"Then I went down to the potter's house, and, behold, he wrought a work on the wheels. And the vessel that he made of clay was marred in the hand of the potter: so he made it again another vessel, as seemed good to the potter to make it (Jer. 18:3-4 KJV)."
I've read this passage of Scripture many times. I've heard multiple sermons preached about the Great Potter and the vessel. What a wondrous concept to comprehend the Potter will mold us into a vessel as He sees fit to make!
A choice is placed before us. We can watch the Potter remake a marred vessel into one which will bring glory to the Potter. We can choose to become the marred vessel in the hands of the Potter.
Those who choose to watch possess a front row seat in the scrap pile of damaged, marred, and imperfect vessels. Those who choose to watch can see the pain and suffering of the vessel on the wheel as it's being remade. Those who choose to watch feel they're safe in the scrap pile. However, the vessels in the scrap pile are useless. The only value they possess is to be crushed back into the clay they were formed from.
Those who choose to get on the wheel, placing themselves in hands of the master Potter, have the guarantee they will become vessels of honor and glory to the Potter. Yet the remaking process is painful. Severely damaged areas must be removed and replaced. Marred areas must be softened, scraped, and resurfaced.
When the vessel is in the shape desired, the Potter places it in the fire of the kiln to harden it withstand the rigor of daily use. The Potter doesn't create these vessels to sit in a display case. These vessels are made for intensive, daily use. They're designed and made to bring glory and honor to the Potter.
You're presented with a decision today. You can become a vessel in the hands of the master Potter to endure the pain of being born again to a vessel of value. You can remain in the pile of scrap, broken, damaged, marred, useless vessels awaiting eternal destruction. The decision is yours. Life is wrought with many choices. Eternity offers two. God bless...
Monday, May 31, 2010
Thursday, May 27, 2010
Book Review: Change Your Church For Good
Change Your Church For Good, Revised Edition, by Brad Powell, brings to the forefront the success and the testing which will come when transitioning a church from near death to relevance. Importance in placed on not compromising the Gospel of Christ while working to change a church into one which works and is relevant to the community it serves.
I found the thoughts and ideas presented by Brad Powell to be interesting. I caught myself saying, "Wow!" more than once. The book begins with an accurate, yet disturbing description of the modern church in comparison to the church in the book of Acts. The book presents explaining a vision of church transition to the congregation very well. Keeping the vision in the mind and focus of the congregation is emphasized strongly throughout the book. Proper leadership and selecting leaders is dealt with and runs as a major theme throughout the text. The presentation of the Gospel without compromise is given precedence in every phase of church transition.
This book isn't a "how-to" manual of changing a church for good or bad due to the nature of differing culture and circumstances in different communities. However, the thoughts and ideas presented can assist the pastor, or church leader, to develop a plan to change a church for good. Brad Powell does an exceptional job of getting readers to examine the relevance of their churches and challenging those who want their churches to become relevant living organisms in their communities. I recommend Change Your Church For Good to all who desire to see their churches become what God intends them to be, life-changing, soul-saving, growing bodies of believers in Jesus Christ.
I received this book free from Thomas Nelson Publishers as part of their BookSneeze.com book review bloggers program. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission's 16 CFR, part 255: "Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising."
See It, Touch It, Smell It
I knelt at the edge of the river and placed my hand below the surface of the dark flowing water. I felt the nudge in my spirit alerting me to God wanting my attention. His voice spoke to my heart, "You've seen, you've touched, and you've smelled."
What did I see? What did I touch? What did I smell? Was it the river? I saw it. I put my hand in it. I could smell it. I spoke with the pastor of the church where I preached the next day about this. He said, "You went to the wrong park. There's a better, cleaner, prettier one downtown." I still sensed in my spirit God was trying to tell me something more.
"For thus saith the LORD, Thy bruise is incurable, and thy wound is grievous. There is none to plead thy cause, that thou mayest be bound up: thou hast no healing medicines (Jer. 30:12-13 KJV)."
What does this verse have to do with putting a hand into a river, seeing it, touching it, and smelling it? A seriously infected wound stinks. It wasn't the river I was smelling that day. It wasn't the river or the sights of the city that I was seeing. It wasn't the river that touched while kneeling at its edge in that particular park. It was an infected wound. It was sin.
Sin stinks. I could see it. I touched it. I smelled it. The stench turned my stomach like the view and smell of a festering, infected wound. In the days which followed, I faced a decision. I could choose to do something about the wound or I could walk away and let the nature of the wound run its course.
