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Transforming Presence Lib/E: How the Holy Spirit Changes Everything-From the Inside Out
Does God sometimes feel far off? Do you have a hard time motivating yourself to get into the Word? Are you trying to conquer old sins, but feeling defeated? If so, you’re not alone. But the secret to spiritual thriving isn’t about trying harder. You need supernatural help. That’s why God sent a Helper.
The church faces problems today because it misunderstands the Holy Spirit. We think of Him as a force rather than a person. And we look for a manifestation of the Holy Spirit in an Old Testament way instead of the New Testament way God designed for us. Through over twenty years of studying church renewal Daniel Henderson has discovered 10 practices that lead to individuals—and entire churches—having a right relationship with the Holy Spirit and experiencing the kind of inside-out renewal that can only come from God. Stop relying on your natural effort that can only lead to natural results, seek supernatural change. Find out how the Holy Spirit can transform you (and your church) today.
The church faces problems today because it misunderstands the Holy Spirit. We think of Him as a force rather than a person. And we look for a manifestation of the Holy Spirit in an Old Testament way instead of the New Testament way God designed for us. Through over twenty years of studying church renewal Daniel Henderson has discovered 10 practices that lead to individuals—and entire churches—having a right relationship with the Holy Spirit and experiencing the kind of inside-out renewal that can only come from God. Stop relying on your natural effort that can only lead to natural results, seek supernatural change. Find out how the Holy Spirit can transform you (and your church) today.
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Published June 5, 2018
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About the author
Daniel Henderson
37 books26 followersPastor, Preacher, Renewal Catalyst, Leadership Coach & Author who is passionate about personal renewal, congregational revival & leadership restoration.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 32 reviews
December 2, 2024
Wow! This book took me a while to read because I felt that I had to read it meditatively. One thing that is emphasized over and over again is the Holy Spirit’s indwelling presence rather than some kind of external force, experience, or atmosphere. In other words, “seek a filling, not a falling.” Such rich insight that made me more passionate to be filled with the Spirit. The quotes from various Christians throughout the book are 🔥.
August 7, 2018
I would like to recommend the book “Transforming Presence” by Daniel Henderson. I met the author a little over three years ago and have found him to be a man after God’s heart.
Daniel presents the Holy Spirit, in a way that every Christian seeking the truth can confidently embrace, absolutely trust, and joyfully live out.
He uniquely tackles the cloud of controversy and pulls back the shroud of mystery surrounding the Holy Spirit. He also challenges us to live in the fullness of the new covenant, realizing that our ministries must be more than celebrity driven preaching with just the right kind of musical vibe. It is a wake-up call for all of us who claim the name of Christ to live “Keeping the Main Thing the Main Thing.”
This book will not just enlighten you intellectually and adjust and strengthen you theologically. It will inspire you to give your life afresh to our Lord and seek to live in the light of the wonderful gift indwelling in us--the Holy Spirit.
Forty years ago, one author wrote, “The desperate need today is not for a greater number of intelligent people, or gifted people, but for deep people.” If that was true back then, you can more than quadruple the need today. This book will help each of us set the compass to true north and live in the real power and personal presence of the Holy Spirit.
Daniel presents the Holy Spirit, in a way that every Christian seeking the truth can confidently embrace, absolutely trust, and joyfully live out.
He uniquely tackles the cloud of controversy and pulls back the shroud of mystery surrounding the Holy Spirit. He also challenges us to live in the fullness of the new covenant, realizing that our ministries must be more than celebrity driven preaching with just the right kind of musical vibe. It is a wake-up call for all of us who claim the name of Christ to live “Keeping the Main Thing the Main Thing.”
This book will not just enlighten you intellectually and adjust and strengthen you theologically. It will inspire you to give your life afresh to our Lord and seek to live in the light of the wonderful gift indwelling in us--the Holy Spirit.
Forty years ago, one author wrote, “The desperate need today is not for a greater number of intelligent people, or gifted people, but for deep people.” If that was true back then, you can more than quadruple the need today. This book will help each of us set the compass to true north and live in the real power and personal presence of the Holy Spirit.
June 2, 2018
Henderson believes it is urgent that every Christian experience the person and power of the Holy Spirit in the New Testament reality. To help us, he looked at Scripture without preconceived ideas. Many of us, he concluded, are trying to live in the Old Testament. The Holy Spirit is now an indwelling transforming personal presence. “His personal power and presence pulsates in and through our lives.” (Loc 740/2297)
Henderson says that the failure to think of the Holy Spirit as a person, and the failure to emphasize His indwelling our hearts, “has created a mountain of mental mush” when we think about His presence. “We need a clear new covenant understanding of how the Holy Spirit works in our lives and in the church today.” (Loc 740/2297)
Henderson explores what the writer of Hebrews says about the old and new covenants. We can't go back, he says. “We must live fully in the power and privileges of all that He has accomplished for us in the new [covenant], including our understanding of how His Spirit now works in our lives and in His church.” (Loc 553/2297) Unlike the old covenant era, we are now being transformed from the inside out.
