A Comparison of the Religious and Ethnic Ethos of Hillsong College with Paul the Apostle

Abstract

This chapter analyses the religious and ethnic ethos of Hillsong College and its continuity/divergence from the theology of Paul the Apostle. First, it focuses on the College’s pentecostal identity and how it influences the interpretation, synthesis, and dissemination of ideas concerning culture and religion. Then, Paul’s beliefs about ethnic identity and religious division are explored with reference to 1 Corinthians, Galatians, and Romans. It finds that, while in many ways Hillsong College is consistent with Paul’s own religious and ethno-cultural ethos, there are times where it moves beyond Paul in order to emphasize its own distinctive denominational identity.

I see a church with a world-class college that raises, equips and empowers generations of young, anointed leaders from across the globe. Graduates who serve God in all walks of life, released to salt the earth with dynamic ministries and churches throughout the continents of the world.

– Brian Houston The Church I Now See 2014