Jeremiah 30:13 could stand as a serious indictment of Christianity today. Who is there to plead the cause of the ones who bear the infectious wounds of sin? Who is there to bring healing medicines and bind the wounds to keep the infection fro spreading? Who did Jesus command to go and make disciples?
The enemy is offering humanity many "cures" for the infected wounds of sin. They only assist in the spreading of the infection. The Church has the medicine to not only stop the infection, but to cure it once and for all. Jesus Christ is the only medicine which will sure the stinking wounds of sin.
The time is now for the Church to plead the cause. The time is now for the Church to take the healing medicine of Jesus Christ to those suffering the infectious wounds of sin.
I saw it, I touched it, and I smelled it. Yes, I was in the right park. Yes, I walked the right river walk. God put me exactly where I was supposed to be that day. The field is white, ready for the harvest. O Lord God, send laborers into the field. God bless...
What did I see? What did I touch? What did I smell? Was it the river? I saw it. I put my hand in it. I could smell it. I spoke with the pastor of the church where I preached the next day about this. He said, "You went to the wrong park. There's a better, cleaner, prettier one downtown." I still sensed in my spirit God was trying to tell me something more.
"For thus saith the LORD, Thy bruise is incurable, and thy wound is grievous. There is none to plead thy cause, that thou mayest be bound up: thou hast no healing medicines (Jer. 30:12-13 KJV)."
What does this verse have to do with putting a hand into a river, seeing it, touching it, and smelling it? A seriously infected wound stinks. It wasn't the river I was smelling that day. It wasn't the river or the sights of the city that I was seeing. It wasn't the river that touched while kneeling at its edge in that particular park. It was an infected wound. It was sin.
Sin stinks. I could see it. I touched it. I smelled it. The stench turned my stomach like the view and smell of a festering, infected wound. In the days which followed, I faced a decision. I could choose to do something about the wound or I could walk away and let the nature of the wound run its course.
Jeremiah 30:13 could stand as a serious indictment of Christianity today. Who is there to plead the cause of the ones who bear the infectious wounds of sin? Who is there to bring healing medicines and bind the wounds to keep the infection fro spreading? Who did Jesus command to go and make disciples?
The enemy is offering humanity many "cures" for the infected wounds of sin. They only assist in the spreading of the infection. The Church has the medicine to not only stop the infection, but to cure it once and for all. Jesus Christ is the only medicine which will sure the stinking wounds of sin.
The time is now for the Church to plead the cause. The time is now for the Church to take the healing medicine of Jesus Christ to those suffering the infectious wounds of sin.
I saw it, I touched it, and I smelled it. Yes, I was in the right park. Yes, I walked the right river walk. God put me exactly where I was supposed to be that day. The field is white, ready for the harvest. O Lord God, send laborers into the field. God bless...
Wednesday, May 26, 2010
The Lion and the Lamb
We're familiar with this verse, "And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire (Jude 23 KJV)." I like how the Amplified Bible puts it, "[Strive to] save others, snatching [them] out of [the] fire."
We're also familiar with the story of the young David rescuing a lamb from a lion and a bear. David was testifying of his exploits to King Saul because Saul doubted David's ability to face the giant, Goliath. I want to parallel the rescue of the lamb from the mouth of the lion to Jude 23.
We can read the details as given by David in 1Samuel 17:35. "And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him (KJV)." However, David gave the credit to God (1Sa. 17:37).
Who in their right mind would run down a lion and attempt to take away his meal? Who in his right mind would grab a lion by it's mane and kill it? Doesn't 1Peter 5:8 tell us the devil walks about like a roaring lion, looking for those he can devour? How many lambs has Satan trapped in the jaws of sin? How many lambs has he escaped with to devour?
As God delivered David from the lion when he rescued the lamb, so to do we have the promise God will give us the power to rescue the lambs who are trapped in the mouth of Satan. Notice David said in 1Samuel 17:35, "And I went out after him." If we're going to rescue the lost, we must go after them.
We are to be witnesses of Christ. We're to go and make disciples. The Holy Spirit gives us the power to do this. The Holy Spirit gives us the power to snatch the lost from the jaws of Satan. It is our Christian duty to strive to save others, snatching them from the fire of an eternity in Hell. God bless...
We're also familiar with the story of the young David rescuing a lamb from a lion and a bear. David was testifying of his exploits to King Saul because Saul doubted David's ability to face the giant, Goliath. I want to parallel the rescue of the lamb from the mouth of the lion to Jude 23.
We can read the details as given by David in 1Samuel 17:35. "And I went out after him, and smote him, and delivered it out of his mouth: and when he arose against me, I caught him by his beard, and smote him, and slew him (KJV)." However, David gave the credit to God (1Sa. 17:37).
