Holiness movement

Definition

The holiness movement is a Christian reform movement that emerged in the 19th century, emphasizing the pursuit of personal holiness and a deeper spiritual life through the work of the Holy Spirit. It builds on the teachings of John Wesley, advocating for a second work of grace known as entire sanctification, which is seen as a transformative experience that enables believers to live free from sin. This movement has significantly influenced various denominations and led to the formation of new ones focused on holiness.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. The holiness movement began in the early 19th century, primarily within Methodist circles, and was marked by a desire for a more intense spiritual experience and a deeper commitment to living according to God's will.
2. Key figures in the movement include Phoebe Palmer and William Booth, who were instrumental in promoting the ideals of holiness and social justice through their work.
3. The movement led to the establishment of denominations such as the Church of the Nazarene and the Salvation Army, which continue to emphasize holiness as a central tenet.
4. The holiness movement played a crucial role in shaping evangelicalism in America, influencing other movements like Pentecostalism with its focus on spiritual empowerment and personal transformation.
5. The emphasis on personal experience and emotional expression in worship practices became a defining characteristic of many denominations influenced by the holiness movement.

Review Questions

• How did the teachings of John Wesley influence the development of the holiness movement?
  • John Wesley's teachings provided a foundation for the holiness movement, particularly his emphasis on personal piety, sanctification, and grace. His belief in entire sanctification as a second work of grace inspired many followers to seek deeper spiritual experiences beyond initial salvation. This focus on achieving a holy lifestyle became central to the movement, motivating believers to pursue an intimate relationship with God through prayer and obedience.
• What role did key figures like Phoebe Palmer and William Booth play in advancing the goals of the holiness movement?
  • Phoebe Palmer was instrumental in popularizing the concept of entire sanctification through her meetings and writings, emphasizing practical ways to achieve holiness. William Booth, founder of the Salvation Army, integrated social justice into the message of holiness, advocating for the needy while promoting personal spiritual transformation. Both figures helped spread awareness and acceptance of holiness teachings across various communities and contributed to the establishment of new denominations.
• Evaluate how the holiness movement impacted American evangelicalism and influenced later movements such as Pentecostalism.
  • The holiness movement significantly shaped American evangelicalism by introducing a strong focus on personal experience with God and emotional expression in worship. Its teachings laid groundwork for subsequent movements like Pentecostalism, which adopted elements like spiritual empowerment and speaking in tongues. The emphasis on personal transformation and living a sin-free life fostered an environment where emotional spirituality became central, ultimately influencing various contemporary Christian practices and beliefs across multiple denominations.

Related terms

entire sanctification: A key doctrine in the holiness movement that refers to a second experience of grace where believers are fully cleansed from sin and empowered for holy living.

Wesleyanism: A theological framework based on the teachings of John Wesley that emphasizes grace, faith, and the importance of personal holiness in the Christian life.

Pentecostalism:

A Christian movement that emerged from the holiness movement, emphasizing direct experiences with the Holy Spirit, including speaking in tongues and divine healing.