BAPTISM AND FULLNESS: THE WORK OF THE HOLY SPIRIT TODAY, by John Stott

A Brief Book Summary from Books At a Glance

By Steve West

 

About the Author

John Stott was one of the most significant global Christian leaders of the 20^th Century. He authored numerous books which are still widely read and used today.

 

Introduction

Baptism & Fullness is a book that Stott wrote in order to answer questions and share concerns about the charismatic movement. He treats the issues involved through biblical and theological exposition. Stott’s concern in the book is for the truth of God to be known, his Word upheld, and the church edified.

 

Table of Contents

Introduction
Chapter 1 The Promise of the Spirit
Chapter 2 The Fullness of the Spirit
Chapter 3 The Fruit of the Spirit
Chapter 4 The Gifts of the Spirit
Conclusion

 

Summary

 

Introduction

Everywhere we look it seems that Western society is moving further away from God’s truth and the church is seen as increasingly irrelevant and outmoded. We desperately need a fresh outpouring of God’s Holy Spirit to give us life. In many other parts of the world the church is growing through conversion, but there is an immaturity and emotionalism that is causing problems. As a result, all over the world we need more of the Spirit. We also know as individuals how much we need to grow. Every believer should want nothing less than to be all that God wants them to be. Experience is valuable but the authority of truth is the Word of God. Narrative in Scripture (like in the Book of Acts) needs to be interpreted by the didactic portions of God’s Word. It is important that we do not study the Bible in order to merely be able to score theological points: Our goal should be to know how to better love God and each other.

 

Chapter 1: The Promise of the Spirit

“The Christian life is life in the Spirit.” Since only the Spirit can give the new birth, it is impossible to be a Christian apart from the Spirit’s work. Every believer is a son of God, and every son has the Spirit. The Spirit takes up residence in us, making us God’s temple; then he begins the process of sanctifying us. He works to eliminate sin and to produce the fruit of holiness. This work is not merely personal; it also involves working in the church as a corporate body. Some people try to distinguish between the gift of the Spirit and a subsequent baptism of the Spirit.

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