"Branhamism" (also known as "Branhamology"[1]) refers to the unique theology and key doctrines taught by William Marrion Branham, including his eschatological views, annihilationism, oneness of the Godhead, predestination, eternal security, and the serpent's seed.[2] Branham's followers refer to his teachings collectively as "The Message".[3]
Most of Branham's teachings have precedents within sects of the Pentecostal movement or in other non-Pentecostal denominations.[4] The doctrines Branham imported from non-Pentecostal theology and the unique combination of doctrines that he created as a result led to widespread criticism from Pentecostal churches and the Charismatic movement.[4][5] His unique arrangement of doctrines, coupled with the highly controversial nature of the serpent seed doctrine, caused the alienation of many of his former supporters.[4][5][6]
The Full Gospel tradition, which has its roots in Wesleyan Arminianism, is the theology generally adhered to by the Charismatic movement and Pentecostal denominations.[3] Branham's doctrines are a blend of both Calvinism and Arminianism, which are considered contradictory by many theologians; the teachings have been described as "jumbled and contradictory and difficult to categorize".[7] As a result, the theology he developed in the later years of his life seemed "complicated and bizarre" to many people who admired him personally during the years of the healing revival.[5] Many of his followers regard his sermons as oral scripture and believe Branham had rediscovered the true doctrines of the early church.[3]
- ^ Kydd 1998, p. 176.
- ^ Weaver 2000, pp. 118, 98.
- ^ a b c Weaver 2000, p. 118.
- ^ a b c Weaver 2000, p. 98.
- ^ a b c Harrell 1978, p. 164.
- ^ Kydd 1998, pp. 173–174.
- ^ Weaver 2000, p. 121.