# Definition of Continuationism Continuationism is a theological belief within Christianity that holds that the miraculous spiritual gifts (often called the “charismatic gifts” or “sign gifts”) described in the New Testament—such as prophecy, healing, speaking in tongues, and interpretation of tongues—continue to be active and available to the church today. This view stands in contrast to cessationism, which argues that these gifts ceased after the apostolic era. Continuationists believe that the Holy Spirit continues to work in the same way as during the early church, empowering believers with spiritual gifts for edification, evangelism, and the glory of God. They often argue that there is no explicit biblical text that states these gifts would end, and they point to ongoing experiences and historical testimonies of the miraculous as evidence. ## Major Proponents of Continuationism Several theologians, pastors, and scholars have been influential in promoting continuationism. Some of the most notable include: 1. **John Wesley (1703–1791)** – The founder of Methodism, Wesley believed that the gifts of the Holy Spirit, including healing and prophecy, continued in his day. His teachings laid a foundation for later charismatic movements. 2. **A.W. Tozer (1897–1963)** – Though not a classical Pentecostal, Tozer affirmed the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the experiential nature of Christian faith. 3. **David Wilkerson (1931–2011)** – Founder of Teen Challenge and Times Square Church, he strongly advocated for the power of the Holy Spirit in transforming lives and equipping believers. 4. **John Wimber (1934–1997)** – Founder of the Vineyard Movement, Wimber emphasized a “naturally supernatural” approach to the gifts of the Spirit, including healing and prophetic ministry. 5. **Wayne Grudem (b. 1948)** – A leading Reformed theologian and author of _Systematic Theology_, Grudem argues for the continuation of prophecy and other charismatic gifts while maintaining a high view of Scripture. 6. **Sam Storms (b. 1951)** – A prominent theologian and author who defends continuationism from a biblical and historical perspective, particularly in works like _The Beginner’s Guide to Spiritual Gifts_. 7. **Craig Keener (b. 1960)** – A New Testament scholar who has written extensively on miracles, arguing that there is substantial historical and modern evidence for their continuation. 8. **Bill Johnson (b. 1951)** – Pastor of Bethel Church, a leading figure in the modern charismatic movement who strongly emphasizes healing and supernatural gifts. 9. **Michael Brown (b. 1955)** – A Messianic Jewish scholar and apologist, Brown is a strong advocate for continuationism, often debating cessationists on the topic. 10. **John Piper (b. 1946)** – Though not a classical charismatic, Piper has expressed openness to the continuation of the gifts, distinguishing between “charismatic excesses” and legitimate biblical practices. ## Key Arguments in Favor of Continuationism Continuationists rely on several biblical, theological, historical, and experiential arguments to support their position. ### 1. Biblical Arguments - **1 Corinthians 12–14**: Paul discusses spiritual gifts at length, stating that believers should “earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy” (1 Cor. 14:1). There is no indication that these gifts were meant to expire. - **Acts 2:17-18**: Peter, quoting Joel 2, states that in the last days, God will pour out His Spirit, leading people to prophesy, see visions, and dream dreams. Many continuationists argue that the “last days” extend throughout the church age. - **Ephesians 4:11-13**: Paul states that Christ gave apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers to equip the church “until we all attain to the unity of the faith.” Since the church has not reached full unity, continuationists argue these gifts are still active. - **Mark 16:17-18**: Jesus mentions that signs such as healing and speaking in tongues will follow those who believe. - **Romans 11:29**: Paul declares that “the gifts and calling of God are irrevocable,” which continuationists interpret to mean that the spiritual gifts have not been withdrawn. ### 2. Theological Arguments - **No Clear Biblical End to the Gifts**: Continuationists argue that if the gifts were to cease, Scripture would have explicitly stated when and how. They contend that 1 Corinthians 13:8-10, which says that gifts will cease “when the perfect comes,” refers to Christ’s second coming rather than the closing of the biblical canon. - **The Nature of God**: If God performed miracles in the past, and He is unchanging (Malachi 3:6; Hebrews 13:8), then it follows that He still works in supernatural ways today. - **The Holy Spirit’s Role**: Since the Spirit’s primary role is to empower believers, and He has not left the church, continuationists argue that the gifts remain active. ### 3. Historical Arguments - **Early Church Fathers**: Many early Christian writings (e.g., Justin Martyr, Irenaeus, Tertullian) speak of ongoing spiritual gifts, including prophecy and healing. - **Revivals and Awakenings**: Throughout church history, reports of miraculous gifts have appeared in revival movements, such as the Great Awakenings, the Pentecostal revival (1906 Azusa Street), and modern charismatic movements. - **Global Christianity**: In many parts of the world, particularly in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, reports of miraculous gifts continue today, often accompanying church growth. ### 4. Experiential Arguments - **Personal Testimonies**: Many believers claim to have experienced healing, prophetic words, or tongues, strengthening the case that these gifts continue. - **Modern Miracles**: Documented cases of healings and supernatural encounters provide anecdotal but compelling evidence for the continuation of spiritual gifts. - **Spiritual Renewal**: Many argue that the gifts lead to a deeper spiritual life, greater evangelistic effectiveness, and a stronger connection with God. ## Responses to Cessationist Objections ### 1. “The gifts ceased with the apostles.” - Continuationists point out that spiritual gifts were given to the broader church, not just the apostles (1 Cor. 12:7; Acts 2:39). Church history also records gifts persisting beyond the apostolic era. ### 2. “Miraculous gifts were only for confirming Scripture.” - While signs did confirm apostolic teaching (Heb. 2:3-4), continuationists argue that gifts also served for edification, encouragement, and building up the church (1 Cor. 14:3-5). ### 3. “Church history shows a decline in the gifts.” - Some claim gifts disappeared after the early church, but continuationists counter that historical records do show reports of gifts, even if less common at times. ### 4. “Modern charismatic excesses prove the gifts are false.” - Continuationists acknowledge abuses but argue that improper use does not invalidate genuine experiences, just as counterfeit money does not mean real money does not exist. ## Conclusion Continuationism maintains that the gifts of the Spirit are still active in the church today based on biblical, theological, historical, and experiential evidence. Its proponents argue that these gifts are not only valid but necessary for the ongoing mission and vitality of the church. While cessationists challenge this view, continuationists believe that the burden of proof lies on those who claim that God has ceased to act in ways consistent with His past workings.