Spiritual Gifts and the Church
Donald Bridge, David Phypers (2001)
Spiritual Gifts and the Church originally published in 1973 and revised in 2001, explores the diverse beliefs and debates within various church denominations regarding the Holy Spirit’s gifts. The book draws insights from Paul’s Epistles, primarily 1 Corinthians 12 and Ephesians 4, to emphasize unity among Christians. Divided into three sections, it navigates through the role of spiritual gifts in the Church, the Baptism of the Spirit, and how to embrace these gifts. The authors highlight that while there is an abundance of literature on spiritual gifts, their aim is practical rather than academic. They seek to clarify shared fundamental truths among Christians, advocating for tolerance and unity. The opening chapter delves into Paul’s concept of the “Body of Christ,” characterized by its supernatural nature. It discusses the purpose, nature, origin, and number of spiritual gifts, referencing Paul’s Greek terms: Pneumatikoi, Charisma, diakonia, and phanerösis.
The book acknowledges that some aspects remain unclear, even to Paul himself, and cites disputes over early church practices. It explains the unique gifts granted to Apostles, Prophets, evangelists, pastors, teachers, and others, acknowledging that distinctions between these roles can be complex and are not always essential. The current controversy within different denominations regarding the concept of the ‘Baptism of the Spirit’ and its manifestations, particularly in relation to the growing charismatic movements is discussed in detail. The book encourages unity among Christians while exploring the multifaceted topic of spiritual gifts through a practical lens. Each individual is invited to share in the gifts of the Holy Spirit as historical examples show.
The Power of Silence: Against the Dictatorship of Noise
Cardinal Robert Sarah with Nicolas Diat (2016)
The Power of Silence: Against the Dictatorship of Noise is a profound dialogue between Cardinal Robert Sarah, a notable voice in the African Church, and Nicolas Diat. The five-chapter book captures their conversations at the La Grande Chartreuse monastery. Addressing modern challenges in a noisy, materialistic world, the book draws from saints, mystics, and Cardinal Sarah’s experiences. The cardinal explores key questions: Can truth, beauty, and love be grasped without silence? Does wisdom spring from silence, where God’s voice is heard? Creativity is nurtured in silence, but our loud world hinders its pursuit. Modernity’s lack of connection with the divine creates an anguishing dilemma. Silence, a profound relationship between humans and God, births prayer and depth.
Silence, the author contends, enables humans to follow God’s lead. It fosters encounters with God’s light and is more significant than any human endeavor. The true revolution emerges from silence, aligning us with God and service to others. Mother Teresa’s example highlights love born from seeking Jesus. Cardinal Sarah acknowledges the challenge of explaining divine silence. Pope Benedict XVI’s afterword lauds him as a spiritual guide, imparting wisdom from his deep union with the Lord. In essence, The Power of Silence offers insights into the trans-formative potential of silence amidst a noisy world, drawing from Cardinal Sarah’s profound reflections and experiences.
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