The Introvert Charismatic

Extrovert characters, exuberant worship, large crowds and noisy fellowship seem central to charismatic churches ' but do we really need to shout before God will move in power? Introverts can find charismatic culture off-putting, even disagreeable, and yet love what God is doing. How can they engage in a healthy manner? Is introversion something to be overcome, grown out of, even healed? -It is none of those things,- emphasizes Mark Tanner. -Introversion is a creation gift. It is part of the image of God.- He explores the richness of worshipping God with the personality you have been given. The Church, the Kingdom, and the world need charismatic introverts and this book is a thoughtful and practical guide for introverts and extroverts alike.

ContentsForeword 10Preface 131. An Introduction 182. What is an Introvert? 30Introverts are not necessarily shy 36Introverts are not necessarily antisocial 37Introverts are not necessarily arrogant 37Introverts are not necessarily inarticulate 39Introverts are not necessarily self-sufficient... 40Meet Anna 423. Introversion in the Bible 45Where do we see introvert behaviour in the Bible? 47Some insights around personality from the Bible 54A Letter to Charismatics from an Introvert Among You 634. What Do We Mean by "Charismatic"? 71They wear the regalia of the kingdom 76They are distinctive in their speech and outlook 77They do the works of the King 79They are clear where they belong 80They carry the authority of the King 81Meet Bob 845. Charismatics Throughout History 87The "Church Fathers" 90Montanism 93Messalianism 94The Cathars 96Mysticism 99Enthusiasm 99The seventeenth century and Methodism 101Topeka Bible School, Kansas (1900) 103Meet Roy 1096. Why is the Charismatic World Hard for Introverts? 114Meet Ian 1257. Blessings and Challenges for Charismatics in the Introvert World 128Charismatic culture is naturally active and pragmatic 129Charismatic culture is not very reflective 130Charismatic culture doesn't like missing out 131Charismatic culture is not good with quiet 132And for the extrovert... 133Meet Bishop David 1388. Why is the Charismatic World Good for Introverts? 142Why, then, do introverts need to engage with the charismatic world? 147A Letter to Introverts from a Charismatic Among You 1529. What Do Introverts Offer the Charismatic World? 159Introverts offer a familiarity with, and comfort in, the inner world 160Introverts offer the practice of reflection 161Introverts offer the space to wrestle, question, ponder, and wonder 162Introverts offer the dignity of space 163Introverts offer the gifts of listening and noticing 164Introverts offer a hunger for the heart of God 165Introverts offer the search for wisdom 165Meet Aian 16810. Six Steps Towards Fullness of Life 1721. Recognize and accept that you are an introvert 1732. Learn the disciplines that feed you 1763. Find a voice 1804. Learn a second language 1835. Step out in faith 1876. Practise the habits that bring health 190Meet Kate 19611. Towards Some Resources 199Some resource areas for introvert charismatics 200Nine important dynamics in public worship 204Notes 214