Theology II: Pneumatology (part 5)
The Holy Spirit, Church History, and Modern Movements – Dr. Kimble Cedarville University Online Theology Class
In this online class presentation from Cedarville University, students conclude their study of pneumatology by examining the Holy Spirit’s work across church history and into the modern era. This lecture connects Scripture, historical theology, and contemporary movements to help students discern how the Spirit works today while remaining anchored to biblical truth.
https://www.cedarville.edu
0:00 Cedarville University introduction and global student community
0:15 Review of pneumatology and early church creeds
1:22 The Holy Spirit in Reformation theology
2:57 John Wesley and sanctification
6:04 Wesleyan perfectionism and holiness teaching
9:57 Charles Finney and second-blessing theology
10:32 Sanctification and spiritual experience
11:51 Origins of Pentecostalism
12:59 Agnes Ozman and speaking in tongues
14:36 Azusa Street Revival (1906)
16:04 Global growth of Pentecostal churches
16:37 The Charismatic Movement
18:32 The Third Wave and power evangelism
22:16 Testing the spirits biblically
24:17 The Spirit and the Word working together
27:02 Worship, prayer, and the Holy Spirit
31:37 Discernment, guidance, and decision-making
37:41 Living a Spirit-empowered Christian life
This theology lecture begins with a review of the Holy Spirit’s role in Scripture and the early church, including how historic creeds affirmed the Spirit as Lord and giver of life. The class then explores the Reformation emphasis on the priesthood of believers and the Spirit’s role in illuminating Scripture for all Christians, not only clergy.
Students are introduced to John Wesley and the holiness movement, with careful discussion of sanctification and Wesley’s doctrine of Christian perfection. The lecture explains how Wesley sought to emphasize holiness and growth in grace, while later figures such as Charles Finney developed ideas of a second blessing that influenced later movements.
The class then traces the rise of Pentecostalism in the early 20th century, beginning with Charles Parham, Agnes Ozman, and the events of 1901 in Kansas, followed by the Azusa Street Revival in Los Angeles in 1906. These moments shaped Pentecostal theology, particularly the belief that speaking in tongues accompanies the baptism of the Holy Spirit. Students also learn how the Charismatic Movement spread similar beliefs within existing denominations, and how the Third Wave emphasized power evangelism and signs accompanying gospel proclamation.
Throughout the lecture, students are reminded of the importance of testing spiritual claims by Scripture. The Holy Spirit never contradicts the Word of God and always glorifies Jesus Christ. Discernment, fruitfulness, and faithfulness to the gospel remain essential marks of the Spirit’s work.
The class concludes with practical guidance on worship, prayer, decision-making, and daily Christian living. Students are encouraged to rely on the Spirit through ordinary means of grace, to seek godly counsel, and to pursue holiness as they walk in step with the Spirit.
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