The Genesis of the Pentecostal Church
The rise of the Pentecostal Church through the 20th century is a fascinating tale that begins in Topeka, Kansas, with John Wesley and an idea that would eventually transform religious practice around the world. This article delves into the roots of the Pentecostal movement and its growth, highlighting its early development, key personalities, and cultural impact.
Origins in Topeka and Beyond
Starting in 1901, the Pentecostal movement emerged in a small Bible school in Topeka, Kansas. It was here that the teachings of John Wesley, particularly his ideas on Christian perfection, began to influence and evolve. Over the next century, the number of Pentecostals grew steadily, becoming the largest family of Protestants by 1993.
John Wesley’s Influence
John Wesley played a crucial role in the early stages of the Pentecostal movement. In his influential tract A Plain Account of Christian Perfection, published in 1766, Wesley first introduced the concept of a “second blessing,” or as he referred to it, “entire sanctification.” This idea laid the foundation for the Holiness Movement, which later developed into the Pentecostal movement.
Key Figures in the Development of Pentecostalism
John Fletcher - Fletcher was the first to call the second blessing a “baptism in the Holy Spirit,” an experience that endowed the recipient with spiritual power and inner cleansing. This concept was explained in his work Checks to Antinominianism, published in 1771. Charles Fox Parham - The formulator of the “initial evidence” theology, Parham played a key role in the development of the Pentecostal movement through his teachings and practices. William J. Seymour - As the pastor of the Azusa Street Mission in Los Angeles, Seymour spread the movement globally, playing a pivotal role in its expansion. J.H. King - A leader of the Pentecostal Holiness Church, King led his congregation into the Pentecostal movement in 1907-08. Thomas Ball Barratt - Known as the father of European Pentecostalism, Barratt carried the movement to Europe, further solidifying its global impact.The Azusa Street Movement
The Azusa Street movement, which began in 1906, is a landmark event in the history of Pentecostalism. For over three years, the Azusa Street “Apostolic Faith Mission” operated three services a day, seven days a week, where thousands of seekers received the “tongues baptism.”
Unique Characteristics of Azusa Street Worship
The worship practices at Azusa Street were a significant departure from traditional religious expressions, incorporating elements from white American holiness religion and African-American worship traditions. This blend of styles included shouting, dancing, and the use of African-American music and worship styles, creating a new and indigenous form of Pentecostalism.
Moreover, the interracial nature of the movement at Azusa Street was unprecedented and highly significant. While racism and segregation were rampant during that era, Azusa Street represented a unique example of people of different ethnic backgrounds worshipping together under the leadership of a black pastor. Frank Bartleman, a white participant at Azusa Street, described the experience as, “The color line was washed away in the blood.”
Conclusion
The success of the Pentecostal movement from its humble beginnings in Topeka, Kansas, to its global influence can be attributed to the transformative ideas of John Wesley and the pioneering efforts of key figures like John Fletcher, Charles Fox Parham, William J. Seymour, and others. The unique characteristics of the Azusa Street movement, including its interracial inclusivity and innovative worship practices, played a significant role in its rapid spread and enduring impact on world Christianity.