Where the Spirit Is, R. Shea Watts (Pickwick, Eugene, 2023)
Christians hold a variety of perspectives on the Pentecostal movement. Some branches of the Christian family tree believe that the movement, which began in Los Angeles in the early twentieth century, is a fake. Encounters with the Holy Spirit and the demonstration of spiritual gifts, such as speaking in tongues and healing, are limited to the New Testament times and the early church. Millions of Christians embrace the excitement, zeal and theophanies of movement, while others in mainline congregations fear its congregation splitting tendencies. There are even those who take the judgmental view that the Pentecostal/Charismatic experience is only for the psychotically deranged. Our long-standing views on Pentecostalism can be as inflexible as our political views.
For those who are open to a fresh perspective on the Pentecostal Movement, I would suggest R. Shea Watts’ book, Where the Spirit Is. Rather than arguing the theological pros and cons of the movement, Watts examines the egalitarian teachings and experiences of Pentecostalism. He especially focuses on the ministry of The Fellowship of Affirming Ministries (TFAM), a predominantly Black LGBTQ+ movement that mixes Pentecostal worship with inclusive, liberative theology. I found myself muttering, “I never knew that,” as I turned the pages of the book.
Though the book is informative and contains many new insights, it is not an easy read. The book is based on a doctoral dissertation, so it has an academic rather than a popular theology flavor to it. I found the book well worth the effort to read it. It not only provides the reader with new information and insights but also a glimpse of what Christian congregations can be like—loving, gracious, affirming, inclusive and Spirit filled.
I received this book free from the author and/or publisher through the Speakeasy blogging book review network. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.