New thoughts on spiritual gifts: a careful, historical examination of claims and experience.
This edition presents a disciplined look at how true inspiration is tested against Scripture, church history, and reason. It surveys cases of extraordinary claims, weighs the evidence, and contrasts popular experiences with the examples set by biblical prophets and early Church Fathers. Readers will see why some claims are marked as troubling or unreliable, and how sober judgment can guide believers.
- How to evaluate charismatic claims with a consistent test drawn from Scripture and church tradition.
- A historical view of how different teachers and eras have understood prophecy and inspiration.
- Examples of how genuine spiritual fruit is distinguished from errant or excessive expressions.
- Arguments for why prayer and gifts should align with God’s revealed will, not personal excitement.
Ideal for readers of religious history, biblical studies, and thoughtful Christian practice seeking a calm, principled approach to the topic of spiritual gifts.