Living in the Spirit: Drawing Us to God, Sending Us to the World

by George O. Wood

Living in the Spirit offers a comprehensive compilation of perspectives concerning the person and ministry of the Holy Spirit. George Wood's ability to express orthodox Pentecostal theology in creative and refreshing ways is unique. He lucidly expresses his desire that Pentecostals resist being content with memories of powerful past encounters with the Spirit and instead seek to be overwhelmed by the Spirit and demonstrate the enduring evidence of His fullness.

Genres: Christian, Christian Living, Spirituality

185 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2009

Reviews

[Aaron · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love that Dr Wood drops from his pen an obscure word in to every chapter, which will send the reader running to the dictionary. A very well written and easily understood book on a subject that most believers, not to mention non-believers, have no understanding of.

I admit that I really have no understanding of this subject, though I found "Living in the Spirit" to be thus far the most illuminating work that I have read on the Holy Spirit. I have lain out before me doctrinal teachings which I align myself with. Dr Wood went to great lengths to show why he himself holds these scriptural truths to be self evident. Do you know the difference between Baptism with the Holy Spirit, and Baptism in the Holy Spirit?

I found most interesting the mention of Dean Merrill's article, "The Five Faces of Pentecost" - Retro Pentecost, Prosperity Pentecost, Hyper Pentecost, Nominal Pentecost, and finally, Authentic Pentecost. I believe the majority of Pentecostals fall under Prosperity, followed by Hyper. Do you know under which your favorite TV evangelist falls?

Most fascinating too was Chapter Four's section on "Why God Chose Tongues". This explanation was astounding and most logical! I loved it!

What are the most important things that I took away?

1. Tongues, in scripture, are described as "enthused" speech.

2. Dr. Wood teaches that tongues are functioning with rationality - tongues are not something that spring forth from trance, or the subconscious mind.

3. There are 9 Spiritual Gifts described in I Corinthians 12

4. There are 7 Gifts mentioned in Romans 12:6-8

5. Additional Gifts are mentioned in Ephesians 4:11-13

Let me break these down:

MOTIVATIONAL GIFTS (Romans 12:6-8)
Prophecy
Service
Teaching
Encouragement
Giving
Leadership
Mercy

SPIRITUAL GIFTS (I Corinthians 12:7-11)
Wisdom
Knowledge
Faith
Gifts of Healing
Miracles
Discerning of Spirits
Tongues
Interpretation of Tongues

MINISTRY GIFTS (I Corinthians 12:27-31, Ephesians 4:11-13
Apostle
Helps
Administration
Evangelist
Pastor

FOUR ADDITIONAL GIFTS (I Corinthians 7:7, 13:3, I Peter 4:9)
Celibacy
Voluntary Poverty
Martyrdom
Hospitality

Have you received the Baptism of the Holy Spirit? How many of us have been ask that!? What we should be asking is "Are you filled with the Holy Spirit?"

I'd like to go on to elaborate on the book, but I simply can't. I could quote more things, and give my opinion of them, but what I need is experience. Upon experiencing, I'd like to read this book again, take notes. I may very well come back here and add an update. Look forward to it

[Rick Mackinnon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dr. Wood presents in an easy to read format the one distinguishing doctrine of all Pentecostals, the teaching of the Holy Spirit. From his experience as pastor and denominational leader, Dr. Wood will walk you through the Scriptures which speak specifically of the Holy Spirit, who is the Holy Spirit, and to the reason of being filled with the Holy Spirit os God's promise to all believers.

Written for those curious about the Pentecostal experience, those wanting a better understanding of their experience, and those wondering what comes next in their spiritual journey.

[Devon · Rating 4 out of 5]

A simple yet effective overview of the doctrine of the Holy Spirit and the gifts from a Pentecostal/Assemblies of God perspective. Easy to read and encouraging. The chapter on order I thought was particularly good.

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a wonderful book and study on the Holy Spirit. It was wonderful to get a deeper look at who the Holy Spirit is. If you thought that the Holy Spirit was a packaged deal with the Father and the Son, you are in for a surprise. Even though the Holy Spirit is a part of the Holy Trinity, there is so much more to him than I thought. A wonderful study for anyone!

[Dolores Ann]

This book is written from a Pentecostal point of view. I do not agree with the teachings and beliefsin it. If one were from those beliefs then I'm sure they would have liked the book. As for me it was not a good book at all!!

[Susan B]

Made it half-way through. May pick it up again sometime to finish. A lot about Spirit baptism and speaking in tongues. Author is Pentecostal pastor, so understandable...