Like a Mighty Wind

A young Presbyterian Church pre-med student is confronted by charismatic revival in Indonesia in the 1970s. He follows the perceived call of God on his life and goes into missionary work, participating in a series of lessons of how the Spirit moves and dealing with both good and malevolent spiritual issues. This book is colorful on many levels, easy and enjoyable to read, simple and challenging: Do you really believe these supernatural things happen today or no? Walking on water, water turned into wine for Communion, visions, dreams etc. It is a remarkable account of what God can do in areas of this world where conveniences we are accustomed to in the West are lacking. This book polarized people theologically in the 70s and thirty years plus later is still a challenge. My belief is God CAN when necessary, and in Indonesia in the 70s (and more so even today) we need the truly miraculous. But Tari's book shines in that it is Christ-centered and Gospel true, not selling sensationalism but preaching repentance and salvation. It is one of a kind, which makes it (even more so 30 years later) that much more credible.

I read this book many years ago and it is still as powerful today as it was back then. Mel Tari is a friend of Roland & Heidi Baker's in Mozambique. When I read this book back in 1992 the presence of God filled my room in such a mighty way to confirm that what I was reading was true. You will not be disappointed with this one.

This book was very instrumental in my life at a young age, perhaps 15 years old. This was back in 1972. While reading it, I asked God to baptize me in the Holy Spirit, and it happened. I also received the gift of tongues at the same time. I believe that what Mel Tari has written for Christians is in some ways similar to what Bill Wilson wrote for alcoholics in his famous book entitled "Alcoholics Anonymous". It ranks right behind Scripture! He is so loving and non-Western in his approach, just simple faith. Of course, Jesus did ask us to come to Him as little children. Mel Tari does this.

How much I love to re-read this book! I used many stories for my Sunday school class discussion. I highly recommend this book to all Christians from any denomination. The words in the Bible give life; this book opens up your heart to receive the life.