Boxing In The Spirit? - A Response to Mark Heath.
My friend Mark wrote an article at the beginning of last week entitled: "Welcoming the Spirit": -
http://wordandspirit.co.uk/blog/index.php?/archives/121-Welcoming-the-Spirit.html
While I can appreciate the motivation behind it and the valid concerns it raised, I was quite concerned at a number of possible implications and maybe a few aspects in Scripture that were missed or not picked up on. This is a matter extremely dear to my heart. After spending the last 2 years in an "open but cautious" environment (i.e practicing cessationist) I am desperately passionate that the Holy Spirit has free reign to move in my church and in my life. Here are just a few points I wonder if Mark could meditate on.
It seems to me that there is a definite dichotomy in Scripture. While on the one hand we all agree and applaud the omnipresence of the Holy Spirit, it seems to me that there is definite room and place for Him to be "More or Less" present. Consider the following:
1. A Personal Presence.
In the individual life of the believer 1 Corinthians 12:13 is quite clear; "For by ONE SPIRIT were WE ALL baptised into one body". Scripture seems clear that there is no way we can enter into an active relationship with the Lord Jesus Christ or His church without a work and de facto the Presence of the Spirit. He must be at work in us to lead us to any interest in Christ. Then after conversion itself Scripture says again that it is the Spirit at work in us that produces His fruits and therefore evidences of conversion - the kind that Jonathan Edwards looked for in those who wanted to partake of the Lord's Table. Yes indeed - the Spirit is omnipresent in the life of ALL true believers.
But ...
Anyone who takes the book of Acts seriously and the Epistles must admit that the Spirit could be "More or Less" present in those same believers He was with. Jesus Himself said; "He has been WITH you and will be IN you". It must have been the Spirit that led Simon Peter to exclaim; "You are the Christ!". Yet on the Day of Pentecost the Apostles received a baptism of power and the Spirit came upon them. This would be the understanding of any who believe in a distinct experience called the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
Even those who do not must admit that the Spirit can be "More or Less" present. Conservative evangelicals are very fond of quoting Ephesians "Be filled with the Spirit". Well, if we all have the Spirit as Mark said then why do we need to be filled with Him?
2. A Corporate Presence.
This seemed to be the particular area of interest in Mark's article. And yes, we all agree that the Lord said; "Where two or three are gathered together, there I Am in the midst". How is He present? By His Spirit. Applying this principle we would all be committed to the fact that WHEREVER His church meet in spirit and in truth, then indeed God by His Spirit is present.
But ...
There are countless Scriptures that suggest that the Presence of God can be "More or Less" present. Gordon Fee wrote of the "broad work of the Spirit" in New Testament times yet Wayne Grudem wrote; "I think what believers want is to experience the active Presence of God".
How can He be "More" Present?
Any account of revival is widely acclaimed to be a perculiar intensification of the Presence of God. Surely no one can say that a church in a time of revival is exactly the same as a church that is not?! In Ezekiel there is a gloriously thrilling precursor to New Testament revival when the prophet saw the glory of God returning to the city like the sound of mighty rushing wind. Again the more famous account of the valley of dry bones speaks very powerfully of the fact that that the prophet actually had to "prophesy" to the wind (or the Spirit) before He would come. This had to be done a number of times before the scattered useless bones came together and rose to become a mighty army.
How can He be "Less" Present?
The chilling accounts in the book of Ezekiel talk of the gradual yet definite withdrawing of the Presence of God. Israel were still His people, yet His Presence had departed. In the Old Testament the term "Ichabod" was used to denote the fact that the "glory had departed. We can grieve or quench the Spirit and R T Kendall wrote a book devoted to the fact that the Spirit when grieved will withdraw like a dove.
So ...
Should we welcome or invite the Holy Spirit to a meeting? Of course He does not need our permission to come! He is God and we meet because of Him. Is He reluctant to come? Maybe in some instances particularly as I have said where He is being actively quenched. I don't think it is enough to "cultivate an attitude of expectancy and openness". To do this and this alone seems to me to culture the "Open but cautious" category that Mark has mentioned before. I do think that this prayer; "Come Holy Spirit" is very useful and while it may benefit us, surely the primary aim is not our benefit but the hopeful increasing of the Spirit's Presence in our meetings. One of the comments talking of "invoking the Spirit" - this is a term I find nigh-on blasphemous. The Spirit is a Person, not a spell or a charm
Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones said that; "The greatness sin of the evangelical world is to put the Spirit in a box and tell Him what He can and cannot do". We are surely wrong to presume that He is present just because. Let us take nothing for granted! As I have quoted before Terry Virgo said; "I hate church that isn't church! Let us never be satisfied with another meeting where God is not present".
Let us be careful in our attitude to the Spirit to remain aware of the 'whole counsel of God' and be faithful to His Word. If there is a dichotomy in Scripture, let us admit it and not simply form a theology or an opinion based on our comfort zone. Dr Ll0yd-Jones said again that most of the warnings concerning charismatic excess in Corinthians virtually need not apply to us because "there is no problem of excess in a graveyard". When was the last time we saw the dead raised? Or the unbeliever fall in repentance before the prophetic? Whatever the terminology - that is my desperate desire - to see THAT sort of intensity of the Spirit's joyful Christ-exalting powerful work.
To end with C H Spurgeon; "The Spirit is most powerful beloved!".
Sunday, October 02, 2005
Sunday, September 25, 2005
A Few More Things I've Seen:
John Piper's new book is virtually out and available online! Woohoo!! I haven't read it yet - but starting it today:
http://www.gnpcb.org/product/1581347510/contents#extra
I found this blog - excellent, informative and best of all he likes Terry Virgo:
http://thebluefish.blogspot.com
And also this site with some UCCF input I think but excellent all the same with some amazing articles.
http://beginningwithmoses.org/
John Piper's new book is virtually out and available online! Woohoo!! I haven't read it yet - but starting it today:
http://www.gnpcb.org/product/1581347510/contents#extra
I found this blog - excellent, informative and best of all he likes Terry Virgo:
http://thebluefish.blogspot.com
And also this site with some UCCF input I think but excellent all the same with some amazing articles.
http://beginningwithmoses.org/
Miracle!!
WOW!! I've just seen that Terry Virgo was the guest speaker at Forum 2005 - the UCCF Student Conference. Things have clearly changed since I was in the CU world!!
http://www.uccf.org.uk/resources/general/forum2005/index.php - downloadable files here.
Hallelujah!
WOW!! I've just seen that Terry Virgo was the guest speaker at Forum 2005 - the UCCF Student Conference. Things have clearly changed since I was in the CU world!!
http://www.uccf.org.uk/resources/general/forum2005/index.php - downloadable files here.
Hallelujah!
Terry Virgo Speaks Again!
I've been really unwell today so lying on the sofa and feeling very sorry for oneself was a 'must'. Especially a sofa as lovely as mine ... Mmm. But it did have an added bonus that in sheer boredom I began watching the video of Terry Virgo's second part series on "Saul and David" that he preached at Brighton 2004 - based supremely and superbly on Ern Baxter's teaching on the King and His Army from the Lakes Bible Week 1975.
And I was gripped. Although I was there in person, its amazing what passes you by. Two comments he made almost reduced me to tears;
Quoting Mahesh Chavda on the Holy Spirit; "I sensed the withdrawing of my dearest friend".
And Terry himself: "I HATE CHURCH THAT ISN'T CHURCH".
Time after time occured to me when I have done exactly that - grieved my Dearest Friend and sensed His withrdawing - or even more scarily NOT missed His withdrawing. And linked to that - endured church that isn't church. What a traversty!
And so then and there I came up with some Spiritual New Year's resolutions, because it IS a New Spiritual Year for me.
1. To cultivate the intensity of relationship with the Holy Spirit so that IF I do grieve Him, I will speedily miss His Presence and long and beg for His return and forgiveness.
2. To model my walk with Him on the lives of those great men and women of God that Terry mentioned; Kathyrn Kuhlman (I'll never forget that quote! "Are we ready now?"). Mahesh Chavda, Ram Babu and Terry himself.
3. To spend time that I have lost in grieving and quenching Him getting to know Him so more deeply and more intimately. That I could walk from a time of prayer with my Dearest Friend and that men would fall under the power of the Spirit before me!!
4. To never again tolerate church that ISN'T church - or to endure a meeting when God has not been present and is not invited.
Come Holy Spirit!
I've been really unwell today so lying on the sofa and feeling very sorry for oneself was a 'must'. Especially a sofa as lovely as mine ... Mmm. But it did have an added bonus that in sheer boredom I began watching the video of Terry Virgo's second part series on "Saul and David" that he preached at Brighton 2004 - based supremely and superbly on Ern Baxter's teaching on the King and His Army from the Lakes Bible Week 1975.
And I was gripped. Although I was there in person, its amazing what passes you by. Two comments he made almost reduced me to tears;
Quoting Mahesh Chavda on the Holy Spirit; "I sensed the withdrawing of my dearest friend".
And Terry himself: "I HATE CHURCH THAT ISN'T CHURCH".
Time after time occured to me when I have done exactly that - grieved my Dearest Friend and sensed His withrdawing - or even more scarily NOT missed His withdrawing. And linked to that - endured church that isn't church. What a traversty!
And so then and there I came up with some Spiritual New Year's resolutions, because it IS a New Spiritual Year for me.
1. To cultivate the intensity of relationship with the Holy Spirit so that IF I do grieve Him, I will speedily miss His Presence and long and beg for His return and forgiveness.
2. To model my walk with Him on the lives of those great men and women of God that Terry mentioned; Kathyrn Kuhlman (I'll never forget that quote! "Are we ready now?"). Mahesh Chavda, Ram Babu and Terry himself.
3. To spend time that I have lost in grieving and quenching Him getting to know Him so more deeply and more intimately. That I could walk from a time of prayer with my Dearest Friend and that men would fall under the power of the Spirit before me!!
4. To never again tolerate church that ISN'T church - or to endure a meeting when God has not been present and is not invited.
Come Holy Spirit!
Friday, September 16, 2005
"The Power of the Holy Ghost" -
I am deeply aware that my ever increasing collection of Metropolitan Tabernacles are a deep and dusty treasure trove, but digging through them is EXACTLY as John Piper described - sometimes you get rare and precious diamonds. I was reading the New Park Street Pulpit and I found this outstanding and amazing sermon on the "Power of the Holy Ghost". I have typed out the headings and the key quotes so the general thrust comes across. This is a "broad view" of the Spirit that I long to catch and hang onto!!
A Sermon on the Text: Romans 15:13 by C H Spurgeon - 17th June 1855.
"Power is the special and perculiar perogative of God and God alone".
1. The Outward and Visible Displays of Power
"Four Works".
i) Creation Works: Job 26:13 - "By His Spirit hath He garnished the heavens".
ii) Resurrection Works: "The resurrection was affected by the agency of the Spirit".
iii) Attestation Works: "Ah! Those Socinians who deny the existence of the Holy Ghost and His absolute Personality, what will they do when we get them on creation, resurrection and attestation? They must rush in the very teeth of Scripture".
iv) Grace Works: "Let the gospel be preached and the Spirit poured out and you will see it has such power to change the conscience, to ameliorate the conduct, to raise the debased, to chastise and curb the wickedness of the race that you must glory in it".
2. Inward and Spiritual Power of the Holy Spirit.
i) Power over men's hearts: "There is not a minster breathing that can win men's hearts himself".
ii) Power over men's wills: "If there is one thing more stubborn than the hear, it is the will. I want nothing to do with free will, but I will try to see whether I have got a free will and I find that I have. Very free will to evil, but very poor will to that which is good".
iii) Power over men's imaginations: "The imagination will sometimes fly up to God with such a power that eagles wings cannot match it - but if it is potent one way, then it is another. For my imagination has taken me down to the vilest kennels and sewers upon the earth. Can you chain your imagination? No but the Spirit of God can".
3. Future and Desired Effects.
i) Perfect us in holiness.
ii) Bringing on of Latter Day Glory: "In a few more years, the Holy Spirit will be poured out in a far different style from the present. For the hour is coming when the Holy Ghost shall be poured out in such a wonderful manner that many shall run to and fro and knowledge shall be increased - the knowledge of the Lord shall cover the earth as the waters cover the surface of the great deep. When His Kingdom shall come and His will shall be done on the earth as it is in heaven. My heart exults and my eyes flash with the thought that very likely I shall live to see the outpouring of the Spirit; when sons and daughters of God shall prophesy and young men see visions and old men dream dreams".
iii) General resurrection: "When the wind of the Holy Spirit comes they shall stand on their feet a great and mighty army".
Concluding Comments:
"The Spirit is very powerful, Christian!".
"He is able to make you willing in the day of His Power".
I am deeply aware that my ever increasing collection of Metropolitan Tabernacles are a deep and dusty treasure trove, but digging through them is EXACTLY as John Piper described - sometimes you get rare and precious diamonds. I was reading the New Park Street Pulpit and I found this outstanding and amazing sermon on the "Power of the Holy Ghost". I have typed out the headings and the key quotes so the general thrust comes across. This is a "broad view" of the Spirit that I long to catch and hang onto!!
A Sermon on the Text: Romans 15:13 by C H Spurgeon - 17th June 1855.
"Power is the special and perculiar perogative of God and God alone".
1. The Outward and Visible Displays of Power
"Four Works".
i) Creation Works: Job 26:13 - "By His Spirit hath He garnished the heavens".
ii) Resurrection Works: "The resurrection was affected by the agency of the Spirit".
iii) Attestation Works: "Ah! Those Socinians who deny the existence of the Holy Ghost and His absolute Personality, what will they do when we get them on creation, resurrection and attestation? They must rush in the very teeth of Scripture".
iv) Grace Works: "Let the gospel be preached and the Spirit poured out and you will see it has such power to change the conscience, to ameliorate the conduct, to raise the debased, to chastise and curb the wickedness of the race that you must glory in it".
2. Inward and Spiritual Power of the Holy Spirit.
i) Power over men's hearts: "There is not a minster breathing that can win men's hearts himself".
ii) Power over men's wills: "If there is one thing more stubborn than the hear, it is the will. I want nothing to do with free will, but I will try to see whether I have got a free will and I find that I have. Very free will to evil, but very poor will to that which is good".
iii) Power over men's imaginations: "The imagination will sometimes fly up to God with such a power that eagles wings cannot match it - but if it is potent one way, then it is another. For my imagination has taken me down to the vilest kennels and sewers upon the earth. Can you chain your imagination? No but the Spirit of God can".
3. Future and Desired Effects.
i) Perfect us in holiness.
ii) Bringing on of Latter Day Glory: "In a few more years, the Holy Spirit will be poured out in a far different style from the present. For the hour is coming when the Holy Ghost shall be poured out in such a wonderful manner that many shall run to and fro and knowledge shall be increased - the knowledge of the Lord shall cover the earth as the waters cover the surface of the great deep. When His Kingdom shall come and His will shall be done on the earth as it is in heaven. My heart exults and my eyes flash with the thought that very likely I shall live to see the outpouring of the Spirit; when sons and daughters of God shall prophesy and young men see visions and old men dream dreams".
iii) General resurrection: "When the wind of the Holy Spirit comes they shall stand on their feet a great and mighty army".
Concluding Comments:
"The Spirit is very powerful, Christian!".
"He is able to make you willing in the day of His Power".
Thursday, September 15, 2005
The Deep Bass Note of Worship
When asked what the Charismatic Movement contributed to the church, Dr Ern Baxter said that he felt the answer was "Worship". Through reviving and restoring worship in the Charismatic Movement God was bringing to the fore a people who were not satisfied with simply "head" worship - they wanted to connect to Him in their hearts. They wanted to encounter the Presence of God. And in my own personal experience, the hymnody of the Charismatic Movement played a vital part in helping me grow up with firmly embedded doctrinal views that I have - particularly that of Restoration. Here are some of my favourites:
"Jesus has sat down at God's right hand - He is reigning NOW on David's throne,
God has placed all things beneath His feet - His enemies shall be His footstool;
For the government is now upon His shoulder, and of the increase of His government and peace - there will be no end, there will be no end - there will be no end!".
"I hear the sound of rustling in the leaves of the trees, the Spirit of the Lord has come down on the earth. The church that seemed in slumber has now risen from its knees, and dry bones are responding to the fruits of new birth.
Oh this is now a time of restoration! The word will go to all men everywhere. The church is here for healing of the nations. The perfect work of Jesus has begun,
My tongue will be the pen of the ready writer! And what the Father gives to me I'll sing - I only want to be His breath - I only want to glorify the King.
A body now prepared by God and ready for war, the prompting of the Father is our word of command. We rise a mighty army at the bidding of the Lord - the devils fear and hear for their time is at hand!".
"Jesus we enthrone You - we proclaim You our King - standing here in the midst of us, we raise you up with our praise! And as we worship build a throne - and as we worship build a throne, and as we worship build a throne - come Lord Jesus and take Your place!".
"I will build My church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it - so you powers in the heavens above bow down! And you powers on the earth belows bow down! And acknowledge that Jesus, Jesus, Jesus is Lord! Is Lord!".
"Lord the light of Your love is shining, in the midst of the darkness shining, Jesus light of the world shine upon us - set us free by the truth You now bring us, shine on me. Shine on me. Shine Jesus shine! Fill this Land with the Father's glory! Blaze Spirit blaze! Set our hearts on fire! Flow river flow - flood the nations with grace and mercy - send forth Your Word Lord and let there be light! As we gaze on Your kingly brightness, so our faces display Your likeness - ever changing from glory to glory, mirrored here may our lives tell Your story, shine on Me, shine on me!".
"We believe in God the Father Maker of the Universe, and in Christ His Son our Saviour, come to us by virgin birth. We believe He died to save us, bore our sins was crucified! Then from death He rose victorious - ascended to the Father's side! Jesus, Lord of all, Lord of all.
We believe He sends His Spirit on His church with gifts of power. God His word of truth affirming sends us to the nations now. We believe He'll come again in glory, judge the living and the dead!".
