By Prof. Oyewole Sarumi
The rise of Pentecostalism in the early 20th century marked a significant shift in global Christianity, emphasizing experiential spirituality, charismatic gifts, and emotional worship. Today, it is one of the fastest-growing Christian movements, with millions of adherents worldwide. Yet, despite its popularity, Pentecostalism has faced persistent theological criticisms—ranging from concerns over doctrinal integrity to questions about its historical roots.
As Christians, we are called to “test all things; hold fast what is good” (1 Thessalonians 5:21). This article seeks to engage in a thoughtful, historically grounded examination of Pentecostalism, assessing its origins, key teachings, and theological deviations from historic Christian orthodoxy. Rather than a polemical dismissal, this critique aims to foster discernment, urging believers to weigh Pentecostal practices against Scripture and the broader tradition of the faith.
The Historical Roots of Pentecostalism
1. The Birth of a Movement
Pentecostalism’s modern iteration is often traced to the Azusa Street Revival (1906-1915) in Los Angeles, led by William J. Seymour, an African-American preacher. The revival was marked by ecstatic worship, speaking in tongues, and claims of miraculous healings. However, its theological foundations were shaped earlier by figures like Charles Fox Parham, who taught that glossolalia (speaking in tongues) was the necessary evidence of the “baptism of the Holy Spirit.”
Parham’s influence was controversial. His teachings on faith healing and tongues as a sign of Spirit baptism lacked precedent in church history. Even Parham himself later distanced himself from the chaotic manifestations at Azusa Street, calling them excessive and unscriptural.
2. The Spread of Pentecostal Theology
From Azusa Street, Pentecostalism spread rapidly, fueled by:
- Emotional revivalism (e.g., being “slain in the Spirit,” uncontrolled laughter, and physical manifestations).
- Faith-healing evangelists like Aimee Semple McPherson and Kathryn Kuhlman, who popularized miracle crusades.
- The Prosperity Gospel, which later became intertwined with some Pentecostal streams, teaching that faith guarantees health and wealth.
While these elements drew crowds, they also attracted criticism from traditional evangelical and Reformed theologians who saw them as departures from biblical Christianity.
Theological Concerns with Pentecostalism
1. The Misuse of Spiritual Gifts
One of Pentecostalism’s defining features is its emphasis on speaking in tongues. However, Scripture presents tongues as:
- Actual languages (Acts 2:4-11), not unintelligible utterances.
- Orderly and interpretable (1 Corinthians 14:27-28), not chaotic group glossolalia.
- Not a universal sign of salvation or Spirit baptism (1 Corinthians 12:30—”Do all speak with tongues?”).
Modern Pentecostal practices often diverge from the New Testament model, treating tongues as an emotional release rather than a purposeful gift for edification.
2. The Elevation of Experience Over Scripture
Pentecostalism frequently prioritizes subjective experiences—emotional highs, physical manifestations, and personal revelations—over the authority of Scripture. This risks:
- Undermining sola Scriptura (2 Timothy 3:16-17).
- Opening the door to false prophecies (Deuteronomy 18:20-22).
- Encouraging a “feel-good” faith rather than one grounded in repentance and discipleship (Matthew 7:21-23).
3. The Role of Women in Church Leadership
Many Pentecostal denominations ordain women as pastors, apostles, and prophets, contrary to the biblical model of male eldership (1 Timothy 2:12; 1 Corinthians 14:34-35). While women have vital roles in ministry (e.g., Phoebe, Priscilla), the New Testament reserves the office of elder for qualified men.
4. The Confusion Over Miracles
Pentecostalism often treats miracles as daily expectations rather than signs confirming apostolic authority (Hebrews 2:3-4). While God still heals today, the New Testament miracles primarily validated the Gospel message during the foundational apostolic era (Mark 16:20).
A Call to Biblical Discernment
1. Returning to Sound Doctrine
The solution is not to reject spiritual gifts outright but to restore them to their proper biblical context. Paul’s instruction to the Corinthians was:
- “Let all things be done decently and in order” (1 Corinthians 14:40).
- “The spirits of the prophets are subject to the prophets” (1 Corinthians 14:32)—meaning manifestations should be controlled, not chaotic.
2. Evaluating Pentecostal Churches
Not all Pentecostal churches are alike. Some maintain strong biblical preaching, while others drift into emotionalism and heresy. Believers should ask:
- Is Scripture the final authority?
- Are spiritual gifts exercised orderly and biblically?
- Does the church prioritize holiness over hype?
3. The Need for Reformation, Not Abandonment
Rather than a blanket condemnation, the church needs reformed Pentecostals—those who retain a zeal for God’s power while submitting to Scripture’s authority. History shows that movements can course-correct (e.g., the Reformation).
Conclusion: A Plea for Truth and Wisdom
Pentecostalism, in its current form, presents both opportunities and dangers. Its passion for God’s presence is commendable, but its excesses and doctrinal errors demand careful scrutiny.
Believers must heed Paul’s warning:
“See to it that no one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the elemental spiritual forces of this world rather than on Christ.” (Colossians 2:8)
If you are in a Pentecostal church that:
- Elevates experience over Scripture
- Promotes chaos in worship
- Tolerates false teachings
—then prayerfully consider whether it aligns with biblical Christianity.
But if your church honors God’s Word, practices discernment, and seeks the Spirit’s work in truth, there may be room for growth rather than departure.
The goal is not denominational loyalty but Christ-centered faithfulness. Let us pursue a faith that is rooted in Scripture, alive in the Spirit, and steadfast in truth.
“Test yourselves to see if you are in the faith; examine yourselves!” (2 Corinthians 13:5)*
