Frank Bartleman’s eye witness account of the Azusa Street (Pentecostal) revival is both facinating and informative. The following statement he makes, reveals some issues at the time of the revival. I think this statement can speak to some of the charismatic issues of today quite powerfully.

“We may not even hold a doctrine or seek an experience except in Christ. Many are willing to seek ‘power’ from every battery they can lay their hands on, in order to perform miracles, draw the attention and adoration of the people to themselves, thus robbing Christ of his glory, and making a fair showing in the flesh…. A true ‘pentecost’ will produce a mighty conviction for sin, a turning to God. False manifestations produce only excitement and wonder. Any work that exalts the Holy Ghost or his gifts above Jesus will finally land up in fanaticism. Whatever causes us to exalt and love Jesus is well and safe. The reverse will ruin all. the Holy Ghost is a great light, but focused on Jesus always, for his revealing.”

It is interesting to note that this was written by a pentecostal believer at the time of the early pentecostal revival. Many modern charismatics and pentecostals think such statements are only made by non spiritual religious people who only like to criticize revival. The reverse is actually true. These kind of statements are made by those who love deeply, understand the nature, and desire the awakening of true revival.