A History of Christian Doctrine #3 - Online Christian Library

The Charismatic Movement
Conclusions
The Charismatic movement began with a genuine outpouring
of the Holy Spirit upon hungry hearts in the
denominational world. It transformed their lives and
emboldened them to bear witness of this event despite
ridicule and rejection. Like the Pentecostals, the early
Charismatics sought and received a distinct experience
known as the baptism of the Holy Spirit, and in most
cases they spoke in tongues.
Today, however, most people in the Charismatic
movement do not receive the Holy Spirit with the evidence
of speaking in tongues. Many do not even claim to
speak in tongues, some have merely been taught to say
nonsense syllables as a substitute for genuine tongues,
and most do not believe that tongues is the necessary evidence
of the Holy Spirit.
While God has used the Charismatics to bring the
witness of the Holy Spirit to every denomination and to
make speaking in tongues and other supernatural manifestations
broadly acceptable, it appears that the movement
as a whole has fallen short of its promise. The
emphasis on entertainment, personalities, and spiritual
fads, coupled with a de-emphasis on fundamental doctrine,
repentance, and holiness, has often resulted in shallowness
of worship, commitment, and lifestyle.
In many cases, Charismatic ministers seem more
intent on building personal kingdoms than in truly
advancing the cause of Christ. Many of them amass
wealth, power, fame, and prestige while preaching convenient
doctrines and indulging in personal pleasures. (See
II Timothy 3:1-7; 4:3-4.) By their own definition of salvation,
many of their churches grow primarily by attracting
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