What is Pentecostalism?
So What is Pentecostalism?
When you hear the term “Pentecostalism” what connotations are immediately associated?
As noted in our introduction, to begin our first unit of the course, we are going to be devoted to first defining some key terms to keep in mind throughout the course. Today’s video, therefore, will consider questions such as: What, exactly, is Pentecostalism? What marks out the classical Pentecostal movement from other segments of Christianity, including the broader charismatic movement?
If you were asked for a definition of classical Pentecostalism, how would you respond? What do you think makes the movement unique, distinctive? Keep these questions in mind as you watch this week’s video.
There's More to this story
Particularly to outsiders who have little experience with, or knowledge of, the Pentecostal movement, it can be tempting to simply reduce Pentecostal identity to spiritual gifts or a certain style of worship.
What, in your mind, is the most critical Pentecostal distinctive? Would you personally identify eschatology, Spirit baptism, healing, or another topic of interest?
Do you find the common distinction between classical, denominational Pentecostalism and the wider charismatic movement a helpful one? Should Pentecostalism be perceived primarily as a denomination/movement or as an experience?
Answer the following questions in a paragraph.
- What, in your mind, is the most critical Pentecostal distinctive? Would you personally identify eschatology, Spirit baptism, healing, or another topic of interest?
- Do you find the common distinction between classical, denominational Pentecostalism and the wider charismatic movement a helpful one?
- Should Pentecostalism be perceived primarily as a denomination/movement or as an experience?