Signs and Wonders: Why Pentecostalism Is the Worlds Fastest Growing Faith

Praise for Signs & Wonders

"I urge the reading of Paul Alexander′s Signs and Wonders as a second–best introduction to Pentecostalism, the first being ′being there.′ He offers a clear narrative line, issues helpful explanations, and gives something of the experience one recognizes at Pentecostal events or in Pentecostal ventures." From the Foreword by Martin E. Marty Fairfax M. Cone Distinguished Service Professor Emeritus at the University of Chicago and an ordained Lutheran minister

"When I teach about religion in the current world situation the most frequent question I get is ′But why is Pentecostalism growing so quickly and in so many places?′ I try to explain, but after reading this book my answer can now be much more complete and well grounded. This is the book that answers that question. It is fair, accurate, balanced, and written in an accessible style. No one seriously interested in the fastest growing Christian movement in the world can afford to miss it." Harvey Cox Harvard Divinity School and author, Fire From Heaven

Foreword vii

Acknowledgments xiii

CHAPTER 1 Just Ask: A World of Miracles Awaits 1

CHAPTER 2 Worship and Music 19

CHAPTER 3 Tongue–Talking 41

CHAPTER 4 Prosperity (or Money, Money, Money, Money) 61

CHAPTER 5 Storytelling 79

CHAPTER 6 Power and Spiritual Warfare 95

CHAPTER 7 Prophecy, Visions, and Dreams 115

CHAPTER 8 Hope, Joy, and Emotion 131

Notes 151

The Author 167

Index 169

Paul Alexander is the founder of Pentecostals and Charismatics for Peace and Justice, a multiethnic, international, and ecumenical network of pastors, laypeople, academics, missionaries, and students. He teaches at Azusa Pacific University.