Many topics are covered in this book. I liked the section on worship. He makes a thought provoking distinction between “form” and “reality.” I like that Henderson reminds us that the work of the Holy Spirit is the glory of God through the magnification of Jesus. (Loc 310/2297) He has some penetrating comments about how we do church. “I believe we need a serious re-evaluation of what we are really doing on weekends in this thing we call 'church.'” (Loc 1103/2297) I was especially struck by his definition of being filled with the Spirit. “To be filled with the Spirit means to exclude everything that hinders the Spirit's power.” (Loc 1249/2297)
I greatly appreciate this book. Henderson clarifies many misunderstandings about the Holy Spirit. He clears up the language that reflects the Old Testament experiences rather than the New Testament reality. This book challenged me to think more clearly and speak more biblically about the Holy Spirit. This is a good book for pastors, church leaders, and those desiring to develop a correct New Testament theology and practice of the Holy Spirit.
I do wish there had been more on how to actually experience the presence and power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Henderson does give us knowledge to rightly think about the Holy Spirit. We are pretty much on our own as to developing the spiritual practices and habits that help be sensitive to the Spirit.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
Henderson says that the failure to think of the Holy Spirit as a person, and the failure to emphasize His indwelling our hearts, “has created a mountain of mental mush” when we think about His presence. “We need a clear new covenant understanding of how the Holy Spirit works in our lives and in the church today.” (Loc 740/2297)
Henderson explores what the writer of Hebrews says about the old and new covenants. We can't go back, he says. “We must live fully in the power and privileges of all that He has accomplished for us in the new [covenant], including our understanding of how His Spirit now works in our lives and in His church.” (Loc 553/2297) Unlike the old covenant era, we are now being transformed from the inside out.
Many topics are covered in this book. I liked the section on worship. He makes a thought provoking distinction between “form” and “reality.” I like that Henderson reminds us that the work of the Holy Spirit is the glory of God through the magnification of Jesus. (Loc 310/2297) He has some penetrating comments about how we do church. “I believe we need a serious re-evaluation of what we are really doing on weekends in this thing we call 'church.'” (Loc 1103/2297) I was especially struck by his definition of being filled with the Spirit. “To be filled with the Spirit means to exclude everything that hinders the Spirit's power.” (Loc 1249/2297)
I greatly appreciate this book. Henderson clarifies many misunderstandings about the Holy Spirit. He clears up the language that reflects the Old Testament experiences rather than the New Testament reality. This book challenged me to think more clearly and speak more biblically about the Holy Spirit. This is a good book for pastors, church leaders, and those desiring to develop a correct New Testament theology and practice of the Holy Spirit.
I do wish there had been more on how to actually experience the presence and power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. Henderson does give us knowledge to rightly think about the Holy Spirit. We are pretty much on our own as to developing the spiritual practices and habits that help be sensitive to the Spirit.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.
May 16, 2023
Good book on the Spirit and His work in the church. Strong teaching and good reminders. I may not agree on every point, but I was blessed by this book.
August 2, 2018
Transforming presence- Daniel Henderson
This book I was keen to read, as there are not many books written about the person of The Holy Spirit. The author begins well bringing a careful distinction between the understanding of a force and the truth that The Holy Spirit is a person.
He then goes on to describe how The Spirit indwells each believer, and gives many scriptural references to explain this.
Next he explains how we are the church, and not the building, but personally I felt he went too far, basically saying we have no need for fancy buildings at all. I am sure many christians who have spent years in fervent prayer designing community based buildings would disagree.
He then moved on to worship, he obviously comes from a conservative background, and counsels against worship which seeks to stir the soul and the Spirit within us. He spoke against the idea of a presence of the Spirit coming around us in communal meetings, as he says the Spirit is within us only. I feel this is too narrow and doesn't allow for a full picture of an omnipresent God.
This narrowness continues as he denies the idea of the glory falling, or any presence of God coming into a service. He writes of songs and how to be careful of the words and adjust them to this doctrine of his.
The book then continues in this narrow vein until all of his personal peeves have been covered.
I felt this was not a good book for a young christian to read, whatever denomination they belong to. As a mature christian I found some of the points interesting to think on and debate over, but generally they all came down to his insistence that The Holy Spirit indwells us, which is good theology, but is present in no other form nowadays, which is bad theology.