"At Your feet we fall, mighty risen Lord as we come before Your throne to worship You. By Your Spirit's power, You now draw our hearts and we hear Your voice in triumph ringing clear! I am He that liveth, that liveth and was dead! Behold I am alive forever more!".
This song isn't Restoration because it's by John Wimber but it is still a favourite of mine and very precious:
"Oh let the Son of God enfold you, with His Spirit and His love, let Him fill your heart and satisfy your soul. Oh let Him have the things that hold you, and His Spirit like a Dove, will descend upon your life and make you whole. Jesus oh Jesus come and fill Your lambs. Jesus oh Jesus come and fill Your lambs. Oh come and sing this song with gladness, as your hearts are filled with joy - lift your hands in sweet surrender to His Name. Oh give Him all your tears and sadness, give Him all your years of pain, and you'll enter into life in Jesus' Name".
When asked what the Charismatic Movement contributed to the church, Dr Ern Baxter said that he felt the answer was "Worship". Through reviving and restoring worship in the Charismatic Movement God was bringing to the fore a people who were not satisfied with simply "head" worship - they wanted to connect to Him in their hearts. They wanted to encounter the Presence of God. And in my own personal experience, the hymnody of the Charismatic Movement played a vital part in helping me grow up with firmly embedded doctrinal views that I have - particularly that of Restoration. Here are some of my favourites:
"Jesus has sat down at God's right hand - He is reigning NOW on David's throne,
God has placed all things beneath His feet - His enemies shall be His footstool;
For the government is now upon His shoulder, and of the increase of His government and peace - there will be no end, there will be no end - there will be no end!".
"I hear the sound of rustling in the leaves of the trees, the Spirit of the Lord has come down on the earth. The church that seemed in slumber has now risen from its knees, and dry bones are responding to the fruits of new birth.
Oh this is now a time of restoration! The word will go to all men everywhere. The church is here for healing of the nations. The perfect work of Jesus has begun,
My tongue will be the pen of the ready writer! And what the Father gives to me I'll sing - I only want to be His breath - I only want to glorify the King.
A body now prepared by God and ready for war, the prompting of the Father is our word of command. We rise a mighty army at the bidding of the Lord - the devils fear and hear for their time is at hand!".
"Jesus we enthrone You - we proclaim You our King - standing here in the midst of us, we raise you up with our praise! And as we worship build a throne - and as we worship build a throne, and as we worship build a throne - come Lord Jesus and take Your place!".
"I will build My church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it - so you powers in the heavens above bow down! And you powers on the earth belows bow down! And acknowledge that Jesus, Jesus, Jesus is Lord! Is Lord!".
"Lord the light of Your love is shining, in the midst of the darkness shining, Jesus light of the world shine upon us - set us free by the truth You now bring us, shine on me. Shine on me. Shine Jesus shine! Fill this Land with the Father's glory! Blaze Spirit blaze! Set our hearts on fire! Flow river flow - flood the nations with grace and mercy - send forth Your Word Lord and let there be light! As we gaze on Your kingly brightness, so our faces display Your likeness - ever changing from glory to glory, mirrored here may our lives tell Your story, shine on Me, shine on me!".
"We believe in God the Father Maker of the Universe, and in Christ His Son our Saviour, come to us by virgin birth. We believe He died to save us, bore our sins was crucified! Then from death He rose victorious - ascended to the Father's side! Jesus, Lord of all, Lord of all.
We believe He sends His Spirit on His church with gifts of power. God His word of truth affirming sends us to the nations now. We believe He'll come again in glory, judge the living and the dead!".
"At Your feet we fall, mighty risen Lord as we come before Your throne to worship You. By Your Spirit's power, You now draw our hearts and we hear Your voice in triumph ringing clear! I am He that liveth, that liveth and was dead! Behold I am alive forever more!".
This song isn't Restoration because it's by John Wimber but it is still a favourite of mine and very precious:
"Oh let the Son of God enfold you, with His Spirit and His love, let Him fill your heart and satisfy your soul. Oh let Him have the things that hold you, and His Spirit like a Dove, will descend upon your life and make you whole. Jesus oh Jesus come and fill Your lambs. Jesus oh Jesus come and fill Your lambs. Oh come and sing this song with gladness, as your hearts are filled with joy - lift your hands in sweet surrender to His Name. Oh give Him all your tears and sadness, give Him all your years of pain, and you'll enter into life in Jesus' Name".
Wednesday, September 14, 2005
The Baptism With the Holy Spirit in the eyes of the Doctor.
I mentioned a couple of blogs ago that one of my favourite "top ten" books was "Joy Unspeakable" by Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones. It really is an outstanding book, full of doctrinal proofs yet arguing so strongly for the absolutely distinct and unarguably experiential baptism of the Spirit. I have been reading it again and came to a key chapter where the Doctor goes through certain "proofs" (his words) for why he argued so strongly that there is a difference between regeneration and the baptism of the Spirit. I want to reproduce the flow of his argument and key quotes for those who don't have time to read the whole book. Terry Virgo wrote a stunning commendation for this reprint of the book. He said: "This is no age to advocate restraint; the church today does not need to be restrained, but to be aroused, to be awakened, to be filled with the Spirit of glory. I for one rejoice that this clarion call can still be heard".
Amen!
Sermon: The Baptism of the Spirit and Regeneration.
Text: John 1: 26, 33
Introductory Comments:
"Perhaps the greatest danger of all for Christian peope is the danger of understanding Scripture in the light of their own experiences. We should not examine Scripture in light of our own experiences but we should examine our experiences in the light of Scripture".
"The ... danger then is that of being satisfied with something very much less than what is offered in Scripture, and the danger of interpreting Scritpure by our experiences and reducing its teaching to the level of what we know and experience. And I would say that this ... is the greater danger ... at the present time".
"Look at the New Testament Christian, look at the New Testament church and you see it vibrant with a spiritual life and of course it is always life that tends to lead to excess. There is no problem of discipline in a graveyard; there is no problem very much in a formal church. The problems arise when there is life".
"We discover the following things: there are obviously steps and stages in the Christian life".
1. Principle of Sermon:
"Here is the first principle: It is possible for us to be believers in the Lord Jesus Christ without having received the baptism of the Holy Spirit".
"I am suggesting that this is something which is therefore obviously distinct from and seperate from becoming a Christian, being regenerate, having the Holy Spirit dwelling within you".
2. First Proof: The Old Testament Saints.
"They were as much children of God as you and I are".
"If you think that the Old Testament saints were not children of God you are denying the whole of the Scripture. They were. But they had not been baptised with the Holy Spirit".
"But what about John the Baptist himself? ... John the Baptist is a son of God, he is a child of God and yet John was not baptised with the Holy Spirit".
3. Second Proof: The Apostles Themselves.
"Surely it is quite obvious that the apostles were regenerate and were children of God before the Day of Pentecost".
"These men are not only believers, they are regenerate men, the Holy Spirit has been breathed upon them (John 20) yet they have not been baptised with the Holy Spirit".
4. Third Proof: The Apostle Paul.
"It is so vital that we should start with Scripture, not with our prejudices, not with what we think, not what we are afraid of. "Ah" you may say, "Now you have said that tongues are alright". I am sure many are thinking that. You wait a minute; I shall deal with the question of gifts when it comes to the right place. You do not start with that". - I love that quote! I can just imagine the Doctor saying it! But his point is particularly vital for all of a Third Wave persuasion. You don't start with the gifts. We must be primarily concerned with receiving the Spirit in His Person.
Re: Ananias: "He does not instruct him (Paul) on the way of salvation. He is sent to heal him and to fill him with the Holy Spirit, to give him the baptism of the Holy Spirit ... You can, you see receive the Holy Spirit before you are baptised (in water) or the other way round - it does not matter at all".
5. Fourth Proof: Apollos and Cornelius.
"It seems to me this is the only adequate explanation of the story about him. This was the thing that Priscilla and Aquila recognised as lacking in Apollos and about which they told him and it made all the difference to him".
"It is possible for a man to be baptised with the Holy Spirit virtually simultaneously with his belief. Take the case of Cornelius and his household. You remember we are told in Acts 10 that as Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon them. There it seems that the baptism with the Holy Spirit happened 'as they were believing'".
"Now there is an absolute proof that you can be a true believer in the Lord Jesus Christ and still not be baptised with the Holy Spirit; that incident proves it. The question at the beginning and what actually happened subsequently. The important point is that there is a difference, there is a distinction between believing and being baptised with the Holy Spirit".
6. Final Proof: Ephesians 1:13
"It is only the believer who is baptised with the Spirit or receives the seal of the Spirit. It is the same order again. The believing is the first thing but being baptised is something that does not of necessity happen at the same time. It may - it may not. But it is distinct and seperatem so the Apostle does seperate them".
"All I am trying to establish is this: that you can be regenerate without being baptised with the Holy Spirit".
7. Conclusion:
"The Scriptures that I have adduced to you show quite clearly that to say, as so many have said and are still saying, that every man at regeneration is of necessity baptised with the Holy Spirit, is simply to fly in the face of this plain, explicit teaching of the Holy Scriptures".
I mentioned a couple of blogs ago that one of my favourite "top ten" books was "Joy Unspeakable" by Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones. It really is an outstanding book, full of doctrinal proofs yet arguing so strongly for the absolutely distinct and unarguably experiential baptism of the Spirit. I have been reading it again and came to a key chapter where the Doctor goes through certain "proofs" (his words) for why he argued so strongly that there is a difference between regeneration and the baptism of the Spirit. I want to reproduce the flow of his argument and key quotes for those who don't have time to read the whole book. Terry Virgo wrote a stunning commendation for this reprint of the book. He said: "This is no age to advocate restraint; the church today does not need to be restrained, but to be aroused, to be awakened, to be filled with the Spirit of glory. I for one rejoice that this clarion call can still be heard".
Amen!
Sermon: The Baptism of the Spirit and Regeneration.
Text: John 1: 26, 33
Introductory Comments:
"Perhaps the greatest danger of all for Christian peope is the danger of understanding Scripture in the light of their own experiences. We should not examine Scripture in light of our own experiences but we should examine our experiences in the light of Scripture".
"The ... danger then is that of being satisfied with something very much less than what is offered in Scripture, and the danger of interpreting Scritpure by our experiences and reducing its teaching to the level of what we know and experience. And I would say that this ... is the greater danger ... at the present time".
"Look at the New Testament Christian, look at the New Testament church and you see it vibrant with a spiritual life and of course it is always life that tends to lead to excess. There is no problem of discipline in a graveyard; there is no problem very much in a formal church. The problems arise when there is life".
"We discover the following things: there are obviously steps and stages in the Christian life".
1. Principle of Sermon:
"Here is the first principle: It is possible for us to be believers in the Lord Jesus Christ without having received the baptism of the Holy Spirit".
"I am suggesting that this is something which is therefore obviously distinct from and seperate from becoming a Christian, being regenerate, having the Holy Spirit dwelling within you".
2. First Proof: The Old Testament Saints.
"They were as much children of God as you and I are".
"If you think that the Old Testament saints were not children of God you are denying the whole of the Scripture. They were. But they had not been baptised with the Holy Spirit".
"But what about John the Baptist himself? ... John the Baptist is a son of God, he is a child of God and yet John was not baptised with the Holy Spirit".
3. Second Proof: The Apostles Themselves.
"Surely it is quite obvious that the apostles were regenerate and were children of God before the Day of Pentecost".
"These men are not only believers, they are regenerate men, the Holy Spirit has been breathed upon them (John 20) yet they have not been baptised with the Holy Spirit".
4. Third Proof: The Apostle Paul.
"It is so vital that we should start with Scripture, not with our prejudices, not with what we think, not what we are afraid of. "Ah" you may say, "Now you have said that tongues are alright". I am sure many are thinking that. You wait a minute; I shall deal with the question of gifts when it comes to the right place. You do not start with that". - I love that quote! I can just imagine the Doctor saying it! But his point is particularly vital for all of a Third Wave persuasion. You don't start with the gifts. We must be primarily concerned with receiving the Spirit in His Person.
Re: Ananias: "He does not instruct him (Paul) on the way of salvation. He is sent to heal him and to fill him with the Holy Spirit, to give him the baptism of the Holy Spirit ... You can, you see receive the Holy Spirit before you are baptised (in water) or the other way round - it does not matter at all".
5. Fourth Proof: Apollos and Cornelius.
"It seems to me this is the only adequate explanation of the story about him. This was the thing that Priscilla and Aquila recognised as lacking in Apollos and about which they told him and it made all the difference to him".
"It is possible for a man to be baptised with the Holy Spirit virtually simultaneously with his belief. Take the case of Cornelius and his household. You remember we are told in Acts 10 that as Peter was still speaking, the Holy Spirit fell upon them. There it seems that the baptism with the Holy Spirit happened 'as they were believing'".
"Now there is an absolute proof that you can be a true believer in the Lord Jesus Christ and still not be baptised with the Holy Spirit; that incident proves it. The question at the beginning and what actually happened subsequently. The important point is that there is a difference, there is a distinction between believing and being baptised with the Holy Spirit".
6. Final Proof: Ephesians 1:13
"It is only the believer who is baptised with the Spirit or receives the seal of the Spirit. It is the same order again. The believing is the first thing but being baptised is something that does not of necessity happen at the same time. It may - it may not. But it is distinct and seperatem so the Apostle does seperate them".
"All I am trying to establish is this: that you can be regenerate without being baptised with the Holy Spirit".
7. Conclusion:
"The Scriptures that I have adduced to you show quite clearly that to say, as so many have said and are still saying, that every man at regeneration is of necessity baptised with the Holy Spirit, is simply to fly in the face of this plain, explicit teaching of the Holy Scriptures".
Tuesday, September 13, 2005
AFRAID OF THE SPIRIT?
Still strongly in my 'positive' vein, I was hugely encouraged and thrilled to find that P Andrew Sandlin - who is I think R J Rushdoony's unofficial successor in the (stereotyping here) Christian Reconstruction Movement - is blogging! It can be found at:
http://culturalleadership.blogspot.com/
Not only that some of his entries are a joy to read. In particular this one:
Tuesday, July 19, 2005
Afraid of the Spirit?
Why do Christians so fear the power of the Holy Spirit — the sort we see in the primitive church? Perhaps it is because He overturns dead, dry institutions. Or because He radically alters comfortable, sinful lives. Or because He forces us to think down paths or change our life in ways we find supremely unsettling
Surely, all Christians committed to the ecclesial status quo will likely never experience the mighty, drenching, onrushing power of the Holy Spirit that revolutionizes individuals, families, churches, and cultures.
Come, Holy Spirit!
posted by P. Andrew Sandlin at 11:06 PM
I for one certainly DO NOT want to be in the ecclesial status quo group! I so want and need to experience the 'mighty, drenching, onrushing, revolutionising power of the Holy Spirit!
Still strongly in my 'positive' vein, I was hugely encouraged and thrilled to find that P Andrew Sandlin - who is I think R J Rushdoony's unofficial successor in the (stereotyping here) Christian Reconstruction Movement - is blogging! It can be found at:
http://culturalleadership.blogspot.com/
Not only that some of his entries are a joy to read. In particular this one:
Tuesday, July 19, 2005
Afraid of the Spirit?
Why do Christians so fear the power of the Holy Spirit — the sort we see in the primitive church? Perhaps it is because He overturns dead, dry institutions. Or because He radically alters comfortable, sinful lives. Or because He forces us to think down paths or change our life in ways we find supremely unsettling
Surely, all Christians committed to the ecclesial status quo will likely never experience the mighty, drenching, onrushing power of the Holy Spirit that revolutionizes individuals, families, churches, and cultures.
Come, Holy Spirit!
posted by P. Andrew Sandlin at 11:06 PM
I for one certainly DO NOT want to be in the ecclesial status quo group! I so want and need to experience the 'mighty, drenching, onrushing, revolutionising power of the Holy Spirit!
Monday, September 12, 2005
A Prophet Speaks!
Well this is a bit of a 'confessional' entry. I have been challenged by a very good and dear friend about some of the negative things I have said in the blog particularly about SGM and my time with them. While he (I think) meant it semi-jokingly, God really seized his words and applied them strongly to me. I knew it was the Spirit of God speaking because if any human had told me off for being negative, I would have fought my case strongly and fervently. I have been wronged! There is a story to be told! But I was so undone by what he said. Therefore I really do apologise if I have come across as angry and bitter.
It is so amazing to have good friends who aren't afraid to challenge and correct in true love. I particuarly appreciate it as I haven't got a wife to do that job yet! Today has really taught me a lesson in how the church of God should be acting. Therefore the challenge that he has set me and I have set myself is to let nothing "unwholesome" come out of my mouth. I want this blog to be a reflection of wonder and amazement at the grace of God - something that is edifying to write and encouraging to read.
So to start that off, I want to sum up SGM. The horrendous impression must come across that I have nothing to say that is good about them because my exit was so painful. That is not true, I spent 2 years there for a reason. So here's what I think is GREAT about SGM!
1. They are Prophetic in Emphasis.
I have mentioned SGM's "obsession" with the Cross and while I don't quite agree with the outworking of "never moving beyond the Cross", I do think that their sole emphasis has brought a prophetic contribution to the Church that is much needed. This can particularly be found in C J Mahaney's teaching. His keynote session at the Brighton Leaders Conference on "The Cup" was just outstanding and I do sincerely recommend that anyone interested gets the CD. You can order it online at http://www.newfrontiers.xtn.org. He and SGM remind us that the Cross isn't simply a historical event that was applicable at the time of our conversion but then no more. It has much relevance and power for us today and now!
2. They are Persuasive in Doctrine.
SGM are far more a Reformed group of churches than many and many of the conferences that they hold boast an impressive display of preaching of the Word of God. While a great deal of the preaching is "Cross centred" they do cover other subjects and indeed cover them well. They are beginning to produce a number of booklets touching on some of their key doctrines. These are called "Perspectives". C J Mahaney wrote the first one on "Sovereign Grace" (the doctrine not the group). Dave Harvey wrote the next on "Church Polity" which explains the way that they run and also their understanding of apostles today. It is telling that Mahaney has been invited to Trinity Divinity School Illinois to present a number of lectures - such is the respect in which their senior leaders are held.
