Malaysian Pentecostalism from Classical to Contemporary

The outpouring of the Spirit as prophesied in Joel 2 and fulfilled in Acts 2 has been a phenomenon to behold throughout the history of the church, particularly within Pentecostalism. Yet, the increasing gap between the espoused theology and the current practice of Assemblies of God Malaysia (AGM) displays the need for a contemporary Pentecostal spirituality for the twenty-first century.

Employing Joel 2:28–32 as an interpretive lens, Dr. Eva Wong Suk Kyun conducts a systematic and qualitative investigation of AGM’s progression from a classical Pentecostal movement to a “contemporary Pentecostal church movement.” The seven key theological themes of the Pentecostal movement’s central beliefs and practices, which are derived from Joel-Acts, are presented as the backdrop for the development of the movement’s pneumatology, wherein the voice of the Spirit is an essential element of AGM’s theological, missiological, ecclesiological, and ministerial aspects. Presenting a way forward for the next generation, Wong emphasizes the need for intentional spiritual discipleship by preserving the Pentecostal distinctives of baptism in the Holy Spirit, glossolalia, and missions. This innovative study offers its readers solid theological foundations and practical insights for a holistic Pentecostal spirituality.