He has a supporting website, and a large ministry, so is not new to christianity. He has still made the mistake of boxing God, this time in the person of The Holy Spirit, into the format he sees him functioning in, and only that format. It is a common mistake, many fall into, young christians through niavety and older christians through their own arrogance.
I would not recommend this book.
This book I was keen to read, as there are not many books written about the person of The Holy Spirit. The author begins well bringing a careful distinction between the understanding of a force and the truth that The Holy Spirit is a person.
He then goes on to describe how The Spirit indwells each believer, and gives many scriptural references to explain this.
Next he explains how we are the church, and not the building, but personally I felt he went too far, basically saying we have no need for fancy buildings at all. I am sure many christians who have spent years in fervent prayer designing community based buildings would disagree.
He then moved on to worship, he obviously comes from a conservative background, and counsels against worship which seeks to stir the soul and the Spirit within us. He spoke against the idea of a presence of the Spirit coming around us in communal meetings, as he says the Spirit is within us only. I feel this is too narrow and doesn't allow for a full picture of an omnipresent God.
This narrowness continues as he denies the idea of the glory falling, or any presence of God coming into a service. He writes of songs and how to be careful of the words and adjust them to this doctrine of his.
The book then continues in this narrow vein until all of his personal peeves have been covered.
I felt this was not a good book for a young christian to read, whatever denomination they belong to. As a mature christian I found some of the points interesting to think on and debate over, but generally they all came down to his insistence that The Holy Spirit indwells us, which is good theology, but is present in no other form nowadays, which is bad theology.
He has a supporting website, and a large ministry, so is not new to christianity. He has still made the mistake of boxing God, this time in the person of The Holy Spirit, into the format he sees him functioning in, and only that format. It is a common mistake, many fall into, young christians through niavety and older christians through their own arrogance.
I would not recommend this book.
July 11, 2018
I can always count on a Spiritual Growth book from Moody Publishers to be challenging and insightful, and the newly published volume by Daniel Henderson is no exception. “Transforming Presence: How the Holy Spirit Changes Everything - From the Inside Out” is a powerful little book that was written to answer the question, “Why did Jesus say it would be better for Him to go?” If you pick up this book, you will undoubtedly begin to unpack and ponder not only this question, but many others related to the Holy Spirit as well.
“Transforming Presence” is comprised of 10 chapters (along with introduction, conclusion, and appendices) that present Ten Vital Practices for a New Experience of the Holy Spirit. This may seem like a simplistic and systematic approach to understanding the Holy Spirit, but let me assure you, these chapters are anything but! In fact, the primary, negative aspect of this book, for me, is that it did not feel very ‘approachable’ and seemed to be written more for pastors and church leaders than regular people like me. In several chapters I just felt the information was a little too hard to grasp, and I found my mind wandering despite the interesting topic.
I feel a little silly because all the other reviewers for this book seemed to have no problem at all in understanding and internalizing the content that Daniel Henderson presents... I simply had a difficult time with his writing and methods of presenting the information, but that is not to say that I didn’t gain wisdom and knowledge from reading it. One of the biggest eye-opening factors for me was the in-depth and fascinating explanation of the differences between the new and old covenants. Mr. Henderson opens this discussion by teaching that “The word ‘testament’ and ‘covenant’ are fundamentally the same word in the Hebrew and Greek. So in the simplest understanding, the Bible is divided between two covenants: the old covenant and the new covenant. The old covenant was enacted by God through the law and Moses. The new covenant was enacted by God through the person and work of Christ.”
In the end, I think “Transforming Presence” is a wonderful resource that gives much to ponder about the Holy Spirit. For me, it was not the most accessible writing style but I am certain that other readers would have no problem with the in-depth content. If you are seeking to learn more about the Spirit who truly does change everything, I certainly recommend that you give “Transforming Presence” a try.
I received this book courtesy of Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
“Transforming Presence” is comprised of 10 chapters (along with introduction, conclusion, and appendices) that present Ten Vital Practices for a New Experience of the Holy Spirit. This may seem like a simplistic and systematic approach to understanding the Holy Spirit, but let me assure you, these chapters are anything but! In fact, the primary, negative aspect of this book, for me, is that it did not feel very ‘approachable’ and seemed to be written more for pastors and church leaders than regular people like me. In several chapters I just felt the information was a little too hard to grasp, and I found my mind wandering despite the interesting topic.
I feel a little silly because all the other reviewers for this book seemed to have no problem at all in understanding and internalizing the content that Daniel Henderson presents... I simply had a difficult time with his writing and methods of presenting the information, but that is not to say that I didn’t gain wisdom and knowledge from reading it. One of the biggest eye-opening factors for me was the in-depth and fascinating explanation of the differences between the new and old covenants. Mr. Henderson opens this discussion by teaching that “The word ‘testament’ and ‘covenant’ are fundamentally the same word in the Hebrew and Greek. So in the simplest understanding, the Bible is divided between two covenants: the old covenant and the new covenant. The old covenant was enacted by God through the law and Moses. The new covenant was enacted by God through the person and work of Christ.”
