Arnold Dallimore, The Life of Edward Irving: The Fore-Runner of the Charismatic Movement

Edinburgh, The Banner of Truth Trust, 1983.

Summary: The book records and explains the rise of speaking in tongues, prophecy, and the continuation of the apostolic office under the ministry of Edward Irving (1792-1834). Irving unintentionally established the framework of both Dispensationalism and the Charismatic Movement by being a catalysis for the popularization of a variety of unique views on the end times and the work of the Holy Spirit.

Irving translated “The Coming of Christ in Glory and Majesty” by the Jesuit Lacunza and adopted his view of the end times whereby Christ’s work with the biological seed of Abraham is different than his work with the Gentile Church. Further, he clearly establishes the Charismatic explanations for inaccurate prophecy, the fact that tongues speaking is not a known language, and the failure of faith healers.

Benefits/Detriments: Essentially what we learn is that the belief that we are necessarily in the final moments before Christ’s return can lead to a spiritual intensity that is ultimately unbiblical and unedifying. (Striking the more biblical balance between Christ’s potential imminent return and the possibility of Christ continuing to tarry is difficult, but it must be maintained to avoid endless speculation or spiritual coldness.) Further, the book serves as a helpful reminder to shun worldly popularity, crucify pride, and deplore theological speculation.

I found the book fascinating, easy to read, and a bit of an “Oh that makes sense” experience.