3. They are Passionate in Worship.
Anyone who has seen or attended a Celebration event or indeed been to an SGM church will know that these people know how to worship vibrantly, loudly and joyfully! While their worship is not classically charismatic - in terms of a deep rooted belief in the need to be baptised with the Spirit and the gifts that result from that which are contributed freely - they do long for the "active Presence of God" (a term they have coigned from Wayne Grudem) and long to lift God high. They boast a number of gifted songwriters including Bob Kauflin and their songs of course are Cross-centred. Rather than being catchy and easy to learn and sing, they tend to be more hymn-like. They are doctrinally deep and enriching to meditate on.
4. They are Protective in Ecclesiology.
Their understanding of Biblical Manhood and Womanhood is extremely important to them - I would query perhaps too important - and C J Mahaney has said it is a "hill they would die upon". You can see that they are consistent in their church life with this doctrinal position. The women in their churches frequently study books such as Carolyn Mahaney's "Feminine Appeal" and they all strive to be submissive wives. The men too are catered for well with C J's recent contribution; "Sex Romance and the Glory of God". The key phrase for me is that he was urging the men to "touch their minds before they touch their bodies". Quite a difference to the classic Christian man today.
Their pastoring too is extremely protective. Church members are usually made to feel loved and accepted and valued. The pastors are not afraid to confront their flock but usually counter-balance any correction with "evidences of grace" - a self-made phrase that stands for encouraging what God is doing in their lives.
Well this is a bit of a 'confessional' entry. I have been challenged by a very good and dear friend about some of the negative things I have said in the blog particularly about SGM and my time with them. While he (I think) meant it semi-jokingly, God really seized his words and applied them strongly to me. I knew it was the Spirit of God speaking because if any human had told me off for being negative, I would have fought my case strongly and fervently. I have been wronged! There is a story to be told! But I was so undone by what he said. Therefore I really do apologise if I have come across as angry and bitter.
It is so amazing to have good friends who aren't afraid to challenge and correct in true love. I particuarly appreciate it as I haven't got a wife to do that job yet! Today has really taught me a lesson in how the church of God should be acting. Therefore the challenge that he has set me and I have set myself is to let nothing "unwholesome" come out of my mouth. I want this blog to be a reflection of wonder and amazement at the grace of God - something that is edifying to write and encouraging to read.
So to start that off, I want to sum up SGM. The horrendous impression must come across that I have nothing to say that is good about them because my exit was so painful. That is not true, I spent 2 years there for a reason. So here's what I think is GREAT about SGM!
1. They are Prophetic in Emphasis.
I have mentioned SGM's "obsession" with the Cross and while I don't quite agree with the outworking of "never moving beyond the Cross", I do think that their sole emphasis has brought a prophetic contribution to the Church that is much needed. This can particularly be found in C J Mahaney's teaching. His keynote session at the Brighton Leaders Conference on "The Cup" was just outstanding and I do sincerely recommend that anyone interested gets the CD. You can order it online at http://www.newfrontiers.xtn.org. He and SGM remind us that the Cross isn't simply a historical event that was applicable at the time of our conversion but then no more. It has much relevance and power for us today and now!
2. They are Persuasive in Doctrine.
SGM are far more a Reformed group of churches than many and many of the conferences that they hold boast an impressive display of preaching of the Word of God. While a great deal of the preaching is "Cross centred" they do cover other subjects and indeed cover them well. They are beginning to produce a number of booklets touching on some of their key doctrines. These are called "Perspectives". C J Mahaney wrote the first one on "Sovereign Grace" (the doctrine not the group). Dave Harvey wrote the next on "Church Polity" which explains the way that they run and also their understanding of apostles today. It is telling that Mahaney has been invited to Trinity Divinity School Illinois to present a number of lectures - such is the respect in which their senior leaders are held.
3. They are Passionate in Worship.
Anyone who has seen or attended a Celebration event or indeed been to an SGM church will know that these people know how to worship vibrantly, loudly and joyfully! While their worship is not classically charismatic - in terms of a deep rooted belief in the need to be baptised with the Spirit and the gifts that result from that which are contributed freely - they do long for the "active Presence of God" (a term they have coigned from Wayne Grudem) and long to lift God high. They boast a number of gifted songwriters including Bob Kauflin and their songs of course are Cross-centred. Rather than being catchy and easy to learn and sing, they tend to be more hymn-like. They are doctrinally deep and enriching to meditate on.
4. They are Protective in Ecclesiology.
Their understanding of Biblical Manhood and Womanhood is extremely important to them - I would query perhaps too important - and C J Mahaney has said it is a "hill they would die upon". You can see that they are consistent in their church life with this doctrinal position. The women in their churches frequently study books such as Carolyn Mahaney's "Feminine Appeal" and they all strive to be submissive wives. The men too are catered for well with C J's recent contribution; "Sex Romance and the Glory of God". The key phrase for me is that he was urging the men to "touch their minds before they touch their bodies". Quite a difference to the classic Christian man today.
Their pastoring too is extremely protective. Church members are usually made to feel loved and accepted and valued. The pastors are not afraid to confront their flock but usually counter-balance any correction with "evidences of grace" - a self-made phrase that stands for encouraging what God is doing in their lives.
Help for the Spiritually Abused
I've been amazed at the feedback via emails about my postings concerning the behaviour of church leaders. So I've been searching for good articles and helps for those suffering through what has been done to them. This set of 3 articles is excellent - very pastoral and gracious from the CBN website. Well worth a read. The key point to me that is worthy of remembering is that the Lord Jesus showed a great deal of love and compassion to those truly in need of it, but showed His rare harshness towards Pharisaical leaders who tended towards judgement.
http://www.cbn.com/spirituallife/ChurchAndMinistry/Spiritual_Abuse1.asp - the links to the 2nd and 3rd part are found off this first page.
I've been amazed at the feedback via emails about my postings concerning the behaviour of church leaders. So I've been searching for good articles and helps for those suffering through what has been done to them. This set of 3 articles is excellent - very pastoral and gracious from the CBN website. Well worth a read. The key point to me that is worthy of remembering is that the Lord Jesus showed a great deal of love and compassion to those truly in need of it, but showed His rare harshness towards Pharisaical leaders who tended towards judgement.
http://www.cbn.com/spirituallife/ChurchAndMinistry/Spiritual_Abuse1.asp - the links to the 2nd and 3rd part are found off this first page.
Sunday, September 11, 2005
Going Where Angels Fear To Tread ... Again!
Some may remember I reproduced an essay I found on the internet called "No Longer Welcome?". It stimulated an interesting response as expected - and I've found another that I guess will do the same. I don't want to reproduce it all because I don't quite totally agree with Dr Roy Clements and his standpoint. For those who want to read it in its entirety it can be found at: http://www.royclements.co.uk/essays15.htm. What I have done is to reproduce the elements of the essay dealing with prejudice and stereotypes.
However I think the theme of the essay is outstanding and should be heard. I don't think it should just be limited to homosexuality (as Dr Clements wrote) - rather it can apply to ANY taboo subject that the church leaders of today seem to fear so much. Well they do in Bristol anyway.
I think the key note for me is that there is a generation rising up that refuse to allow any subject to be taboo. And on pondering that at this ridiculously early hour (it's ten to five in the morning and I'm jealous of my sleeping patients) - I think that generation is right. Yes it has spawned gay rights, yes it has spawned Pro-Choice - but don't these people have a point? Why SHOULD we listen to the "older" evangelical generation who tell us to be quiet and behave? Why SHOULD we not be able to bring our hurts, our wounds and our desperate fears and pains to the very place where (I think) the Lord Jesus said we could? Why SHOULD we have to re-adopt the evangelical mask of "Oh I'm fine" - that hated phrase!
Okay - so don't agree with Dr Clements and his pro-homosexual stance. But don't just retreat into silence tutting your Berkhof tuts about how the world is deteriorating. Come up with an alternative! And don't try to tell me that such prejudice doesn't exist in the "grace" churches of UK 2005. THEY DO!! The gauntlet has been thrown down yet again for church leaders. I just worry few will take it up.
How to avoid the charge of homophobia
Evangelical Christians who are opposed to homosexual behaviour sometimes complain that they find it impossible to express their moral objections on this score without being accused of homophobia. To some extent the complaint is probably justified. However, in many cases I suspect that the charge of prejudice is one these Christians bring upon themselves, either by the content of their opinions or the style in which they are voiced. Let me offer, therefore, a few pieces of advice to any such would-be moraliser.
1. Be sensitive
You are addressing, then, a community that has become habituated to abuse and contempt. It is not surprising if they tend to assume that all those who speak hostile words against homosexuality share the homophobic prejudice to which they have grown accustomed.
If you really want to avoid this, you must remember that all communication consists not in what is said, but in what is heard. Try putting yourself in the shoes of a gay Christian and reflect on how they are likely to understand your words. Similar efforts have to be made these days in commenting on many other sensitive areas. The police must watch their language when they challenge afro-carribean youths in Brixton. Businessmen have had to learn to speak with extra caution when dealing with female staff. Some preachers have made efforts in the direction of inclusive language. The vocabulary we choose, the jokes we crack, the stereotypes we endorse - verbal carelessness of many kinds can betray the presence of prejudice buried so deep in our vocabulary we do not even recognise its offensive potential.
However, a little pre-emptive tact is all that it takes to forestall such unjust criticisms, if you really do wish to avoid them.
2. Be rational
Prejudice, by definition, is irrational. It feeds on superstitious taboos, distorted caricatures and just plain ignorance. All these factors contribute to homophobia. Most gay Christians find it impossible to understand the reason for the Church's traditional negativism towards the kind of relationships for which their hearts yearn. They put it in the same category of embarrassing ecclesiastical gaffes as witch-trials, anti-semitism and the crusades.To them the current anti-gay movement among evangelicals seems as ludicrously out-of-date as the flat-earth society. It must reflect prejudice, they say, because it is so utterly irrational. The way to avoid this charge is to make sure your opinions are rigorously argued.
3. Be consistent
Prejudice is invariably discriminatory. It is selects a certain group of people as the object of its loathing and ignores others. It seems to the gay community that in targeting them evangelical Christians are displaying precisely this kind of selectivity. They observe that a strong case can be made, both from tradition and scripture, against usury, abortion and divorce. But evangelicals do not seem to be mounting public campaigns to have bankers, gynaecologists and divorcees excommunicated or excluded from public ministry. On the contrary, a sweet reasonableness permits such individuals to continue in fellowship. Why are gays singled out for the evangelical anathema?
Two answers are usually given to this:
The first is that homosexuality is a peculiarly serious crime. But, once again, we must know why? More serious than the cruel burden of debt inflicted on the poorest nations of the world? More serious than the dismembering of unborn children? More serious than a direct challenge to the word of Christ himself about the inviolability of the marriage bond?
The second answer is that the pro-homosexual lobby has been so brazen in its flaunting of "gay rights" that evangelicals have been forced to take counter-measures. Gays might have been allowed to stay in the closet, we are assured, but they have insisted on public recognition and awoken the sleeping dragon of moral outrage as a result.
4. Be humble
It is always easier to identify arrogance in others than in oneself. No doubt the strident assertions of some pro-gay activists lack meekness, or even courtesy. Raised voices and immoderate words are all too often symptoms of chronically inflated egos, and both the gay and anti-gay lobbies certainly have their share of these.
However, there is more dangerous form of arrogance than simple bigheadedness. Prejudice is particularly menacing when it is coupled to an arrogant assertion of absolute certainty. Of course, the response of post-modernism has been to deny all claims to absolute certainty by radically relativising the meaning of "Truth". But evangelicals refuse to throw the baby out with the bathwater in that way; and rightly so in my view. It is perfectly possible to witness to the infallibility of Scripture without surrendering to authoritarianism, and it is absolutely crucial at this juncture in the cultural history of the West that we demonstrate that possibility to the watching world. Failure to do so will result in evangelicalism being stigmatised along with the Taliban; and again, rightly so.
The only sense in which homosexuality can rightly be said to be a "defining issue" for the Church today is that it crucially tests the ability of Christians to eschew fundamentalist fanaticism and to hold the divine Word of truth in humility.
Homophobic bigotry - or just conscientious objection?
To sum up then, if you would avoid the charge of homophobia you must demonstrate:
the sensitivity that chooses tactful words;
the rationality that offers arguments rather than assertions;
the consistency that expresses equal indignation about other social issues;
and, perhaps most important of all, the humility to admit that you might be wrong.
You may complain that pro-gay speakers and writers do not show such consideration to you. Instead your sincere moral convictions have been denounced as homophobic bigotry. I acknowledge that this could be true. But, however unfair the misrepresentation of your views, the situation is not symmetric. Christian gays are not trying to eject you from the Church or from ministry, you are trying to eject them.
In law a verdict of "Not Guilty" requires only the establishment of "reasonable doubt". Even if you feel the case against gays has been proved, there are other members of the jury who are less convinced. No one wishes to shut you up, but what you say and how you say it makes a huge difference.
Some may remember I reproduced an essay I found on the internet called "No Longer Welcome?". It stimulated an interesting response as expected - and I've found another that I guess will do the same. I don't want to reproduce it all because I don't quite totally agree with Dr Roy Clements and his standpoint. For those who want to read it in its entirety it can be found at: http://www.royclements.co.uk/essays15.htm. What I have done is to reproduce the elements of the essay dealing with prejudice and stereotypes.
However I think the theme of the essay is outstanding and should be heard. I don't think it should just be limited to homosexuality (as Dr Clements wrote) - rather it can apply to ANY taboo subject that the church leaders of today seem to fear so much. Well they do in Bristol anyway.
I think the key note for me is that there is a generation rising up that refuse to allow any subject to be taboo. And on pondering that at this ridiculously early hour (it's ten to five in the morning and I'm jealous of my sleeping patients) - I think that generation is right. Yes it has spawned gay rights, yes it has spawned Pro-Choice - but don't these people have a point? Why SHOULD we listen to the "older" evangelical generation who tell us to be quiet and behave? Why SHOULD we not be able to bring our hurts, our wounds and our desperate fears and pains to the very place where (I think) the Lord Jesus said we could? Why SHOULD we have to re-adopt the evangelical mask of "Oh I'm fine" - that hated phrase!
Okay - so don't agree with Dr Clements and his pro-homosexual stance. But don't just retreat into silence tutting your Berkhof tuts about how the world is deteriorating. Come up with an alternative! And don't try to tell me that such prejudice doesn't exist in the "grace" churches of UK 2005. THEY DO!! The gauntlet has been thrown down yet again for church leaders. I just worry few will take it up.
How to avoid the charge of homophobia
Evangelical Christians who are opposed to homosexual behaviour sometimes complain that they find it impossible to express their moral objections on this score without being accused of homophobia. To some extent the complaint is probably justified. However, in many cases I suspect that the charge of prejudice is one these Christians bring upon themselves, either by the content of their opinions or the style in which they are voiced. Let me offer, therefore, a few pieces of advice to any such would-be moraliser.
1. Be sensitive
You are addressing, then, a community that has become habituated to abuse and contempt. It is not surprising if they tend to assume that all those who speak hostile words against homosexuality share the homophobic prejudice to which they have grown accustomed.
If you really want to avoid this, you must remember that all communication consists not in what is said, but in what is heard. Try putting yourself in the shoes of a gay Christian and reflect on how they are likely to understand your words. Similar efforts have to be made these days in commenting on many other sensitive areas. The police must watch their language when they challenge afro-carribean youths in Brixton. Businessmen have had to learn to speak with extra caution when dealing with female staff. Some preachers have made efforts in the direction of inclusive language. The vocabulary we choose, the jokes we crack, the stereotypes we endorse - verbal carelessness of many kinds can betray the presence of prejudice buried so deep in our vocabulary we do not even recognise its offensive potential.
However, a little pre-emptive tact is all that it takes to forestall such unjust criticisms, if you really do wish to avoid them.
2. Be rational
Prejudice, by definition, is irrational. It feeds on superstitious taboos, distorted caricatures and just plain ignorance. All these factors contribute to homophobia. Most gay Christians find it impossible to understand the reason for the Church's traditional negativism towards the kind of relationships for which their hearts yearn. They put it in the same category of embarrassing ecclesiastical gaffes as witch-trials, anti-semitism and the crusades.To them the current anti-gay movement among evangelicals seems as ludicrously out-of-date as the flat-earth society. It must reflect prejudice, they say, because it is so utterly irrational. The way to avoid this charge is to make sure your opinions are rigorously argued.
3. Be consistent
Prejudice is invariably discriminatory. It is selects a certain group of people as the object of its loathing and ignores others. It seems to the gay community that in targeting them evangelical Christians are displaying precisely this kind of selectivity. They observe that a strong case can be made, both from tradition and scripture, against usury, abortion and divorce. But evangelicals do not seem to be mounting public campaigns to have bankers, gynaecologists and divorcees excommunicated or excluded from public ministry. On the contrary, a sweet reasonableness permits such individuals to continue in fellowship. Why are gays singled out for the evangelical anathema?
Two answers are usually given to this:
The first is that homosexuality is a peculiarly serious crime. But, once again, we must know why? More serious than the cruel burden of debt inflicted on the poorest nations of the world? More serious than the dismembering of unborn children? More serious than a direct challenge to the word of Christ himself about the inviolability of the marriage bond?
The second answer is that the pro-homosexual lobby has been so brazen in its flaunting of "gay rights" that evangelicals have been forced to take counter-measures. Gays might have been allowed to stay in the closet, we are assured, but they have insisted on public recognition and awoken the sleeping dragon of moral outrage as a result.
4. Be humble
It is always easier to identify arrogance in others than in oneself. No doubt the strident assertions of some pro-gay activists lack meekness, or even courtesy. Raised voices and immoderate words are all too often symptoms of chronically inflated egos, and both the gay and anti-gay lobbies certainly have their share of these.