In the end, I think “Transforming Presence” is a wonderful resource that gives much to ponder about the Holy Spirit. For me, it was not the most accessible writing style but I am certain that other readers would have no problem with the in-depth content. If you are seeking to learn more about the Spirit who truly does change everything, I certainly recommend that you give “Transforming Presence” a try.
I received this book courtesy of Moody Publishers in exchange for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
July 19, 2018
It is well written and could easily be a required read in the next Seminary class on the Holy Spirit in my opinion. It was a good read for my sabbatical helping to both clarify and confirm some areas that I've been pondering and studying in the past 22 years of ministry. It isn't a fast read but something to be read and chewed upon and digested with prayer. Daniel writes, "The Spirit's purposes are becoming more clear to me--to take the Word of Christ and make it real to the people of Christ so they would honor the person of Christ in the mission of Christ for the glory of Christ." (22)
I think this book may cause you to mature in your relationship with the person of the Holy Spirit. It is well researched and an intense chew yet a practical guide on Who the Holy Spirit is, what being filled by the Spirit accomplishes and what worshipping in the Spirit can be.
Daniel makes some bold declarations that may rattle your assumptions of the person and work of the Holy Spirit. For example he boldly declares, "Rather than being compelled to see the manifest presence of God, we should be committed to be the manifest presence of God. One of the real tests of a pastor's belief in the power and sufficiency of the Holy Spirit is a commitment to free the people up to do more ministry, based on their gifts, even in the general assembly of our Lord's Day gatherings." (125) Daniel has chosen not to rehash the gifts of the Spirit as that has been done enough instead he writes about how those gifts are made manifest through the believer's life by the Holy Spirit. On page 121 he writes, "Manifest presence is not the mystery we have made of it. It is about a commitment to mutual ministry where many parts of the body contribute to the glory of Christ by allowing the Spirit to use them in building up one another. This is new covenant manifest presence." Each chapter is filled with plenty of references from the Scriptures in support of the assertions he makes.
The prayer gatherings Daniel writes about makes you long for more of the Holy Spirit's work in the hearts of those around you...beginning with you.
At least that's what I came away with as I read this book. What's your take?
I think this book may cause you to mature in your relationship with the person of the Holy Spirit. It is well researched and an intense chew yet a practical guide on Who the Holy Spirit is, what being filled by the Spirit accomplishes and what worshipping in the Spirit can be.
Daniel makes some bold declarations that may rattle your assumptions of the person and work of the Holy Spirit. For example he boldly declares, "Rather than being compelled to see the manifest presence of God, we should be committed to be the manifest presence of God. One of the real tests of a pastor's belief in the power and sufficiency of the Holy Spirit is a commitment to free the people up to do more ministry, based on their gifts, even in the general assembly of our Lord's Day gatherings." (125) Daniel has chosen not to rehash the gifts of the Spirit as that has been done enough instead he writes about how those gifts are made manifest through the believer's life by the Holy Spirit. On page 121 he writes, "Manifest presence is not the mystery we have made of it. It is about a commitment to mutual ministry where many parts of the body contribute to the glory of Christ by allowing the Spirit to use them in building up one another. This is new covenant manifest presence." Each chapter is filled with plenty of references from the Scriptures in support of the assertions he makes.
The prayer gatherings Daniel writes about makes you long for more of the Holy Spirit's work in the hearts of those around you...beginning with you.
At least that's what I came away with as I read this book. What's your take?
August 21, 2018
Transforming Presence by Daniel Henderson is his recent foray into, what have become for many, the murky waters of the Holy Spirit and His work in our lives. It is a well thought out, balanced, and reasonable discussion of the third member of the Godhead.
It is unfortunate that the very person of the trinity that is to bind us together as believers has caused so much division. Actually, it’s not the Holy Spirit that has divided us; it is our beliefs and practices that have. Henderson’s book is by no means exhaustive, but rather a very good introduction, especially for those who have looked at various churches and denominations and come away confused. Some churches totally ignore the Holy Spirit while others seem to do nothing but focus on Him. Some seek after expressions and experiences while others fear anything that contains any emotional response whatsoever.
This book attempts (in my opinion) to bring balance to the discussion. Overall I believe Henderson has done a good job of Biblically backing up his points. He begins by asking us to “agree to evaluate our assumptions.” This is sage advise, but can be difficult to accomplish. So many people “believe what they believe,” and are not open to discussion of these matters. He does steer clear of the most controversial of topics including the validity of specific gifts and cessationism, choosing instead to seek common ground for us to stand on as believers.
