Primitive Pentecostal Gnostic view of Genesis

The primitive Pentecostal Gnostic view of Genesis holds that the literal rendering of the text is an oversimplified understanding of the spiritual truth that is the text’s foundation. From this perspective, the stories and characters of the Book of Genesis constitute a type of ‘allegorical code’ that unlocks the mystery of the relationship between God and humanity.

A central tenet of the primitive Pentecostal Gnostic understanding Genesis is the notion that there exists an intermediate being between God and mankind. Generally referred to as the “Logos” or “Divine Word”, this manifestation of the divine can be found in the first verse of the book of Genesis – “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God” (John 1:1 The New International Version). This Logos is said to be an intermediary between the infinite God and physical creation, a bridge between the two realms.

Additionally, primitive Pentecostal Gnostics view Genesis as a story of two opposing forces vying for control. On one side is the physical world, with its material enticements and materialistic desires. On the other side is the spiritual world, with its spiritual guidance and spiritual pleasures. These two forces are said to be represented by Adam and Eve respectively, with Adam representing the physical nature, and Eve representing the spiritual nature. This understanding of Genesis is largely based on such passages as Genesis 3:1-7, when a ‘dragon’ tempts Eve with the promise of knowledge and power.

Finally, primitive Pentecostal Gnostics believes that the story of Genesis portrays a spiritual transformation of mankind. This transformation is said to be represented by the Flood of Noah’s time, and the building of the Tower of Babel. According to this view, the Flood marked a return to spiritual practices and the re-establishment of the spiritual link between God and humanity, while the Tower of Babel represented a renewed focus on materialistic pursuits and physical pleasures, again disrupting this spiritual connection.

In conclusion, the primitive Pentecostal Gnostic view of Genesis holds that, while the literal text does indeed relate a true story, it also serves as an allegory for much deeper spiritual truth. These ancient texts contain a wealth of spiritual principles that can provide profound insight in terms of our own spiritual growth, and ultimately, our relationship with God.