When we trace the roots of the modern Pentecostal movement, one name rises quickly to the forefront—Charles Fox Parham. Often referred to as the “Father of Modern Pentecostalism,” Parham played a pivotal role in shaping the theology and spiritual practice that would sweep across the globe in the 20th century. But beyond the historical events, it’s his words—his passionate declarations, theological insights, and visionary statements—that continue to resonate with believers today.
Let’s take a look at Parham’s life, his role in the Pentecostal revival, and some of the most memorable quotes that capture the heart of his mission.
The Man Behind the Movement
Born in 1873 in Muscatine, Iowa, Charles F. Parham was a former Methodist who felt drawn to deeper spiritual truths and a radical return to the book of Acts. In 1900, he founded Bethel Bible College in Topeka, Kansas, where he encouraged his students to seek a deeper baptism in the Holy Spirit.
It was here, during a prayer meeting in 1901, that one of his students, Agnes Ozman, began speaking in tongues—a moment Parham would later describe as the “Pentecostal outpouring” and a restoration of apostolic power.
Parham’s emphasis on speaking in tongues as the initial evidence of the baptism in the Holy Spirit laid the theological foundation for what would become the global Pentecostal and Charismatic movements.
Famous Quotes of Charles F. Parham
Here are a few notable quotes from Parham that reflect his vision, faith, and legacy:
1. “Speaking in tongues is the Bible evidence of the baptism of the Holy Spirit.”
This line became Parham’s theological cornerstone. To him, glossolalia wasn’t just an emotional outburst—it was divine proof of Spirit baptism, echoing the day of Pentecost in Acts 2.
2. “We must return to apostolic power if we are to see apostolic results.”
Parham believed that the early church’s power wasn’t a thing of the past. He called for a revival of the supernatural—a restoration of miracles, healing, and Spirit-led ministry.
3. “God is no respecter of persons. What He did for the apostles, He will do for us today.”
This statement embodies Parham’s democratized vision of revival—where anyone, regardless of race, gender, or background, could receive the Holy Spirit and operate in spiritual gifts.
4. “We are not seeking tongues, but we are seeking the baptism, and tongues will follow.”
Parham often emphasized that tongues were not the goal, but the sign. The true goal was full surrender to the Spirit and empowerment for ministry.
5. “Divine healing is not a theory—it is a fact.”
Parham was a strong proponent of divine healing, often praying for the sick and teaching that healing was part of the atonement. This idea shaped early Pentecostal practice and still influences healing ministries today.
A Legacy That Speaks
While Parham’s life and ministry were not without controversy—his leadership style, racial views, and doctrinal rigidity have been critiqued—his contribution to Christian history is undeniable. The Azusa Street Revival, spearheaded by his student William J. Seymour, would never have happened without Parham’s earlier groundwork.
Today, the global Pentecostal and Charismatic movements count over 600 million adherents. In many ways, they are all spiritual descendants of a man who dared to believe that what happened in the upper room could happen again.
Final Thoughts
Charles F. Parham’s quotes are more than historical soundbites—they’re calls to action, urging modern believers to pursue a life empowered by the Holy Spirit. Whether or not one agrees with all of Parham’s theology, his bold faith and spiritual hunger continue to challenge and inspire.
