In The Introvert Charismatic, Mark Tanner tells the rest of the Church what introvert Christians have known about themselves all along. In a world that's dominated by extroverts, The Christian world - and notably the charismatic and evangelical world - seems to be no different. But is it missing out on their particular talents and values? Mark Tanner says it is, and it can no longer afford that loss. So what is an introvert charismatic, and is such a thing a sin to be forgiven, an illness to be healed or an oppression to be defeated? "It is none of those things," says Mark Tanner. "Introversion is a creation gift. It is part of the image of God." What's the difference between introvert and extrovert, and does it matter? Put briefly, whether you're introvert or extrovert depends on where you draw your energy and what drains it away. In the church this energy might be spiritual just as much as physical, intellectual and emotional. Extrovert Christians relish large crowds. They're recharged by exuberant worship and fellowship. Introverts recharge their spiritual batteries in private worship or one-to-one conversation They can find charismatic culture shallow, loud, driven and insensitive. Introverts have tremendous gifts to bring to others especially listening abilities. Because introverts process internally, they can a non-judgmental presence that helps others toward God. Though many introverts find themselves drained by people and need alone time to recharge, there's nothing wrong with you if you are an introvert. Mark explains it is OK to worship God with the nature you have been given; the Holy Spirit can use introverts; and the world needs both. Learn how to use your Christian introvert skills and lead, encourage and inspire your fellowship's introvert charismatics.
Industry Reviews
"Mark Tanner is an insightful and thoughtful man with a great deal of experience both in theological training and growing churches. This book encapsulates his wisdom." -- Nicky Gumbel
"The wonderful message of Pentecost is the pouring out of the Holy Spirit on all people, whatever their gender, age, or ethnic background. In this important book, Mark Tanner shows how the personality that we are created to be is included in that universal pouring out. It is a book which demonstrates the maturity of the charismatic movement from one of its wisest and most influential leaders." -- David Wilkinson, Principal, St John's College, Durham
"A really helpful book that raises important issues, concerns and questions. Drawn from real life experiences, deep reflection and thoughtful consideration, readers be they extrovert or introvert will glean many insights, help and encouragement in their own lives and in and understanding and relating to others. A good, accessible read and valuable resource for all personality types and not just those who find themselves in charismatic circles." -- Revd Roy Searle, leader, Northumbria Community and former President of the Baptist Union of Great Britain.
"As an extrovert I have found this book incredibly insightful and brilliantly challenging. I will be recommending it to students and younger leaders as a must-read so that we can grow and shape a much more self-aware and generous church family. We need both introverts and extroverts to bring their lives into the communal space we share and we will be a healthier family for it. This book has challenged me to the core. It has made me reassess how I lead and how I love others. Even now I can think of ways my own church community can be a much more inclusive and releasing space for both introverts, extroverts and indeed every mixture of our God-given humanity. This is an important work and I am grateful to have read it at the start of my leadership journey." -- Miriam Swaffield, Student Mission Developer
"The process of prayer - of offering God all that we are as we drink deeply at that never-ending well - is pivotal for every Christian. Yet I have never yet met anyone who found it easy. With immense self-awareness and pastoral wisdom, Mark Tanner offers profound insight here for particular people - introverts - whose concerns and contributions are seldom identified yet widely experienced. The whole Church has much to learn here as it seeks to be conformed to Christ." -- Justin Welby, Archbishop of Canterbury
