Understanding Spiritual Gifts

Thomas has done a real service to the church with this book. The exegesis is solid, readable & helpful. The appendices add gravy to the book & are very helpful in aiding believers in discovering what their own gifts are today. This is a 'must have' for any pastor, teacher or discipler's library.

Dr. Robert L. Thomas of Master's Seminary (www.tms.edu) writes a book that should appeal to cessationist viewpoint of the gifts of the Spirit as found in 1 Corinthians 12-14. The book is a verse by verse, expositional and theological commentary on these famous chapters that have blessed charismatics and confused non-charismatics.Dr. Thomas takes on the tough questions that 1 Corinthians 12-14 brings to mind especially for those who believe that the manifestation gifts were for the early church only and ceased with the completion of the New Testament canon. His conclusion is that Paul was writing to correct the Corinthians and while there is application for today from his advice, the sign gifts are no longer in operation as found in the New Testament Church.This book is a great theological book on the cessationist viewpoint but it is tough reading. Dr. Thomas is a theologian and his writing reflects his earnest committment to that study. I give this a book a four only because of this difficult nature. I find this type of book a thrill whereas most Christians may find it a bore.