Renewal Theology

Rating:
Summary: Systematic theology for the Charismatically-inclined...
Review: For many years, Charismatics have been found wanting with respect to an authoritative systematic theology written from a Charismatic perspective. We have had to "borrow" the systematic theologies of others like Grudem, Schafer, et al. And this isn't bad in and of itself. But in areas such as pneumology, the current evangelical theology has always differed with the charismatic viewpoint, and has left the charismaric wanting in this and other areas.

But not any more.

Williams covers each important theological subject in a thorough fashion and provides a complete systematic theology for the Charismatically-inclined as well as for the body of Christ at large.

It is nice to see a sound theology advanced by an eminently capable scholar who embraces the charismatic world view.

I could not give the book five stars because for all its worth, Williams does not believe that healing is in the atonement--a staple for the charismatic community. But William's viewpoint in this area may be due to his Presbyterian roots.

Good book if you want a theology from a charismatic viewpoint.

Rating:
Summary: Great Work To Have For Theology Students
Review: I bought this book while attending an evangelical Bible college. This book was not only a great resource to have but has proven to be very useful to me in the ministry.

Williams will challange traditional charismatic thinking and he does a good job of presenting each doctrinal section with clear Biblical texts based on both the Greek, Hebrew, and various translations.

The one area I was challanged was in Williams views of the tribulation (he is post-trib whereas I am more pre-trib). Williams, being a Presybeterian pastor, does a great job of presenting his post-trib views as well as his insights into predestinationa, election, and God's sovereignty are good.

Buy this book! You will not regret getting a copy!

Rating:
Summary: Great Work To Have For Theology Students
Review: I bought this book while attending an evangelical Bible college. This book was not only a great resource to have but has proven to be very useful to me in the ministry.

Williams will challange traditional charismatic thinking and he does a good job of presenting each doctrinal section with clear Biblical texts based on both the Greek, Hebrew, and various translations.

The one area I was challanged was in Williams views of the tribulation (he is post-trib whereas I am more pre-trib). Williams, being a Presybeterian pastor, does a great job of presenting his post-trib views as well as his insights into predestinationa, election, and God's sovereignty are good.

Buy this book! You will not regret getting a copy!

Rating:
Summary: Finally, a worthwhile charismatic theology
Review: Pentecostalism is the largest movement of the past 100 years, easily accounting for 25% of all Christians in the world! The knock against it is that it has had no solid theological roots. Well, look no further. Williams' theology is solid. First and foremost, he worships God in this book. Second, he respectfully explains other viewpoints on issues (original sin, eschatology, gifts of the Spirit, etc.), while providing logical, scriptural arguments for his own. This and Grudem's _Systematic Theology_ are the only contemporary ones I own, and they are well-worn.

Rating:
Summary: Finally, a worthwhile charismatic theology
Review: Pentecostalism is the largest movement of the past 100 years, easily accounting for 25% of all Christians in the world! The knock against it is that it has had no solid theological roots. Well, look no further. Williams' theology is solid. First and foremost, he worships God in this book. Second, he respectfully explains other viewpoints on issues (original sin, eschatology, gifts of the Spirit, etc.), while providing logical, scriptural arguments for his own. This and Grudem's _Systematic Theology_ are the only contemporary ones I own, and they are well-worn.

Rating:
Summary: Stirs the spirit as much as it informs the mind!
Review: This book is well worth the reading. No "empty hands on empty heads" theology here! This book is a well-balanced, scholarly work. A must-read for every Christian with a desire to undergird their faith with reason. He graciously avoids the unfortunate extremes of "charismania" while holding to the conviction that God is STILL a God of supernatural power.

Rating:
Summary: Stirs the spirit as much as it informs the mind!
Review: This book is well worth the reading. No "empty hands on empty heads" theology here! This book is a well-balanced, scholarly work. A must-read for every Christian with a desire to undergird their faith with reason. He graciously avoids the unfortunate extremes of "charismania" while holding to the conviction that God is STILL a God of supernatural power.

Rating:
Summary: Absoultely Solid Textbook
Review: This book was recommended to me by one of my bible school instructors. I found this book to be very helpful in my studies of the scriptures. All major theological issues are dealt with and specific scriptures are used to support the ideas presented. I don't think I've ever seen a book of this caliber. I highly recommend this book to any pastor, small group leader, missionary, evangelist or person who teaches from the bible.

Rating:
Summary: Indispensible to Charismatic Christian Scholars
Review: This is a highly readable book dealing with systematic theology from a reformed position yet with a thoroughly Biblical exposition of the Holy Spirit, the role of the Spirit in a Christian's life, gifts of the Spirit, and the current renewal movement (which almost all other reformed theology ignores). Many have said that this book combines the intellectual foundation that the charismatic movement has needed. This book is for every Christian looking to strengthen their mind with the truth of God's Word while at the same time drawing one closer in that vital relationship with the Triune God that is absolutely necessary to make theology come alive in words and deeds. Many of my theologically untrained friends have read this book and have found it very easy to read yet life changing. It confirmed to them the reality and theological basis of the Holy Spirit in their lives today. It strengthened their understanding of the core doctrines of the Word of God. Dr. Williams' character and enthusiasm for the truth of God and the movement fo the Holy Spirit shines through each of the chapters. Christians will certainly be challenged with his exposition on limited atonement, and foreordination or predestination vs. free-will debates which he attempts to show another prespective that both miss. I highly recommend this book to every believer seeking to read a theological book that not only stimulates the intellect providing truth and wisdom from God's Word but also encourages the heart in one's relationship to God, the Church and towards the world.

Rating:
Summary: Theology from a guy who believes in God!
Review: Unlike many dry theology books, Renewal Theology by J. Rodman Williams is full of life. While learning the great truths of Theology, I often enjoyed an encounter with the Holy Spirit in these pages. My relationship with God was enriched while my mind was enlightened. Dr. Williams, a professor at Regent University, a graduate university in Virginia Beach, covers theology comprehensively and compassionately. His Presbyterian roots and experience combined with his vital life in the Spirit produce a classic work. Whatever your denominational persuasion, you should read this