There
are parts of the globe where the greatest church growth is happening through
the Pentecostal movement. One of the most asked questions is, “In a world where
the church seems to be declining in many areas, how they are bucking the
trend?”
There
is never one reason why a movement succeeds. But some factors rise to the
surface. Pentecostals will say they are growing because the Spirit is moving in
a powerful way. I get that, and actually would affirm that as part of the
reason, but from a sociological perspective, other things are happening and
worth exploring.
I
was recently asked (by Pentecostal leaders) what some sociological reasons
might be. So, following that meeting, and in this brief post, I want to explore
how the beliefs of Pentecostals actually promote and produce growth compared to
other more “mainstream” groups.
Pentecostals
Value Their Shared Experience
From
a statistical perspective, Pentecostals tend to be less “nominal” than other
believers. The reason is often obvious—the Baptism in the Holy Spirit.
In
almost all Pentecostalism (as contrasted to other continualist streams)
speaking in tongues follows the Holy Spirit’s baptism. After that experience,
it’s hard to say, “Oh I don’t take this whole thing serious, I don’t even know
if it’s real.”
When
you believe you’re speaking in another language, that belief reshapes the way
you think about faith!
Being
a nominal Presbyterian, Methodist or Baptist is easier; though there are some
outward expectations like baptism (among credobaptists) that can mark a
spiritual commitment. But Pentecostal believers and churches constantly
emphasize spiritual practice and engagement.
That
helps make a more robust faith.
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