Book

Karkkainen, Veli-Matti. Pneumatology. Baker.

Library Journal: “Stepchild of the Trinity, the Holy Spirit is frequently ignored in theology or indifferently understood, but this far-reaching study by Finnish theologian Kärkkäinen should go a long way toward curing that neglect. Per his subtitle, the author touches on various perspectives of the Holy Spirit, including Orthodox, Pentecostal, and Catholic, and grounds the book in a firm understanding of Christian Scripture passages relevant to the questions a Christian believer might have. For most collections, especially where interest in Christian theology is strong.” Choice: “Kärkkäinen offers a revealing survey of biblical, historical, and contemporary perspectives on Christian understandings of the Holy Spirit. The author evenhandedly and sensitively describes a breathtakingly broad range of people and movements. Recommended for upper-division undergraduates through professionals." Journal of Pentecostal Theology: “the introduction to pneumatology which we need…comprehensive…clear even when explaining difficult ideas…” Theological Studies: “an excellent survey of contemporary reflection on the theology of the Holy Spirit…Even advanced students and professionals in the field may find helpful refernces in these pages. The book is clear and succinct without being simplistic…A limitation of the book is the absence of critical evaluation…” Asian Journal of Pentecostal Studies: “lucid and balanced. Karkkainen has managed to take a massive topic and summarize it without glossing over the different positions…insightful and comprehensive…I was surprised at the exclusion of any discussions from the Reformed tradition, Wesleyan tradition, or any recent Pneumatology specifically coming from these traditions.” Pneuma: “an interesting read for those concerned and a valuable resource for teachers desiring a good introduction to this doctrine. One feature is its fair but concise treatment of various theologians and traditions…While the brevity of the entire work is admirable, I would have liked to see more depth and detail in his discussion of these theologians…It seems odd that an examination of John Wesley is absent…an investigation of the Reformed tradition and its influence on pneumatology is also missing.”