Pray with Fire: Interceding in the Spirit

Henry G. MacLeod teaches sociology at both Trent University and the
University of Waterloo.

These books are an insider’s interpretation of “the outpouring of
God’s Spirit” that has been taking place at the meetings of the
Toronto Airport Vineyard since January 20, 1994. The author, who himself
claims to have been “drawn out” by the Holy Spirit, emphasizes that
the book is not an objective documentation of what he calls “The
Toronto Blessing.”

Experiencing the presence of the Holy Spirit has been a controversial
subject for Christians since the first Pentecost. When the Holy Spirit
filled the Apostles, some believed that they were drunk. Many people
today are interested in the Holy Spirit’s gift of healing but question
such physical manifestations as speaking in tongues, falling to the
floor, and laughing uncontrollably. A few view the contemporary
Pentecostal/Charismatic movements either as expressions of hysteria or
emotional disturbance or as cults for desperate individuals. Chevreau
does not respond to these charges. His primary concern is defending the
Airport Vineyard manifestations against accusations that they are not
“true and authentic.”

Both books provide useful background information for pastors and
leaders attending meetings at the Airport Vineyard. Catch the Fire
examines selected biblical and historical precedents for experiencing
the Holy Spirit. Pray with Fire focuses on chosen biblical and
historical reflections on prayer and on using the Holy Spirit to
intercede for others.