Does he succeed? Yes, for the most part. Those who live at the extremes (either one) will come away disappointed that he does not land firmly in their camp. Instead, and this is the key strength of all of Daniel Henderson’s writing, he has gone to the scriptures and sought out what the Word has to say. In doing so he has laid a firm foundation for us.
I recommend this book, not as the only one you read on this topic; but, as an excellent starting point.
Note: I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my unbiased review.
It is unfortunate that the very person of the trinity that is to bind us together as believers has caused so much division. Actually, it’s not the Holy Spirit that has divided us; it is our beliefs and practices that have. Henderson’s book is by no means exhaustive, but rather a very good introduction, especially for those who have looked at various churches and denominations and come away confused. Some churches totally ignore the Holy Spirit while others seem to do nothing but focus on Him. Some seek after expressions and experiences while others fear anything that contains any emotional response whatsoever.
This book attempts (in my opinion) to bring balance to the discussion. Overall I believe Henderson has done a good job of Biblically backing up his points. He begins by asking us to “agree to evaluate our assumptions.” This is sage advise, but can be difficult to accomplish. So many people “believe what they believe,” and are not open to discussion of these matters. He does steer clear of the most controversial of topics including the validity of specific gifts and cessationism, choosing instead to seek common ground for us to stand on as believers.
Does he succeed? Yes, for the most part. Those who live at the extremes (either one) will come away disappointed that he does not land firmly in their camp. Instead, and this is the key strength of all of Daniel Henderson’s writing, he has gone to the scriptures and sought out what the Word has to say. In doing so he has laid a firm foundation for us.
I recommend this book, not as the only one you read on this topic; but, as an excellent starting point.
Note: I received this book from the publisher in exchange for my unbiased review.
July 27, 2018
In a day when there is so much confusion about spirituality, power, and the work of the Holy Spirit, Daniel Henderson provides some much needed and timely input and clarity through this book. I believe one of the most important parts of the book is the section that points us to the “why.” If we know the “why” of something we will be open to hear the how’s and the what’s. This essential is summarized on page 49:
“Let’s keep the plumb line of God’s purpose in mind. The Holy Spirit was given to glorify Jesus in our hearts, minds, and actions; in our homes and relationships; in our service, fellowship, and worship in His church. All this occurs as a witness to nonbelievers in our relational circle and beyond, into the near and far reaches of a lost world desperate to see and hear of our Christ.”
Daniel pushes for us to examine (and abandon where necessary) our previous understandings of the Holy Spirit as interpreted through the lenses of our traditions and experiences. He also gently prods us to listen to ourselves. Some of our verbiage and songs betray thoughts of the Holy Spirit being a force rather than a Person; something for us to ask God to send rather than responding to the One who has already come.
The clarion call is for us to embrace and respond to the Holy Spirit who is God Himself living in us for the sole purpose of bringing glory to Jesus Christ and to empower us to fulfill His mission on earth. He, the Spirit, works in our minds, emotions and will to accomplish all this.
I believe every reader who approaches with an open mind and heart will be confronted, affronted, encouraged, revived and motivated after reading this book. I commend it to you.
“Let’s keep the plumb line of God’s purpose in mind. The Holy Spirit was given to glorify Jesus in our hearts, minds, and actions; in our homes and relationships; in our service, fellowship, and worship in His church. All this occurs as a witness to nonbelievers in our relational circle and beyond, into the near and far reaches of a lost world desperate to see and hear of our Christ.”
Daniel pushes for us to examine (and abandon where necessary) our previous understandings of the Holy Spirit as interpreted through the lenses of our traditions and experiences. He also gently prods us to listen to ourselves. Some of our verbiage and songs betray thoughts of the Holy Spirit being a force rather than a Person; something for us to ask God to send rather than responding to the One who has already come.
The clarion call is for us to embrace and respond to the Holy Spirit who is God Himself living in us for the sole purpose of bringing glory to Jesus Christ and to empower us to fulfill His mission on earth. He, the Spirit, works in our minds, emotions and will to accomplish all this.
I believe every reader who approaches with an open mind and heart will be confronted, affronted, encouraged, revived and motivated after reading this book. I commend it to you.
July 27, 2018
Transforming Presence is a Christian living book by author Daniel Henderson. I was interested in this book because I wanted to learn more about the Holy Spirit as a person of the trinity. This book met my expectations as it correctly identified the Holy Spirit as a person, and not simply an it.
