"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). 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