Branhamism

"Branhamism" (also known as "Branhamology"^[1]) refers to the unique theology and key doctrines taught by William Marrion Branham, including his eschatological views, annihilationism, oneness of the Godhead, predestination, eternal security, and the serpent's seed.^[2] Branham's followers refer to his teachings collectively as "The Message".^[3]

Most of Branham's teachings have precedents within sects of the Pentecostal movement or in other non-Pentecostal denominations.^[4] The doctrines Branham imported from non-Pentecostal theology and the unique combination of doctrines that he created as a result led to widespread criticism from Pentecostal churches and the Charismatic movement.^[4][5] His unique arrangement of doctrines, coupled with the highly controversial nature of the serpent seed doctrine, caused the alienation of many of his former supporters.^[4][5][6]

The Full Gospel tradition, which has its roots in Wesleyan Arminianism, is the theology generally adhered to by the Charismatic movement and Pentecostal denominations.^[3] Branham's doctrines are a blend of both Calvinism and Arminianism, which are considered contradictory by many theologians; the teachings have been described as "jumbled and contradictory and difficult to categorize".^[7] As a result, the theology he developed in the later years of his life seemed "complicated and bizarre" to many people who admired him personally during the years of the healing revival.^[5] Many of his followers regard his sermons as oral scripture and believe Branham had rediscovered the true doctrines of the early church.^[3]