Review: Spirituality of Paul

THE SPIRITUALITY OF PAUL by Leslie T. Hardin [Grand Rapids MI, Kregel, 2016] 190 pages.

Review by Pastor Jim Gray

The study of spirituality is not an easy one to grasp and define. Hardin’s work has some redeeming features on the subject. He sees Paul’s spirituality as a practical partnership with God in which Paul becomes more Christlike.  Spirituality is made up of nine disciplines:

The two main elements are

Prayer

Evangelism

In addition, they are;

Disciple making

Corporate worship     

Studying the Word of God

Holiness                                                                                  

Caring and building up of other believers

Spiritual gifts to edify the body (i.e. The church)

Perseverance during suffering.

All of these elements are important and should be considered, although they do not carry the same weight.

His views are colored by the New Perspective of Paul which he has clearly bought into. Yet, the book has merit to aid in thinking on spirituality. The author seems to write on Paul’s personal view, but omits any strong doctrinal viewpoint. I would consider this work more subjective, than objective. The book overall is creditable for consideration. As to readability, I struggled at times. However, it is worth reading and should be considered by those who are studying the subject.

I received this book free from the publisher to review. It did not have to be a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.