Theology & Religious Studies

There are three broad positions on the meaning of the gift of the Spirit at Pentecost. Pentecostal scholars like Robert Menzies define the gift solely in terms of an added gift enabling and supporting the missionary work of the church. 1 Non-Pentecostal scholars of a broader charismatic persuasion such as Max Turner extend the range of functions flowing from the gift to include building up the church; 2 J.D.G. Dunn argues that the gift of the Spirit pertains also to conversion-initiation and salvation. 3 These three positions define the current state of scholarship on this question.