On Christianity Today’s website, James K.A. Smith describes himself as a Pentecostal Calvinist. I’m sure some of my “Reformed” brothers will have shivers running up and down their spines if they find this article on the web. In my own ministry I have found a few raised eyebrows as I shared some of my own Biblical convictions on the work of the Spirit.
After serving some months as a pastor in Thornloe Crossroads Baptist Church, about 500 km north of Toronto, I came to the conclusion along with other leaders that we had an inadequate pneumatology. It seemed to me that we had backed into our position out of fear rather than examining biblically what God’s word teaches on the person and work of the Spirit of God. In the process of rectifying this need, and as part of my commitment to teach the whole counsel of God I preached a series of sermons surveying an assortment of topics – 1) The Spirit of God in Creation; 2) The Spirit of God in the Old Testament Saint; 3) The Spirit of God and Leadership; 4) The Spirit of God in the Birth of Christ; 5) in the Life & Ministry of Christ; 6) in the Early followers of Christ, etc…
As I walked down the street of the nearest town where my wife and I had done some shopping I was met by a leader from another Christian fellowship. “So,” he said, “I hear you’ve become ‘Charismatic.’” “What do you mean?” I replied. “Well….. ” he paused, “Are you not teaching on the work of the Spirit of God?” “I certainly am,” I answered, “We are seeking to examine biblically this important doctrine. By the way,” I queried, “when was the last time you heard a sermon on the Spirit of God?” “I can’t remember…” he replied. “I think the other leaders in our group are a little afraid….”
Are we really afraid of the Holy Spirit? I’ve been to “charismatic” services, including a large rally featuring Benny Hinn. I’ve read “Charisma” magazine, particularly when the Toronto Airport Vineyard was stirring the pot of theological reflection. I tune in from time to time to listen to the “big name” charismatic TV preachers in order to help me understand their theology. In my visits to Cuba I have preached in Pentecostal churches and had to sort out what was “essential” to the gospel.
My point is this – I believe in the Spirit of God. I have experienced God’s healing and prayed with other elders at the request of the sick (James 5) that God would grant His healing to sick bodies and at times troubled minds. I believe we know very little of the filling and empowerment of the Spirit of God in our ministries. Does this make me “charismatic?” Frankly I don’t like labels. I have much to learn and don’t like the sentiment of some Christian leaders who seek to convey the idea that because of their “much study” they have God all figured out!
Fill me now, fill me now, Jesus come and fill me now, Fill me with Thy hallowed presence, Come, O come and fill me now!
Spirit of the Living God fall afresh on me….. Amen!
1 Comment
May 20, 2008 at 3:58 pm
Appreciated the link to James K.A. Smith’s Christianity Today article on his synthesis of Pentecostal & Reformed theology. Even if one doesn’t accept all he writes, his perspective is one that we ought to give consideration to.
Your own comments are well put, and we would all do well to give more thought to how we “express” our theology in our personal lives and in our corporate worship.
Now………….where can I find a reformed Baptist dance instructor????