A History of Christian Doctrine #3 - Online Christian Library

A History of Christian Doctrine
shows. Huge crowds are often attracted as a result, but
much of the Pentecostal spontaneity, fervor, and spirituality
seem to be lost.
Charismatics are also prone to follow new spiritual
trends, doctrines, and fads. Some such practices have
little or no biblical support. Others have precedents in the
Bible and in classical Pentecostalism, but Charismatics
have transformed them into norms or rituals. Examples
are being “slain in the Spirit” and “holy laughter.” While
these expressions of worship have always existed in
Pentecostal ranks, they have generally been left to individual
action under the unction of the Spirit. In some
Charismatic circles, however, they have become norms,
with leaders pressing for everyone to exhibit these manifestations.
The result is often a stylized, mechanical, or
psychologically induced phenomenon instead of a genuine
move of the Holy Spirit.
For example, the meetings of evangelist Benny Hinn
(originally from Israel) are noted for people falling down
when he blows on them or waves at them. Typically, however,
the people do not enter into deep prayer or a
trancelike state as Pentecostals do, but they gently
descend to the floor, lie there for a short while, look
around to see what is happening, and then get up.
Evangelist Rodney Howard-Browne (originally from
South Africa) promotes mass laughter in his meetings.
He often initiates this response by making funny statements
and sounds, laughing infectiously, urging others to
imitate him, and commanding the crowd to laugh.
There is a wide variety in church government and
leadership style in the Charismatic movement. Many of
the independent churches have strong, authoritarian
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