Testimony in the Spirit: Rescripting Ordinary Pentecostal Theology (Explorations in Practical, Pastoral and Empirical Theology)

This book explores the ordinary beliefs and practices of Pentecostal and Charismatic Christians in relation to the Holy Spirit. It does this by means of a congregational study of a classical Pentecostal church in the UK, using participant observation, focus groups and documentary and media analysis. This approach develops a framework in which the narratives of informants can be interpreted. Focusing on specific areas of interest, such as worship, conversion, healing and witness, each contribution from respondents is situated within the context of the congregation and interpreted by means of the broader Christian tradition. This book makes a unique contribution to scholarship by offering a rich and varied picture of contemporary Christians in the Pentecostal and Charismatic traditions, enabling a greater understanding to be appreciated for both academic and ecclesial audiences.

Mark J. Cartledge is a practical theologian who has worked in a number of different jobs combining Christian ministry with academic teaching and research. He has been researching Pentecostal and Charismatic Christianity for twenty years and is now one of the most established scholars in this field in the UK. He is a member of the Society for Pentecostal Studies. His publications include: (Editor) Speaking in Tongues: Multi-disciplinary Perspectives (2006); Encountering the Spirit: The Charismatic Tradition (2006); Practical Theology: Charismatic and Empirical Perspectives (2003); Charismatic Glossolalia: An Empirical Theological Study (Aldershot: Ashgate, 2002)