Biography of Peter Wagner

Charles Peter Wagner, a prominent figure in 20th and 21st-century Christianity, left an enduring legacy as a missionary, writer, teacher, and theological innovator. Born on August 15, 1930, Wagner’s influence extended far beyond his academic pursuits and missionary work. His contributions to the Church Growth Movement, his pioneering work in spiritual warfare, and his role in shaping the New Apostolic Reformation continue to resonate today.

Early Life and Education

Wagner’s academic journey began at Fuller Theological Seminary and Princeton Theological Seminary, where he laid the foundation for his future endeavors. He furthered his studies at Fuller’s School of World Missions and earned a Ph.D. in social ethics from the University of Southern California in 1977. His formal education, coupled with his practical experience, equipped him to become a leading voice in Christian thought and practice.

Missionary Work and Academic Pursuits

From 1956 to 1971, Wagner served as a missionary in Bolivia under the South American Mission and Andes Evangelical Mission. His experiences on the field ignited a passion for global missions and shaped his understanding of the challenges and opportunities facing the Church.

Upon his return to the United States, Wagner embarked on a 30-year career as a professor of Church Growth at Fuller Theological Seminary’s School of World Missions. During this time, he became a leading authority on the Church Growth Movement, succeeding his mentor, Donald McGavran. Wagner’s teachings on church growth, disseminated through his writings and lectures, influenced countless churches worldwide.

Spiritual Warfare and the New Apostolic Reformation

One of Wagner’s most significant contributions to Christian thought is his work on spiritual warfare. Books like “Confronting the Powers” and “Engaging the Enemy” explore the concept of spiritual warfare on multiple levels, from personal to cosmic. Wagner’s approach to spiritual warfare involves strategic-level engagement with demonic forces, emphasizing the importance of prayer, intercession, and spiritual authority.

Wagner’s theological insights and organizational skills played a crucial role in the development of the New Apostolic Reformation (NAR). This movement, characterized by a network of apostles and prophets, seeks to restore apostolic authority and prophetic ministry to the Church. Wagner’s writings and teachings have been instrumental in shaping the NAR’s theology, practices, and global impact.

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Published Books

The following are some of his published works:

• Latin American Theology. Radical or Evangelical, Eerdmans, 1970.
• Your Spiritual Gifts Can Help Your Church Grow, Regal Books, 1979, 1994, 2005.
• Strategies for Church Growth, Regal Books, 1987.
• How to Have a Healing Ministry, Regal Books, 1988.
• The New Apostolic Churches, Regal Books, 1998
• Churchquake!, Regal Books, 1999.
• Changing Church, Regal Books, 2004.
• Breaking Strongholds in Your City, Regal Books, 1993.
• Freedom from the Religious Spirit, Regal Books, 2005.
• Engaging the Enemy, Regal Books, 1991

Controversies and Criticisms

While Wagner’s contributions to Christian thought are undeniable, his teachings and the NAR have also attracted criticism from some quarters. Critics have raised concerns about the NAR’s emphasis on spiritual warfare, its claims of apostolic authority, and its association with dominion theology. Some have also questioned the accuracy of Wagner’s historical and theological claims.

Legacy and Impact

Despite the controversies surrounding his work, Charles Peter Wagner’s legacy endures. His writings continue to inspire and challenge believers, and his impact on the global Church is undeniable. Whether one agrees or disagrees with his specific theological views, it is difficult to deny the significance of his contributions to contemporary Christianity.

Wagner’s emphasis on spiritual warfare, apostolic authority, and the restoration of the Church has sparked both enthusiasm and skepticism. However, his legacy serves as a reminder of the ongoing need for theological innovation, spiritual renewal, and missional engagement in the 21st century.