Sam Storms

Sam Storms describes himself as a charismatic Calvinist. He is a graduate of Dallas Seminary (a few years ahead of me) and he also holds a Ph.D. from the University of Texas at Dallas. At one point he would have considered himself a Calvinist scholar and pastor but, influenced by Jack Deere, he was introduced to the Vineyard movement and became part of the charismatic movement also. So now he would consider himself both charismatic and Calvinist.

This is his story. Actually, the first few chapters give his story of his pilgrimage and his journeys and his interactions. His journey included times pastoring in Oklahoma, being part of the staff of the Kansas City Vineyard/IHOP, and also a stint of teaching at Wheaton College.

The middle section of the book includes a series of comparisons and contrasts between charismatics and cessationists on a range of issues. For example, he compares their attitudes towards worship, towards the Scriptures, and many other things.

In the final section, Storms includes several chapters on God speaking to us today with leadings and impressions.

In general, Storms calls for the reader to fully embrace dependence upon Scripture as well as dependence upon the Spirit and all of his gifts.

Storms’ book is a bit reminiscent of Jack Deere’s Surprised by the Power of the Spirit in that he is advocating the full range of charismatic gifts from the perspective of a superb exegete.

Quite an interesting read.