Exploring mental health, religion, and society

‘Living in the gap’ between expectations of Spirit-empowerment and reality

This is the Zoom recording of a presentation I made on my dissertation research at the Center of Spirit-empowered Research at Oral Roberts University on 28th February 2025.

How do Pentecostals experience depression when their theology emphasizes Spirit-empowered victory? This presentation explores the tension between Pentecostal expectations of healing and real-world struggles with mental health. Drawing on qualitative research and theological reflection, we examine how Spirit-empowerment is socially constructed, how believers navigate suffering, and what this means for Pentecostal theology today.

🔹 Theological & sociological perspectives on depression
🔹 The role of Spirit-empowerment in mental health
🔹 Challenges of triumphalism and unmet expectations
🔹 Rethinking Pentecostal responses to suffering

📖 A must-watch for scholars, church leaders, and anyone interested in faith and mental health.

#Pentecostalism #MentalHealth #Theology #SpiritEmpowerment #Depression #ORU

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Robert McBain, Ph.D.

Welcome

I’m a researcher exploring the intersection of mental health, religion, and society. I aim to break down complex ideas into engaging, accessible discussions for inquiring minds.

Expect content on:
🔹 How faith shapes mental health
🔹 The social dynamics of religious belief
🔹 Practical insights for emotional resilience
🔹 Academic research made simple

Join me as we explore how beliefs, community, and personal experiences shape well-being. Let’s navigate these conversations together!

Robert D McBain

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If Christianity offers believers hope, freedom, and victory over darkness, why are Christians depressed? This book explores this question using the author's experiences with depression both as a non-believer and later as a Christian.
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