A message to the charismatic movement

the long version

Throughout the history of Christianity there has existed a certain tension between the freedom of the Spirit and the authority of the Church. It is a question which is much discussed in connection with the charismatic movement. Can free flowing charismatic power live under the discipline of the church without losing its spiritual dynamic? Can a church rejoice in the free exercise of spiritual gifts and yet retain structure and order? Larry Christenson maintains that both are necessary: the Church needs the charismatic movement, and the charismatic movement needs the Church. From an unexpected and little known source, he sheds new light on this vital question. People both within and outside the charismatic movement will read with interest the unfolding of a story which offers a new perspective for understanding and interpreting the charismatic renewal. - Back cover.