The times have long passed when Pentecostals were viewed as
Protestantism's untouchables. Today, the shock waves from Azusa Street
have influenced countless Evangelicals worldwide. But if dialogue
between Pentecostals and Evangelicals has awakened within the latter a
thirst for the power of God's Spirit, it has challenged Pentecostals to
examine their theology more deeply in the light of his Word. Just how
firm is the biblical foundation on which they stand? Spirit and Power
provides a cutting-edge look at Pentecostal theology. It addresses the
concern expressed by its authors and echoed throughout charismatic
churches today: "Although our Pentecostal forefathers intuitively
grasped the correlation between the reality they experienced and the
promise of Acts 1:8, they did not always articulate their theology in a
manner that was convincing to other believers committed to the authority
of Scripture." In response, theologians William and Robert Menzies
explore Pentecostalism in a scholarly and current light. Spirit and
Power is no mere paraphrase of dated approaches. It is a fresh and
penetrating look at the whys and wherefores of Pentecostal doctrine that
sets a new standard for Spirit-filled theology. Whatever your persuasion
may be as a Christian, this book's thoughtfulness, balance, and biblical
integrity will help you appreciate more fully the strengths of the
Pentecostal stance. Laying the groundwork for an accurate understanding
of Luke's writings in particular, the authors help you grasp the
foundations of Pentecostal theology from the standpoints of history,
hermeneutics, and exegesis. Then, in Part Two, they give you an in-depth
look at specific Pentecostal concerns: the baptism of the Holy Spirit as
a blessing subsequent to salvation, evidential tongues, signs and
wonders, healing in the atonement, and more. You'll deepen your
understanding of the basis for Pentecostal beliefs. And you'll gain a
feel for the mutually beneficial dialogue that continues between
Pentecostals and Evangelicals today.
