Talking to Pentecostals about Origins and Evolution

Like most other Christian groups, Pentecostals hold diverse views on origins and other topics of science. While most Pentecostals reject evolution (particularly of humans), a good number do not. For me, evolution is a powerful explanation of the biodiversity, adaptation, and interconnectedness we see in nature. I believe that God is in an active relationship with all of his creation—he intervenes, rescues, heals, guides, and answers prayer. Pentecostals like myself have an ardent desire for and anticipation of God’s daily involvement in our lives and this world.

Pentecostals, like most other people, seek a holistic engagement of faith and science. My hope is that the broader faith and science community can find more ways to thoughtfully engage us and integrate our perspectives into the growing conversation.

Unfortunately, when evolution is framed in a way that negates this view, it forces an artificial tension, making us “pick sides.” Pentecostals, like most other people, seek a holistic engagement of faith and science. My hope is that the broader faith and science community can find more ways to thoughtfully engage us and integrate our perspectives into the growing conversation.

Pentecostal Views on Evolution

While most Pentecostals question evolutionary theory, they are not unanimous in their opposition. The Pew Research Center found that while 61% of Pentecostals rejected the theory of human evolution, 22% believed that humans evolved through God’s design, 9% believed that humans evolved through natural processes, and 2% believed humans evolved through an unknown mechanism. My research into the views of North American constituents of the Assemblies of God (the largest Pentecostal denomination globally), supports these findings.

Among those Pentecostals who accept the evidence for the evolution of non-humans, most do not embrace it for humans. Instead, they believe humans were specially created. This is largely based on the belief that the biblical creation account is mostly historical literature. Along with accepting 24-hour days and a literal chronology of creation, they believe that humans, unlike other creatures, were created in God’s image. Paul’s writings about the relationship between Adam and Jesus (Romans 5: 12-21) are viewed by many to point to a historical Adam and Eve. Many Christians reject evolution because they don’t believe a good God would create a process so dependent on selfishness and death. Many also feel that human evolutionary theory calls into question the doctrine of original sin. Even so, somewhere around 25% of Pentecostals believe in some form of human evolution.

A Seat at the Table

Pentecostalism is the fastest-growing religious movement in the world. Ironically, little research on how Pentecostals relate faith and science has been done. There are only a few Pentecostal voices represented in faith and science discourse as well. This is not surprising given that many Pentecostals have historically been resistant to exploring new ideas they perceive as secular, like evolution. Also, Pentecostals have largely ignored the topic of origins and evolution. This is not necessarily because of a lack of interest, but rather they have favored weightier matters. Pentecostals have traditionally focused their energy and efforts on salvation, sanctification, evangelism, healing, the Second coming, and baptism in the Holy Spirit.

Over the years, as more Christians from other Protestant denominations (e.g. Lutheran, Baptist, Methodist, Presbyterian) have become Charismatic, they have brought with them their own views and interests in origins. As a result, Pentecostals have had more to say about origins and evolution. Some Pentecostal denominations have published statements of belief that reference origins and evolution. Admittedly, many of these statements do not affirm evolution. However, these statements show that origins and evolution have warranted more consideration from Pentecostals.

What Pentecostals Bring to the Table

What exactly can the Pentecostal tradition bring to the table of faith and science discourse, particularly origins and evolution? What should those who are eager to engage Pentecostals about origins and evolution be mindful of? I offer some concluding thoughts.

First, Pentecostals believe that God is deeply relational, and so we place a strong emphasis on theological immanence. God is not a remote being, standing aloof with arms folded watching with mild interest as his minions struggle for existence. He has an active presence and involvement in his creation. He rescues and intervenes. Why not through evolution? Why wouldn’t an omnipotent God directly influence the outcomes of natural processes like evolution? This concept of an active creator in real time aligns well with the views of many Christians. Making room for God’s immanence in nature can help Pentecostals consider evolution as a faithful option.

Secondly, we believe that the Holy Spirit is our guide. Scripture tells us that the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Truth, and that he will guide us to all truth. We don’t take this lightly. As a Pentecostal I am open to the truths that the Holy Spirit reveals, and to where those truths lead. This perspective can help some Pentecostals be more open to non-traditional views like evolutionary creation. Especially when they are led there after much prayerful consideration.