The Pentecostal movement in the early twentieth century had a strong anti-intellectual element. Many Pentecostals saw themselves as going back to the church of the New Testament and thought they could ignore eighteen centuries of church history. They saw how scholars departed from the simple truths of the gospel and, in many cases, ended up rejecting the faith because of their supposed intellectual sophistication. Did not Peter and John astound the ruling authorities in Jerusalem because their only claim to knowledge was that they had been with Jesus and had the Spirit, being otherwise "unlearned and ignorant men" (Acts 4:13)? Did not Paul say that God "will destroy the wisdom of the wise and will bring to nothing the understanding of the prudent" (1 Cor. 1:19)?
In this book, Nanez carefully shows how God expects us to use human reason in understanding his Word. Moreover, we need solid intellectual understanding in order to defend the gospel from its detractors and to present the gospel in a positive light. While more and more Pentecostals and charismatics are going to college and university, they either have to battle being stereotyped as anti-intellectual, or they apply their minds to a program of academic study but don't engage their faith on the same intellectual level. Nanez brings out the need to read widely in order to understand the Bible and Christian doctrine. He also offers many gems from great church leaders of the past, who were champions in defending the faith against intellectual opponents.
Average Rating: 5 out of 5 stars(5 out of 5 stars)
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5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Quaife Nichols (Midwest City, OK), January 11, 2009
This is an outstanding book which should be read by all Spirit-filled believers! It is informative, motivating and challenging. If taken seriously by the Full Gospel community, it has the potential to impact the world in
4.5 out of 5 stars
Reviewed by Loke Chan Mun (Pasir Ris, Singapore), December 05, 2007
This is a long overdue book that speaks clearly on an issue that has unnecessarily handicapped the Christian community in her effectiveness as salt and light, not only in America and the Pentecostal/Charismatic movement but also other denominations in the world.
Rick is frank and courageous to speak against the prevailing apathy and even hostile attitude towards learning and intellectual pursuit within the spiritual tradition he is in.
One of the best I have read on the subject of challenging the church to worship God with her mind.
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