Pentecostal Churches
Creeds
Overview
Pentecostalism is the fastest-growing segment of global Christianity. It emerged from the Holiness movement (itself an outgrowth of Methodism) and is distinguished by its emphasis on the baptism of the Holy Spirit as an experience subsequent to conversion, typically evidenced by speaking in tongues (glossolalia).
Pentecostal theology affirms the continuation of all spiritual gifts described in the New Testament — healing, prophecy, miracles, and tongues — and expects their active operation in worship and daily life. The movement is characterized by exuberant, Spirit-led worship and a strong emphasis on evangelism and mission.
Historical Context
The roots of Pentecostalism lie in the Holiness movement's emphasis on a "second blessing" of sanctification. Charles Fox Parham, a Holiness preacher in Topeka, Kansas, taught in 1901 that speaking in tongues was the initial evidence of Holy Spirit baptism.
The defining event was the Azusa Street Revival (1906–1915) in Los Angeles, led by William J. Seymour, an African American preacher. The multiracial, multi-class gatherings on Azusa Street drew international attention and launched a global movement. Major Pentecostal denominations include the Assemblies of God, Church of God in Christ, and the Church of God (Cleveland, Tennessee).
Key Beliefs
Baptism in the Holy Spirit
A distinct experience after conversion in which the believer is empowered by the Holy Spirit, typically evidenced by speaking in tongues.
Spiritual Gifts (Charismata)
All gifts of the Spirit listed in the New Testament — tongues, prophecy, healing, miracles, words of knowledge — are active today and should be sought and exercised.
Divine Healing
Physical healing is part of the atonement of Christ. Believers may pray for and expect miraculous healing, though most Pentecostals do not reject medicine.
Premillennial Eschatology
Most Pentecostals believe in the imminent, premillennial return of Christ, preceded by a rapture of the Church.
Biblical Authority
The Bible is the inspired, infallible Word of God and the sole authority for faith and practice.
Ordinances
Water Baptism
An ordinance of obedience following conversion. Most Pentecostals practice believer's baptism by immersion. Some (Oneness Pentecostals) baptize in Jesus' name only.
Lord's Supper
A memorial of Christ's sacrifice, celebrated regularly but not considered a means of grace. The elements are symbolic.
Church Governance
Varies (Congregational / Episcopal)
Pentecostal governance varies widely. The Assemblies of God uses a presbyterian-congregational hybrid with district and national councils. The Church of God in Christ has an episcopal structure with a presiding bishop. Many independent Pentecostal churches are led by a senior pastor with broad authority. The movement has no single governing body.
Worship Style
Charismatic and spontaneous
Pentecostal worship is exuberant, expressive, and Spirit-led. Services feature extended praise and worship music, congregational singing, clapping, raising hands, dancing, spontaneous prayer, speaking in tongues, prophetic utterances, and altar calls. The atmosphere emphasizes encounter with the Holy Spirit. Services can be lengthy and unpredictable. Preaching is typically passionate and evangelistic.
Catechism Highlights
On the Holy Spirit"All believers are entitled to and should ardently expect and earnestly seek the promise of the Father, the baptism in the Holy Spirit and fire, according to the command of our Lord Jesus Christ." — Assemblies of God Statement of Fundamental Truths
On Healing"Divine healing is an integral part of the gospel. Deliverance from sickness is provided for in the atonement, and is the privilege of all believers." — AG Fundamental Truths
Distinctive Teachings
- Baptism in the Holy Spirit with the evidence of speaking in tonguesActs 2:1–4Acts 10:44–46Acts 19:6
- Continuationism — all spiritual gifts are active today1 Corinthians 12:4–111 Corinthians 14:1
- Divine healing as part of Christ's atonementIsaiah 53:5James 5:14–15Mark 16:18
- Expressive, Spirit-led worship — tongues, prophecy, and miracles in services1 Corinthians 14:26Ephesians 5:18–19
- Azusa Street Revival as the founding event of the movementJoel 2:28–29
- Fastest-growing Christian movement globally