Pentecostal, when they raise their hands to worship, it is worship? Or are they seeking attention?

Answer 1

I know a man who would say yes. But he has a chip on his shoulder about organized religion. I think it is a cry out to God. Do these people raise their hands when they are alone where no one can see them? Probably yes, at least if their hands are not full. I won't be raising my hands while I am doing dishes, but in my heart i am raising up.
I don't think it really matters. I am not going to worship to look at others, and if someone is trying to stand out and look pious and raising their hands for less then pure motives, that is not my concern.

You worry about you.

Answer 2

that would depend on the person, their motive (which you can't know on the outside)

but if you think about it, if a person is in a worship service with 1000 other people--all raising their hands, then he or she is not going to get much attention by doing exactly what everyone else is doing

what can make this stand out is when he or she attends a service where hand raising is less common (baptist for example)...then all eyes are on that person because it stands out.

again, as far as motive, it depends on the person. Are there those who seem to do "extreme" things in religious circles just to catch the eye of others, yes.

But on the other hand, what could be happening is no different that the southerner with the thick accent who moves to the big city up north. It only stands out now because it is different.

Answer 3

It's not just Pentecostal's that raise their hands. When you read Scripture, in many places, it says to "raise holy hands". It's the worshippers way of showing surrender to their Master, coming empty handed, and receiving His blessings. It's also a part of our offering to Him, giving ourselves to Him in our worship. It's the only thing we have that He wants. We give ourselves freely and willingly, to do with as He sees fit. It's unfortunate that some people use it to get attention. But, the person who is truly committed to God has a natural outpouring, and it often comes out in them raising their hands in offering themselves back to Him. It's another way we can love our Father. It's been my experience, that once you get to know people, you know who's putting on a show. One day, hopefully, they'll understand what they're doing and come to a decision about it. Until then, we keep our focus on Jesus and do what's pleasing to God. By the way, I belong to a Southern Baptist church, not that it really matters. <*)))><

Answer 4

It's worship. Usually you close your eyes and raise your hands and sing [or pray] directly to God. This kind of closes out the rest of the world and give you a sense of being alone with God, even in a crowd.

Answer 5

am pentecostal I can't speak for all but for me it's all about worshiping God. Our church is huge not sure how many raised hands their are my eyes r always closed for me I want just me and God. raising hands just doesn't happen in church mine r raised at home in the car or where ever. God is incredible and worthy of all praise honor and glory!!

Answer 6

No it shows they are not ashamed of the God they love. It is like children raising their hands up to a parent. The parent can either come down to the child or they can pick the child up to be with them. I kind of like being in God's arms.

Answer 7

If you are a Christian you should not be putting down the way other people worship especially in a public forum where unbelievers can mock religion.

Answer 8

It's worship..they are seeking attention too..from God.

Answer 9

When you are struck w/the holy spirit anything goes! Depends also on the confins of your church. I know pentacostals that raise their hands and some that screen, shout, and holler... and some that roll around on the floor. whatever striks you.... i've always wondered what if it strikes you to run around nekked, would you?

Answer 10

Like all religious zealots, they are terribly misguided. Sincere, but misguided.

All religions are based in myth and superstition.

Believe in something real... the truth will set you free! :-)

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Secular_humanism