Dominion Theology- Introduction
What in the world is “dominion theology”? And is it really consistent with the Bible?
Dominion Theology- Not a Single Movement
Dominion theology is associated with two distinct movements. In order to give an accurate assessment of this very controversial issue, I’ll need to spend a few moments discussing the elements which characterize these two movements.
Dominion Theology- Reconstructionism
The first of these movements is known as “Reconstructionism,” which arose within Reformed (Calvinistic) Christianity. Reconstructionism espouses a doctrine called “theonomy.” This is the idea that everyone is still bound to the Old Testament laws; in fact, the only exceptions are laws that are either modified or set aside by the New Testament. Reconstructionists also believe that the world will be “Christianized” through the church’s preaching of the gospel, and thereby usher in the “Millennium,” which is then followed by Christ’s second coming. From this postmillennial vantage point Reconstructionists reason that believers should “take dominion” of all areas of society, including politics. Well, no matter how controversial you may think Reconstructionists are, the fact remains that this is a perfectly acceptable orthodox movement.
Dominion Theology- Kingdom Now Theology
The same, however, cannot be said about “Kingdom Now Theology,” which represents the other movement associated with dominion theology. This movement, popularized by Earl Paulk, basically boils down to a systematic presentation of what is commonly referred to as “Latter-Rain.” Central to this system is the belief that since the time of the Reformation, God has progressively restored “truths” to the church. It also includes the view that the offices of apostle and prophet remain in effect to this very day, which is why submission to spiritual leaders is so heavily emphasized. Kingdom Now Theology also subscribes to the “Manifest Sons of God” doctrine, which holds the heretical position that the church is the incarnation of God and is therefore to “take dominion” — politically and otherwise — before Christ can return. For these and a host of other reasons, we strongly advise Christians to steer clear of Kingdom Now Theology.
