First Nations leader Richard Twiss reports on a powerful Urbana conference he was part of in December.

Urbana is the largest missions conference in the world. It is convened every three years in Urbana, IL, on the campus of University of Illinois. It is a ministry of InterVarsity Christian Fellowship. This past December, at Urbana 03, 19,000 mostly college aged, people attended.

The message by Ray Aldred, Cree pastor and ministry leader, was one of the most impacting I have ever heard. Likewise, the presence of the Lord that accompanied Mohawk musician, Jonathon Maracle and Broken Walls, as they led an hour of worship, joined by myself and eleven other dancers in full regalia on stage was amazing. (These can be seen and heard at www.urbana.org).

There were 1800 small groups that met every day. Lindsay Olesberg, the Urbana 03 Small Group Manager, sent me the following comments and testimonies of both small group leaders and students, in response to the First Nations presentation at Urbana.

“This was a powerful evening where God gave us an amazing gift through Ray Aldred and Jonathon Miracle. I appreciated the blessing that was given by the Native American community. Thank you for your risk and forgiveness of the church of North America.”

“This is my third Urbana, and there always seems to be one pivotal talk through which God speaks a prophetic word. I believe that Ray Aldred’s preaching was that prophetic word. As an educated white man, I’ve grown up with the lies of power and self–sufficiency. I’ve been taught and trained to view my culture as having everything of value that needs to be shared with all other ‘less fortunate’ people. The Holy Spirit spoke powerfully through Ray and reminded me that I am just as much in need of salvation (conversion) as every other person. Praise God!”

Several white and Asian–American students were struck by the idea of “white man’s gospel.” They said it made sense but that they had never realized that this was happening.

A young man from Minnesota shared that he was from a town that was surrounded by three Native American reservations. He said that racism was prevalent and he had seen misunderstandings, anger, and bitterness prevail between the races in that area. He shared that he was deeply moved by the experience of the Native American worship leader extending a welcome from First Nations people to the rest of the people groups at Urbana.

“I’m a white female staff worker who grew up in Southwestern Colorado, near the Navajo Reservation. I’ve begun to struggle through my own racism, and to understand the magnitude of the genocide committed against Native Americans. It was an inspiration to me as I struggle through racial reconciliation.”

from the editor’s desk

What have you been reading lately? Besides, of course, every issue of the Pneuma Review that you receive.

What books are challenging you to think beyond the old boundaries and grow in your relationship with our Master? What ideas and practical insights are you discussing among your friends and peers? I would love to hear from you and know what is touching your heart and life. As one of our readers told me recently, reviews have spared him on a number of occasions. I can really agree with that. Many times a review of a good or not-so-good book has pushed me to either not read it, or to read it with a genuine anticipation of the Lord speaking through it to me.

Please share your insights with us. Others of us will benefit from your discoveries, so I would appreciate hearing from you. Get in touch through: http://pneumareview.com/contact/ and [as of January 2015] More contact options: http://pneumafoundation.org/contactus.jsp

— Raul Mock, Executive Editor

This article describes and critiques the pervasive denial of the supernatural elements of the Bible among Rationalism thinkers and philosophers of the last three centuries. Pastor Larson offers convincing proofs for why these rationalistic objections to the miraculous are unfounded. This article is significant for the Pentecostal/charismatic reader because the same arguments used for defending the miracles of the Bible are applicable to the defense of the contemporary gifts of the Holy Spirit. Pastor Larson has, however, written off the contemporary ministry of the miraculous by quoting an erroneous statement by the famous cessationist B. B. Warfield. “Miracles indeed are remote from most people; but this much be the case! They do not happen indiscriminately throughout history; they ‘belong to revelation periods, and appear only when God is speaking through accredited messengers’” (page 92). For a refutation of this cessationist argument, please see the book by former Dallas Theological Seminary professor Jack Deere, Surprised by the Power of the Spirit (Zondervan, 1993), especially Appendix C “Were There Only Three Periods of Miracles?” pages 253-266.

“When Wal-Mart Moves In” John M. De Marco. Outreach (May-June 2003), pages 46-53.

Pastors of “small” congregations discuss the challenges and opportunities found while ministering in the shadow of the megachurch. Outreach magazine is dedicated to the “Ideas, Insights, & Stories of the Intentional Church” and is in its second year of publication.

Of related interest, although with a near-opposite point, Pastor Daniel A. Brown offers practical insights for the “stuck” church in “Help! My Church Won’t Grow” Ministries Today (July/August 2003), pages 44-48.

“Breaking Chains” Christianity Today (March 2003), pages 46-54.

Two advocates of religious-rights discuss what should be done to help persecuted Christians worldwide. Michael Horowitz, director of the Hudson Institute’s Project for International Liberty, and T. Jeremy Gunn, senior fellow for religion and humans rights at Emory University, present sharply different perspectives. The second half of the debate, “Breaking Chains II” appeared in the April 2003 issue of Christianity Today, pages 88-89.

