Pentecostal Education

In its early days Pentecostalism was concerned with the defending of its doctrine and the training of missionaries. From these simple beginnings Pentecostal education eventually became more complex and comprehensive. However, North American Pentecostalism was always better funded than Pentecostalism elsewhere and, moreover, America was unusual in having a large higher education sector financed from private rather than public resources, as has been the case in Europe. Additionally, the validation of Pentecostal degrees occurred in various ways. Within the church Pentecostal teaching from the pulpit was expected to be transformational and affect the mind as well as the emotions. Ultimately preaching was intended to enable a knowledge of God. Knowledge may come from rational interpretation of information derived from the five senses but also from the Holy Spirit. Rationality is implicit in what it is to be human and education, using rational means, is designed to prepare individuals for life in both the church and wider society. Yet, because of its diversity, Pentecostal involvement in education takes many forms and with many age groups. Homeschooling and parachurches make their contribution in addition to congregations and colleges. The generous outpouring of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2 “on all flesh” implies that Pentecostal education should never be racist or sexist.