Karl Barth and Pentecostal Theology: A Convergence of the Word and the Spirit

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The essays in this volume evaluate and build on Barths theology from the perspective of Pentecostal theology and, thereby, contribute to constructive Pentecostal systematic theology by using Barth as a valuable dialogue partner. At present, a theological conversation of Pentecostals with Barth does not exist and this volume fills this void. More widely, it will aid all those who seek a convergence of the Word and the Spirit in theology.

Barth and Pentecostals share some important common theological interests. Barths mature theology has a decidedly christological emphasis. Likewise, historically, Pentecostals have often spoken of a full gospel with an emphasis on Christ as savior, healer, baptizer (in the Spirit), and soon-and-coming King, with some Pentecostal traditions also adding a fifth emphasis on Christ the sanctifier. Furthermore, near the end of his life, Barth anticipated the possibility of a theology of the third article, a theology where the Holy Spirit would dominate and be decisive. The realization of Barths dream is no doubt coming to pass in part through the development of Pentecostal theology in as much as pneumatological theology (exploring how pneumatology affects, supplements, and might reform other doctrines) is an emerging paradigm for Pentecostal theology.

Reviews

A cadre of distinguished scholars has adeptly explored the under-appreciated confluence of Karl Barth's theological legacy and the dynamic Pentecostal tradition. Each chapter, authored by a scholar and practitioner of Pentecostalism broadly conceived, delves into the potential convergences between these two very different theological approaches. This groundbreaking volume is conveniently organized around the traditional loci of theology. Nevertheless, these chapters unsurprisingly return again and again to the question of pneumatology, a question often put to Barths theology from other quarters. Yet their take on Barths problems and prospects concerning the Spirit are anything but rote, filled with surprises and worthwhile avenues for continued research and reflection. Although this is unquestionably a scholarly book, Karl Barth and Pentecostal Theology examines not only the nuanced theological dimensions but also the contemporary relevance of these discussions for faith communities. For theologians, practitioners, or observers of the evolving Christian intellectual landscape, this book is well worth reading. The editors are to be commended for filling this gap in the literature. * John Drury, Indiana Weleyan University, USA *
Karl Barth once wrote that in the resurrection of Christ has begun the epoch of the Holy Spirit. We may enter it. In this sense, Barth aligned himself with the Pentecostal Movement. This fruitful connection is fully explored for the first time in this highly interesting book in which expert scholars skilfully tackle its various threads. * Eberhard Busch, University of Gttingen, Germany *
"God has spoken and is still speaking." This statement provides a listening point for this book's conversation between Karl Barth and the best of developing Pentecostal theology. In each chapter, one encounters the confluence of the faithfulness of Jesus with the fruitfulness of the Spirit. The result is a deepening proposal to renew the Church's life aligned with the Triune God infused with Pentecostal insight. Each chapter respectfully engages Barth's constructive proposals interfaced with veteran Pentecostal voices. Reading this collection gives hope for a more Spirit-rich reading of Barth and a more deep-thinking Pentecostal wisdom to serve the academy and the Church. The book is an invitation to wonder about what could be if we looked to attune to the Triune God, and one another, with hope and open ears. * Marty Folsom, Pacific Association for Theological Studies, USA *

Author Bio

Frank D. Macchia is Professor of Theology at Vanguard University in Costa Mesa, USA, and Associate Director of the Centre of Pentecostal and Charismatic Studies at Bangor University, UK.

Terry L. Cross is Professor of Systematic Theology and Dean of the School of Religion at Lee University, USA.

Andrew K. Gabriel is Vice President of Academics and Associate Professor of Theology at Horizon College & Seminary, Canada and Master's College & Seminary, Canada.