The Pentecostal movement began in the United States toward the end of the 19th century. It places strong emphasis on the phenomena described in the Acts of the Apostles at the “first Pentecost”. Among these phenomena would be sudden conversion, a dramatic experience of the Spirit (referred to as “baptism in the Spirit”), and speaking in tongues.
This movement gave birth to a wide variety of churches that are generally described as “Pentecostal”.
Other characteristics of Pentecostal churches include: Faith healing, a literalist interpretation of the Bible, emphasis on the second coming of Christ, vigorous missionary efforts, and a free-flowing liturgy rather than a set ritual.
Now, just a minute. This just plain is not true: “Whatever you ask the Father in my name he will give you.” How many examples of honest-to-goodness requests – and good ones, not simply trying to win the lotto – do you want me to cite that were flat out turned down by God?
The key here is, “Whatever you ask the Father in my name.” To pray in Jesus' name doesn’t mean to invoke a magical formula (like “abracadabra” which was thought to be a secret formula to force the gods to do something.) Rather, it means to pray in union with Jesus.
If what I pray for is in tune with what will ultimately help bring about what is good for me and for all creation, it will always be granted…for these are requests that further God’s good work.
God wants what is good for me and for all creation. That is an absolute. In Luke’s Gospel, Jesus is quite clear on this: “What father among you would hand his son a snake when he asks for a fish…If you then, who are wicked, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will the Father in heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask him?”
Now that deserves some conversation with the Lord.