Expert: Brian Thompson - 9/5/2011

Question
im doing a school research on the assemblies of god and cannot find the answer to some of my questions and was wondering if you could please help me.

What are the key types of worship?
Where does the Sect gather worship?
Give examples of some of the ritual actions that occur in the Sect.

Give examples of common practices of the Sect relating to their beliefs.
How is official teaching of the Sect passed on?
What is the Sacred writing of Sect?
How are these Sacred writings interpreted?

What does the Sect do to reach out to the rest of New Zealand society?

Answer
Hi Matthew

Firstly let me say I cannot specifically comment on New Zealand but undoubtedly there will be a web site.http://www.agnz.org/

You shouldn't think of the AoG as a sect, it is a church no different to many other denominations. It is the largest of the world's pentecostal churches and with 250 million members larger than some traditional denominations. The difference lies in the belief in the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and use of the gifts of the Spirit by believers. AoG members also undergo full immersion believers baptism. Children are dedicated at an early age

The worship services of the AoG include singing of spiritual songs and hymns, Prayer, preaching of the Word, communion, offering. These worship services which may last 2 or more hours are held in Church buildings although some smaller groups may hire local halls.Cell groups are encouraged for further fellowship. Special services are held for children

Pentecostal services typically do not include ritual actions, the form of service being left to the local group. What may differentuate Pentecostal services from other denominations is the use of up tempo contemporary music in worship and an emphasis on faith. There are altar calls where believers receive prayer ministry. Believers are free to respond to God in many ways but of course good order is expected

The AoG considers the Bible inerrant and the inspired Word of God. In each service there will be a preaching on a particular spiritual truth and a response may be saught. The AoG also recognises prophesy and prophetic messages may be spoken during the service. As the use of the gifts of the Spirit implies speaking in tongues, tongues may be observed in worship, prayer and prophesy.

As you are researching the AoG you should attend one of their services