“The Ruach, the Jews, and the Pentecostal Experience” Ray Gannon. Enrichment (Summer 2003), pages 110-111.

Dr. Gannon succinctly relates that Jews have responded positively to the good news of Messiah when the Spirit is manifested in their midst. He challenges his Assemblies of God readership to be people of the Spirit in order to reveal Jesus as Messiah to the Jewish community.

“Miracle on my street” Tricia Goyer. On Mission (Jan-Feb 2003), pages 35-37.

Using statistics (in Newsweek, May 1, 2000) that 84% of all Americans believe in miracles and a majority of them have themselves experienced one or know someone that has, this article urges using miracle testimonies for evangelistic openers. Predominantly about the miracle power of sharing your testimony, this article is significant in that it appears in the magazine “Helping You Share Christ in the Real World” published by the North American Mission Board of the Southern Baptist Convention.

“Where Judgment Begins” Leadership (Winter 2003, Vol XXIV, No 1).

Mark Beeson, Stanley Grenz, David Handley, and Erwin Lutzer are sorting out the tangled elements of ethics and integrity in the Winter 2003 issue of Leadership dedicated to “Integrity and Ethics.” “An Honest Sermon” by Mike Woodruff and Steve Moore addresses plagiarism in the pulpit. “24 Reasons Why I believe in Hell” David Shelby. Charisma (April 2003), pages 68-72.

This is a passionate appeal for evangelism using a critique of universalism as its backdrop. The article could be retitled “24 reasons not to believe in universal salvation.” In one statement that is potentially confusing and inflammatory, Shelby says, “We need to look no further than most of the mainline denominations to see what happens to evangelism when Universalism is prevalent” (p. 72). The theological differences between inclusivism and universalism are not mentioned in this article. Bible teacher David Shibley closes by urging, “We must believe the truth, and we must act on what we believe. Let’s not just reject faulty theology; let’s embrace those who need Jesus” (p. 72, emphasis his).

J.I. Packer became Professor of Systematic and Historical Theology at Regent College in 1979.

J. I. Packer, “Why I Walked” Christianity Today (January 2002), pages 46-50.

Evangelical leader J. I. Packer explains why he left the Anglican Church when the denomination authorized its bishops to bless same-sex unions in June 2002. Although this article specifically addresses issues being faced by Anglicans, the principles of standing—even fighting—on the unchanging Word of God should give guidance to anyone concerned about doctrinal issues within their own church or denomination.

André Lemaire, “Burial Box of James, the Brother of Jesus: Earliest Evidence of Jesus Found in Jerusalem” Biblical Archaeology Review (Nov/Dev 2002), pages 24-33, 70.

Leading epigrapher (specialist in ancient inscriptions) André Lemaire was the first to recognize the importance of the Jerusalem limestone burial box bearing the inscription: “James, son of Joseph, brother of Jesus.” After mounting significant evidence, Lemaire concludes, “it seems very probable that this is the ossuary of the James of the New Testament. If so, this would also mean that we have here the first epigraphic mention—from about 63 C.E.—of Jesus of Nazareth” (page 33).

Clinton E. Arnold, “It’s All Greek to Me: Cleaning up the confusion about Bible translations” Discipleship Journal 132 (Nov/Dec 2002), pages 28-32, 34-36.

Greek Professor Clinton Arnold answers your questions about the differences found in today’s English Bible translations. He explains how different versions reflect different theories of translation and manuscript bases as well as the effect of change in English language upon translation. Easy to read charts demonstrate the strengths and weaknesses of word-for-word (formal equivalence) and thought-for-thought (dynamic equivalence) translation philosophies, what versions pastors are using (45% of Pentecostal/charismatics are using the KJV), characteristics of major Bible versions, and a comparison of 16 versions looking at two verses. Professor Arnold makes recommendations for using different translations for personal Bible reading, careful Bible study, public scripture reading, and all-around Bibles.

Vern S. Poythress and Mark Strauss, “The TNIV Debate” Christianity Today (Oct. 7, 2002), pages 36-43, 45.

There has been a growing theological controversy regarding the use of gender-inclusive language in the Bible that has come to a head with the recent publication of Today’s New International Version. Christianity Today decided not to permit an advertisement aimed against the TNIV, preferring to allow the differing opinions each speak for themselves. This article asks the question, “Is this new translation faithful in its treatment of gender?” Vern S. Poythress says “No” and Mark Strauss says “Yes.” It seems apparent that the concept of gender inclusiveness is not the only question involved for either proponents or detractors of this translation. For more information about this debate, visit the following websites: www.no-tniv.com [as of June 2, 2014, no longer active], www.tniv.info, and http://biblepacesetter.org/bibletranslation [as of June 2, 2014, no longer active]

The Summer 2003 issue continues the study of Biblical interpretation with Professor Craig Keener. Chapter Two: “Learning Context” is a lesson in reading the Scriptures for what they were intended to say instead of reading them according to our preconceived ideas.