However, there is more dangerous form of arrogance than simple bigheadedness. Prejudice is particularly menacing when it is coupled to an arrogant assertion of absolute certainty. Of course, the response of post-modernism has been to deny all claims to absolute certainty by radically relativising the meaning of "Truth". But evangelicals refuse to throw the baby out with the bathwater in that way; and rightly so in my view. It is perfectly possible to witness to the infallibility of Scripture without surrendering to authoritarianism, and it is absolutely crucial at this juncture in the cultural history of the West that we demonstrate that possibility to the watching world. Failure to do so will result in evangelicalism being stigmatised along with the Taliban; and again, rightly so.
The only sense in which homosexuality can rightly be said to be a "defining issue" for the Church today is that it crucially tests the ability of Christians to eschew fundamentalist fanaticism and to hold the divine Word of truth in humility.
Homophobic bigotry - or just conscientious objection?
To sum up then, if you would avoid the charge of homophobia you must demonstrate:
the sensitivity that chooses tactful words;
the rationality that offers arguments rather than assertions;
the consistency that expresses equal indignation about other social issues;
and, perhaps most important of all, the humility to admit that you might be wrong.
You may complain that pro-gay speakers and writers do not show such consideration to you. Instead your sincere moral convictions have been denounced as homophobic bigotry. I acknowledge that this could be true. But, however unfair the misrepresentation of your views, the situation is not symmetric. Christian gays are not trying to eject you from the Church or from ministry, you are trying to eject them.
In law a verdict of "Not Guilty" requires only the establishment of "reasonable doubt". Even if you feel the case against gays has been proved, there are other members of the jury who are less convinced. No one wishes to shut you up, but what you say and how you say it makes a huge difference.
The Government of God by Dr Ern Baxter.
I'm still deeply challenged and stirred by the prophetic call that we got at Brighton 2005 especially through the preaching of Terry Virgo on "Gideon and the Battle of Midean". It's rare to hear such biblically grounded preaching yet with a passionate call to go and take the gospel to the lost, with the optimistic and realistic (not triumphalistic) vision of reality that we will see a glorious end-time church!! I don't think Terry would see himself as Ern Baxter's spiritual son, but to me (as a deep fan of both men) he truly has taken on Baxter's mantle.
Here's another document that I have typed up on the "Government of God". Ern Baxter gave it to the Shepherds Conference at Kansas City in 1977.
I'm still deeply challenged and stirred by the prophetic call that we got at Brighton 2005 especially through the preaching of Terry Virgo on "Gideon and the Battle of Midean". It's rare to hear such biblically grounded preaching yet with a passionate call to go and take the gospel to the lost, with the optimistic and realistic (not triumphalistic) vision of reality that we will see a glorious end-time church!! I don't think Terry would see himself as Ern Baxter's spiritual son, but to me (as a deep fan of both men) he truly has taken on Baxter's mantle.
Here's another document that I have typed up on the "Government of God". Ern Baxter gave it to the Shepherds Conference at Kansas City in 1977.
A KING WITH ALL AUTHORITY.
I also want you to know who you are. When God made you in the Garden of Eden, He said, "You’re in My Image and I baptized you to run the world. I want you to fill it, subdue it, and ruleover it. I made you just a little lower than Myself, and I crown you with glory and honor. I want you to run the world."Now Adam blew it, and when Adam blew it, the devil started a lie. The devil said, "Well, when Adam blew it, I received the authority," but that’s a lie. The devil never received the authority. When Adam blew it,God reached down, took the scroll of authority out of Adam’s hand, andsaid, "I’ll hang on to this until a Man comes who can handle it." For4,000 years the devil went around sowing his lie. Yes, Adam blew it, but the devil never received the authority; God has it.
John tells us about his beautiful vision after Jesus returned to Heaven. He says, "I was caught up and I went into the throne room. There were 24 elders, and 4 living creatures, and I saw the One who sat upon thethrone." (See Revelation 4.) At this point we become excited, thinking,He’s going to tell us what God looks like. Well, John said He looks like a jasper and a sardine stone (that’s a big help), but remember, the Bookof Revelation is a book of symbols (see Rev. 4:3). By the throne was ascroll, the title deed to the universe. It was the thing that Adamcouldn’t fulfill. (It wasn’t a book. They didn’t have books in thosedays.) The scroll was sealed with seven seals, and a voice cried out,"Who is worthy to take the scroll and break the seals thereof?" (SeeRevelation 5.) If there was ever a time when satan with his big mouthcould have stepped up and said, "I can take it because I got the authority," it was at that moment.The devil didn’t open his mouth. He didn’t raise a whisper. Not a demon stirred; the whole region of hell was silent. There wasn’t a man who stepped forward – no Stalin, no Nero, no Freud or Nietzsche. There was no great human person who came forward. All humanity was silent. The ranks of celestial hosts – archangels, seraphim, and cherubim – were silent.The universe was silent as One sat holding the scroll, and in that scrollwas the redemption of man. John knew that, and when no one was found worthy to take the scroll andbreak the seal, he began to cry. He knew what was wrong. Then one of theelders came up and tapped him on the shoulder. He said, "Don’t cry, John.There is One who is worthy. The Lion of the tribe of Judah is worthy totake the scroll and break its seals." John wiped his eyes and lookedaround for a lion. John knew what a lion looked like. At least, he thought he knew what a lion looked like, but as he looked around for alion, out of the throne came a Lamb. John was certain the elder had said there was a lion. Now not only was that Lion a Lamb, but it was a strange Lamb because It had seven eyes and seven horns. It also looked like itwas newly slain; It was covered with fresh blood. (See Revelation 5:1-8.)
The Book of Revelation was written in A.D. 96. That means that some 56 years after the death of Jesus Christ, John saw the Lamb coming out ofthe throne with the blood still fresh upon Him. He had seven horns, whichspeaks of all power. He had seven eyes, which speaks of all knowledge,and He is the Lion of the tribe of Judah. He is the Lion of the tribe ofJudah because He is the Lamb of God. It was at the cross of Calvary thatthe Lamb of God received the authority to become the Lion.His blood is still fresh before God for us. It continues to speak for usbefore God because the blood of Jesus Christ has never lost its power. Jesus is enthroned there by virtue of His precious blood. It was He who took the scroll and broke the seals thereof. When He broke the first seal, the rider on the white horse, which is righteousness, went forth conquering and to ultimately conquer (see Rev.6:1-2).
When Jesus went to Heaven, He released righteousness to run downthrough the pages of history. Before history winds up, righteousness will rule. Darkness will be defeated; Christ will be Lord indeed; and the glory of the Lord will cover the earth as the waters cover the sea (seeHab. 2:14).
Let’s take a look at Peter’s message following the advent of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost: "Fellow Israelites, listen carefully to these words:Jesus the Nazarene, a man thoroughly accredited by God to you -- the miracles and wonders and signs that God did through him are common knowledge – this Jesus, following the deliberate and well-thought-out plan of God, was betrayed by men who took the law into their own hands,and was handed over to you. And you pinned him to a cross and killed him. But God untied the death ropes and raised him up. Death was no match forhim. David said it all: ‘I saw God before me for all time. Nothing canshake me; he’s right by my side.’" ™ (Acts 2:22-25). In Chapter 3 we discussed that every time you read about David in the NewTestament, it’s talking about government (royalty). In this passage,we’re talking about kingship. Isn’t it interesting that when we talk about the coming of the Holy Spirit, we’re not talking about Adam (race), Abraham (relationship), or Moses (covenant)?
Instead we talk about David, royal government. "David said it all: ‘I saw God before me for all time. Nothing can shake me; he’s right by my side. I’m glad from the inside out, ecstatic; I’ve pitched my tent in the land of hope. I know you’ll never dump me in Hades; I’ll never even smell the stench of death. You’ve got my feet on the life-path, with your face shining sun-joy all around.’Dear friends, let me be completely frank with you. Our ancestor David isdead and buried – his tomb is in plain sight today. But being also aprophet and knowing that God had solemnly sworn that a descendant of his would rule his kingdom, seeing far ahead, he talked of the resurrectionof the Messiah – ‘no trip to Hades, no stench of death.’ This Jesus, God raised up. And every one of us here is a witness to it. ™ (Acts 2:25-32).
According to this passage, Jesus assumed the throne of David at the resurrection. He became King at the resurrection. He’s not waiting in some little anteroom in Heaven waiting to become King. He’s been King for2,000 years. He’s been ruling history for 2,000 years. He’s got the wholething in hand, and He knows exactly what He’s going to do. The plan isall in the scroll. He’s worthy to take the scroll, break the seals, andbring history to a proper conclusion – and He’s going to do it by the Holy Ghost. FELLOW WITNESSES, RULERS, AND PRIESTS. "This Jesus, God raised up, And every one of us here is a witness to it. Then, raised to the heights atthe right hand of God and receiving the promise of the Holy Spirit fromthe Father, he poured out the Spirit he had just received. That is what you see and hear." ™ (Acts 2:32-33).When Jesus ascended, He fulfilled all the Old Testament prophecies andpromises concerning kingship that were made to David and the prophets. So when Jesus ascended and took His throne, He was anointed like kings are anointed; He was anointed with the Holy Spirit to assume His kinglyposition. The Holy Spirit flowed down over Him, right on down to 120 of His followers below. They became filled with the Holy Spirit, the Spiritof kingship and authority. I want to know what God is going to do with the nations. I want to know how God’s going to wind up history, and I start to get a hint here.
When God anointed Jesus of Nazareth as King at the resurrection and ascension,He sent the Holy Spirit. He sent the Holy Spirit to bless you, make youhappy, make you talk in tongues, prophesy, and sing choruses, to give you goose bumps and make your hair stand on end – all of that is part of the package. However, He also sent the Holy Spirit to make you a fellow king.You are a king and a priest. You are a worshiper, but you’re also a ruler.As I look at many Christians today, they’re usually the saddest bunch ofkings I’ve ever seen. You just can’t go by appearance; you may be knock-kneed, sawed-off, pigeon-toed, bowlegged, lop-eared, baldheaded,and cockeyed, but by the inspiration of the Word of God, I can draw back the door of your heart and see the Holy Spirit of the risen Jesus sittingon the throne of your heart. You may not have a crown on your head or bewearing a purple robe. You may not look like a king, but you are still aking. You have the Spirit of a King. You have the Spirit of authority in you, and you are made to rule. Do you understand that your church community with its elders is not just a fellowship of Spirit-filled people who praise God and sing choruses? Do you know what you are? You are a local representation of the governmentof God. Your elders are rulers, not over you, but are rulers under God over your area.
This may seem strange to you, but I want to explain something. Most likely where you live you have mayors and aldermen. What’s an alderman? Alderman is another word for an elderman or an elder. We often talk about the city fathers. You have city fathers in your church communities, andyou should honor them. Let’s use an imaginary place called McGurkel’s Crossing for anillustration. Mayor McGillecutty is the mayor of McGurkel’s Crossing, and there’s six or seven aldermen. There’s also a Christian body in that community who meets on Sunday mornings. They sing nice songs, and the preacher stands up to encourage them to hang on for another week because the bus may be coming. They’re just enduring to the end, but all the timethey’ve failed to realize that they are actually the superior governmental people in that community. The elders and people of that local Christian body are an extension of the Trinity to represent the overnment of God in that area. AUTHORITY TO BRING CHANGE.
The first thing I want you to do is pray. Pray every way you know how, for everyone you know. Pray especially for rulers and their governments to rule well so we can be quietly about our business of living simply, in humble contemplation. This is the way our Savior God wants us to live. He wants not only us but everyone saved, you know, everyone to get to know the truth we’ve learned: that there’s oneGod and only one, and one Priest-Mediator between God and us – Jesus." ™(1 Timothy 2:1-5). What is Paul teaching us here? When you come together, first of all,before you pray for Grandma’s gout, little Johnny’s tummy ache, and money to pay… Before you pray for anything else, before you pray for the missionaries, before you pray for God to bless the pastor so he won’t put us all to sleep… Before you pray any of those kinds of prayers, Paul said, "First of all, most important of all, pray for all men everywhere,for rulers and those that are in authority over you, that we might lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness, for God would have all men tobe saved and come to a knowledge of the truth."
I believe in the separation of church and state, but I don’t believe inthe separation of God and state. I believe that the powers that be are ordained of God. I believe that our President and his cabinets, our mayors and aldermen, are all under the direct oversight of God Almighty. They reign and rule by His permission, whether their rule is good, bad,or indifferent. I also want you to know that the people of God, the congregation of God in any local area, are a higher governmental orderthan that earthly order.I’m not speaking evil of established authorities, but I am saying that ifthe people of God in an area will get it together, and their elders will get it together, when you come together pray first of all for all those in authority around you. When you do so you will release the power of rulership into the secular community of your area. You will stop crime.You’ll stem unrighteousness. You’ll change the minds of mayors andaldermen. You’ll alter the thrust of government. You can change thedirection of nations, for you are a ruler. Your elders are rulers. You’rerulers, and you’re kings. You were sent here to rule in Christ’s name and bring the disciples, the nations, under the Lordship of Christ.You are a king. I want you to act like a king. "For the weapons of ourwarfare are not carnal" (2 Cor. 10:4a).
We’re not going to go out and raise money to buy bombs; I’ve already got a bomb in my spirit that can blow up the world. I believe Jesus Christ is at this very moment literally sitting on the throne of the universe. He has a body, a human body of flesh and bone that is 33-and-a-half-years old. It hasn’t wrinkled in those 2,000 years because He alone has immortality. I believethat when He ascended to Heaven, He sent the Holy Spirit to indwell His people so they might share with Him in the oversight of the universe. He wants you to start to rule and govern in your area by your corporate release of righteousness through your prayers for rulers, governors, and those who are in authority. When that starts to happen across the world, governments will start to change. Social mores will change. At a given moment your prayers that have been bottled up at the throne of God will be turned upside down. There will be thunders and lightnings, for God will not only change people’s minds, He will also start to remove people. Judgment will start to fall; judgment is salvation. God will start to alter things. You’ve got to start to believe this is God’s world and that this is your world as representatives of God. You have the power to change things where youlive because you are kings. More than 3,000 people responded and were saved as a result of thePentecost message (see Acts 2:40-47). They were the seed of a thriving, growing community. The bottom line of Acts 2 is not about becoming filledwith the Holy Ghost to be able to go to Heaven; it’s about being filledwith the Holy Ghost to become a community of power. The scandal of modern Christianity is its division. Until we can find and accept one another in our various geographical localities and start to behave like kings andpriests, we’re not going to fulfill our destiny to change the order ofthings.
Nuts To Crack - A List of Paradoxes from C H Spurgeon
I was reading through the Sword and Trowel November 1874 edition and found this short piece. It's vintage:
The Christian is one who is to be plainly seen, and yet his life is hidden; he is a man in the world, but not a man of the world; he converses with other men, and yet his conversation is in heaven.He is one who lives to die, and dies to live; yet he is dead while he lives, and lives when he dies.He is one who lives in another, and for another; he seeks not himself when he aims most at his own good; God is his all, and his all is God; he aims at no end but the glory of God, of which there is no end.
I was reading through the Sword and Trowel November 1874 edition and found this short piece. It's vintage:
The Christian is one who is to be plainly seen, and yet his life is hidden; he is a man in the world, but not a man of the world; he converses with other men, and yet his conversation is in heaven.He is one who lives to die, and dies to live; yet he is dead while he lives, and lives when he dies.He is one who lives in another, and for another; he seeks not himself when he aims most at his own good; God is his all, and his all is God; he aims at no end but the glory of God, of which there is no end.
Tuesday, August 30, 2005
Meditations of a Book-ophile
Dr Sam Storms wrote an extremely stimulating article on his "bottom 10" list - the ten books that he has read or reviewed and found most harmful; http://samstorms.com/article2.asp?id=572 - I am very concious that a lot of what I have written can be construed as somewhat negative or critical - therefore (as yet) I will resist that temptation to join him as enjoyable as that seems. I particularly enjoyed his description of John MacArthur's hideous book; "Charismatic Chaos". He wrote:
“Charismatic Chaos,” by John MacArthur (Zondervan). I have tremendous respect for MacArthur and cherish him as a brother in Christ. But this book is bad. It takes the worst in the Pentecostal-Charismatic world (and yes, there are some pretty bad things in that world) and portrays them as typical of charismatics in general. His arguments for cessationism and against the contemporary validity of so-called miraculous spiritual gifts is extremely weak. But I want to say again how much I appreciate most of the other books MacArthur has written.
So this list is my top ten favourite books that I have recently read:
1. "Joy Unspeakable" by Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones (Kingsway).
This book was crucial in providing the most solid foundation to my experience of receiving the baptism of the Spirit. As yet I have not read a book that proves the Doctor was wrong - therefore here I stand! Not only does he prove that historical event, but he goes on to gloriously urge for fillings of the Spirit and indeed the greater work of revival which he understands as a mass baptism of the Spirit - which I also believe.
2. "Does the Future Have a Church?" by Terry Virgo (Kingsway).
An absolutely outstanding book which is exegetical in outlook going through Ephesians 2 - 4. It paints a glorious canopy of the Church - the Bride of Jesus Christ. In the face of church closure, in the face of the multitude of church failures we are justified in asking - does the church have a future? Terry goes through carefully and biblically showing that not only does the church have a future, but it is a glorious one in which Jesus shall reign and rule through His people!
3. "God's Radiant Church" by John Hosier (Kingsway.
Similar yet radically different to the above. Hosier has penned the best "Systematic Theology for New Frontiers" that is possible. It is packed full of the doctrines and truths that we hold and love. He covers grace - restoration - revival - spiritual gifts - apostles. There is truly something for everyone who believes that the church should be somewhat more than the disgrace it is at the moment. Together with Virgo's book - these two tomes will transform your view of church life forever!!
4. "When I don't desire God - how to fight for joy" by John Piper.
Sam Storms describes this book as; "getting a desire you don't have and can't create". It has touched the very heart of what is the problem with most churches and most Christians. As Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones wrote in his "Spiritual Depression" - miserable Christians are a disgrace to the gospel of Jesus Christ and are essentially an extremely poor witness. As are miserable churches. We do not want a flippant and inane grin on the other hand! What both Dr's Piper and Lloyd-Jones were seeking is a deep, glorious joy in the beauty of God.
