The Prophethood of All Believers: A Study in Luke's Charismatic Theology

by Roger Stronstad

In this sequel to perhaps the most significant biblical studies book by a Pentecostal scholar, The Charismatic Theology of St. Luke, Roger Stronstad makes a compelling case for understanding Lukan pneumatology as arguing for the prophethood of all believers. By means of careful literary and theological analyses of Luke-Acts Stronstad discovers this emergent theme, whereby Spirit baptism is understood to result in prophetic deeds and words on the part of the recipients. In point of fact, the experience of Spirit baptism results in the creation of prophetic communities whose goal is to take the gospel to 'the ends of the earth'. Stronstad traces this theme in the infancy narratives, the life of Jesus, the company of Spirit-baptized believers, and the acts of the charismatic prophets (Stephen, Philip, Barnabas, Agabus, Peter, and Paul). Stronstad's bold proposal has already borne much fruit for Pentecostal Luke-Acts scholarship and beyond. This slightly revised version will ensure its continued influence in studies devoted to Luke-Acts and New Testament pneumatology.

Genres: Religion

150 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1999

About the author

Roger Stronstad (MCS, Regent College; DD, Christian Bible College) is director and associate professor in Bible and theology at Summit Pacific College in Abbotsford, British Columbia. He is the author of many articles and six books, including The Prophethood of All Believers: A Study in Luke’s Charismatic Theology. He also coedited Life in the Spirit New Testament Commentary.

Reviews

[Mike Mullen · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a strong book from a pentecostal perspective that is both scholarly and accessible. In the past decade there has been a surge of Pentecostal scholarship as mainline culture and academia recognize the profound impact this movement has had upon the world. Stronstad writes as a Pentecostal believer, but within the parameters of scholarly research. This book is a book of Biblical theology, as in contrast to historical or systematic theology. It seeks to let the books of Luke and Acts speak for themselves, uncovering the structure, vocabulary, and particular emphasis within the text. The main thesis is that Luke wrote his Gospel and the book of Acts with the understanding that Jesus came to inaugurate His kingdom. This Kingdom is made up of Spirit empowered believers, who fulfill the prophetic role of proclaiming Gods truth, using God's words, doing God's acts, by Gods empowering. A very worthwhile read, though it is scholarly and uses academic vocabulary specific to theology.