Pentecostalism and Spiritual Warfare

Sarah Palin's vice-presidential nomination is shining a spotlight on Pentecostalism, a branch of Protestantism that emerged in the early years of the 20th century. Many trace Pentecostalism's organized origins to the famed Azusa Street Revival that took place in Los Angeles in 1906. Its basic belief involves the active agency of the Holy Spirit, touching believers with "spiritual gifts," including the speaking in tongues, casting out of demons, and prophesizing. It is estimated that a quarter of world Christians are Pentecostals (sometimes called Charismatics). It is the fastest growing branch of Christianity in the U.S. and around the world.

Ms. Palin has recently associated with several independent Bible Churches of a Pentecostal bent. Videos available on YouTube link her to a subset of Pentecostalism that practices "spiritual warfare" in prayerful battle with demons. One video shot at her Wasilla Bible Church (as she ran for Governor) shows a Kenyan preacher praying fervently over her, beseeching God to "protect her from every form of witchcraft."

Ms. Palin has mostly declined interviews regarding her religious outlook. (James Dobson of Focus on the Family did interview her by telephone this week and Ms. Palin referenced "spiritual warriors.")

In my estimation the spotlight on Pentecostalism cast by Sarah Palin's fame is one of the treats of the 2008 campaign, in the same sense that Barack Obama's association with a Chicago Black Liberation church was a treat. The fabric of American society, including religion, is pluralistic and complex. This year's campaign has made us more aware of the variety of religious expressions, while reminding us of First Amendment rights.

In this regard Christianity is a big tent. One component can assert that it provides the means to overcome racial oppression; another component asserts that in the imminent "Last Days" Alaska will be a refuge state where the multitudes will flock to avoid the tribulations.