The author wrote this book to challenge Christians to think of the work of the Holy Spirit more clearly and to speak from His word more biblically so we can experience His transforming power in our life more consistently. (pg. 27)
I learned that many people hop from church to church looking for higher highs. They believe they are experiencing the Holy Spirit when in reality they are experiencing intense emotional response. (pg. 37)
I appreciate that there is much scripture used throughout the book giving the reader ample opportunity to discover the Holy Spirit for themselves. It also teaches that when a person is filled with the Holy Spirit the Spirit focuses on Christ, not itself.
I was surprised to read that 56% of evangelical Christians say that the Holy Spirit is a force rather than a person. 28% said the Spirit is a divine being but not equal to God the Father and Jesus.
For the visual learner there are graphs dispersed throughout the book to make the idea presented clearer. At the back of the book are 2 appendixes. The first is accurately applying the actions of Acts and the second is New Covenant worship vocabulary.
I recommend this book to readers wanting to know the role of the Holy Spirit.
Disclaimer: I received this book complimentary Moody publishers and was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
The author wrote this book to challenge Christians to think of the work of the Holy Spirit more clearly and to speak from His word more biblically so we can experience His transforming power in our life more consistently. (pg. 27)
I learned that many people hop from church to church looking for higher highs. They believe they are experiencing the Holy Spirit when in reality they are experiencing intense emotional response. (pg. 37)
I appreciate that there is much scripture used throughout the book giving the reader ample opportunity to discover the Holy Spirit for themselves. It also teaches that when a person is filled with the Holy Spirit the Spirit focuses on Christ, not itself.
I was surprised to read that 56% of evangelical Christians say that the Holy Spirit is a force rather than a person. 28% said the Spirit is a divine being but not equal to God the Father and Jesus.
For the visual learner there are graphs dispersed throughout the book to make the idea presented clearer. At the back of the book are 2 appendixes. The first is accurately applying the actions of Acts and the second is New Covenant worship vocabulary.
I recommend this book to readers wanting to know the role of the Holy Spirit.
Disclaimer: I received this book complimentary Moody publishers and was under no obligation to post a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
August 25, 2018
“Why did Jesus say it would be better for Him to go? He said the coming of the Helper - the Holy Spirit - was that important. And that the Spirit who so powerfully turned bumbling disciples into unstoppable world changers is alive in us. But misunderstandings, confusion and contention are keeping us from the abundant, satisfying life God has for us in Him.”
Transforming Presence by Daniel Hendersonis an eye--opening book on the subject of Holy Spirit. The author reminds and teaches us that He is not just a “member” of the Trinity. He is God. “Because Holy Spirit is a person, He can be intimately known deeply loved, and clearly understood. Because He is God, we relate to Him in abandoned worship, unquestioned obedience and full surrender.” (Page 84) And as such we have the gift of the indwelling presence of Holy Spirit in each of us; our role is to let His presence invade not just our life and the life of our churches as well.
In my opinion, this is not a once-and-done read. This is a book that must be read and studied, slowly and intentionally. I highly recommend this book to anyone that wants a deeper, more intimate relationship with Holy Spirit.
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through the Moody Publishers Blogger Review Program, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
Transforming Presence by Daniel Hendersonis an eye--opening book on the subject of Holy Spirit. The author reminds and teaches us that He is not just a “member” of the Trinity. He is God. “Because Holy Spirit is a person, He can be intimately known deeply loved, and clearly understood. Because He is God, we relate to Him in abandoned worship, unquestioned obedience and full surrender.” (Page 84) And as such we have the gift of the indwelling presence of Holy Spirit in each of us; our role is to let His presence invade not just our life and the life of our churches as well.
In my opinion, this is not a once-and-done read. This is a book that must be read and studied, slowly and intentionally. I highly recommend this book to anyone that wants a deeper, more intimate relationship with Holy Spirit.
*Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book through the Moody Publishers Blogger Review Program, in exchange for my honest review. All opinions are my own, and no monetary compensation was received for this review.
April 12, 2019
I am so glad I read this book. It's a book for all Christians, regardless of their stance on how the Holy Spirit works/spiritual gifts/etc. I highly recommend it.
Henderson takes a look at what the Bible says about the inside-out work of the Holy Spirit, specifically the words it uses surrounding the Holy Spirit. I'm a pretty firm believer that words matter, and this was really helpful and impactful. I often hear people talk about the Holy Spirit as though he is an "it" and not a person of the Godhead...that he's something almost "atmospheric". But Scripture shows us he dwells within followers of Christ. We don't need to "invite his presence" if he's already within us.
The other big takeaway for me was that Jesus told his disciples that the Holy Spirit was coming to glorify the Son. (If it doesn't bring glory and honor to the Son, it's probably not the Holy Spirit.) I've been doing a sermon series through the book of Acts, and the question that is worth constantly asking is "How is the Holy Spirit bringing glory to Christ in this instance?" That has been powerful.
