The Interpreting Spirit

“Hannah Mather’s Interpreting Spirit offers the most up-to-date and thorough overview of renewal hermeneutics over the past half-century. Irenically highlighting some key themes, Mather strives for a holistic, theological, and practical approach that most importantly engages Scripture for the purpose of, and in the context of, knowing God. This emphasis in part reflects her own spiritual and hermeneutical quest, and reminds us of the ultimate purpose for which believers engage, or should engage, Scripture.”


—Craig S. Keener, Asbury Theological Seminary





“Perhaps the most comprehensive historical and theological survey of renewal hermeneutics to date, Hannah Mather’s work highlights the continuities as well as the contrasts between the various exegetical approaches she explores, with insight, clarity, and a clear passion to see the Spirit’s work in biblical interpretation restored to its rightful place. The Interpreting Spirit should be the starting point for anyone exploring this crucial field for the first time and will prove to be a great resource even for authorities in the area.”


—Andrew Davies, University of Birmingham





“How can we begin to describe what the Holy Spirit’s doing when we read the Bible? How does the Spirit help us engage, understand, and obey? Mather takes on ‘mission impossible’ and achieves a truly impressive analysis. Along the way, she celebrates fifty years of renewal scholarship in this field. A remarkable volume! Now it’s your turn: read on.”


—William Atkinson, London School of Theology