Reimagining Church

I’ve not had the pleasure of meeting Rob McAlpine (a.k.a. Robbymac) in person yet, but I’ve been quite impressed with his blog. He’s one of the sharper and more creative folks on the blogosphere today.

Rob has written a timely book entitled “Post Charismatic” (which I identify myself to be). Here is a guest review written by Grace, along with some others.

I hope it will stimulate you to get the book.

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Post Charismatic? by Rob McAlpine

by Grace of Kingdom Grace

Unlike most books that I review, I actually bought this book, from England! And Rob didn’t ask me to review it.

I said several times already what a pity it is that US publishers missed the opportunity to distribute and market this book in the aftermath of Lakeland and the VP nomination of Sarah Palin. It is evident based upon Technorati and google searches that many people are looking for the answers about charismatic practices that are provided in this book.

The first half of the book covers charismatic history, beginning in the holiness movement and ending with the more recent new apostolic reformation. Rob extensively explains specific areas where error and controversy have occurred within the charismatic stream – the Latter Rain Movement, the Word of Faith Movement, and authoritarian leadership. However, rather than taking a hatchet to these areas, he instead provides enough background and explanation to reveal both the healthy aspects and the beliefs that resulted in false doctrines and practices.

This half of the book is fascinating and really should be a must-read by anyone who is, has been, or will be involved in the charismatic realm of church.

However, the second half of the book is the part of my book that will become worn from use. The emphasis is “towards a reconstructed praxis.” In this half of the book, Rob is both pastoral and challenging in his encouragement to continue the journey in the power of the Spirit. Addressing many of the same issues of error from the first half of the book, he provides a corrected and balanced approach to the areas of authority, faith, discipleship, and community. He is unrelenting in his message that a post-charismatic journey must be Spirit-led.

Personally, I look to Rob’s wisdom and experience in my own post-charismatic journey. I find that he tethers me from veering off into the extremes to which I am apparently prone. The book was annoyingly accurate in its descriptions of the things that post-charismatics experience and their responses. By the end of the book, I find myself once again convicted, encouraged, and challenged to expect the participation of the Spirit in my life.

As I said earlier, if you have had any involvement with charismatics, you will find this book valuable. Also, I believe it is a wonderful book for those desiring a more spirit-empowered walk, but perhaps have been reluctant to pursue it due to witnessing extremes and hype among charismatics. This book would be a great guide for moving in that direction with balance and wisdom.

It appears to now be available and shipping from Amazon in the US. It is also available here:

Amazon.ca
Amazon.uk
Kingsway(uk)

The author, Rob McAlpine, is better known around the blogosphere as Robbymac. You can enjoy more of his writing at his blog.

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Other Reviews

Rob deals with facts before venturing an opinion. Carefully he steers us through the relevant history, looking in depth at the ‘Latter Rain’ movement, teaching on ’shepherding’, and the prosperity ‘gospel’ that ultimately brought pain and disillusionment to so many. Then, aware that it’s often easier to criticize than to construct, he explores possible ways forward to a more mature expression of spirituality and a shared life together as disciples of Christ today.” — Publisher’s notes

“Rob McAlpine writes with a positive and constructive voice. He shows us that the answer to misuse or excess concerning the Holy Spirit is not ‘no use’ but right use. For burned-out and hurt former charismatics, Post-Charismatic? leads the way forward toward a mature and sane re-engagement with the person and work of the Holy Spirit. Post-charismatic is not post-Holy Spirit, it is a call for post-weirdness.” — Todd Hunter, former National Director Vineyard Churches USA

“(Post-Charismatic?) represents a small selection on my book shelf, and emerging church books, that explore the charismatic and holy spirit. In fact it’s the only book of its kind on my shelf… It is a comprehensive book by a wonderful and gracious man. It’s not a hatchet job of charismatic church life, but a kind yet deeply reflective and critical look at some of the many streams of charismatic church, their history and antecedents, and what they were about at their best, and where they have left many of us asking questions when they were at their worst.” – Jason Clark, Vineyard pastor, director of EmergentUK (full review)

“It is a timely message. McAlpine writes to all those disillusioned with the charismatic and seeks to provide a way for them to reintegrate the Spirit and word. Without one we dry up and without the other we blow up.” – Stephen Bishop (full review)

“Whereas much of the first 2/3rds of the book examines the history and theology of Charismatic practice and belief, the last 1/3rd really puts practical application to Rob’s work. He reminds us to look to the Bible and the context of scriptures, combined with a dynamic Holy Spirit, to breathe new life into our walk with the Lord. It is an easy read, bible-focused, straight forward and practical.” – Brian Riley, FJ Ministries, YWAM (full review)

“I not only like what McAlpine has to say; I like the spirit in which he says it. Highly recommended.” – Brian Kerr, FM Books Online (full review)

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