Previously
I’ve read books by Pastor John MacArthur and frequently listen to his sermons
and conference messages. Pastor
MacArthur has a passion for the Word of God and his teaching is theologically
sound. That’s why I wanted to read his
newest book, Strange Fire, to learn more about the charismatic movement.
I
found Strange Fire very challenging to get through it. This book includes a lot of details about the
background of the charismatic movement founders in the early 1900’s and goes through
present day. Scripture is interspersed throughout
the book and is used as a plumb line to measure the actions, words and deeds of
prominent charismatic leaders to see if they are biblically sound.
As
a Christian, I was appalled at the teaching, claims and lives of prominent charismatic
leaders. It was painful to learn that
instead of being run out of town these immoral charlatans, frauds and apostates
were applauded, embraced and heralded as healers and prophets. It’s frightening and tragic to think of how
many people have been deceived and taken in by this false gospel that dishonors
God.
It
was refreshing in the last section of the book to see what is the true work of
the Holy Spirit is in the world and the life of Christians. This book helped me to understand clearly the
importance of sola Scriptura and the importance of using the Bible to evaluate those
who claim to be healers, prophets or speaking in tongues. Does what they say and do line up with
Scripture?
All
in all this was a very painful book to read. Even so, I would recommend this book to Christians so they can better
understand a movement that calls itself Christian, but may not line up with the
Word of God.
I
would also recommend that readers go to the Strange Fire Conference website and
listen to or download the messages from the 2013 conference.
I
would like to thank Booksneeze for providing me with a free copy of Strange
Fire in exchange for an honest review. I
was under no obligation to provide a favorable review.
1 comment:
Sounds like good reading.
Post a Comment