A Faith Crisis Overcome
In the early 20th century, a spiritual transformation swept through Sweden, ignited by the life and ministry of Lewi Pethrus. Born in Vargön, Västergötland, in 1884, Pethrus was initially a Baptist, having been baptized in 1899. However, his faith journey took a dramatic turn after a personal crisis. Exposed to the writings of liberal philosopher Viktor Rydberg, Pethrus momentarily questioned the divinity of Jesus. Yet, a profound vision of Jesus restored his belief, leading him to a pivotal encounter with the Pentecostal movement.
Baptism in the Holy Spirit
In 1907, Pethrus learned of T.B. Barratt's experience with speaking in tongues in Norway. Driven by a deep yearning for spiritual renewal, he traveled to Oslo and received what he described as the baptism in the Holy Spirit. "From that moment I was part of the Pentecostal Revival," he later affirmed. This experience profoundly changed him, marking the beginning of his commitment to the Pentecostal faith.
Building the Filadelfia Church
Pethrus became the pastor of the Filadelfia Church in Stockholm in 1911. Under his leadership, the congregation grew exponentially from a mere 29 members to over 5,000 by the late 1930s. Despite opposition and the church's expulsion from the Swedish Baptist Union in 1913, due to its open communion and emphasis on speaking in tongues, Pethrus remained steadfast. This event catalyzed the independent Pentecostal movement in Sweden.
A Legacy of Faith
Pethrus's vision extended beyond the pulpit. He founded numerous institutions, including a Bible school and a Christian newspaper, 'Dagen.' He also played a critical role in establishing the Swedish Christian Democratic Party. His leadership not only propelled the growth of the Filadelfia Church but also positioned the Pentecostal movement as the largest Free Church in Sweden.
Through all these endeavors, Lewi Pethrus consistently attributed the transformation and growth to Jesus. His life stands as a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and divine guidance, inspiring countless individuals in Sweden and beyond.
