Pentecostal Unity
It would be easy for us, in discussing the distinctives of Pentecostal Spirituality and Theology, to limit our conversation to doctrine and creed. After all, isn’t that exactly what distinguishes one System of Theology from another? While it is true that the doctrines of Pentecostalism differ from the theology of other Christian groups, the doctrinal and theological distinction is not the only difference that we encounter. If we looked at theology alone, every denomination and group would (and does) boast of its own uniqueness. So, what makes Pentecostalism different? One answer lies in the idea of ecumenism, or the transcending of sectarian boundaries within the church. Ever since the East-West Schism (1054 AD) and the Protestant Reformation (1517 AD); groups have been trying to generate a camaraderie between the varying sects of Christendom. Multiple summits have been held in the name of the restoration of unity within the church. Unfortunately, without much success. However, in the years following Azusa Street and the subsequent Pentecostal Revival, we have begun to see much greater unity being achieved. I contribute this recent success to the adaptability of our theological system. While we have set up walls within Pentecostal Theology; Pentecostal Theology, itself, knows no walls. The spirituality of Pentecostal Theology can be incorporated and infused into almost any system of the Christian Faith. As such, we have begun to see a reversal of our “Theological and Denominational Babel,” so to speak.
The Spirit of God reveals Himself as both the Spirit of Truth and as the Spirit of Unity. Therefore, through intellectual, relational, personal, and experiential engagement with the Spirit of God, we may cease to be bound by intellectual divisions on secondary and tertiary issues. Could it be that this unifying distinction is the true purpose of the latter-day outpouring of Pentecostalism?