Bible Questions: What Does Pentecostal Mean? AG 101: A Beginner’s Guide for the 901
- Boundless Team
- May 23
- 4 min read
Most people in Memphis have driven past a church with "Assemblies of God" on the sign, but few understand the vibrant, global movement behind those words. If you've ever wondered why we pray the way we do or what "Pentecostal" actually stands for, you are in the right place to find answers.
What does "Pentecostal" mean?
To be Pentecostal means believing the Holy Spirit is active and available today, just as on the Day of Pentecost. It emphasizes a personal relationship with God, Spirit-empowered living, and the 16 Fundamental Truths of the Assemblies of God, focusing on the power to serve and witness.
The Surge of a Global Movement
Pentecostalism isn't just a local phenomenon in the 901; it is the fastest-growing religious movement on the planet. As of 2026, the statistics are staggering and reflect a deep hunger for a tangible experience with God.
Global Reach: There are approximately 2.6 billion Christians worldwide; of those, over 700 million identify as Pentecostal or Charismatic.
Rapid Growth: Since 1970, the movement has seen more than a ten-fold increase in absolute numbers.
Daily Expansion: It is estimated that roughly 35,000 people join the Pentecostal faith every single day.
The 1 in 4 Factor: Today, about 1 in every 4 Christians globally is Pentecostal, meaning this "surge" of the Spirit is becoming the standard for the modern Church.
In Memphis, from Cordova to Bartlett and Arlington, this movement represents a community that doesn't just talk about God but seeks to experience His power in everyday life.
Understanding the "Power Surge"
Think of your spiritual life like a car on a two-lane road. You have an engine, and you are moving forward, that is salvation. But when you need to pass a heavy obstacle, you need a surge of power. That is how the baptism in the Holy Spirit is often described: a "power surge" for the believer.
At First Assembly Memphis, we teach that the baptism in the Holy Spirit is a separate, biblical experience from salvation. While every believer has the Holy Spirit from the moment they accept Christ, the "Pentecostal" experience is an additional outpouring of God’s Spirit that provides "more", more boldness to share your faith, more joy in worship, and more wisdom for your family.
Definition: Baptism in the Holy Spirit The baptism in the Holy Spirit is a distinct experience following salvation, where a believer is filled with the Spirit’s power for service, often accompanied by the initial physical sign of speaking in other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance (Acts 2:4).
The 16 Fundamental Truths: Our Anchor
While the "experience" of the Spirit is vital, it must always be anchored in the Word of God. The Assemblies of God (AG) adheres to 16 Fundamental Truths that serve as our doctrinal guardrails. For those new to the 901 or exploring faith, here is a simplified look at four core pillars:
Salvation: Through the shed blood of Jesus Christ, we are forgiven of our sins and reconciled to God.
Baptism in the Holy Spirit: This is the "Pentecostal" distinctive, a power for life and service.
Divine Healing: We believe God still heals the sick today through the power of prayer and faith.
The Blessed Hope: We look forward to the return of Jesus Christ to gather His Church.
These truths ensure that our worship at FA Memphis remains biblically grounded while being Spirit-led.
Is This Only for People in Memphis?
Absolutely not. While First Assembly Memphis is deeply rooted in the 901, we recognize that the Kingdom of God has no borders. This is why we launched Boundless Online Church.
Whether you are homebound in Cordova, traveling for work, or living on the other side of the world, you can access the same Spirit-filled teaching and community. Boundless exists to bridge the gap for those who cannot attend a local church, offering digital discipleship and live community interaction.
Why Does This Matter to You?
Knowing "what Pentecostal means" is about more than just a dictionary definition. It’s about knowing that God wants to empower you. He doesn't want you to walk through the challenges of life in Memphis, the stress, the family struggles, or the career hurdles, on your own strength.
He offers a helper. He offers the Holy Spirit.
Stop Trying to Be Perfect: The Holy Spirit isn't for the "perfect"; He is for the person who knows they need help.
Seek the More: If you feel like your faith has become a routine, ask God for the "more" we talked about today.
Connect Locally: Visit us in person or join a Life Group to see what this power looks like in real relationships.
Are you ready to experience the "more" that God has for your life today?
Want to go deeper?
If you're in Memphis, Cordova, Arlington, Bartlett, or the 901, we would love to welcome you in person to experience our community and learn more about the Holy Spirit: 🌐 www.famemphis.org
Outside the area or unable to attend in person? Join our global online church community for live services and digital discipleship: 🌐 www.boundlessonlinechurch.org
Need prayers? Text us day or night at 1-901-213-7341. (Note: This line is for prayer and pastoral support, not emergency services. If you are in immediate danger or need urgent help, please call 911.)
You are not alone.
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