1.4 Factors That Gave Rise to the Modern Pentecostal Movement

[Allen]

I guess what William Seymour implied was that just as you cannot have Christ without the Holy Spirit, you cant always have the Holy Spirit without Christ. After all, God is Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit.

As explained Apostle Paul inquired “Have you received the Holy Spirit since you believed?” The Holy Spirit comes on those who believe in Jesus. Therefore, we tell people about Jesus, and then the holy Spirit.

[Celestine]

Reflection on William Seymour’s Quote simple reminds me of the purpose and mandate of the believers. It is important we constantly, internationally and deliberately focus on core values, which is Jesus our Lord and Savour rather than dwell on none essentials.
William Seymour’s statement, “Don’t tell people about tongues, tell them about Jesus,” emphasizes the importance of prioritizing the core message of Christianity: the love, salvation, and redemption found in Jesus Christ. Seymour likely said this to ensure that the focus remained on Jesus rather than on the manifestation of speaking in tongues, which can sometimes become a point of contention or division. I agree with Seymour’s perspective, as the primary goal of ministry and evangelism should be to lead people to a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ. While speaking in tongues can be a powerful experience and a gift of the Holy Spirit, it should not overshadow the central message of salvation through Jesus. Discussing tongues is appropriate, such as in teaching or discipleship, but the primary focus should always be on Jesus and His teachings.

[Aidan]

I find it very powerful that the Pope had dedicated the 20th Century to the Holy Spirit. While I am sure the ongoing effects of that declaration were not foreseen at the time, it does show that the church was ready with anticipation to receive the Spirit in new measure. It is also a beautiful picture of God bringing His church together through His Spirit. At the end of the 20th century people from across all denominational lines were being baptized in the Spirit. Catholics, Methodists, Pentecostals, Anglicans, Alliance churches and many more are still experiencing the ongoing effects of the revivals in the early 20th century. The Spirit is being poured out on all flesh, He is no respecter of persons or theological leanings. All can receive the Spirit if they are seeking Him.

[Melissa Smyth]

I appreciate that William Seymour kept the emphasis and focus on Jesus and not on speaking in tongues. I think it is still a concern and pitfall that we need to be aware of and make sure to always pursue the giver of gifts and not the gifts themselves. Tongues is still a gift of the Spirit and is worth celebrating and talking about, but it should always be in service of glorifying Jesus and be in obedience to what He is doing.