Editorial Reviews

Book Description:

CHARISMATIC? YOU CERTAINLY ARE…IF YOU ARE A CHRISTIAN AT ALL.

But perhaps not in the way the term is frequently used today. Charismata is a Greek word meaning “gifts of grace.” It refers to the gifts or special abilities given to Christians by the Holy Spirit–all the gifts, not just speaking in tongues or miracles or healing.

and #149; What are the 19 gifts?
and #149; Are they all for today?
and #149; What is their purpose?
and #149; How can we discover and put to use our own gifts?

All of these questions, plus a careful examination of gifts revealed in the Bible, are included in this in-depth study, first published in 1974. If you want to know what the Bible says about spiritual gifts, this book is for you.

Dr. Leslie Flynn is the former pastor of Grace Conservative Baptist Church in Nanuet, New York, where he served for 40 years. He has written more than 30 books, among them this classic and The Twelve.

Customer Reviews

Excellent, insightful and applicable. by R. Wagner
Ever read a book of this type that just drones on and you say to yourself, “just get to your point!” Well, this one makes the point without being wordy. It’s great to use for busy adults who want something thought provoking with great scripture referance. It’s great for adult Bible Studies for folks that don’t have alot of time for homework or prep but want to grow spiritually and be challanged on what was thought to be their Spiritual Gift(s). Only negative is that this rewrite from the original (1970’s)could have updated some of the examples that adults under age 40 may not be familiar with.

I loved this commentary! by T. Bond
Dr. Flynn does a great job of breaking down a large subject that can be difficult to understand. Unlike many commentaries, this one is straight forward, with illustrative stories. It is biblically sound and the women in my Bible study have found it very helpful in furthering their understanding (as well as mine) of spiritual gifts in general, as well as which gifts they possess. I highly recommend this book!

The Classic on Spiritual Gifts by
I read this book when it first came out in the 1970s and recently got the updated version. I have always found it helpful, but wish Flynn had not limited himself to 19 gifts (what about the gifts of intercession, creativity and craftsmanship?). The book is very helpful for the gifts it does cover, though.

Charismatic or Not Charismatic - That’s the Real Question by
Dr. Flynn states that his book is Charismatic and that the gifts are supernatural. Unfortunately, his definitions of some of the gifts are limited. He does not use the traditional definition of charismatic. He holds to the convention that God gives no new revelations, only that written Scripture is clarified.

For example, “Word of Knowledge” according to the author, “enables the believer to search, systemize and summarize the teachings of the word of God.” It is then shared with others. The difference between this and teaching, he says, depends whether we emphasize communication or knowledge. Thoughout the book, he implies that some of the gifts are not for today and if they are for today, that they are for set and determinable circumstances.

A good point the auther made, was lack of a gift does not excuse us from abstaining in a particular area. For example, we all should give and exercise mercy regardless of whether we have the gifts or giving and mercy. He made many other good points as well.

What we have to realize is that we are all the body of Christ. How we define the gifts is not something that will keep us out of heaven or get us in.

For most of my Baptist brothers and sisters in Christ, this book is for you. My Assembly of God brothers and sisters probably will not agree with some of the definitions used and some of the limitations placed on the gifts. My other brothers and sisters, it depends on your definition of “charismatic.” I have to admit, if I was Baptist, I’d give the book a 5 star rating.

In addition, regardless of the interpretation of the Scriptures on this subject matter, the book is well written and well organized. It is easy to follow and holds your attention.

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