"The Christian life is life in the Spirit," writes John Stott. "It would be impossible to be a Christian, let alone to live and grow as a Christian, without the ministry of the gracious Spirit of God. All we have and are as Christians we owe to him."The Holy Spirit continues to be at work around the world, as numerous renewal movements attest. Yet much confusion and controversy remain regarding the Holy Spirit's activity. In this classic study, John Stott provides clear biblical exposition on the promise, the fruit and the gifts of the Holy Spirit. He offers particular guidance on the nature of "the baptism of the Spirit" and whether certain spiritual gifts and experiences should be normative for all Christians. Always irenic and gracious, Stott points the way to both greater biblical understanding and deeper fullness of spiritual life.



John R. W. Stott (1921–2011) was known worldwide as a preacher, evangelist, and communicator of Scripture. For many years he served as rector of All Souls Church in London. A leader among evangelicals in Britain, the United States, and around the world, Stott was a principal framer of the landmark Lausanne Covenant (1974). His connections in and heart for the global church led him to found Langham Partnership. Langham continues its work today, equipping key leaders to preach God's Word clearly, faithfully, and relevantly in over 140 countries. Stott's many books, including Basic Christianity and The Cross of Christ, have sold millions of copies.



Foreword by Michael Horton



Preface to the Second Edition



Introduction



Basic Principles of Approach

1. The Promise of the Spirit



The Promise of a Distinctive Blessing



The Promise of a Universal Blessing



The Day of Pentecost



The Samaritan Believers



The Ephesian Disciples



The Language of Baptism



1 Corinthians 12:13



Conclusion

2. The Fullness of the Spirit



The Difference Between "Baptism" and "Fullness"



Continuous Appropriation



Marks of the Spirit's Fullness



The Command to Be Filled



The Average Christian



Special Experiences



An Exhortation

3. The Fruit of the Spirit



Supernatural Origin



Natural Growth



Gradual Maturity



Application

4. The Gifts of the Spirit



The Nature of Spiritual Gifts



How Many Different Gifts Are There?



The Relation Between Spiritual Gifts and Natural Talents



Are All Spiritual Gifts Miraculous Gifts?



Are All the Spiritual Gfts of the Bible Given Today?



The Word "Charismatic"



The Extent of Spiritual Gifts: To Whom Are They Given?



The Source of Spiritual Gfts: Where Do They Come From?



The Purpose of Spiritual Gifts: What are They Given For?



Conclusion