Karl Barth and Pentecostal Theology

"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 Barth’s theology from other quarters. Yet their take on Barth’s 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 Göttingen, 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 *"