Messianic teacher Kevin Williams continues his Messianic Foundations Series with the tenth chapter in a mini-series on the Gospel of Matthew. Kevin will be looking at the Hebraisms and Jewish background often missed to reveal beautiful prophetic pictures fulfilled at the coming of Messiah. Be sure to read every installment of this unique commentary on the Gospel to the Hebrews.

Chapters from J. Rodman William’s book The Gift of the Holy Spirit Today (Logos, 1980) continue with “Chapter Five: Reception.” You will be deepened and encouraged by this exposition of the contemporary work of the Holy Spirit.

How Much Does God Control? The dialogue about free will continues in the next issue when Ken Archer responds to Graham Old. A presentation of the open view of God was made by Kenneth J. Archer, entitled “Prayer Changes Things,” in the Spring 2002 issue (Vol 5 No 2). Graham Old wrote from a charismatic Calvinist position for his paper that appeared in the Summer 2002 (Vol 5 No 3) issue.Join us for this friendly dialogue and be deepened in your appreciation for brothers and sisters who have reached different conclusions on this important theological issue.

Blessings to you, reader, in the name of our Messiah and Lord Jesus Christ.

It is a true privilege to announce our sixth year of publication beginning with this issue. I am standing in awe of what God has allowed this simple ministry to have accomplished so far.

In this issue you will find an exclusive interview with Dr. Cecil Mel Robeck. Mel Robeck’s unique involvement in ecumenical dialogue affords him a special voice about what ecumenism is and can be for Pentecostal/charismatics.  Read more about him in his biographical information included in this issue’s contributors department.

Allow me to invite you to write today telling us how you use this journal. We just love hearing from our readers, especially what has been particularly helpful or encouraging.

By His Grace,

— Raul Mock

Executive Editor

Christine Scheller, “The Little School in the Living Room Grows Up: A homeschooling mom visits one of the largest conventions in the country and notes how this form of alternative education has changed—to the chagrin of traditionalists” Christianity Today (Sept. 9, 2002), pages 46-52. Observations about how the vast home schooling movement has grown and the “living critique” it offers to an increasingly secular American society. http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2002/september9/2.46.html

Craig Bird, “A Churchless Faith” Faithworks (Sept/Oct 2002), pages 4-8.

A serious look at “post-congregational” Christians, the reasons they leave, and the challenge of becoming leaver-sensitive. First in a three-part series. At the time of printing, the full article was available at: http://www.faithworks.com/articles/articles1.htm [no longer available, as of October 1, 2014]

Later published at PneumaFoundation.org (parent organization of PneumaReview.com): http://www.pneumafoundation.org/resources/articles/article_0002.jsp

Rich Doebler, Michael Foss, Knute Larson, and Keith Meyer, “God, Money, and the Pastor” Leadership Journal (Fall 2002), pages 26-31.

A down-to-earth discussion by four pastors about money and how they preach on stewardship in their churches. http://www.christianitytoday.com/le/2002/fall/1.26.html

Glen Paauw, “Meet Your New Neighbors” Discipleship Journal 131 (Sep/Oct 2002), pages 40-45, 47-57.

This special section on the world next door introduces readers to the religions of the world and how to relate to people of other religions. Numerous side panels by several contributors discuss what is unique about Christianity, how to respond to accusations of intolerance, what spiritual warfare is, and resources for sharing Jesus with people of other beliefs.

Stan Guthrie, “Doors into Islam” Christianity Today (Sept. 9, 2002), pages 34-38,40,42-43.

The present state of evangelistic efforts in Islamic nations, testimonies of former Muslims who are now ardent followers of Jesus, and reports of the persecution of Christians. Guthrie asserts that the terrorist attacks of September 11, 2001 have only intensified both the danger and rewards of sharing Jesus with Muslims. http://www.christianitytoday.com/ct/2002/september9/1.34.html

Messianic teacher Kevin Williams continues his Messianic Foundations Series with the ninth chapter in a mini-series on the Gospel of Matthew. Readers will discover new insights into the messages of Messiah in “Yeshua the Parable Preacher” as Kevin investigates the rich background of the parables.

Chapters from J. Rodman William’s book The Gift of the Holy Spirit Today (Logos, 1980) continue with part 2 of Chapter Four: Purpose. You will be deepened and encouraged by this exposition of the contemporary work of the Holy Spirit.

Respected Pentecostal scholar Edgar Lee writes about the central place of the Bible in evaluating what Pentecostal/charismatics believe God is saying today. The principles Professor Lee discusses in “Pentecostals and Subordinate Revelation” are points every charismatic believer needs to know and be reminded of.

How Much Does God Control? The dialogue about free will continues in the next issue when Ken Archer responds to Graham Old. A presentation of the open view of God was made by Kenneth J. Archer, entitled “Prayer Changes Things,” in the Spring 2002 issue (Vol 5 No 2). Graham Old wrote from a charismatic Calvinist position for his paper that appeared in the Summer 2002 (Vol 5 No 3) issue.Join us for this friendly dialogue and be deepened in your appreciation for brothers and sisters who have reached different conclusions on this important theological issue.