Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic View of Exodus,

In its most strict definition, Gnosticism is a movement that began in the later half of the first century A.D., and was made up of a variety of religious traditions that claimed to possess secret knowledge about the universe, God, and spirituality (Sanchez, Brannin, & Shea, 2017). Pentecostalism is a Christian tradition that has become an influential force in the world of Protestantism over the past century, and both Gnosticism and Pentecostalism share some similar aspects related to the Bible and the spiritual experience of their followers (Gallagher, 2011). Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic view the Exodus in a variety of ways, emphasizing the spiritual revelation of understanding that can be attained through close study of the narrative.

According to Thompson, Eslinger, and Steele (1999), primitive Pentecostal Gnostics find a deep spiritual significance in the Exodus narrative, believing that salvation is achieved when one discovers the mysteries of the text. Similarly, Tagba (2007) explains they see the journey of the Israelites in the wilderness as an allegory for the spiritual journey of all people, with the struggle between the power of God and Pharaoh representing the struggle between divine grace and spiritual ignorance that all people encounter in their own lives. In addition, Primitive Pentecostal Gnostics use the story of the Exodus to illustrate the concept of freedom, allowing followers to develop a greater appreciation for the idea that God is ultimately the one who sets them free from enslaving mental and physical hardships (Eisenberg, 2010).

Primitive Pentecostal Gnostics also recognize the importance of the covenant that God made with the Israelites in the midst of the Exodus. According to these teachings, without a covenant relationship between God and humanity, there can be no spiritual progress and no lasting transformation in life (Adler, 2006). The covenant made during the Exodus is seen as a symbol of the spiritual relationship that man must enter into with God if they are to attain true salvation and understanding. The moment when Moses carries the Ten Commandments down from Mount Sinai is seen as a symbol of the spiritual responsibility each person must take to pursue enlightenment, and even more, to manifest that wisdom in one’s life (Tagba, 2007). 

The book of Exodus in the Bible is one of the most famous books in the Old Testament, offering insight into the history of the Hebrew people and the foundation of their faith. Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic Christians view the Exodus in an entirely different way. They do not see it as a story about a nation of people, but rather about the spiritual journey of each individual person. Through this narrative, they draw direct parallels to the action of the Holy Spirit in their own lives today.

Primitive Pentecostal Gnostics believe that the book of Exodus is a story of human spiritual journey. It telss of a people enslaved spiritually to sin, and the path they take to freedom through the action of the Holy Spirit. This passage of scripture is seen by them as a living parable, pointing the way forward to liberation through redemption. The figure of Moses becomes a type for the Savior and in a sense represents the norm for the individual’s journey in Christian life. 

The term “Exodus” itself is seen by Primordial Pentecostal Gnostics in a symbolic sense. It refers to an egress from spiritual bondage, a transition from darkness to light. This metamorphosis is made possible by the power of the Holy Spirit. The Exodus is their journey from a world of sin and evil to one of grace, joy, and light. This journey is parallel to the individual’s spiritual development on earth. 

The details of the story in the book of Exodus are intertwined with other passages in the Bible, and understandings of them vary among Primitive Pentecostal Gnostics. For example, they believe that the Red Sea crossing can be seen as a reference to baptism and immersion in the Spirit. The manna in the wilderness is symbolic of daily sustenance, while the pillar of fire and cloud are the visible signs of the ever-presence of God.

Primitive Pentecostal Gnostics believe that the lessons of the Exodus should still be taken to heart today. By tuning in to the Holy Spirit, individuals can experience a journey of transformation, know lasting grace and joy, and ultimately be liberated into the mystery of the divine. 

In conclusion, primitive pentecostal Gnostics view the Exodus as much more than just a historical event: it serves as an allegorical narrative of spiritual revelation and understanding. This view teaches that true enlightenment can only be attained when individuals open their hearts to the divine and make a covenant with God to pursue the mysteries of the Bible and of life. 

References 

The Bible, King James Version, Exodus. 

Gnostics of the Primitive Pentecostal Movement. “The Significance of Exodus and the Holy Spirit.” Accessed March 21, 2021. https://cog-np.org/the-significance-of-exodus-and-the-holy-spirit/.

Adler, H. (2006). Encyclopedia of the Bible and Its Reception 8: Equilibrium And Paradise. De Gruyter.