism, not societal control.
- 1 Corinthians 1:26–29: God often works through the "lowly," undermining 7M's elitist focus on influencers.
V. Implications for Christianity and Society
Threats to Religious Pluralism
The NAR's vision of a Christian-dominated society marginalizes non-evangelical groups, echoing historical theocracies.
Erosion of Church Integrity
By prioritizing power over service, 7M risks aligning the church with partisan agendas, diluting its prophetic voice.
Global Reach
The NAR's influence extends beyond the U.S., with missions in Latin America, Africa, and Asia spreading dominionist ideologies.
Conclusion
The Seven Mountain Mandate and New Apostolic Reformation represent a radical departure from traditional Christian teachings on humility, eschatology, and cultural engagement. While Acts 17 models contextualized evangelism, 7M and the NAR distort this precedent into a blueprint for dominion. Scholars and theologians urge caution, emphasizing that the church's mission is to "take up the cross," not the crown. As these movements gain political traction, their fusion of spirituality and power poses significant risks to both democratic governance and orthodox faith.
Further Reading and References
- Books:
- Dominion! How Kingdom Action Can Change the World by C. Peter Wagner
- American Evangelicals for Trump by André Gagné
- Articles:
- "How Evangelicals Lose Will Make All the Difference" (The Gospel Coalition)
- "Inside Ziklag, the Secret Organization of Wealthy Christians" (ProPublica)
- Organizations:
- Ethos Institute for Public Christianity: Critique of dominion theology
- Southern Poverty Law Center: Analysis of the NAR's anti-democratic agenda
- Websites:
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