Expert: Elder Greg Madden - 12/29/2006

Question
Hi,
Thank you for the thoughtful response. It sounds as though my beliefs follow the Pentecostal religion. That is, except for #6. "We believe that for the edification ..."

I have been a Christian since I was a teenager. I try to have a close relationship with God, but I have never spoken in "tongues," (are you referring to different languages). However, I have noticed that when asked questions regarding God and personal practices or relationships (mostly with my grown children, although in my profession as a teacher/nurse as well)there are times when I'm sure the words must be coming from God because I can not belief that those words of wisdom are coming from me. I am not that smart or mentally/emotionally put together.

After reading your response, I wonder though about the Pentecostal Christians that do not speak in tongues and if it causes them mental/spiritual/emotional angst. From your response it seems that the Pentecostal Church puts much emphasis on it. Are there not different forms of true relationships with God that do not result in the "speaking in tongues?" I would be concerned that if this did not happen in whatever time frame a person sets (as God's time is God's time, not ours) it might cause spiritual distress as in God did not love or care for the person, etc. and does not choose to speak though that person. I also have an issue with the "healing of others and performing miracles." That seems a little far fetched even to me. I know that God directed his disciples to do these things but as far as I know, I am not a chosen disciple of God. Some times the only miracle I'm looking for is the energy to get out of bed in the morning and face another long day, in a series of long days. lol : )

However, I really do not know enough about it do I? Again, I thank you for your time and your quick and thoughtful response. It has been most helpful. I still am unsure of what church I would like to attend, who knows maybe I will attend a Pentecostal service and talk with the pastor more. Thank you again. Have a safe and wonderful New Year, Cindy
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The text above is a follow-up to ...

-----Question-----
Hi,
I am looking for a church and have not been happy with the churches I have attended. I tend to be conservative and take the word of God literally. Could you tell me more about the Pentecostal religion/theory?
-----Answer-----
Cindy,

Thank you for your question. I will do my best to assist you. I will give you a brief doctrinal description and list of the basic beliefs of most (if not all) Pentecostal churches.

Pentecostalism is a movement, not a denomination. But there are denominations that are Pentecostal in their beliefs. Theologically, most Pentecostal denominations are aligned with Evangelicalism in that they emphasize the reliability of the Bible and the need for the transformation of an individual's life with faith in Jesus. Pentecostals also adhere to the doctrine of Biblical inerrant.

The Pentecostal movement places special emphasis on the direct personal experience of God through the baptism of the Holy Spirit, as shown in the Biblical account of the Day of Pentecost. Pentecostals believe that the baptism in the Holy Spirit is always accompanied initially by the outward evidence of speaking in tongues.

Pentecostal's reject any connection between personal salvation or conversion and the baptism in the Holy Spirit and teach that it is not necessary for salvation, but a gift from God available to all Christians regardless of denominational affiliation.

1. We believe the Bible to be the inspired Word of God and accept the same as the only infallible guide and rule of our faith and practice. "Solo scriptura" Scripture alone.
Scripture References: Matt. 24:35, Ps. 119:89, 2 Tim. 3:16 -17, 2 Tim. 2:15 , 1 Pet. 1:19 -21

2. We believe in the eternal, omnipotent, omniscient, omnipresent, sovereign, and immutable triune God; and in the unity of the Godhead where three personalities, equal in every divine perfection and attribute, execute distinct, harmonious offices, in the great work of redemption. This does not mean that there are three "people" called God, but rather a way of saying God eternally exists in three personally distinct ways.
Scripture References: I John 5:7, 2 Cor. 13:14, John 1:1,2, Rev. 4:2-5 & 5:1-7

3. We believe because of man's total inability to save himself, salvation is by God's grace alone, and the believer in justified through faith in Jesus Christ. Salvation is received through sincere, godly repentance, and whole-hearted acceptance and confession of Jesus Christ as personal Savior and Lord.
Scripture References: John 3:3,16; 1 Cor. 5:17; Gal. 2:20: 1 Pet. 2:24, Romans 10:9-10

4. We believe that having been cleansed by the blood of Christ and quickened by the Spirit, it is God's Will that we should be sanctified daily and be made partakers of His holiness, walking not after the flesh, but after the Spirit, forsaking the very appearance of evil.
Scripture References: Rom. 8:1,5; 12:1-2; 1 Cor. 7:1; I Pet. 1:15; 1 Thes. 5 - 22

5. We believe the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is a definite experience, not identical with conversion. When the Baptism in the Holy Spirit is received, unknown tongues will follow. Inasmuch as this is the dispensation of the Holy Spirit, every believer has a right to expect His incoming to be after the same manner as recorded by the Word of God in Bible days
Scripture References: John 14:16; Acts 1:8; 2:4, 38-39; 10:44 -48, 19:6

6. We believe that for the edification of the saints and the up building of the church of Jesus Christ, the Holy Spirit has the following gifts to bestow upon the individual believer: the word of wisdom, the word of knowledge, faith gifts of healing, working of miracles, prophecy, discerning of spirits, diverse kinds of tongues, and the interpretation of tongues, dividing to every man severally as He will. These gifts should be coveted earnestly by all spiritual believers and exercised in the spirit of love.
Scripture References: I Cor. 12:7-11, 31; Gal. 5:22-23; John 15:4, 8

Cindy, I hope that I have helped you. If you have any further questions, or if you need assistance find a church in your area please feel free to write back.

God Bless!
Elder Greg Madden

Answer
Cindy,

Praise God for all that He is doing in your life. I understand your hesitancy when it comes to the gifts and moving of the Holy Spirit. I was myself raised in a church that not only taught the these things passed away with the death of the last apostle, but also that those who would operate in these gifts today are (as we say in Oklahoma) "of the devil". But as I grew old, and study the Bible for myself, God opened His Word and reveled the truth that He is still able to do what He said He would do. That what He promised in His Word is still available today!

Acts 2:17
And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:  
2:18
And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:  
2:39
For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.  

Cindy, I suggest that you study the Scriptural references in my previous answer and let me know your questions or consernces are. I would be more that happy to help you.

God bless, and happy new year!
Elder Greg Madden