Initial Evidence: Historical and Biblical Perspectives on the Pentecostal Doctrine of Spirit Baptism

This is a superb collection of articles on the central issue of Pentecostalism--speaking in tongues as the initial evidence for the baptism in the Holy Spirit. The articles written by both Pentecostals and non-Pentecostals are historically informative scholarly irenic in spirit ecumenical in treatment and wide-ranging in interest. Here is an opportunity for both Pentecostals and non-Pentecostals to become better informed about Pentecostalism. While offering a solid defense of traditional Pentecostalism the book also offers candid assessments that take a different view. This book should become a must for those who want to understand both historic and present-day Pentecostalism. --Gordon D. Fee Professor Emeritus of New Testament Regent College The most complete and scholarly analytical treatment of glossolalia as initial evidence of the baptism in the Holy Spirit that has yet appeared. Both the historical and theological sections support and challenge the distinctive Pentecostal teaching on the subject of tongues. --Vinson Synan Former Chairman North American Renewal Service Committee . . . a remarkably diverse collection of essays that thoughtfully probe the distinctive which has come to characterize the Pentecostal Movement namely: speaking in an unknown tongue. . . . Irenic in tone the volume is a must for scholars pastors and lay persons of all theological perspectives who desire to enter into dialogue in this area of debate. --D. William Faupel Professor of the History of Christianity Wesley Theological Seminary Initial Evidence edited by Gary McGee is a substantive contribution to the study of American Pentecostalism. The historical overviews in it are of tremendous value particularly for newcomers to Pentecostalism who may lack a historical grounding in the movement. Exegetical essays such as that by Donald Johns will challenge readers who are comfortable with current hermeneutical models to rethink the biblical text and it offers great promise for more contributions to Pentecostal exegesis. --Howard M. Ervin Professor Emeritus of Old Testament Graduate School of Theology Oral Roberts University