Book review | Giver of Life by Jane Williams

Giver of Life: The Holy Spirit in the Creed and in the Christian life today (SPCK, 2025)

by  Jane Williams

Reviewer: Tanya Stead

The title of the book is an editorial masterpiece: three beautiful words – because, let’s face it, we’re all looking for a full, beautiful, positive and purposeful life, and the title hints at who can give us that life. I was delighted to have the opportunity to read and review this book by Jane Williams – author of several books, theologian, and McDonald Professor of Christian Theology at St Mellitus College. 

The book is written by a professor of theology, without question, and while I initially found the writing a little more complex, I still found it highly accessible and easy to read – though I must admit this is a style I enjoy. I was particularly pleased to encounter research into the Cappadocian Fathers and St Augustine in relation to the Holy Spirit in the Nicene Creed, which I found deeply enriching. 

Jane also does an excellent job of drawing out Scriptural truth. She expands on the truth that God is love, and that love is a gift given to us to be lived out through the Spirit. Because of God’s love, the Spirit is freely given to us—and through this gift of love, we are enabled to love those around us through his Spirit. This feels especially important, whatever time or age we are living in. 

There is so much more in this book that you will have to discover for yourself, but I wholeheartedly commend it to you. I have already returned to it several times. 

Watch my interview with Jane Williams on YouTube 

Reviewer:

Tanya Stead is editor at Preach magazine and content manager for the Leaders of Worship and Preachers Trust.