The Reformation doctrine of “the Word and the Spirit,” as outlined by Bernard Ramm, is related to various psychological models of cognitive and personal style. It is suggested that Witkin's distinction between “analytic” and “global” cognitive styles has its parallel in two differing religious styles, which are labelled “Word-oriented” and “Spirited-oriented.” The implications of these two styles for the functioning of pastors, parishioners and Christian workers are examined in detail.
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