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Pentecostal

By , About.com Guide

Definition: "Pentecostal" Christians may also be described as "Charismatic." Pentecostals include Protestant Christians who believe that the "manifestations of the Holy Spirit" are alive, available and experienced by modern-day Christians. These manifestations or gifts of the Holy Spirit were seen in the first century Christian believers (Acts 2:4; 1 Corinthians 12:4-10; 1 Corinthians 12:28) and include signs and wonders such as the message of wisdom, the message of knowledge, faith, gifts of healing, miraculous powers, discerning of spirits, tongues and interpretation of tongues. The term Pentecostal, therefore, comes from the new testament experiences of the early Christian believers on the Day of Pentecost. Pentecostals believe in the "Baptism in the Holy Spirit."

Pentecostal worship is characterized by emotional, lively expressions of worship. Some examples of Pentecostal denominations and faith groups are Assemblies of God, Church of God, Full-Gospel churches, and Pentecostal Holiness churches.
Pronunciation: pen-ti-kahs-tl
Also Known As: Charismatic
Common Misspellings: Pentacostal; Penticostal
Examples:
Benny Hinn is a Pentecostal minister.
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