From the periphery to the centre: The radical transformation of Pentecostal-charismatic Christianity in the 20th century

Abstract

This article examines the radical transformation of the Pentecostal-charismatic movement in the 20th century and how it has moved from the periphery of the Christian faith to the centre. It is argued in the article that although Pentecostal-charismatic movements were frowned upon in the past, there was a change of heart towards this form of Christianity in the 20th century. From its humble beginnings in the United States of America in the 1900s, Pentecostal-charismatic Christianity is now a global movement with followers both outside of the mainline churches and within the mission churches such as the Roman Catholic, Anglican, and other churches throughout the world. Pentecostal-charismatic movements are here to stay and have become a fourth force in Christendom, thereby becoming a religious power to be reckoned with.