Charismatic?

[Guest]

I often hear you guys/gals talk about a church being "charismatic", but I don't understand what you mean by this. I understand the definition of the word, but not how it relates to church. Am I over thinking this and it's just a simple as it sounds, or is there a specific group or doctrine that would be considered charasmatic?

Thanks

[Guest]

hi chris--

some churches, like the baptist church i grew up in, would be mortified if someone began praying in tongues, or even lift their hands in worship for that matter. to me, "charismatic" means the church is open to the modern practice of all of the spiritual gifts outlined in the NT, including tongues, prophecy, word of knowlede, etc. it is my understanding that churches like the Assembly of God and other pentecostal denominations are generally called "charismatic" because there is emphasis (perhaps overemphasis) on the exercise of spiritual gifts. however, charismatic tendencies have seeped into other denominations as well. in my current church, there are "pockets" of believers who are more charismatic that others. however, there is no tongue speaking, etc during the regular worship service.

TK

[Guest]

Thanks TK