Gordon T. Smith gives us a neat idea and probably predicts the direction the church is going. Various Evangelical streams are recovering the sacramentality of the ancient tradition and realizing that there aren’t any good arguments against cessationism. While some chapter are outstanding, the book never really develops in satisfactory detail what such an integrated tradition would look like.
Thesis: There are three distinct angles by which we live in the grace of the ascended Christ. If this is true, then the key question becomes: “What is the mode in which we participate in the ascended Christ?” How do we “abide in him?”
The Evangelical answer: The Word transcends heaven and earth. We are drawn into fellowship through the Word.
The Sacramental answer: Since God in Christ assumed materiality, material objects can serve as means in our participation in Christ. We are born of “water and Spirit.” Water is the stuff of creation.
The Pentecostal answer: the gift of the Spirit is the connection between heaven and earth.
The Spirit and the Life of the Church in Luke-Acts
Thesis: Luke-Acts “pivots” on the Ascension.
The Grace of God: Evangelical, Sacramental, Pentecostal
God’s grace is sufficient, but we are irresponsible if we do not follow up with the God-appointed means. How do we integrate these streams? Smith suggests that the grace of God in the Spirit is found in God’s very self.
There is an overlap of 2 streams in the Eucharist. There is the sacramental stream, obviously, but then there is the epiclesis. He then ties this in with standard Calvinist treatment on Eucharist and Ascension. Notes that Calvin was resistant, however, to a direct access to the Spirit.
Theology of the Word
There is a sequence of Creation-Logos-Apostles-Scripture
Sacramental Symbols
The sacraments are symbols, but this is far more real than anything low-church groups would be comfortable with. A sign points to another reality (like a green light). Yet, it isn’t necessarily connected with that reality (i.e., there is nothing essential in the nature of a green light that means “go”).
In a symbol, by contrast, we enter into and beyond that which is symbolized. Church symbols and rituals are also “inherently communal.” Symbols integrate our heart and mind in our bodies.
Pentecostal Spirit
Origen and Discernment of Spirits.
Thesis: Our response to the Spirit arises from a personal encounter with Christ.
Spirit practices. Unfortunately, Smith gives us zero guidance or discussion on how to integrate these.
>> Anointing the sick. I agree 100%. So, what is the symbolism of oil?
>>Discernment and prophecies
>>Prayer
>>Tongues-speaking
>>Anointing with oil.
Word-House 