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Then, he asks, \u2018What is the potential of Charismatic\u2019 abandonment of pietistic individualism in favour of ritualistic solidarity? He answers, \u2018Social exorcism could be the language of top-down reform, or else just a rationalization for not treating structural problems while given elite believers an ideology of empowerment (1997: 191, 193).\u000APoverty can be overcome. According the FCG pastor Christians grow in a context where it seems impossible to leave poverty. From his experience he affirms that \u2018the myth was destroyed that the gospel is solely for the poor, and we can demonstrate that people who have stopped being poor in material aspects, can also reach wealth of the Spirit and the Word of God\u2019 (in 20 A\u00F1os Fraternidad Cristiana 1999: 15). He says that this vision has led his church to financial autonomy: \u2018one of the main goals in our finances was to become self-sufficient; we have demonstrated the principles that govern the kingdom of God, are applicable in a developing country\u2019 (in \u201820 A\u00F1os Fraternidad Cristiana\u2019 1999: 16). And then he adds that stewardship is an important part in the economic growth: \u2018Education about integral stewardship, is part of our church, those who are better off learn to tithe and those who are not so well off also learn and leave their poverty. We have innumerable testimonies of people who left financial chaos when they came to the FCG and began to practice giving\u2019 (P2FCG).\u000AThe IFD pastor notes that members of his church have prospered from situations of poverty: \u2018In the church I have seen people who lived in extreme poverty, in misery, and in a matter of years they have their car, or a little shop or business. I have seen how the Lord [...] raises them up [...] He is the one who blesses\u2019 (P5IFD). Apart from faith these pastors affirm that prosperity comes when the Christians give back to God what belongs to Him. They emphasize that \u2018giving is how you receive\u2019 They present a total justification indicating that according to the measure of tithes and offerings given to God, He is committed to return not just a 100 per cent but even more.112 The fundamental factor that\u000A112 The Neo-Pentecostals have been strongly criticized for their campaigns to raise funds. The issue of money occupies the attention of the pastors and some of the programmes that incite the members to give in exchange\u000A 221\u000A


































































































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