Reconciliation as mission: A classical Pentecostal reading of Isak Burger’s leadership in the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa
African Journal of Pentecostal Studies
| Field | Value | |
| Title | Reconciliation as mission: A classical Pentecostal reading of Isak Burger’s leadership in the Apostolic Faith Mission of South Africa | |
| Creator | Mundhluri, Zephania | |
| Description | Background: The Apostolic Faith Mission (AFM) of South Africa, although rooted in early classical Pentecostal revivalism, developed within a context marked by apartheid, segregation and theological polarisation. As a result, the church faced deep structural fragmentation and racial separation that mirrored national socio-political inequality. The presidency of Dr Isak Burger (1988–2016) marked a decisive turning point in which the AFM entered a process of reconciliation, cultural integration and ecclesial restructuring. This study examines how Burger’s leadership reflects a classical Pentecostal ecclesiology where spiritual empowerment, relational leadership and cultural plurality are understood as integral to the church’s mission.Objectives: The article analyses Burger’s ‘missiology of life’ and its role in transforming the AFM from a racially divided institution into a unified, diverse Pentecostal community shaped by reconciliation and shared identity in Christ.Method: A historical-theological and missiological research design is used. Primary sources – including AFM synod reports and Burger’s publications – are analysed alongside secondary scholarship to trace how his ecclesial reforms emerged and were implemented within post-apartheid realities and classical Pentecostal theological commitments.Results: Findings of this study reveal that Burger’s leadership facilitated structural unification, intercultural leadership development and participatory worship grounded in Spirit-led relationality and the missio Dei.Conclusion: Burger’s presidency demonstrates that classical Pentecostal mission is not solely evangelistic but also deeply reconciling, communal and transformational.Contribution: This study offers a framework for leadership and mission in historically divided African Pentecostal churches, contributing to Practical Theology and global Pentecostal scholarship. | |
| Publisher | AOSIS | |
| Date | 2026-01-21 | |
| Identifier | 10.4102/ajops.v3i1.116 | |
| Source | African Journal of Pentecostal Studies; Vol 3, No 1 (2026); 6 pages 3005-6136 3105-434X | |
| Language | eng | |
| Relation |
The following web links (URLs) may trigger a file download or direct you to an alternative webpage to gain access to a publication file format of the published article:
https://ajops.org/index.php/ajops/article/view/116/328
https://ajops.org/index.php/ajops/article/view/116/329
https://ajops.org/index.php/ajops/article/view/116/330
https://ajops.org/index.php/ajops/article/view/116/331
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