What particuarly scratches where I itch is that Piper wrecks the notion that such joy is to be found in modern paper-backs and easy believism. He writes:
'I would challenge you to throw off the notion that weighty books of doctrine are joy-squelching, while light devotional books are joy-producing. It's true that the joy of serious reading and the thinking that goes with it (sometimes called study) may not be as immediate as the joy of singing in church, or seeing a sunset, or talking with a friend, or hearing a preacher with lots of stories. But the payload for joy may be greater. Raking is easier than digging, but you only get leaves. If you dig you may get diamonds' (emphasis mine).
5. "Showing the Spirit - A theological exposition of 1 Corinthians 12 - 14" by Dr D A Carson.
Cessationism is dead.
The only disappointment is his (like many other theologians who can't allow for a distinct experience of the Holy Spirit after conversion) obsession with 1 Corinthians 12:13. Read Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones on it! This verse has NOTHING to do with the baptism of the Spirit!
6. "The Gift of Prophecy" by Dr Wayne Grudem.
The most amazingly deep examination of the gift of prophecy ever written. It is truly exhaustive and surely should be on all prophets and pastors desks. Dr Kenneth Gentry attempted a refutation of this book but for all the excellent promise he usually shows in his writings, did not manage it - quite.
7. "A God Entranced Vision of All Things - the legacy of Jonathan Edwards" - edited by John Piper and Justin Taylor.
The Desiring God Ministries Conference held in 2004 put into print. Not only is this an absolutely rich and deep insight into one of the greatest Puritan/Revivalist/Reformers in the 18th century, but it also gathers together a whole host of essays from the foremost academics and writers in the world. We are privy to a treasure trove of men devoted to the glory and beauty and wonder of God - who's passionate desire is that we encounter the God Edwards loved and adored through Edwards and his writings.
8. Volume 4 of the Works of Dr John Owen; "On Mortification of Sin". (Banner of Truth).
C S Lewis said that to avoid academic snobbery, every third book that one reads should be outside his century. Therefore in adhering to that rule I very often find myself going to Dr John Owen and his works. They are exhaustive - yet one never can exhaust them. Volume 4 is one of the most easy to read because Owen's pastor's heart really shines through in his desire for men to mortify the flesh. There is even a hint of "Christian hedonism" shining through for the careful readers. Well worth the work.
9. "God's Passion for His Glory" by Dr John Piper.
This book is kind of a cheat because you get Jonathan Edwards hidden among John Piper - two greats together for the price of one book. Piper's amazing academic skills are evident in the republishing of this most important work of Jonathan Edwards. You can see his love and respect for Edwards in his biographical statements as well as the evidence of a long walk with the great man. But the Edwards work itself is just amazing - each page takes you deeper and deeper into God and a desire just grows to know God more as you learn about the end for which God created the world.
10. "The Sermons of Dr Stanley Jebb".
I am kind of cheating on this one too because these are audiotapes I am talking about. Yet they are worthy of book format. In leaving West St (my home church) I was fortunate enough to take about fifty sermon tapes of my former pastor Dr Jebb with me. Each of his sermons are masterful in his understanding of the Word of God. He is vigilent to get to the bottom of the text yet each sermon is undergirded with deep passionate prayer and a desire to show his people something more of the God that he also loves. On the academic side I do not think there is a more outstanding preacher in the UK today - he is a doctor of theology and well deserves it. On the spiritual side, each sermon is exhaustive and also never exhausted. I always learn something new about his text when I've finished listening to it.
Dr Sam Storms wrote an extremely stimulating article on his "bottom 10" list - the ten books that he has read or reviewed and found most harmful; http://samstorms.com/article2.asp?id=572 - I am very concious that a lot of what I have written can be construed as somewhat negative or critical - therefore (as yet) I will resist that temptation to join him as enjoyable as that seems. I particularly enjoyed his description of John MacArthur's hideous book; "Charismatic Chaos". He wrote:
“Charismatic Chaos,” by John MacArthur (Zondervan). I have tremendous respect for MacArthur and cherish him as a brother in Christ. But this book is bad. It takes the worst in the Pentecostal-Charismatic world (and yes, there are some pretty bad things in that world) and portrays them as typical of charismatics in general. His arguments for cessationism and against the contemporary validity of so-called miraculous spiritual gifts is extremely weak. But I want to say again how much I appreciate most of the other books MacArthur has written.
So this list is my top ten favourite books that I have recently read:
1. "Joy Unspeakable" by Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones (Kingsway).
This book was crucial in providing the most solid foundation to my experience of receiving the baptism of the Spirit. As yet I have not read a book that proves the Doctor was wrong - therefore here I stand! Not only does he prove that historical event, but he goes on to gloriously urge for fillings of the Spirit and indeed the greater work of revival which he understands as a mass baptism of the Spirit - which I also believe.
2. "Does the Future Have a Church?" by Terry Virgo (Kingsway).
An absolutely outstanding book which is exegetical in outlook going through Ephesians 2 - 4. It paints a glorious canopy of the Church - the Bride of Jesus Christ. In the face of church closure, in the face of the multitude of church failures we are justified in asking - does the church have a future? Terry goes through carefully and biblically showing that not only does the church have a future, but it is a glorious one in which Jesus shall reign and rule through His people!
3. "God's Radiant Church" by John Hosier (Kingsway.
Similar yet radically different to the above. Hosier has penned the best "Systematic Theology for New Frontiers" that is possible. It is packed full of the doctrines and truths that we hold and love. He covers grace - restoration - revival - spiritual gifts - apostles. There is truly something for everyone who believes that the church should be somewhat more than the disgrace it is at the moment. Together with Virgo's book - these two tomes will transform your view of church life forever!!
4. "When I don't desire God - how to fight for joy" by John Piper.
Sam Storms describes this book as; "getting a desire you don't have and can't create". It has touched the very heart of what is the problem with most churches and most Christians. As Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones wrote in his "Spiritual Depression" - miserable Christians are a disgrace to the gospel of Jesus Christ and are essentially an extremely poor witness. As are miserable churches. We do not want a flippant and inane grin on the other hand! What both Dr's Piper and Lloyd-Jones were seeking is a deep, glorious joy in the beauty of God.
What particuarly scratches where I itch is that Piper wrecks the notion that such joy is to be found in modern paper-backs and easy believism. He writes:
'I would challenge you to throw off the notion that weighty books of doctrine are joy-squelching, while light devotional books are joy-producing. It's true that the joy of serious reading and the thinking that goes with it (sometimes called study) may not be as immediate as the joy of singing in church, or seeing a sunset, or talking with a friend, or hearing a preacher with lots of stories. But the payload for joy may be greater. Raking is easier than digging, but you only get leaves. If you dig you may get diamonds' (emphasis mine).
5. "Showing the Spirit - A theological exposition of 1 Corinthians 12 - 14" by Dr D A Carson.
Cessationism is dead.
The only disappointment is his (like many other theologians who can't allow for a distinct experience of the Holy Spirit after conversion) obsession with 1 Corinthians 12:13. Read Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones on it! This verse has NOTHING to do with the baptism of the Spirit!
6. "The Gift of Prophecy" by Dr Wayne Grudem.
The most amazingly deep examination of the gift of prophecy ever written. It is truly exhaustive and surely should be on all prophets and pastors desks. Dr Kenneth Gentry attempted a refutation of this book but for all the excellent promise he usually shows in his writings, did not manage it - quite.
7. "A God Entranced Vision of All Things - the legacy of Jonathan Edwards" - edited by John Piper and Justin Taylor.
The Desiring God Ministries Conference held in 2004 put into print. Not only is this an absolutely rich and deep insight into one of the greatest Puritan/Revivalist/Reformers in the 18th century, but it also gathers together a whole host of essays from the foremost academics and writers in the world. We are privy to a treasure trove of men devoted to the glory and beauty and wonder of God - who's passionate desire is that we encounter the God Edwards loved and adored through Edwards and his writings.
8. Volume 4 of the Works of Dr John Owen; "On Mortification of Sin". (Banner of Truth).
C S Lewis said that to avoid academic snobbery, every third book that one reads should be outside his century. Therefore in adhering to that rule I very often find myself going to Dr John Owen and his works. They are exhaustive - yet one never can exhaust them. Volume 4 is one of the most easy to read because Owen's pastor's heart really shines through in his desire for men to mortify the flesh. There is even a hint of "Christian hedonism" shining through for the careful readers. Well worth the work.
9. "God's Passion for His Glory" by Dr John Piper.
This book is kind of a cheat because you get Jonathan Edwards hidden among John Piper - two greats together for the price of one book. Piper's amazing academic skills are evident in the republishing of this most important work of Jonathan Edwards. You can see his love and respect for Edwards in his biographical statements as well as the evidence of a long walk with the great man. But the Edwards work itself is just amazing - each page takes you deeper and deeper into God and a desire just grows to know God more as you learn about the end for which God created the world.
10. "The Sermons of Dr Stanley Jebb".
I am kind of cheating on this one too because these are audiotapes I am talking about. Yet they are worthy of book format. In leaving West St (my home church) I was fortunate enough to take about fifty sermon tapes of my former pastor Dr Jebb with me. Each of his sermons are masterful in his understanding of the Word of God. He is vigilent to get to the bottom of the text yet each sermon is undergirded with deep passionate prayer and a desire to show his people something more of the God that he also loves. On the academic side I do not think there is a more outstanding preacher in the UK today - he is a doctor of theology and well deserves it. On the spiritual side, each sermon is exhaustive and also never exhausted. I always learn something new about his text when I've finished listening to it.
Friday, August 26, 2005
LOST
They do say you find quotes in the most unlikely of places. I was watching the new Channel 4 thriller, "Lost" the other day and two of the characters were in conversation. And one of them came out with this profound quote:
"LEADERS CANNOT LEAD UNTIL THEY KNOW WHERE THEY ARE GOING".
Think about it ...
They do say you find quotes in the most unlikely of places. I was watching the new Channel 4 thriller, "Lost" the other day and two of the characters were in conversation. And one of them came out with this profound quote:
"LEADERS CANNOT LEAD UNTIL THEY KNOW WHERE THEY ARE GOING".
Think about it ...
Tuesday, August 23, 2005
A Rapidly Diminishing Fire.
So C J Mahaney preached at John MacArthur's church in California on Sunday.
http://www.reformation21.org/Reformation_21_Blog/Reformation_21_Blog/58/?vobId=617&pm=114
Ligon Duncan is pretty excited about it: "In my opinion, that is a sign of good things quietly astir in the evangelical and Reformed community today - new networks of friendship, kinship in the truth and cooperation in ministry. And it's something you wouldn't have guessed twenty years ago".
But I take a different line on it. C J Mahaney and SGM have prided themselves on being both Reformed and Charismatic, yet even in the 2 years that I spent mixing in their circles I noticed a definite but subtle shift in emphasis so that the "Reformed" track became stronger and stronger - and the charismatic less and less. Key points were the release of Jeff Purswell's paper on the Baptism of the Holy Spirit - highly acclaimed by Mahaney. They used to hold to a second blessing theology - now they don't hold to any. Or in other words churches can believe what they like. The aim of this was to make Reformed churches more happy to join SGM.
And now this. John MacArthur may be an admirable man and indeed I enjoy some of his books but he is still a vehement anti-charismatic. Doesn't it intrigue the reader that he would allow Mahaney into his pulpit? Such a man would strike me as being highly protective of his pulpit and would ONLY allow someone who he totally trusted - so it seems that MacArthur would detect nothing of Mahaney's "charismatic" emphasis at all. Hence Sunday.
Now this isn't a problem - if Mahaney and SGM want to be Reformed and anti-charismatic as they seem to be drifting, that is fine. They are still brothers in Christ - we still stand around the one and same Gospel. But doesn't anyone seem to appreciate that the Holy Spirit IS the dynamic of the Gospel they hold to? My feelings are that Mahaney doesn't have a true apostolic gift because my understanding of modern apostles are that they father and found - C J Mahaney on the other hand strikes one as easily persuaded and affected by those he spends much time with.
My prediction - and it isn't a prophecy is that within a few years SGM won't have that "charismatic emphasis" (whatever that is) that they cling to and will be resolutely Reformed and possibly anti-charismatic.
So C J Mahaney preached at John MacArthur's church in California on Sunday.
http://www.reformation21.org/Reformation_21_Blog/Reformation_21_Blog/58/?vobId=617&pm=114
Ligon Duncan is pretty excited about it: "In my opinion, that is a sign of good things quietly astir in the evangelical and Reformed community today - new networks of friendship, kinship in the truth and cooperation in ministry. And it's something you wouldn't have guessed twenty years ago".
But I take a different line on it. C J Mahaney and SGM have prided themselves on being both Reformed and Charismatic, yet even in the 2 years that I spent mixing in their circles I noticed a definite but subtle shift in emphasis so that the "Reformed" track became stronger and stronger - and the charismatic less and less. Key points were the release of Jeff Purswell's paper on the Baptism of the Holy Spirit - highly acclaimed by Mahaney. They used to hold to a second blessing theology - now they don't hold to any. Or in other words churches can believe what they like. The aim of this was to make Reformed churches more happy to join SGM.
And now this. John MacArthur may be an admirable man and indeed I enjoy some of his books but he is still a vehement anti-charismatic. Doesn't it intrigue the reader that he would allow Mahaney into his pulpit? Such a man would strike me as being highly protective of his pulpit and would ONLY allow someone who he totally trusted - so it seems that MacArthur would detect nothing of Mahaney's "charismatic" emphasis at all. Hence Sunday.
Now this isn't a problem - if Mahaney and SGM want to be Reformed and anti-charismatic as they seem to be drifting, that is fine. They are still brothers in Christ - we still stand around the one and same Gospel. But doesn't anyone seem to appreciate that the Holy Spirit IS the dynamic of the Gospel they hold to? My feelings are that Mahaney doesn't have a true apostolic gift because my understanding of modern apostles are that they father and found - C J Mahaney on the other hand strikes one as easily persuaded and affected by those he spends much time with.
My prediction - and it isn't a prophecy is that within a few years SGM won't have that "charismatic emphasis" (whatever that is) that they cling to and will be resolutely Reformed and possibly anti-charismatic.
Friday, August 19, 2005
The Gift of Prophecy
One of the highlights of attending the Life in the Spirit Conference 2005 was hearing Dr Sam Storms preach on the gift of prophecy - it was Word and Spirit personified in my opinion. Not only did he bring a clear exposition of some key texts but afterwards ministered in power. However the one fascinating verse that he mentioned but didn't quite explain satisfactorily to me was 1 Timothy1:18 the focal point being: that BY THEM you fight the good fight.
By what? By the prophecies given to him!!Clear as crystal! So i am arguing that if we forget the words given us, if we ignore the words given us or if we deny prophecy is for today we will not fight as effective a fight as we should!! Why is this so important?
Well 1. Prophecy reminds me that i am significant!
We are all good at remembering not tothink of ourselves more highly than we ought. That has been my particular experience. My home church and indeed the SGM church I used to attend specialised in telling us that we should not think of ourselves more highly than we ought. Indeed quite often they would remind us that we are far worse than we think. That is a correct observation in part because the follow through is that it opens up the pure grace of God and the marvel and wonder of 'sins forgiven and conscience cleansed'. But i suspect some of us are not so good at remembering by the grace of God i am what i am!! That too is a verse in the Bible! What about the fact that because of His great love for us God chose us before the foundation of the world that we should be regenerated, justified, sanctified and glorified? Prophecy tells us who we are! It tells us that God has turned the smile of His favour upon us!
2. Prophecy tells us we have a future of hope!
In His supreme sovereignity only God truly knows every step of the future. It is cloudy to us as that great Jedi Master Yoda would say. Yet from time to time He will draw back the veil and speak inprophecy to say, This is the way - walk ye in it.Pilgrim was taken up a number of mountains on hisjourney and shown the way ahead, especially the Delectable Mountains where he saw the celestial city. I think this speaks of the insight that the gift of prophecy brings! Surely this tied to vision will inspire us to those acts of faith! There is no song I love to sing more than that glorious New Frontiers song; "We will meet Him in the air! Then we will be like Him!". How can we truly grasp that truth without glimpses and tastes of that amazing future to come without the gift of prophecy?
3rdly Prophecy tells us of the Fathers passion for us.
In the poem Footprints he looked and saw one set of prints. Yet it was only when Jesus spoke that he understood. He was being carried! And sometimes our experience can mirror that of the one in the poem. We look back in our lives through the toughest experiences of all time that we know and see only one set of footprints. That is where I am at the moment. I look back and see how I was "disfellowshipped" from a church that carries the banner "grace" over it and still don't quite understand why it happened - I see only one set of footprints. My only crime was to be honest about my struggles. Yet I strongly believe that in time God will speak and explain in part. Even if He doesn't - then I will understand on that great and glorious day and to that end I have to be content.
I believe New Frontiers demonstrate each of these points so well. They have remembered prophecies from the past that have given them an insight into the future. That have spoken of their significance in their mission and how the Father is passionate bout them!! If it is true for them, how also for us! Yes some prophecies are instantly applicable and beneficial. But i think many need to be truly weighed and allowed to sink deep into our soulsand bear fruit! Thats why i have made a practice ofwriting down every prophecy given to me - right back to when i was dedicated by Alex Buchanan!! You neverknow when a word given will be given a NOW activation from heaven!! so in closing i would urge you not to beswift in writing off any words you may have given or words to you. You never know when it will make sense and fire your spirit into a furnace!! I wonder if theone thing we could learn is not to be hasty in putting time limits that we give to people. That isnt a problem! But lets be sure our time frame matches Gods!!
One of the highlights of attending the Life in the Spirit Conference 2005 was hearing Dr Sam Storms preach on the gift of prophecy - it was Word and Spirit personified in my opinion. Not only did he bring a clear exposition of some key texts but afterwards ministered in power. However the one fascinating verse that he mentioned but didn't quite explain satisfactorily to me was 1 Timothy1:18 the focal point being: that BY THEM you fight the good fight.
