Journal: Central Bible Quarterly
Volume: CENQ 22:1 (Spring 1979)
Article: Book Review
Author: Anonymous

Book Review

The Charismatics by John F. MacArthur, Jr. Grand Rapids: Zondervan Pub. House, 1978, cloth, 224 pages, $7.95. Reviewed by Dr. Rolland D. McCune.

The author, a graduate of Talbot Seminary and pastor of the Grace Community Church of Panorama City, CA, has done an admirable job of framing the issues of the charismatic movement so laymen can understand, and yet theologically concise and readable for pastors and teachers. The book is definitely anti-charismatic, yet written factually, scholarly and tactfully without acrimony. The author handles important and problematic areas of Bible study and interpretation in outline form which is easy to grasp. He often gives numbered reasons or arguments to prove his point on crucial issues (six characteristics of healing, seven reasons why tongues are languages, six reasons why tongues have ceased, etc.). MacArthur is abreast of current charismatic literature, broadcasts and sayings. He has a good chapter on the transitional nature of the book of Acts.

A couple of weaknesses are worth mentioning. Miracles and the miracle epochs of the Bible are not related to the Kingdom of God at all. This seems virtually incredible in light of the prominence of the Kingdom in Biblical revelation and the care with which the author handled theological matters. Also an anemic definition of the gifts of prophecy and knowledge is given; their revelatory nature is not appreciated. However, the book is recommended to the layman and pastor/teacher as a definite help in refuting the charismatics.