Baptism and Fullness: The Work of the Holy Spirit Today

Rating:
Summary: A Brief Look at the Holy Spirit's Work
Review: John Stott's work, Baptism and Fullness, I have to admit was expecting to be timid. To my surprise, it contained some pretty good information about how the Holy Spirit works in the lives of believers. This book concerns questions like, what is the promise of the Spirit in the Old Testament? To what extent does the promise apply? What is the "fruit of the Spirit" or the "fullness of the Spirit?" What about spiritual gifts? How many, and are they for today?

So, this book is a short and sweet look at these above questions. It was also pretty simple reading, though he occasionally refers to the greek language (that should not be a problem for you if you cannot read koine greek). I was not in full agreement with Stott (for instance with his interpretation of 1 Cor. 3 and the 'carnal' Christian); but for the most part, I was pleased with his approach. This work that I read was his updated second edition. One thing I would tell Stott to do if he makes a third edition is when covering if spiritual gifts are for today, discuss *which ones precisely* are for today. Otherwise, nice book (not ground-breaking, but good).

Rating:
Summary: Careful look at Filling of the Holy Spirit
Review: Stott carefully wades his way through the waters of life in the Spirit for Christians.

With all the different teachings about the work and manifestation of the Holy Spirit, Stott in this small volume contributes much towards beginning an understanding of the Scriptural view.

He correctly asserts that all life as a Christian is life in the Spirit. It begins at baptism, with water and Word of God and the gift of the Spirit and faith.

Holy Spirit does not want to draw attention to itself, but always to Christ our Savior. For there is forgiveness of sin in no other way. Spirit points not to individual gifts and manifestiation, but to edification of the body gathered under Word and Sacrament.

Carefully reflects that modern charismatic teaching of tongues does not reflect what NT teaches.

Rating:
Summary: Must read if searching on the Holy Spirit
Review: This book was well written. Mr. Stott put a lot of study and prayer into the writing of this book. It will open the Scripture up for a good understanding. People with all views will be made to rethink and look at the Scripture again to strengthen their understanding.