Biblical authority read through an experiential lens

What it is: Pentecostalism recognizes the Bible as the normative authority of Christian faith, but often reads it in intense dialogue with prayer, testimony, spiritual experience, and immediate pastoral application.

How the tradition understands it: Scripture is not seen only as an academic or confessional object, but as a living word for direction, consolation, correction, and revival. This pattern strengthens popular participation, although it can also generate hermeneutical tensions.

Textual or traditional basis: 2 Timothy 3, Hebrews 4, and the Pentecostal use of the book of Acts are especially relevant.

Historical context: The movement grew among laypeople, itinerant preachers, and communities of strong religious orality, which shaped its biblical style.

Common objections: Criticisms point to the risk of overly immediate, decontextualized readings or interpretations excessively dependent on personal experience.

Internal variations: There are Pentecostal sectors with robust theological formation and others that are more anti-academic; for that reason, practical hermeneutics varies greatly.