Examines the history, ideology and organization of the charismatic movement.

A lifetime of reflection and examination on the book of Acts

When Jesus of Nazareth rose from the dead, the Apostles took stones from his tomb. Then at Pentecost, the fire of the Holy Spirit empowered the stones, and the Apostles performed miracles in God's name. The stones were handed down through generations of Keepers, but now the Keepers are being murdered, the stones stolen by those who would use them for evil in a world transformed by religious fundamentalism.

With exegetical depth, objectivity, and clarity Richard B. Gaffin examines prophecy and tongues and makes a case for the cessation of both gifts at the close of the apostolic era. Pentecost is presented as integral to the once-for-all work of Christ and decisive for the life of the whole church. Dr. Gaffin's biblical theological perspective is thorough. He defines all the spiritual gifts generally; he clarifies the nature of prophecy and tongues and the question of their continuance in the church today; and he indicates how these exegetical studies bear on contemporary interest in charismatic gifts. - Back cover.

"A fresh wind of God's Spirit is blowing on the earth today, and as in times past, God is inviting us to raise our sails and move forward with the power and direction that reflects our commitment to God's will. Some are calling it ""a new pentecost,"" but whatever name is given, we are living in a time when we have an opportunity to connect with God's renewing work. One specific manifestation of this movement is ""the new monasticism."" This book is an invitation to explore it and embrace the dynamics it contains."