Description
Book SynopsisExplores how understandings of godly love function to empower believers
Trade ReviewAn exceptional book in that it tells the story of the failure of a faith-based movement rather than its success. In a richly textured narrative, the authors describe the limitations of religious charisma when it confronts the harsh reality of a business-minded board that requires accountability. This book is fascinating reading for anyone who wants to understand the interplay between spirit and flesh, vision and economic reality. -- Donald E. Miller,Executive Director, Center for Religion and Civic Culture, University of Southern California
Useful to those interested in the emerging church movement and Protestant charismatics. * Choice *
This work will be useful to those interested in the emerging church movement and Protestant charismatics. The church's trajectorywhich ended before the fieldwork study was overwill also engage those interested in studying the at-times messy intertwining of religious institutions, prophetic leadership, and supernaturally focused practices. * Choice *
Table of ContentsAcknowledgments Introduction 1 Congregational Overview 2 Charisma and Structure in the Assemblies of God Theoretical Overview 3 Pentecostal Identity and the Charismata Mixed Motivation and Religious Experience 4 Structure and Charisma Doctrine, Power, and Administration 5 Spirit Baptism and Spiritual Transformation An Exercise in Socio-Theology 6 Spiritual Empowerment Pray-ers, Prophets, and Healers in the Pews 7 Law of Love and Love of Law Beliefs, Mores, and Faces of Love 8 Ushering in the Kingdom of God Religious Values, Godly Love, and Public Affairs 9 Covenants, Contracts, and Godly Love (with Matthew T. Lee)