I received this book from the publisher through their book launch program in exchange for an honest review.
Henderson takes a look at what the Bible says about the inside-out work of the Holy Spirit, specifically the words it uses surrounding the Holy Spirit. I'm a pretty firm believer that words matter, and this was really helpful and impactful. I often hear people talk about the Holy Spirit as though he is an "it" and not a person of the Godhead...that he's something almost "atmospheric". But Scripture shows us he dwells within followers of Christ. We don't need to "invite his presence" if he's already within us.
The other big takeaway for me was that Jesus told his disciples that the Holy Spirit was coming to glorify the Son. (If it doesn't bring glory and honor to the Son, it's probably not the Holy Spirit.) I've been doing a sermon series through the book of Acts, and the question that is worth constantly asking is "How is the Holy Spirit bringing glory to Christ in this instance?" That has been powerful.
I received this book from the publisher through their book launch program in exchange for an honest review.
July 3, 2018
Daniel D. Henderson has written another book that intersects exactly with what many people and pastors are processing today. Transforming Presence is a much-needed recalibration towards a proper understanding of the person, presence and power of the Holy Spirit. So often I have treated the Holy Spirit as a partner in the work of ministry rather than the person accomplishing the work ministry; using verbiage that “speaks of seeing and experiencing the manifest presence of God, when we should be committed to be the manifest presence of God.” I am so thankful for this reminder of who the Holy Spirit is, why he is, and what he is accomplishing to make much of Jesus inside each and every person that believes. Thank you Daniel Henderson for a being a pastor to pastors and many others. #TransformingPresence I received a free copy of this book in exchange for giving an honest review.
June 11, 2018
I grew up in a church denomination at one extreme of the view of the Holy Spirit which resulted in my seeking a denomination with the total opposite view as an adult. I often expressed a desire to find something in the middle, to which I would be admonished that “You can’t control the Holy Spirit.” Daniel Henderson’s book has shown me that the true new covenant purpose and relationship does, indeed, fall in that middle ground. It is true that we can’t control the Holy Spirit. But we can live our lives daily enriched by His presence and fulfill His purpose - to magnify Jesus. Let’s leave the Old Testament experience where it is and fully live into the New Covenant indwelling in each follower of Christ.
August 15, 2018
I have read other books by Daniel Henderson and this one continues to share his giftedness of bringing a clear, effective perspective on a subject that can be divisive and even antagonistic. With compassion and gentleness and yet with great firmness, he has presented the biblical truth concerning the person and work of the Holy Spirit. It is nothing short of brilliant to focus on the "why" of the Holy Spirit's work instead of leading the discussion with the "what" and "how", which is always problematic and fodder for constant (and sometimes senseless) debate). As a pastor-teacher, I was challenged to let go of some long-standing misconceptions and I will definitely be using this book as a source of teaching in our church.
December 24, 2020
This is a good book. At first I was very distracted with life and couldn't focus very well. But then I really got engaged with the book. Daniel has a lot of great things to say, for believers and churches to contemplate. Some of these things, I've been thinking for years, so it's great to find confirmation that I'm on the right track. I have mixed feelings about what he said about words - yes words are important and we do need to be more careful, but we must be careful not to be critical when we know what somebody means and we agree with them, even though we wish they would use a different word. I wish more people who call themselves Christians would truly experience the transforming presence of the Holy Spirit within us.
August 22, 2021
Transforming presence is a good book on the doctrine of the Holy Spirit, and clears up several misunderstandings about the Holy Spirit that we may have in churches today. This book is a good exposition regarding the Holy Spirit.
So why does it only get 3 stars? While it is sound doctrinally and clears misunderstandings about the Holy Spirit, I feel that I get the same information from Grudem's "Systematic Theology" (or other Systematic Theologies) in much fewer pages. While I agree with what the book talks about, I just didn't find that this book is worth reading, there are other books that I think are much better to spend your time on (like "Transforming Prayer" by the same author, which was very practical and the best book I've ever read on prayer).
So why does it only get 3 stars? While it is sound doctrinally and clears misunderstandings about the Holy Spirit, I feel that I get the same information from Grudem's "Systematic Theology" (or other Systematic Theologies) in much fewer pages. While I agree with what the book talks about, I just didn't find that this book is worth reading, there are other books that I think are much better to spend your time on (like "Transforming Prayer" by the same author, which was very practical and the best book I've ever read on prayer).
June 17, 2018
Transforming Presence is a wonderful work. Henderson reminds us, through the scriptures, that our understanding of the Holy Spirit has to come directly from the scriptures, not from traditions, or the teachings of others; that the Holy Spirit IS a person of the godhead, who resides WITHIN us. The chapters on the church and worship were very enlightening, and a reminder to test everything through the scriptures.