By what? By the prophecies given to him!!Clear as crystal! So i am arguing that if we forget the words given us, if we ignore the words given us or if we deny prophecy is for today we will not fight as effective a fight as we should!! Why is this so important?
Well 1. Prophecy reminds me that i am significant!
We are all good at remembering not tothink of ourselves more highly than we ought. That has been my particular experience. My home church and indeed the SGM church I used to attend specialised in telling us that we should not think of ourselves more highly than we ought. Indeed quite often they would remind us that we are far worse than we think. That is a correct observation in part because the follow through is that it opens up the pure grace of God and the marvel and wonder of 'sins forgiven and conscience cleansed'. But i suspect some of us are not so good at remembering by the grace of God i am what i am!! That too is a verse in the Bible! What about the fact that because of His great love for us God chose us before the foundation of the world that we should be regenerated, justified, sanctified and glorified? Prophecy tells us who we are! It tells us that God has turned the smile of His favour upon us!
2. Prophecy tells us we have a future of hope!
In His supreme sovereignity only God truly knows every step of the future. It is cloudy to us as that great Jedi Master Yoda would say. Yet from time to time He will draw back the veil and speak inprophecy to say, This is the way - walk ye in it.Pilgrim was taken up a number of mountains on hisjourney and shown the way ahead, especially the Delectable Mountains where he saw the celestial city. I think this speaks of the insight that the gift of prophecy brings! Surely this tied to vision will inspire us to those acts of faith! There is no song I love to sing more than that glorious New Frontiers song; "We will meet Him in the air! Then we will be like Him!". How can we truly grasp that truth without glimpses and tastes of that amazing future to come without the gift of prophecy?
3rdly Prophecy tells us of the Fathers passion for us.
In the poem Footprints he looked and saw one set of prints. Yet it was only when Jesus spoke that he understood. He was being carried! And sometimes our experience can mirror that of the one in the poem. We look back in our lives through the toughest experiences of all time that we know and see only one set of footprints. That is where I am at the moment. I look back and see how I was "disfellowshipped" from a church that carries the banner "grace" over it and still don't quite understand why it happened - I see only one set of footprints. My only crime was to be honest about my struggles. Yet I strongly believe that in time God will speak and explain in part. Even if He doesn't - then I will understand on that great and glorious day and to that end I have to be content.
I believe New Frontiers demonstrate each of these points so well. They have remembered prophecies from the past that have given them an insight into the future. That have spoken of their significance in their mission and how the Father is passionate bout them!! If it is true for them, how also for us! Yes some prophecies are instantly applicable and beneficial. But i think many need to be truly weighed and allowed to sink deep into our soulsand bear fruit! Thats why i have made a practice ofwriting down every prophecy given to me - right back to when i was dedicated by Alex Buchanan!! You neverknow when a word given will be given a NOW activation from heaven!! so in closing i would urge you not to beswift in writing off any words you may have given or words to you. You never know when it will make sense and fire your spirit into a furnace!! I wonder if theone thing we could learn is not to be hasty in putting time limits that we give to people. That isnt a problem! But lets be sure our time frame matches Gods!!
Thursday, August 18, 2005
Holy Spirit Bibliography
While we are on the subject of the Holy Spirit ... a complete and utter favourite of mine by the way. My best friend and soulmate Scott became a Christian at the Brighton Leaders Conference 2005 and got baptised in the Spirit that night - my evangelising to him was somewhat avant garde - he knew about the Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts and revival before he knew about Jesus Christ and His death and resurrection .... oops.
I've compiled a bibliography of some of my favourite books or ones that I have most referred to on every subject possible about the Holy Spirit. Worth making note of for further study!
DIVINE HEALING
Barron, Bruce. The Health and Wealth Gospel. Downers Grove: Inter-Varsity Press, 1987.
Baxter, J. Sidlow. Divine Healing of the Body. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1979.
Blue, Ken. Authority to Heal. Downers Grove: Inter-Varsity Press, 1987.
Bosworth, F. F. Christ the Healer. Old Tappan: Fleming H. Revell, 1973.
Brand, Paul, with Yancey, Philip. ?A Surgeon's View of Divine Healing.? Christianity Today, November 25, 1983, 14-21.
Brown, Michael L. Israel's Divine Healer. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1995.*
Capps, Charles. Paul?s Thorn in the Flesh. Dallas: Word of Faith, 1983.
Clapp, Rodney. ?Faith Healing: A Look at What's Happening.? Christianity Today, December 16, 1983, 12-17.
Colson, Charles. ?My Cancer and the Good Health Gospel.? Christianity Today, April 3, 1987, 56.
Copeland, Gloria. And Jesus Healed Them All. Ft. Worth: KCP 1984.
_____. God's Will For Your Healing. Ft. Worth: Kenneth Copeland Ministries, 1972.
Dunkerley, Don. Healing Evangelism: Strenghening Your Witnessing with Effective Prayer for the Sick. Grand Rapids: Chosen Books, 1995.*
Fee, Gordon D. The Disease of the Health and Wealth Gospels. Costa Mesa, Calif: The Word for Today, 1979.
Fisk, Samuel. Divine Healing Under the Searchlight. Schaumburg, Ill.: Regular Baptist Press, 1978.
Frost, Henry W. Miraculous Healing. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1972.
Gardner, Rex. Healing Miracles: A Doctor Investigates. London: Darton, Longman, and Todd, 1986.*
Glennon, Jim. Your Healing Is Within You. Plainfield, NJ: Logos International, 1980.
Hagin, Kenneth E. Healing Belongs to Us. Tulsa: Faith Library, 1969.
_____. The Key to Scriptural Healing. Tulsa: Faith Library, 1983.
_____. Seven Things You Should Know About Divine Healing. Tulsa: Faith Library 1979.
Harper, Michael. The Healings of Jesus. Downers Grove: Inter- Varsity Press, 1986.*
Harrel, David Edwin. All Things Are Possible: The Healing and Charismatic Revivals in Modern America. Bloomington: Indiana University Press, 1975.*
Hayes, Norvel. How to Live and Not Die. Tulsa: Harrison House, 1986.
Jeter Hugh. By His Stripes: A Biblical Study on Divine Healing. Springfield, MO: Gospel Publishing House, 1977.
Kee, Howard C. Medicine, Miracle, and Magic in New Testament Times. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1986.
Kelsey, Morton T. Healing and Christianity: In Ancient Thought and Modern Times. New York: Harper and Row, 1973.
Kreeft, Peter. Making Sense Out of Suffering. Ann Arbor: Servant, 1986.
Kurtz, Paul. ?Does Faith-Healing Work?" Free Inquiry 6 (Spring 1986):30-36.
_____. "W. V. Grant?s Faith-Healing Act Revisited.? Free Inquiry 6 (Summer 1986):12-13.
Lawrence, Roy. Christian Healing Rediscovered: A Guide to Spiritual, Mental, Physical Wholeness. Downers Grove: Inter-Varsity Press, 1980.
Lewis, David C. Healing: Fiction, Fantasy or Fact? London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1989.*
McConnell, D. R. A Different Gospel: A Historical and Biblical Analysis of the Modern Faith Movement. Peabody: Hendrickson, 1988.
McCrossan, T J. Bodily Healing and the Atonement. Re-ed. Ray Hicks and Kenneth E. Hagin. Tulsa: Faith Library, 1982 [1903].
MacNutt, Francis. Healing. Creation House: Altamonte Springs, 1988.*
Masters, Peter. The Healing Epidemic. London: The Wakeman Trust, 1988.
Mayhue, Richard. Divine Healing Today. Chicago: Moody Press, 1983.
_____. The Healing Promise. Eugene: Harvest House, 1994.
Nolen, William A. Healing: A Doctor in Search of a Miracle. New York: Random House, 1974.
Osborn, T L. Healing the Sick. Tulsa: Harrison House, 1959.
Packer, J. I. ?Poor Health May Be the Best Remedy.? Christianity Today,May 21, 1982, 14-26.
Pearson, Mark A. Christian Healing: A Practical, Comprehensive Guide. 2nd Edition. Grand Rapids: Chosen Books, 1995.
Pilch, John J. Healing in the New Testament: Insights from Medical and Mediterranean Anthropology. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2000.
Price, Frederick K. Is Healing for All? Tulsa: Harrison House, 1976.
Randi, James. ?'Be Healed in the Name of God!' An Expose of the Reverend W. V. Grant.? Free Inquiry 6 (Spring 1986):8-19.
_____. ?Peter Popoff Reaches Heaven via 39.17 Megahertz." Free Inquiry 6 (Summer 1986):6-7.
_____. "W V. Grant?s ?Leg-Stretching Trick.? Free Inquiry 6 (Spring 1986):16.
Reisser, Paul C., Reisser, Teri K., and Weldon, John. The Holistic Healers: A Christian Perspective on New-Age Health Care. Downers Grove: Inter-Varsity Press, 1983.
Schafersman, Steven. ?Peter Popoff: Miracle Worker or Scam Artist?? Free Inquiry 6 (Summer 1986):8-9.
Seybold, Klaus and Mueller Ulrich B. Sickness and Healing. Nash- ville: Abingdon, 1981.
Simson, Eve. The Faith-Healers: Deliverance Evangelism in North America. St. Louis: Concordia, 1977.
Singer Philip. ?Grant?s ?Miracles?: A Follow-up.? Free Inquiry 6 (Spring 1986):22-23.
Sipley, Richard M. Understanding Divine Healing. Wheaton: Victor 1986.
Skinner, R. David. ?Is Healing in the Atonement? Or, The Question of Faith-Healing.? Mid-America Theological Journal 9 (Fall 1985):31-47.
Smedes, Lewis B., ed. Ministry and the Miraculous: A Case Study at Fuller Theological Seminary. Pasadena: Fuller Theological Seminary, 1987.
Steiner, Robert A. ?Behind the Scenes With Peter Popoff." Free Inquiry 6 (Summer 1986):10-11.
Tada, Joni Eareckson. A Step Further. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1978.*
Thomas, John Christopher. The Devil, Disease and Deliverance: Origins of Illness in New Testament Thought. Sheffield, England: Sheffield Academic Press, 1998.*
Urquhart, Colin. Receive Your Healing. London: Hodder and Stoughton, 1986.
Vaux, Kenneth L. Health and Medicine in the Reformed Tradition: Promise, Providence, and Care. New York: Crossroad, 1984.
Wagner, C. Peter. How to Have a Healing Ministry Without Making Your Church Sick! Ventura: Regal, 1988.
Warrington, Keith. Jesus the Healer: Paradigm or Unique Phenomenon. Carlisle: Paternoster Press, 2000.*
Watson, David. Fear No Evil: One Man Deals With Terminal Illness. Wheaton: Harold Shaw 1984.*
Wilkinson, John. Health and Healing: Studies in New Testament Principles and Practice. Handsel Press, 1980.
Wimber, John. Power Healing. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1987.*
THE PERSON AND WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
General Works on the
Person & Power of the Holy Spirit
Buchanan, James. The Office and Work of the Holy Spirit. London: Banner of Truth, 1966 (1843).
Carter, Charles Webb. The Person and Ministry of the Holy Spirit: A Wesleyan Perspective. Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1974.
Congar, Yves. I Believe in the Holy Spirit. Translated by David Smith. New York: Crossroad Publishing, 1997 (three volumes in one).
Fee, Gordon D. God's Empowering Presence: The Holy Spirit in the Letters of Paul. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1994.**
Green, Michael. I Believe in the Holy Spirit. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1975.*
Heron, Alasdair I. C. The Holy Spirit. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1983.
Horton, Stanley M. What the Bible Says About the Holy Spirit. Springfield: Gospel Publishing House, 1976.
Inch, Morris A. The Saga of the Spirit: A Biblical, Systematic, and Historical Theology of the Holy Spirit. Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1985.
Kuyper, Abraham. The Work of the Holy Spirit. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1973 (1900).
Montague, George T. Holy Spirit: Growth of a Biblical Tradition. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1994 (1976).
Moule, C. F. D. The Holy Spirit. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1978.
Owen, John. A Discourse Concerning the Holy Spirit. The Works of John Owen, Vol. 3. Carlisle: Banner of Truth Trust, 1972 (1674).*
Pache, Rene. The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit. Chicago: Moody Press, 1954.
Packer, James I. Keep in Step with the Spirit. Old Tappan: Fleming H. Revell Company, 1984.*
Palmer, Edwin H. The Person and Ministry of the Holy Spirit: The Traditional Calvinistic Perspective. Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1974 (1958).
Pinnock, Clark H. Flame of Love: A Theology of the Holy Spirit. Downers Grove: IVP, 1996.
Rea, John. The Holy Spirit in the Bible. Lake Mary: Creation House, 1990.
Ryrie, Charles C. The Holy Spirit. Chicago: Moody Press, 1965.
Smeaton, George. The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit. Carlisle: Banner of Truth Trust, 1974 (1882).
Sproul, R. C. The Mystery of the Holy Spirit. Wheaton: Tyndale House, 1990.
Swete, Henry Barclay. The Holy Spirit in the New Testament. Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1976 (1910).
Swindoll, Charles R. Flying Closer to the Flame. Dallas: Word Publishing, 1993.
Thomas, W. H. Griffith. The Holy Spirit of God. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1972 (1913).
Veli-Matti Karkkainen. Pneumatology: The Holy Spirit in Ecumenical, International, and Contextual Perspective. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2002.
Walvoord, John. The Holy Spirit. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1954.
Winslow, Octavius. The Work of the Holy Spirit. Carlisle: Banner of Truth Trust, 1991 (1840).
Wood, Leon J. The Holy Spirit in the Old Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1976.
Works on the Holy Spirit in
the History of the Church
Burgess, Stanley M. The Holy Spirit: Eastern Christian Traditions. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1989. *
Burgess, Stanley M. The Spirit & the Church: Antiquity. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1984. *
Burgess, Stanley M. The Holy Spirit: Medieval , Roman Catholic and Reformation Traditions. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1997. *
Kydd, Ronald. Charismatic Gifts in the Early Church. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1984.
McDonnell, Kilian, and Montague, George T. Christian Initiation and Baptism in the Holy Spirit: Evidence from the First Eight Centuries. Collegeville: The Liturgical Press, 1991.
Works on Spirit-Baptism
Bruner, Frederick Dale. A Theology of the Holy Spirit: The Pentecostal Experience and the New Testament Witness. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1977 (1970).
Dunn, James D. G. Baptism in the Holy Spirit: A Re-examination of the New Testament Teaching on the Gift of the Spirit in relation to Pentecostalism today. Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1970.
Eaton, Michael A. Baptism with the Spirit: the teaching of Martyn Lloyd-Jones. Leicester: IVP, 1989.
Ervin, Howard M. Conversion-Initiation and the Baptism in the Holy Spirit: A Critique of James D. G. Dunn, Baptism in the Holy Spirit. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1984.
Ervin, Howard M. Spirit-Baptism: A Biblical Investigation. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1987 (1968).
Hoekema, Anthony. Holy Spirit Baptism. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1972.
Lederle, Henry I. Treasures Old and New: Interpretations of "Spirit-Baptism" in the Charismatic Renewal Movement. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1988.*
Lloyd-Jones, Martyn. Joy Unspeakable: Power & Renewal in the Holy Spirit. Wheaton: Harold Shaw Publishers, 1984.*
McGee, Gary B., ed. Initial Evidence: Historical and Biblical Perspectives on the Pentecostal Doctrine of Spirit Baptism. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1991.
Stott, John R. W. Baptism & Fullness: The Work of the Holy Spirit Today. Downers Grove: IVP, 1976 (1964).
Works on the Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Bridge, Donald, and Phypers, David. Spiritual Gifts & the Church. Scotland: Christian Focus Publications, 1995 (1973).
Carson, Donald A. Showing the Spirit: A Theological Exposition of 1 Corinthians 12-14. Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1987.*
Cartledge, Mark J. Practical Theology: Charismatic and Empirical Perspectives. Carlisle: Paternoster Press, 2003. *
Deere, Jack. Surprised by the Power of the Spirit. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1993.
_____. Surprised by the Voice of God. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996.
Gaffin, Richard B. Perspectives on Pentecost: Studies in New Testament Teaching on the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. Phillipsburg: Presbyterian & Reformed, 1979.
Grudem, Wayne, ed. Are Miraculous Gifts for Today: Four Views. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996.*
Hemphill, Kenneth S. Spiritual Gifts: Empowering the New Testament Church. Nashville: Broadman Press, 1988.
Keener, Craig S. Gift & Giver: The Holy Spirit for Today. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2001.
Lloyd-Jones, D. Martyn. The Sovereign Spirit: Discerning His Gifts. Wheaton: Harold Shaw Publishers, 1985.
Mallone, George. Those Controversial Gifts. Arlington: Grace Vineyard of Arlington, 1988.
Pytches, David. Spiritual Gifts in the Local Church. Minneapolis: Bethany House Publishers, 1985.
Ruthven, John. On the Cessation of the Charismata: The Protestant Polemic on Postbiblical Miracles. Sheffield, England: Sheffield Academic Press, 1993.
Schatzmann, Siegfried S. A Pauline Theology of Charismata. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1987.
Turner, Max. The Holy Spirit and Spiritual Gifts: In the New Testament Church and Today (revised edition). Peabody: Hendrikson, 1998.
Wagner, C. Peter. Your Spiritual Gifts Can Help Your Church Grow. Ventura: Regal Books, 1994 (1979).
Works on the relationship of
the Holy Spirit to Jesus
Dunn, James D. G. Jesus and the Spirit: A Study of the Religious and Charismatic Experience of Jesus and the First Christians as Reflected in the New Testament. Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1975.
Hawthorne, Gerald F. The Presence and the Power: The Significance of the Holy Spirit in the life and ministry of Jesus. Dallas: Word Publishing, 1991.
Works on the Holy Spirit
in the Writings of Luke
Menzies, Robert P. The Development of Early Christian Pneumatology with special reference to Luke-Acts. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 1991.
Shelton, James B. Mighty in Word and Deed: The Role of the Holy Spirit in Luke-Acts. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1991.
Stronstad, Roger. The Charismatic Theology of St. Luke. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1984.
