The Importance of the Charismatic Movement

An Illustration of the Holy Spirit Descending at Pentecost



      The charismatic movement started during the years of World War II.  During this time there was a resurgence of interest in spirituality and the supernatural.  Similar to the pentecostal movement, the charismatic movement emphasizes the Holy Spirit.  However, the charismatic movement is not restricted to several denominations, but is rather a movement across the Christian denominations. 

      This is one of the most important features of the charismatic movement.  Its emphasis on Spirit filled living did not make people separate from their denominations, but rather encourages them to live Spirit filled lives within their denominations.  As such the charismatic movement is very  interdenominational.  What makes this significant is that movements of theology within the church usually cause more of an impetus for separation rather than fellowship and collaboration.  Rather than forcing separation, the charismatic movement welcomes all who are born of Christ across all denominations. 

      Beyond this unity of the Spirit, the charismatic movement encourages everyone to live out their faith by the power of the Holy Spirit who works within them.  Spiritual gifts are emphasized as the empowerment towards service for the glory of our Lord Jesus Christ.  People are actually called to worship holistically.  We are not called to only worship with mental assent, but with the whole of our being.  The charismatic movement reminds us that it is about our whole person.  God wants everything of us, not just our minds. 

      Overall, the charismatic movement encourages people to live their lives fully devoted to God through the guidance and empowerment of the Spirit.  It does not seek to crush denominational walls, but to unite Christians in this world for the glorification of Christ.  The charismatic movement is by no means perfect.  There are definitely some flaws within the movement.  However, its importance lies in that it leads Christians to see their unity in the Spirit of God without having to break down denominational differences, and encourages Christians to live Spirit filled lives for the glory of God.