As I was reading about the misconceptions of God's presence, I was reminded of songs that I have heard on the radio, or at church, that contradict what the Bible explicitly and clearly states about God's indwelling Spirit.
As I was reading about the misconceptions of God's presence, I was reminded of songs that I have heard on the radio, or at church, that contradict what the Bible explicitly and clearly states about God's indwelling Spirit.
August 28, 2018
Daniel Henderson really brings about a knowing of the Holy Spirit from a side not talked about much. His quote "It's not how high you jump on Sunday but how straight you walk on Monday" and "Be careful how you play with emotions of the people God entrusted to your leadership and care. Be careful that your people do not become so accustomed to getting a "praise high" when they come to church that a service seems empty if they do not experience it." In this book, he really brings you to the heart of who the Holy Spirit is and what is role is. This is wonderful and I recommend this book for all to understand the many aspects of the Holy Spirit.
June 11, 2018
My church background gave me a different point of view on the Holy Spirit than the one presented by Daniel Henderson. The Holy Spirit was not really discussed & often down-played in church. I feel, in a way, I’ve had a lot of thinking/feeling wrong over the years. Through the insights of this book, l now view the Holy Spirit in a new, refreshing way & look forward to understanding Him more.
August 6, 2018
I have greatly valued what I learned from Daniel Henderson on the subject of prayer and I was excited to read what he had to say about the Holy Spirit.
I believe the book is a solid, basic primer on the Holy Spirit, but it does not advance the subject in any significant way. I would encourage this book for a person learning about the Holy Spirit for the first time.
I believe the book is a solid, basic primer on the Holy Spirit, but it does not advance the subject in any significant way. I would encourage this book for a person learning about the Holy Spirit for the first time.
August 17, 2018
This is an amazing and challenging book on the presence of the Holy Spirit. It will challenge the way you think, read the Bible, and pray. It is biblically accurate and honoring God's glory and power. If you are looking for a book that will change your life (other than the Bible or course) this is it!
June 12, 2021
Revival
What set this book apart from others is its Biblical way of talking about Revival, not as something we can make happen through organisation but something that happens in recognising what God has already given us in Christ through the indwelling Spirit and in obeying and surrendering to the indwelling Spirit.
Recommended for its Biblical emphasis on the Indwelling Spirit.
What set this book apart from others is its Biblical way of talking about Revival, not as something we can make happen through organisation but something that happens in recognising what God has already given us in Christ through the indwelling Spirit and in obeying and surrendering to the indwelling Spirit.
Recommended for its Biblical emphasis on the Indwelling Spirit.
July 10, 2021
If I could I would give this book a 15 star rating on a scale of 1-5! Mr. Henderson writes from abiding in the Spirit. His teaching on the presence of the Holy Spirit and the transformation of a Christ-follower from the inside out is biblical truth! It is a much needed teaching on the Third Person of the Trinity of God. I hope anyone reading this review will read this book.
January 8, 2025
Oh I wanted to like this and enjoy this book and come out with a new enthusiastic understanding. Instead I kept slogging on past my twenty-pages rule... on past fifteen pages more.
It hit me this morning that the passages I've enjoyed were his quotes from others' writing (Jim Cymbala, The Bible, A.B. Simpson) .
Great subject... try one of these authors instead.
It hit me this morning that the passages I've enjoyed were his quotes from others' writing (Jim Cymbala, The Bible, A.B. Simpson) .
Great subject... try one of these authors instead.
March 22, 2019
This is a wonderful book. A slower, deeper read (not surprising, given the content), but it was a breath of fresh air and brought me to contemplate important questions. Having heard Daniel preach many times made his book all the more relevant for me.
April 19, 2020
First thought: The author spent much of the book just railing against one popular song, which, ironically, put that song in my head every time it was alluded to.
Second thought: Some ideas are better off as a blog post rather than an entire book. This was a slog.
Second thought: Some ideas are better off as a blog post rather than an entire book. This was a slog.
June 25, 2019
Engaging and practical guide to the indwelling of the Holy Spirit.
August 4, 2018
An insightful book that talks about the inside-out work of the indwelling Spirit that transforms us to make us more Christlike. Henderson talks about how Jesus said, the Spirit will take all that is His and make it real to us. He gives a challenging view on how the Holy Spirit is personal and emotional.
Want to challenged - I ask that you read this book!
Want to challenged - I ask that you read this book!
October 29, 2022
I am about half-way through and I love this book and think more people need to read it. If Jesus left us saying "it's better for you that I leave"...that's a good hint that we should pay attention. This book is filled with many great truths of the Spirit and leaves me hungering to experience more.
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