This book is different than other Thomas Schreiner books I’ve used. That’s not to say it isn’t good, just that it’s different. He’s turned out some impressive exegetical volumes over the years, and though this volume has a scholarly awareness, it can profit any Christian. In my view, it’s pitched at the right level to be a blessing to lots of people. You can tell he’s writing past those obsessed debaters who battle these issues for kicks so he can reach Christians with honest questions on a confusing subject. His tone is more of discussion and gentle persuasion with a keen respect of the reader who might at the end of the day conclude differently than him.

After an introduction, he gives a balanced, gracious critique of the strengths and weaknesses of the Charismatic Movement. The next three chapters dissect the various lists of spiritual gifts in the New Testament. He gives two chapters to reason out what the New Testament really means by “prophecy”. There are two chapters on the explosive issue of tongues. The final two chapters look at arguments pro and con on the cessation of gifts.

His arguments are judicious and have the ring of truth. I found myself nodding “yes” on many pages. I’d call this book a perfect volume to use to make sense of spiritual gifts. You will want to check it out.

I received this book free from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.