General Works on the Miraculous Ministry
of the Holy Spirit
Geisler, Norman. Signs and Wonders. Wheaton: Tyndale House, 1988.
Grieg, Gary S., and Springer, Kevin N. The Kingdom and the Power: Are Healing and the Spiritual Gifts Used by Jesus and the Early Church Meant for the Church Today? A Biblical Look at How to Bring the Gospel to the World with Power. Ventura: Regal Books, 1993.
White, John. When the Spirit Comes with Power: Signs & Wonders among God's People. Downers Grove: IVP, 1988.
Williams, Don. Signs, Wonders, and the Kingdom of God: A Biblical Guide for the Reluctant Skeptic. Ann Arbor: Servant Publications, 1989.
Wimber, John. Power Evangelism. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1986.
Works on the Charismatic and
Third Wave Renewal Movements
Cox, Harvey. Fire From Heaven: The Rise of Pentecostal Spirituality and the Reshaping of Religion in the Twenty-first Century. Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley Publishing Co., 1994.
Grudem, Wayne. Power & Truth: A Response to the Critiques of Vineyard Teaching and Practice by D. A. Carson, James Montgomery Boice, and John H. Armstrong in Power Religion. Anaheim: Association of Vineyard Churches, 1993.
Hocken, Peter. Streams of Renewal: The Origins and Early Development of the Charismatic Movement in Great Britain. Exeter: Paternoster Press, 1986.
Hocken, Peter. The Glory and the Shame: Reflections on the 20th Century outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Guildford, Surrey: Eagle Publications, 1994.
Hummel, Charles E. Fire in the Fireplace: Charismatic Renewal in the Nineties. Downers Grove: IVP, 1993.
Jackson, Bill. The Quest for the Radical Middle: A History of the Vineyard. Cape Town: Vineyard International Publishing, 1999.
MacArthur, John F. Charismatic Chaos. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1992.
Moriarty, Michael G. The New Charismatics: A Concerned Voice Responds to Dangerous New Trends. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1992.
Nathan, Rich. A Response to Charismatic Chaos. Anaheim: Association of Vineyard Churches, 1993.
Pawson, David. Fourth Wave: Charismatics and Evangelicals, are we ready to come together? London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1994.
Percy, Martyn. Words, Wonders and Power: Understanding Contemporary Christian Fundamentalism and Revivalism. London: SPCK, 1996.
Smail, Tom; Walker, Andrew; Wright, Nigel. The Love of Power or the Power of Love: A Careful Assessment of the Problems Within the Charismatic and Word-of-Faith Movements. Minneapolis: Bethany House Publishers, 1994.
Wagner, C. Peter. The Third Wave of the Holy Spirit: Encountering the Power of Signs and Wonders Today. Ann Arbor: Servant Publications, 1988.
Works on the "Toronto Blessing"
Arnott, John. The Father's Blessing. Orlando: Creation House, 1995.
Belcham, Leigh. Toronto: The Baby or the Bathwater Bromley, Kent: Day One Publications, 1995.
Beverley, James A. Holy Laughter and the Toronto Blessing. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1995.
Boulton, Wallace, ed. The Impact of Toronto. Crowborough: Monarch Publications, 1995.
Chevreau, Guy. Catch the Fire: The Toronto Blessing. An Experience of renewal and revival. London: Marshall Pickering, 1994.
_____. Pray with Fire. Toronto: Harper Collins, 1995.
Dixon, Patrick. Signs of Revival. Eastbourne: Kingsway Publications, 1994.
Fearon, Mike. A Breath of Fresh Air. Guildford: Eagle, 1994.
Fitz-Gibbon, Andy and Jane. Something Extraordinary is Happening: The Sunderland Experience of the Holy Spirit. Crowborough: Monarch Publications, 1995.
Gott, Ken and Lois. The Sunderland Refreshing. London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1995.
Hilborn, David. Editor."oronto? in Perspective: Papers on the New Charismatic Wave of the Mid 1990s. Carlisle: Acute (Paternoster Press), 2001.
Hill, Clifford, ed. Blessing the Church? Guildford: Eagle, 1995.
Jebb, Stanley. No Laughing Matter: The 'Toronto' Phenomenon and its Implications. Bromley, Kent: Day One Publications, 1995.
McHale, Gary W. The 'Toronto Blessing': A Renewal from God? Ontario: Canadian Christian Publications, 1995.
Mikhaiel, Nader. The Toronto Blessing: Slaying in the Spirit, the telling wonder. Self-published. 1995.
Morphew, Derek. Renewal Apologetics (A Position Paper of the Association of Vineyard Churches in South Africa), 1995.
Oropeza, B. J. A Time to Laugh. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1995.
Pawson, David. Is the Blessing Biblical? Thinking through the Toronto phenomenon. London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1995.
Poloma, Margaret M. Main Street Mystics: The Toronto Blessing & Reviving Pentecostalism. Walnut Creek: Alta Mira Press, 2003.
Porter, Stanley E., and Richter, Philip J., eds., The Toronto Blessing - or Is It? London: Darton, Longman, & Todd, 1995.
Roberts, Dave. The "Toronto" Blessing. Eastbourne: Kingsway Publications, 1994.
Stibbe, Mark. Times of Refreshing: A Practical Theology of Revival for Today. London: Marshall Pickering, 1995.
Warner, Rob. Prepare for Revival. London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1995.
Williams, Don. Revival: The Real Thing. LaJolla: published by the author, 1995.
While we are on the subject of the Holy Spirit ... a complete and utter favourite of mine by the way. My best friend and soulmate Scott became a Christian at the Brighton Leaders Conference 2005 and got baptised in the Spirit that night - my evangelising to him was somewhat avant garde - he knew about the Holy Spirit and spiritual gifts and revival before he knew about Jesus Christ and His death and resurrection .... oops.
I've compiled a bibliography of some of my favourite books or ones that I have most referred to on every subject possible about the Holy Spirit. Worth making note of for further study!
DIVINE HEALING
Barron, Bruce. The Health and Wealth Gospel. Downers Grove: Inter-Varsity Press, 1987.
Baxter, J. Sidlow. Divine Healing of the Body. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1979.
Blue, Ken. Authority to Heal. Downers Grove: Inter-Varsity Press, 1987.
Bosworth, F. F. Christ the Healer. Old Tappan: Fleming H. Revell, 1973.
Brand, Paul, with Yancey, Philip. ?A Surgeon's View of Divine Healing.? Christianity Today, November 25, 1983, 14-21.
Brown, Michael L. Israel's Divine Healer. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1995.*
Capps, Charles. Paul?s Thorn in the Flesh. Dallas: Word of Faith, 1983.
Clapp, Rodney. ?Faith Healing: A Look at What's Happening.? Christianity Today, December 16, 1983, 12-17.
Colson, Charles. ?My Cancer and the Good Health Gospel.? Christianity Today, April 3, 1987, 56.
Copeland, Gloria. And Jesus Healed Them All. Ft. Worth: KCP 1984.
_____. God's Will For Your Healing. Ft. Worth: Kenneth Copeland Ministries, 1972.
Dunkerley, Don. Healing Evangelism: Strenghening Your Witnessing with Effective Prayer for the Sick. Grand Rapids: Chosen Books, 1995.*
Fee, Gordon D. The Disease of the Health and Wealth Gospels. Costa Mesa, Calif: The Word for Today, 1979.
Fisk, Samuel. Divine Healing Under the Searchlight. Schaumburg, Ill.: Regular Baptist Press, 1978.
Frost, Henry W. Miraculous Healing. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1972.
Gardner, Rex. Healing Miracles: A Doctor Investigates. London: Darton, Longman, and Todd, 1986.*
Glennon, Jim. Your Healing Is Within You. Plainfield, NJ: Logos International, 1980.
Hagin, Kenneth E. Healing Belongs to Us. Tulsa: Faith Library, 1969.
_____. The Key to Scriptural Healing. Tulsa: Faith Library, 1983.
_____. Seven Things You Should Know About Divine Healing. Tulsa: Faith Library 1979.
Harper, Michael. The Healings of Jesus. Downers Grove: Inter- Varsity Press, 1986.*
Harrel, David Edwin. All Things Are Possible: The Healing and Charismatic Revivals in Modern America. Bloomington: Indiana University Press, 1975.*
Hayes, Norvel. How to Live and Not Die. Tulsa: Harrison House, 1986.
Jeter Hugh. By His Stripes: A Biblical Study on Divine Healing. Springfield, MO: Gospel Publishing House, 1977.
Kee, Howard C. Medicine, Miracle, and Magic in New Testament Times. Cambridge: Cambridge University Press, 1986.
Kelsey, Morton T. Healing and Christianity: In Ancient Thought and Modern Times. New York: Harper and Row, 1973.
Kreeft, Peter. Making Sense Out of Suffering. Ann Arbor: Servant, 1986.
Kurtz, Paul. ?Does Faith-Healing Work?" Free Inquiry 6 (Spring 1986):30-36.
_____. "W. V. Grant?s Faith-Healing Act Revisited.? Free Inquiry 6 (Summer 1986):12-13.
Lawrence, Roy. Christian Healing Rediscovered: A Guide to Spiritual, Mental, Physical Wholeness. Downers Grove: Inter-Varsity Press, 1980.
Lewis, David C. Healing: Fiction, Fantasy or Fact? London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1989.*
McConnell, D. R. A Different Gospel: A Historical and Biblical Analysis of the Modern Faith Movement. Peabody: Hendrickson, 1988.
McCrossan, T J. Bodily Healing and the Atonement. Re-ed. Ray Hicks and Kenneth E. Hagin. Tulsa: Faith Library, 1982 [1903].
MacNutt, Francis. Healing. Creation House: Altamonte Springs, 1988.*
Masters, Peter. The Healing Epidemic. London: The Wakeman Trust, 1988.
Mayhue, Richard. Divine Healing Today. Chicago: Moody Press, 1983.
_____. The Healing Promise. Eugene: Harvest House, 1994.
Nolen, William A. Healing: A Doctor in Search of a Miracle. New York: Random House, 1974.
Osborn, T L. Healing the Sick. Tulsa: Harrison House, 1959.
Packer, J. I. ?Poor Health May Be the Best Remedy.? Christianity Today,May 21, 1982, 14-26.
Pearson, Mark A. Christian Healing: A Practical, Comprehensive Guide. 2nd Edition. Grand Rapids: Chosen Books, 1995.
Pilch, John J. Healing in the New Testament: Insights from Medical and Mediterranean Anthropology. Minneapolis: Fortress Press, 2000.
Price, Frederick K. Is Healing for All? Tulsa: Harrison House, 1976.
Randi, James. ?'Be Healed in the Name of God!' An Expose of the Reverend W. V. Grant.? Free Inquiry 6 (Spring 1986):8-19.
_____. ?Peter Popoff Reaches Heaven via 39.17 Megahertz." Free Inquiry 6 (Summer 1986):6-7.
_____. "W V. Grant?s ?Leg-Stretching Trick.? Free Inquiry 6 (Spring 1986):16.
Reisser, Paul C., Reisser, Teri K., and Weldon, John. The Holistic Healers: A Christian Perspective on New-Age Health Care. Downers Grove: Inter-Varsity Press, 1983.
Schafersman, Steven. ?Peter Popoff: Miracle Worker or Scam Artist?? Free Inquiry 6 (Summer 1986):8-9.
Seybold, Klaus and Mueller Ulrich B. Sickness and Healing. Nash- ville: Abingdon, 1981.
Simson, Eve. The Faith-Healers: Deliverance Evangelism in North America. St. Louis: Concordia, 1977.
Singer Philip. ?Grant?s ?Miracles?: A Follow-up.? Free Inquiry 6 (Spring 1986):22-23.
Sipley, Richard M. Understanding Divine Healing. Wheaton: Victor 1986.
Skinner, R. David. ?Is Healing in the Atonement? Or, The Question of Faith-Healing.? Mid-America Theological Journal 9 (Fall 1985):31-47.
Smedes, Lewis B., ed. Ministry and the Miraculous: A Case Study at Fuller Theological Seminary. Pasadena: Fuller Theological Seminary, 1987.
Steiner, Robert A. ?Behind the Scenes With Peter Popoff." Free Inquiry 6 (Summer 1986):10-11.
Tada, Joni Eareckson. A Step Further. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1978.*
Thomas, John Christopher. The Devil, Disease and Deliverance: Origins of Illness in New Testament Thought. Sheffield, England: Sheffield Academic Press, 1998.*
Urquhart, Colin. Receive Your Healing. London: Hodder and Stoughton, 1986.
Vaux, Kenneth L. Health and Medicine in the Reformed Tradition: Promise, Providence, and Care. New York: Crossroad, 1984.
Wagner, C. Peter. How to Have a Healing Ministry Without Making Your Church Sick! Ventura: Regal, 1988.
Warrington, Keith. Jesus the Healer: Paradigm or Unique Phenomenon. Carlisle: Paternoster Press, 2000.*
Watson, David. Fear No Evil: One Man Deals With Terminal Illness. Wheaton: Harold Shaw 1984.*
Wilkinson, John. Health and Healing: Studies in New Testament Principles and Practice. Handsel Press, 1980.
Wimber, John. Power Healing. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1987.*
THE PERSON AND WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
General Works on the
Person & Power of the Holy Spirit
Buchanan, James. The Office and Work of the Holy Spirit. London: Banner of Truth, 1966 (1843).
Carter, Charles Webb. The Person and Ministry of the Holy Spirit: A Wesleyan Perspective. Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1974.
Congar, Yves. I Believe in the Holy Spirit. Translated by David Smith. New York: Crossroad Publishing, 1997 (three volumes in one).
Fee, Gordon D. God's Empowering Presence: The Holy Spirit in the Letters of Paul. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1994.**
Green, Michael. I Believe in the Holy Spirit. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1975.*
Heron, Alasdair I. C. The Holy Spirit. Philadelphia: Westminster Press, 1983.
Horton, Stanley M. What the Bible Says About the Holy Spirit. Springfield: Gospel Publishing House, 1976.
Inch, Morris A. The Saga of the Spirit: A Biblical, Systematic, and Historical Theology of the Holy Spirit. Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1985.
Kuyper, Abraham. The Work of the Holy Spirit. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1973 (1900).
Montague, George T. Holy Spirit: Growth of a Biblical Tradition. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1994 (1976).
Moule, C. F. D. The Holy Spirit. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1978.
Owen, John. A Discourse Concerning the Holy Spirit. The Works of John Owen, Vol. 3. Carlisle: Banner of Truth Trust, 1972 (1674).*
Pache, Rene. The Person and Work of the Holy Spirit. Chicago: Moody Press, 1954.
Packer, James I. Keep in Step with the Spirit. Old Tappan: Fleming H. Revell Company, 1984.*
Palmer, Edwin H. The Person and Ministry of the Holy Spirit: The Traditional Calvinistic Perspective. Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1974 (1958).
Pinnock, Clark H. Flame of Love: A Theology of the Holy Spirit. Downers Grove: IVP, 1996.
Rea, John. The Holy Spirit in the Bible. Lake Mary: Creation House, 1990.
Ryrie, Charles C. The Holy Spirit. Chicago: Moody Press, 1965.
Smeaton, George. The Doctrine of the Holy Spirit. Carlisle: Banner of Truth Trust, 1974 (1882).
Sproul, R. C. The Mystery of the Holy Spirit. Wheaton: Tyndale House, 1990.
Swete, Henry Barclay. The Holy Spirit in the New Testament. Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1976 (1910).
Swindoll, Charles R. Flying Closer to the Flame. Dallas: Word Publishing, 1993.
Thomas, W. H. Griffith. The Holy Spirit of God. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1972 (1913).
Veli-Matti Karkkainen. Pneumatology: The Holy Spirit in Ecumenical, International, and Contextual Perspective. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2002.
Walvoord, John. The Holy Spirit. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1954.
Winslow, Octavius. The Work of the Holy Spirit. Carlisle: Banner of Truth Trust, 1991 (1840).
Wood, Leon J. The Holy Spirit in the Old Testament. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1976.
Works on the Holy Spirit in
the History of the Church
Burgess, Stanley M. The Holy Spirit: Eastern Christian Traditions. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1989. *
Burgess, Stanley M. The Spirit & the Church: Antiquity. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1984. *
Burgess, Stanley M. The Holy Spirit: Medieval , Roman Catholic and Reformation Traditions. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1997. *
Kydd, Ronald. Charismatic Gifts in the Early Church. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1984.
McDonnell, Kilian, and Montague, George T. Christian Initiation and Baptism in the Holy Spirit: Evidence from the First Eight Centuries. Collegeville: The Liturgical Press, 1991.
Works on Spirit-Baptism
Bruner, Frederick Dale. A Theology of the Holy Spirit: The Pentecostal Experience and the New Testament Witness. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1977 (1970).
Dunn, James D. G. Baptism in the Holy Spirit: A Re-examination of the New Testament Teaching on the Gift of the Spirit in relation to Pentecostalism today. Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1970.
Eaton, Michael A. Baptism with the Spirit: the teaching of Martyn Lloyd-Jones. Leicester: IVP, 1989.
Ervin, Howard M. Conversion-Initiation and the Baptism in the Holy Spirit: A Critique of James D. G. Dunn, Baptism in the Holy Spirit. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1984.
Ervin, Howard M. Spirit-Baptism: A Biblical Investigation. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1987 (1968).
Hoekema, Anthony. Holy Spirit Baptism. Grand Rapids: Eerdmans, 1972.
Lederle, Henry I. Treasures Old and New: Interpretations of "Spirit-Baptism" in the Charismatic Renewal Movement. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1988.*
Lloyd-Jones, Martyn. Joy Unspeakable: Power & Renewal in the Holy Spirit. Wheaton: Harold Shaw Publishers, 1984.*
McGee, Gary B., ed. Initial Evidence: Historical and Biblical Perspectives on the Pentecostal Doctrine of Spirit Baptism. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1991.
Stott, John R. W. Baptism & Fullness: The Work of the Holy Spirit Today. Downers Grove: IVP, 1976 (1964).
