Restorationism and the Initial Evidence Doctrine

Abstract

The relationship between restorationism and Pentecostalism has long been noted. What has not been observed is the close relationship between restorationism and the Pentecostal doctrine of Initial Physical Evidence. This paper examines that relationship, showing that it was the restorationist mindset that led Pentecostal pioneers to identify speaking in tongues as the initial evidence of the Baptism in the Holy Spirit in the early days of the movement in the United States. It begins by showing that the restorationist mindset so prevalent amongst protofundamentalists as well as leaders in the Holiness movement had already begun asking if tongues might not be restored as a part of the outpouring of the Spirit. The importance of the Azusa Street Revival in promulgating the doctrine is examined. Then the rapidity of the spread and acceptance of this teaching is shown, beginning with Charles Parham in Topeka, Kansas and extending to virtually every corner of the United States, as well as Europe, Africa, and Asia through missionaries and others affected by the Azusa Street Revival. Finally, the debate particularly within the Assemblies of God in the United States and the almost immediate renewal of commitment to the teaching is examined.