Chapter Six. Zelma Argue’s Theological Contribution To Early Pentecostalism

Abstract

The holiness tradition of the late-nineteenth century emphasized women's participation in the work of ministry and Argue's theology reflects a holiness influence. This chapter focuses on the theological similarities between Douglas and Zelma Argue with an eye to the egalitarian tendencies in Argue's message. Annie Douglas focused on the attainment of holiness through the experience of the Holy Spirit, sometimes in the form of the 'Holy Spirit and glory,' sometimes in relationship to the 'Holy Spirit and fire' and sometimes the Holy Spirit alone. According to Barfoot and Sheppard, early Pentecostalism afforded women the right to preach because they were recognized as called by God in their prophetic anointing. A Spirit empowered egalitarian impulse in Argue's ministry provided strength for evangelistic efforts. Finally, like Douglas, Argue's teaching was eschatological. Keywords: early Pentecostalism; Zelma