Everyday Supernatural, by Mike Pilavachi and Andy Croft

We read about the miracles of Jesus and the apostles in the New Testament.  But we wonder if those things could happen today.  In Everyday Supernatural: Living a Spirit-Led Life Without Being Weird, pastors Mike Pilavachi and Andy Croft answer with a resounding YES!  They write, "It's possible for all followers of Jesus to see God's supernatural power at work.  Not once or twice in a lifetime, but everyday."

It's easy for teaching on the supernatural to focus on the supernatural (obviously).  Pilavachi and Croft are careful and passionate about keeping their teaching on the supernatural focused on Jesus.  It's not about tongues, healing, prophecy and words of wisdom, but about Jesus himself.  They write, "Our goal should be relationship with Jesus, not power from Jesus. . . . The key to living a life full of supernatural power is to understand that the power is in the presence.  As we are close to Jesus so we will see him move in us and through us."

As Pilavachi and Croft describe the gifts and their practical application, they provide some general guidelines that apply to all the gifts.  First, practicing the gifts is not about technique, but about relationship.  God uses prophecy and healing to bless those he loves.  Second, while some people may have a particular ministry, the gifts are available to all.  As they say, "Everyone can play!"  "All of us are . . . actively encouraged to hear God speak, pray for the sick and speak in tongues.  We are all able to play, so never rule yourself out of being able to use these gifts."  I'm glad they emphasized this, because it so often seems that the gifts are reserved for "professional" Christians.

Pilavachi and Croft write and minister in the tradition of John Wimber, to whom they refer frequently.  If you know Wimber, you know what to expect from Everyday Supernatural, including the good humor and personal touch that marked Wimber's ministry.  I think their emphasis is exactly where it needs to be: on intimacy with Jesus and the proclamation and demonstration of his kingdom.  "Our priority needs to be sticking close to Jesus.  Before being everyday supernatural is about miracles and healings, it's about intimacy and relationship."


Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the complimentary electronic review copy!