The essays in this volume evaluate and build on Barth's theology from the perspective of Pentecostal theology and, thereby, contribute to constructive Pentecostal systematic theology by using Barth as a valuable dialogue partner. At present, a theological conversation of Pentecostals with Barth does not exist and this volume fills this void. More widely, it will aid all those who seek a convergence of the Word and the Spirit in theology.
Barth and Pentecostals share some important common theological interests. Barth's mature theology has a decidedly christological emphasis. Likewise, historically, Pentecostals have often spoken of a "full gospel" with an emphasis on Christ as savior, healer, baptizer (in the Spirit), and soon-and-coming King, with some Pentecostal traditions also adding a fifth emphasis on Christ the sanctifier. Furthermore, near the end of his life, Barth anticipated "the possibility of a theology of the third article, a theology where the Holy Spirit would dominate and be decisive." The realization of Barth's dream is no doubt coming to pass in part through the development of Pentecostal theology in as much as pneumatological theology (exploring how pneumatology affects, supplements, and might reform other doctrines) is an emerging paradigm for Pentecostal theology.
"God has spoken and is still speaking." This statement provides a listening point for this book's conversation between Karl Barth and the best of developing Pentecostal theology. In each chapter, one encounters the confluence of the faithfulness of Jesus with the fruitfulness of the Spirit. The result is a deepening proposal to renew the Church's life aligned with the Triune God infused with Pentecostal insight. Each chapter respectfully engages Barth's constructive proposals interfaced with veteran Pentecostal voices. Reading this collection gives hope for a more Spirit-rich reading of Barth and a more deep-thinking Pentecostal wisdom to serve the academy and the Church. The book is an invitation to wonder about what could be if we looked to attune to the Triune God, and one another, with hope and open ears.