Works on the Gifts of the Holy Spirit
Bridge, Donald, and Phypers, David. Spiritual Gifts & the Church. Scotland: Christian Focus Publications, 1995 (1973).
Carson, Donald A. Showing the Spirit: A Theological Exposition of 1 Corinthians 12-14. Grand Rapids: Baker Book House, 1987.*
Cartledge, Mark J. Practical Theology: Charismatic and Empirical Perspectives. Carlisle: Paternoster Press, 2003. *
Deere, Jack. Surprised by the Power of the Spirit. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1993.
_____. Surprised by the Voice of God. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996.
Gaffin, Richard B. Perspectives on Pentecost: Studies in New Testament Teaching on the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. Phillipsburg: Presbyterian & Reformed, 1979.
Grudem, Wayne, ed. Are Miraculous Gifts for Today: Four Views. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1996.*
Hemphill, Kenneth S. Spiritual Gifts: Empowering the New Testament Church. Nashville: Broadman Press, 1988.
Keener, Craig S. Gift & Giver: The Holy Spirit for Today. Grand Rapids: Baker Academic, 2001.
Lloyd-Jones, D. Martyn. The Sovereign Spirit: Discerning His Gifts. Wheaton: Harold Shaw Publishers, 1985.
Mallone, George. Those Controversial Gifts. Arlington: Grace Vineyard of Arlington, 1988.
Pytches, David. Spiritual Gifts in the Local Church. Minneapolis: Bethany House Publishers, 1985.
Ruthven, John. On the Cessation of the Charismata: The Protestant Polemic on Postbiblical Miracles. Sheffield, England: Sheffield Academic Press, 1993.
Schatzmann, Siegfried S. A Pauline Theology of Charismata. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1987.
Turner, Max. The Holy Spirit and Spiritual Gifts: In the New Testament Church and Today (revised edition). Peabody: Hendrikson, 1998.
Wagner, C. Peter. Your Spiritual Gifts Can Help Your Church Grow. Ventura: Regal Books, 1994 (1979).
Works on the relationship of
the Holy Spirit to Jesus
Dunn, James D. G. Jesus and the Spirit: A Study of the Religious and Charismatic Experience of Jesus and the First Christians as Reflected in the New Testament. Philadelphia: The Westminster Press, 1975.
Hawthorne, Gerald F. The Presence and the Power: The Significance of the Holy Spirit in the life and ministry of Jesus. Dallas: Word Publishing, 1991.
Works on the Holy Spirit
in the Writings of Luke
Menzies, Robert P. The Development of Early Christian Pneumatology with special reference to Luke-Acts. Sheffield: Sheffield Academic Press, 1991.
Shelton, James B. Mighty in Word and Deed: The Role of the Holy Spirit in Luke-Acts. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1991.
Stronstad, Roger. The Charismatic Theology of St. Luke. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1984.
General Works on the Miraculous Ministry
of the Holy Spirit
Geisler, Norman. Signs and Wonders. Wheaton: Tyndale House, 1988.
Grieg, Gary S., and Springer, Kevin N. The Kingdom and the Power: Are Healing and the Spiritual Gifts Used by Jesus and the Early Church Meant for the Church Today? A Biblical Look at How to Bring the Gospel to the World with Power. Ventura: Regal Books, 1993.
White, John. When the Spirit Comes with Power: Signs & Wonders among God's People. Downers Grove: IVP, 1988.
Williams, Don. Signs, Wonders, and the Kingdom of God: A Biblical Guide for the Reluctant Skeptic. Ann Arbor: Servant Publications, 1989.
Wimber, John. Power Evangelism. San Francisco: Harper & Row, 1986.
Works on the Charismatic and
Third Wave Renewal Movements
Cox, Harvey. Fire From Heaven: The Rise of Pentecostal Spirituality and the Reshaping of Religion in the Twenty-first Century. Reading, MA: Addison-Wesley Publishing Co., 1994.
Grudem, Wayne. Power & Truth: A Response to the Critiques of Vineyard Teaching and Practice by D. A. Carson, James Montgomery Boice, and John H. Armstrong in Power Religion. Anaheim: Association of Vineyard Churches, 1993.
Hocken, Peter. Streams of Renewal: The Origins and Early Development of the Charismatic Movement in Great Britain. Exeter: Paternoster Press, 1986.
Hocken, Peter. The Glory and the Shame: Reflections on the 20th Century outpouring of the Holy Spirit. Guildford, Surrey: Eagle Publications, 1994.
Hummel, Charles E. Fire in the Fireplace: Charismatic Renewal in the Nineties. Downers Grove: IVP, 1993.
Jackson, Bill. The Quest for the Radical Middle: A History of the Vineyard. Cape Town: Vineyard International Publishing, 1999.
MacArthur, John F. Charismatic Chaos. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1992.
Moriarty, Michael G. The New Charismatics: A Concerned Voice Responds to Dangerous New Trends. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Publishing House, 1992.
Nathan, Rich. A Response to Charismatic Chaos. Anaheim: Association of Vineyard Churches, 1993.
Pawson, David. Fourth Wave: Charismatics and Evangelicals, are we ready to come together? London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1994.
Percy, Martyn. Words, Wonders and Power: Understanding Contemporary Christian Fundamentalism and Revivalism. London: SPCK, 1996.
Smail, Tom; Walker, Andrew; Wright, Nigel. The Love of Power or the Power of Love: A Careful Assessment of the Problems Within the Charismatic and Word-of-Faith Movements. Minneapolis: Bethany House Publishers, 1994.
Wagner, C. Peter. The Third Wave of the Holy Spirit: Encountering the Power of Signs and Wonders Today. Ann Arbor: Servant Publications, 1988.
Works on the "Toronto Blessing"
Arnott, John. The Father's Blessing. Orlando: Creation House, 1995.
Belcham, Leigh. Toronto: The Baby or the Bathwater Bromley, Kent: Day One Publications, 1995.
Beverley, James A. Holy Laughter and the Toronto Blessing. Grand Rapids: Zondervan, 1995.
Boulton, Wallace, ed. The Impact of Toronto. Crowborough: Monarch Publications, 1995.
Chevreau, Guy. Catch the Fire: The Toronto Blessing. An Experience of renewal and revival. London: Marshall Pickering, 1994.
_____. Pray with Fire. Toronto: Harper Collins, 1995.
Dixon, Patrick. Signs of Revival. Eastbourne: Kingsway Publications, 1994.
Fearon, Mike. A Breath of Fresh Air. Guildford: Eagle, 1994.
Fitz-Gibbon, Andy and Jane. Something Extraordinary is Happening: The Sunderland Experience of the Holy Spirit. Crowborough: Monarch Publications, 1995.
Gott, Ken and Lois. The Sunderland Refreshing. London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1995.
Hilborn, David. Editor."oronto? in Perspective: Papers on the New Charismatic Wave of the Mid 1990s. Carlisle: Acute (Paternoster Press), 2001.
Hill, Clifford, ed. Blessing the Church? Guildford: Eagle, 1995.
Jebb, Stanley. No Laughing Matter: The 'Toronto' Phenomenon and its Implications. Bromley, Kent: Day One Publications, 1995.
McHale, Gary W. The 'Toronto Blessing': A Renewal from God? Ontario: Canadian Christian Publications, 1995.
Mikhaiel, Nader. The Toronto Blessing: Slaying in the Spirit, the telling wonder. Self-published. 1995.
Morphew, Derek. Renewal Apologetics (A Position Paper of the Association of Vineyard Churches in South Africa), 1995.
Oropeza, B. J. A Time to Laugh. Peabody: Hendrickson Publishers, 1995.
Pawson, David. Is the Blessing Biblical? Thinking through the Toronto phenomenon. London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1995.
Poloma, Margaret M. Main Street Mystics: The Toronto Blessing & Reviving Pentecostalism. Walnut Creek: Alta Mira Press, 2003.
Porter, Stanley E., and Richter, Philip J., eds., The Toronto Blessing - or Is It? London: Darton, Longman, & Todd, 1995.
Roberts, Dave. The "Toronto" Blessing. Eastbourne: Kingsway Publications, 1994.
Stibbe, Mark. Times of Refreshing: A Practical Theology of Revival for Today. London: Marshall Pickering, 1995.
Warner, Rob. Prepare for Revival. London: Hodder & Stoughton, 1995.
Williams, Don. Revival: The Real Thing. LaJolla: published by the author, 1995.
Does Anyone Disagree With the Doctor?
A word about one of my greatest heroes ... Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones.
I was first introduced to the great Doctor through his series on Revival that he preached at Westminster Chapel and I was gripped. But I gained more of a "working" relationship with him when my home church in Dunstable went through a dramatic change on their doctrinal stance concerning the Holy Spirit. Once they believed in the baptism of the Spirit, now they didn't. Once they believed in gifts and welcomed them, now they didn't. (A ghastly stereotype - but I don't want to talk about cessationism). And it was through reading a small section of Dr Lloyd-Jones' sermons in John that I began to realise that Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones agreed ... with me!!
Namely that the baptism with the Spirit is a very definite experiential event that is distinct from and may be subsequent to salvation and regeneration. I tracked down his key book "Joy Unspeakable" and my views became grounded. Consider his following comments about revival - the wider, broader work of the Spirit:
"The essence of a revival is that the Holy Spirit comes down upon a number of people together, upon a whole church, upon a number of churches, districts, or perhaps a whole country. That is what is meant by revival. It is, if you like, a visitation of the Holy Spirit, or another term that has often been used is this--an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. What the people are conscious of is that it is as if something has suddenly come down upon them. The Spirit of God has descended into their midst, God has come down and is amongst them. A baptism, an outpouring, a visitation.
And the effect of that is that they immediately become aware of His presence and of His power in a manner that they have never known before. I am talking about Christian people, about church members gathered together as they have done so many times before. Suddenly they are aware of His presence, they are aware of the majesty and the awe of God. The Holy Spirit literally seems to be presiding over the meeting and taking charge of it, and manifesting His power and guiding them, and leading them, and directing them. That is the essence of revival".
How glorious!! What rich awesome amazing words!! But my point is that the Doctor passionately believed in a deep rich experiential knowledge and relationship with the Holy Spirit. And what puzzled me was that the anti-charismatics that I had the unfortunate pleasure of encountering all loved to slag off "tongues-speakers". They loved to dish "experience" and "froth". Mention any well known charismatic and you got a sneer. If they were really bad then Alan Morrison or Peter Masters would dissect them with their blunt axe heads. But no one would talk about Dr Lloyd-Jones ...........
Banner of Truth publish his awesome books (and I thank God for their ministry) but I don't think they would claim to be sympathetic to charismatics in the least - and yet you don't hear them talking about the Doctor's view of how one receives the Holy Spirit!! Even better the websites of the Martyn Lloyd-Jones Recording Trust http://www.mlj.org.uk and the FIEC are linked (and the FIEC seem even more anti-the Holy Spirit than the Banner!). And noone talks about Dr Lloyd-Jones ..........
Noone has published a book to rebuff his careful and minute exegesis of the doctrine of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit laid down in "Joy Unspeakable". Noone has explained what exactly happened in John 20:22 then on the Day of Pentecost other than mumbling that the disciples were "special". Noone has dealt with his pointing to the Lord Jesus and why the Holy Spirit descended on Him like a dove - when He was the Son of God. Noone has explained away his understanding of Peter's sermon "this is that which you SEE and HEAR" - and how on earth that can EVER be "quiet and non experiential when you get converted".
I am truly interested and intrigued! I absolutely adore the Doctor and will read anything he has written but I don't pretend to agree with everything he taught - especially his view on apostles and prophets. It was a great project rebuffing how I thought he had missed the point in the continuity of Ephesians 4. Yet I wonder why noone has done the same for him with the baptism of the Holy Spirit? I have no doubt he would have welcomed and loved the prospect of "taking him on". Ian Murray's great biography paints a picture of a man who welcomes debate - something I strive to emulate.
I challenged Dr Jebb's successor at my old home church - if he could present a more convincing case than Dr Lloyd-Jones about the baptism of the Holy Spirit then I would be quite prepared to change my views. Obviously he couldn't - he didn't even try. So called me old fashioned - but I still passionately believe that the great inheritance open to all the saints is that they will be clothed with power from on high!! That as Ern Baxter called it; "the great coronation gift" has been poured out. The Davidic anointing of the Holy Spirit! And as Thomas Goodwin said so rightly - the next step in glorious experience MUST be heaven itself!!
So come Lord!! Pour out Your Spirit again on a dry and barren soul!! Flood me as You promised!! Give me joy unspeakable and full of glory!! Let my spirit cry with Yours; "Abba! Father!!". I want to receive an experience of You - an encounter with You that the world will SEE and KNOW!! Come Holy Spirit!!
PS: An excellent biographical look at Lloyd-Jones on the Holy Spirit and in particular his baptism, filling and gifts is Dr John Pipers - a presentation at the Bethlehem Conference for Pastors in 1991. http://desiringgod.org/library/biographies/91lloyd_jones.html
Key quote showing that Dr Lloyd-Jones wasn't afraid of speaking out:
Those people who say that [baptism with the Holy Spirit] happens to everybody at regeneration seem to me not only to be denying the New Testament but to be definitely quenching the Spirit" - "Joy Unspeakable" - p241. Ouch! :)
A word about one of my greatest heroes ... Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones.
I was first introduced to the great Doctor through his series on Revival that he preached at Westminster Chapel and I was gripped. But I gained more of a "working" relationship with him when my home church in Dunstable went through a dramatic change on their doctrinal stance concerning the Holy Spirit. Once they believed in the baptism of the Spirit, now they didn't. Once they believed in gifts and welcomed them, now they didn't. (A ghastly stereotype - but I don't want to talk about cessationism). And it was through reading a small section of Dr Lloyd-Jones' sermons in John that I began to realise that Dr Martyn Lloyd-Jones agreed ... with me!!
Namely that the baptism with the Spirit is a very definite experiential event that is distinct from and may be subsequent to salvation and regeneration. I tracked down his key book "Joy Unspeakable" and my views became grounded. Consider his following comments about revival - the wider, broader work of the Spirit:
"The essence of a revival is that the Holy Spirit comes down upon a number of people together, upon a whole church, upon a number of churches, districts, or perhaps a whole country. That is what is meant by revival. It is, if you like, a visitation of the Holy Spirit, or another term that has often been used is this--an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. What the people are conscious of is that it is as if something has suddenly come down upon them. The Spirit of God has descended into their midst, God has come down and is amongst them. A baptism, an outpouring, a visitation.
And the effect of that is that they immediately become aware of His presence and of His power in a manner that they have never known before. I am talking about Christian people, about church members gathered together as they have done so many times before. Suddenly they are aware of His presence, they are aware of the majesty and the awe of God. The Holy Spirit literally seems to be presiding over the meeting and taking charge of it, and manifesting His power and guiding them, and leading them, and directing them. That is the essence of revival".
How glorious!! What rich awesome amazing words!! But my point is that the Doctor passionately believed in a deep rich experiential knowledge and relationship with the Holy Spirit. And what puzzled me was that the anti-charismatics that I had the unfortunate pleasure of encountering all loved to slag off "tongues-speakers". They loved to dish "experience" and "froth". Mention any well known charismatic and you got a sneer. If they were really bad then Alan Morrison or Peter Masters would dissect them with their blunt axe heads. But no one would talk about Dr Lloyd-Jones ...........
Banner of Truth publish his awesome books (and I thank God for their ministry) but I don't think they would claim to be sympathetic to charismatics in the least - and yet you don't hear them talking about the Doctor's view of how one receives the Holy Spirit!! Even better the websites of the Martyn Lloyd-Jones Recording Trust http://www.mlj.org.uk and the FIEC are linked (and the FIEC seem even more anti-the Holy Spirit than the Banner!). And noone talks about Dr Lloyd-Jones ..........
Noone has published a book to rebuff his careful and minute exegesis of the doctrine of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit laid down in "Joy Unspeakable". Noone has explained what exactly happened in John 20:22 then on the Day of Pentecost other than mumbling that the disciples were "special". Noone has dealt with his pointing to the Lord Jesus and why the Holy Spirit descended on Him like a dove - when He was the Son of God. Noone has explained away his understanding of Peter's sermon "this is that which you SEE and HEAR" - and how on earth that can EVER be "quiet and non experiential when you get converted".
I am truly interested and intrigued! I absolutely adore the Doctor and will read anything he has written but I don't pretend to agree with everything he taught - especially his view on apostles and prophets. It was a great project rebuffing how I thought he had missed the point in the continuity of Ephesians 4. Yet I wonder why noone has done the same for him with the baptism of the Holy Spirit? I have no doubt he would have welcomed and loved the prospect of "taking him on". Ian Murray's great biography paints a picture of a man who welcomes debate - something I strive to emulate.
I challenged Dr Jebb's successor at my old home church - if he could present a more convincing case than Dr Lloyd-Jones about the baptism of the Holy Spirit then I would be quite prepared to change my views. Obviously he couldn't - he didn't even try. So called me old fashioned - but I still passionately believe that the great inheritance open to all the saints is that they will be clothed with power from on high!! That as Ern Baxter called it; "the great coronation gift" has been poured out. The Davidic anointing of the Holy Spirit! And as Thomas Goodwin said so rightly - the next step in glorious experience MUST be heaven itself!!
So come Lord!! Pour out Your Spirit again on a dry and barren soul!! Flood me as You promised!! Give me joy unspeakable and full of glory!! Let my spirit cry with Yours; "Abba! Father!!". I want to receive an experience of You - an encounter with You that the world will SEE and KNOW!! Come Holy Spirit!!
PS: An excellent biographical look at Lloyd-Jones on the Holy Spirit and in particular his baptism, filling and gifts is Dr John Pipers - a presentation at the Bethlehem Conference for Pastors in 1991. http://desiringgod.org/library/biographies/91lloyd_jones.html
Key quote showing that Dr Lloyd-Jones wasn't afraid of speaking out:
Those people who say that [baptism with the Holy Spirit] happens to everybody at regeneration seem to me not only to be denying the New Testament but to be definitely quenching the Spirit" - "Joy Unspeakable" - p241. Ouch! :)
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