Abstract
In The Spirit, the Affections, and the Christian Tradition, editors Dale M. Coulter and Amos Yong collaborate with ten scholars to explore renewal through an ecumenical, historical, and theological lens. Influenced by Pentecostal and charismatic movements, the emergence of the field of renewal studies was substantiated through the establishment of a PhD program in renewal at Regent University’s School of Divinity. Many of the chapters in the text are based on a lecture series and conference held at Regent University between 2011 and 2013.
The authors apply a phenomenological framework to renewal studies, focusing on affectivity, or emotion and the work of the Holy Spirit. What Yong describes as “a renewalist historiographic method” is presented over twelve chapters (22). The essays trace the historic and chronological history of affections in scripture and Christian theological traditions from the early church fathers to American colonial perspectives in the eighteenth century. The twelve chapters also examine affectivity from the influences of theologians such as Augustine, Aquinas, Meister Eckhart, Luther, John Wesley, and Jonathan Edwards.
The text begins by examining the language of affectivity that has developed and changed throughout Christian history. Some of the essays highlight the erotic and ecstatic states connected with emotion and affectivity, while other chapters focus on the transformative nature of grace, and the power of the Holy Spirit to form and direct our affections. Further chapters review the role of pedagogy in positively shaping affections, and the use of repentance, or holy tears to bring about transformation in the Christian life. Of interest is Elizabeth Dreyer’s chapter on the role of emotion during the Middle Ages. Dryer offers a correction of a common misunderstanding regarding affectivity, noting, “It is puzzling that Christian tradition often failed to see all aspects of the created world as holy, blessed by creation and incarnation. How can any created reality be suspect, much less condemned?” (113). Describing mystics as “teachers of awe and wonder,” Dreyer challenges leaders and scholars “to imagine spiritual paths that nurture intense emotion” (133). The authors note the changing perceptions and theologies surrounding renewal and affectivity throughout Christian history, and raise excellent questions that are applicable to Christian theologians, missiologists, and historians today.
The Spirit, the Affections, and the Christian Tradition offers a substantial contribution to the field of theology and church history. This text is ideal for scholars, practitioners, and graduate mission students interested in historical theology, renewal movements, and pneumatology.