Christian Charismatic vs. Neo-Charismatics: What are the Key Differences

Both Christian charismatics and neo-charismatics believe in the gifts of the Holy Spirit. The Christian charismatic movement came about in the mid-20th century and was dubbed the "Second Wave." The charismatics are known as those who are "born again" and beliefs are bible based.

According to Christianity Today, the movement was founded based upon events from an Easter Sunday in 1960 as Dennis Bennett declared he had received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. Bennett was leading Saint Mark's Episcopal Church in Van Nuys, Calif., at the time of his declaration.

Shortly afterward, he was forced to resign from the church. In 1972, he began Acts 29, founded to promote the charismatic renewal.

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Charismatic churches are known for their exuberant worship, using phrases such as "Glory to God" and "Praise Jesus" in conjunction with the lifting of hands upward.

The neo-charismatic movement, dubbed the "Third Wave" in Christian renewal, is considered part of the modern Pentecostal movement. Modern Pentecostals believe in the Holy Spirit, the speaking of tongues and the manifestation of divine healing. The movement began in the 1980s, originating at Fuller Theological Seminary.

Despite believing in Pentecostal doctrines, those involved in the 'Third Wave" like to refer to themselves as evangelistic, not charismatic. Coming together as one and being united is also deemed to be more important than the doctrines themselves. If there is a conflict between individuals, the doctrines are set aside in the name of unity.

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Neo-charismatics can be demonized and a demon can reside in the body, but it cannot take over the spirit.

The Third Wave subscribes to the theory of power evangelism. Christianity Today refers to power evangelism as "the proclamation and supernatural demonstration of the kingdom of God as an effective way of winning followers of Christ." Power evangelism has resulted in mass conversions among families and villages.

Third Wavers also do not necessarily identify with either the charismatics or the Pentecostals. Today, there are more than 300 million people in the world that are considered charismatic Christians.

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Related Stories:

• Christian Charismatic Renewal Church Origins: 5 Things That Led to Development of Movement

• Christian Charismatic Renewal Church Evolution: 6 Key Events Since Movement Began