Theological Reflections

Volume 1, Issue 1 – March 2025

Theological Position and the Future of Thai Protestantism

Date: 15 March 2025

Author: Dr. Chansamone Saiyasak (Professor Religious Studies and Missiology), Theological Commissions & Religious Liberty Commissions of Evangelical Fellowship of Thailand & Asia Evangelical Alliance (a WEA-Regional Alliance) | Author’s Profile

The rejection of Empowered21 and its initiative have sparked significant discussion on theology, church governance, evangelism strategies, and Christian unity. This positional paper presents a balanced theological response to key concerns raised in the public discourse, aiming to provide clarity on doctrinal integrity, church authority, and the path forward for Thai Protestantism.

One of the primary concerns surrounding Empowered21 is the role of supernatural manifestations in Christianity. Critics argue that Pentecostal and Charismatic movements, including Empowered21, place excessive emphasis on miracles, prophecy, and supernatural encounters, which could undermine biblical authority. Some fear that reliance on extra-biblical revelations may overshadow Scripture, particularly regarding the doctrine of Sola Scriptura. While Scripture affirms the presence of spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-11), some gifts continue but may function differently today depending on the circumstances. Others, though they may still exist, are not necessary for the church in the same way as before. At the same time, certain gifts have indeed ceased. Acts 2:17-18 warns against false prophecy and deception in passages like 2 Timothy 4:3-4 and 1 John 4:1. A balanced approach acknowledges the legitimacy of supernatural experiences while emphasizing their subservience to biblical authority, as demonstrated in Deuteronomy 13:1-3. Pentecostal and Charismatic teachings should be evaluated on whether they align with Scripture rather than whether they are simply supernatural in nature.

Another major issue raised in the discussion is the concern for doctrinal integrity and Protestant identity. Evangelicals and Reformed groups express concern that Pentecostalism and the Charismatic movement could redefine Protestant theology in Thailand, shifting focus from biblical exposition to experiential faith. The fear of prosperity gospel influence further complicates the discussion, as some worry about the potential theological drift toward materialism and self-centered spirituality. Protestantism must remain rooted in biblical doctrine, as reinforced by 2 Timothy 3:16-17, prioritizing sound theology over experience. While diverse theological expressions exist within Protestantism, unity should not come at the expense of doctrinal purity, as Galatians 1:8-9 warns against distorting the gospel message. Churches should carefully evaluate Pentecostal and Charismatic teachings on prosperity, prophecy, and modern-day apostleship in light of biblical exegesis to ensure they do not deviate from foundational Christian beliefs.

The issue of church governance and ecclesiastical authority also plays a crucial role in this debate. Thai Protestant leaders express skepticism over the independence of Empowered21, fearing that it bypasses national church structures and undermines local ecclesiastical leadership. Some believe that foreign Pentecostal movements wield disproportionate influence due to financial power and strategic global networks. Biblical leadership structures emphasize local church governance, as seen in Acts 20:28 and 1 Peter 5:1-3. Global Christian movements should operate in partnership with national church leadership, respecting local authority and theological foundations, as emphasized in Hebrews 13:17. Collaboration between Pentecostal/Charismatic and Evangelical groups should be approached with mutual theological accountability rather than unilateral influence, ensuring that the integrity of Thai Protestantism remains intact while engaging in fruitful ministry.

The question of evangelism strategies is also a major point of contention. Many critics argue that large-scale events do not fit the Thai cultural context, where relationship-based evangelism is preferred. Others express concerns that event-based approaches may lead to superficial conversions without adequate discipleship. Scripture supports both mass evangelism and relational discipleship, as evidenced in Acts 2:41 and Matthew 28:19-20. Thai churches must ensure proper follow-up discipleship for those reached through large events, as highlighted in Matthew 13:3-9 in the Parable of the Sower. Rather than opposing one method over another, a contextualized approach that integrates both strategies is ideal, allowing for both large-scale outreach and deep, personal disciple-making efforts to coexist in Thai Christian ministry.

The question of Christian unity versus theological division is perhaps the most pressing concern. Some fear that rejecting Empowered21’s initiative deepens divisions within Thai Christianity, making collaboration more difficult in the future. Others argue that unity should not come at the expense of doctrinal compromise. Jesus’ prayer for unity in John 17:21 calls believers to spiritual oneness, but this unity must also be truth-based, as seen in Ephesians 4:13-15. Denominational distinctions should not prevent cooperation in evangelism, but core theological convictions must be upheld, as Romans 16:17 warns against teachings that cause division. Constructive dialogue between Evangelicals and Pentecostals/Charismatics can build bridges without eroding doctrinal distinctives, allowing for a collaborative approach to gospel ministry that maintains theological integrity.

To navigate these challenges, Thai Protestant churches should encourage theological discernment and education, equipping believers with sound biblical theology to discern between biblical truth and theological excesses. Workshops and dialogues on theology can help bridge misunderstandings between Evangelicals and Pentecostals/Charismatics, fostering a culture of informed discussion rather than divisive debate. Thai Christian leaders must also prioritize gospel advancement over denominational competition, fostering respectful collaboration between Evangelical and Pentecostal/Charismatic leaders. An advisory council with leaders from both traditions can help ensure mutual accountability and theological oversight in joint initiatives. Additionally, the Thai church must develop a contextualized approach to evangelism that integrates personal discipleship with public evangelism. This includes exploring hybrid models that respect Thai culture while embracing biblical evangelistic strategies.

Finally, global movements like Empowered21 should engage with national Protestant leadership to avoid governance conflicts, ensuring that Thai Christian organizations work toward a balance between independence and global partnership.

The rejection of Empowered21’s initiative reflects a complex intersection of theology, church governance, and evangelism strategy. While Pentecostal/Charismatic and Evangelical traditions have differences, the future of Thai Christianity depends on maintaining both doctrinal integrity and a spirit of unity. The church must discern carefully, engage in respectful dialogue, and work together for the Great Commission without compromising biblical truth. As Thailand navigates this theological landscape, the guiding principle must remain: Christ at the center, Scripture as the foundation, and the Holy Spirit leading the mission.

As Ephesians 4:3 reminds us, "Make every effort to keep the unity of the Spirit through the bond of peace."

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