Hamilton is a young, energized Asst-Professor. His research into the subject is not one of years of experience, but rather clinical research. It is a unique book.
This book does not cover the ecclesiology, starting from Pentecost, as most authors of the Holy Spirit usually do. It starts with the Holy Spirit, God's own Spirit, in the OT. It describes how, in the time of the Theocracy, God ruled thru His chosen judges, kings and prophets by anointing them literally.
Yet with the advent of Christ, the Messiah, God's 'Anointed One', the literal anointing no longer exists (and neither does the Theocracy!)and the spirit-aspect of the new life of believers is brought into proper perspective. This process, and its unique godly origin, known as the 'indwelling' is made clear to the reader. Implications regarding the 'anointing' now dwelling in us, empowering us, as opposed to being sought for as a special second blessing, are discussed in view of the fallacious teaching on the Holy Spirit prevalent in charismatic and pentecostal churches today. As John Murray acutely diagnosed the problem: 'and not the beggarly notion of second blessing...' ! (Romans 12:2)
'Do not take your Holy Spirit from me.' Psalm 51:1
'David has witnessed the Spirit and the kingship being taken from Saul when he sinned. He pleads that the same not happen to him.' pg 33
'Under the new covenant, God would not have a tribe of priests ministering to the rest of His people, but His people as a whole would be a kingdom of priests (see Exod 19:6; 1 Pet 2:9; Rev 1:6). In these respects it may be said that there is discontinuity between the old and new covenants. There is continuity, however, in that the Spirit has been active in the lives of believers under both covenants.' pg 76
'His anointing as the Messiah occurred when the Spirit came down upon Him. John 1:32-34' pg 111
A thematic and Reformed reference work that I will turn to repeatedly for illumination. |
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