Who in their right mind would run down a lion and attempt to take away his meal? Who in his right mind would grab a lion by it's mane and kill it? Doesn't 1Peter 5:8 tell us the devil walks about like a roaring lion, looking for those he can devour? How many lambs has Satan trapped in the jaws of sin? How many lambs has he escaped with to devour?
As God delivered David from the lion when he rescued the lamb, so to do we have the promise God will give us the power to rescue the lambs who are trapped in the mouth of Satan. Notice David said in 1Samuel 17:35, "And I went out after him." If we're going to rescue the lost, we must go after them.
We are to be witnesses of Christ. We're to go and make disciples. The Holy Spirit gives us the power to do this. The Holy Spirit gives us the power to snatch the lost from the jaws of Satan. It is our Christian duty to strive to save others, snatching them from the fire of an eternity in Hell. God bless...
Saturday, May 22, 2010
Servants of God
Chapter 2 of 2Peter goes into explicit detail concerning the false prophets who arise to speak in the last days. Peter is scathing in his description of them. He prophesies in the second verse saying many will follow their imoral and lascivious ways. He prophesies the true Way will be maligned and defamed (Amplified Bible).
However, as I was reading this chapter in 2Peter this morning, the latter portion of verse 19 hit me like a brick.
"For of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage."
Many today are claiming to be prophets. One says God told them this thing, while another claims God told them exactly the opposite. Many of them use the combination of fear and faith to get and tighten their grip on those who choose to believe and follow them.
Allow me to introduce the latter portion of 2Peter 2:19 from the Amplified Bible.
"For by whatever anyone is made inferior or worse or is overcome, to that [person or thing] he is enslaved."
This statement applies itself to more than just following false prophets. "By whatever" means anything. Whatever we willingly yield ourselves to will enslave us. The thing which overcomes us will become our master.
Jesus tells us we'll have troubles and trials. He tells us to rejoice because he overcame the world (Jn. 16:33). The Apostle John carries these world of Christ one step further.
"For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world (1Jn. 5:4 KJV)."
We who are born of God, by the water and the Spirit (Jn. 3:5), have the power and the authority to overcome anything we face in our flesh. We can overcome because Christ overcame. Here is the key...
The person, or thing, which overcomes us enslaves us. We Christians should be overcome by the power of the Holy Spirit, enslaving us to God. We are granted freedom when we choose to become servants of God.
What is it that Jesus said? "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord (Lu. 4:18-19 KJV)?"
Jesus answered this question... "This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears (Lu. 4:21 KJV)."
Let's allow ourselves to be overcome by the Spirit of God. Let's allow ourselves to become servants of God, thereby attaining true freedom in Christ. Let's allow ourselves to accomplish the duty of being a servant of God by sharing the Gospel with someone today. God bless...
However, as I was reading this chapter in 2Peter this morning, the latter portion of verse 19 hit me like a brick.
"For of whom a man is overcome, of the same is he brought in bondage."
Many today are claiming to be prophets. One says God told them this thing, while another claims God told them exactly the opposite. Many of them use the combination of fear and faith to get and tighten their grip on those who choose to believe and follow them.
Allow me to introduce the latter portion of 2Peter 2:19 from the Amplified Bible.
"For by whatever anyone is made inferior or worse or is overcome, to that [person or thing] he is enslaved."
This statement applies itself to more than just following false prophets. "By whatever" means anything. Whatever we willingly yield ourselves to will enslave us. The thing which overcomes us will become our master.
Jesus tells us we'll have troubles and trials. He tells us to rejoice because he overcame the world (Jn. 16:33). The Apostle John carries these world of Christ one step further.
"For whatsoever is born of God overcometh the world (1Jn. 5:4 KJV)."
We who are born of God, by the water and the Spirit (Jn. 3:5), have the power and the authority to overcome anything we face in our flesh. We can overcome because Christ overcame. Here is the key...
The person, or thing, which overcomes us enslaves us. We Christians should be overcome by the power of the Holy Spirit, enslaving us to God. We are granted freedom when we choose to become servants of God.
What is it that Jesus said? "The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he hath anointed me to preach the gospel to the poor; he hath sent me to heal the brokenhearted, to preach deliverance to the captives, and recovering of sight to the blind, to set at liberty them that are bruised, To preach the acceptable year of the Lord (Lu. 4:18-19 KJV)?"
Jesus answered this question... "This day is this scripture fulfilled in your ears (Lu. 4:21 KJV)."
Let's allow ourselves to be overcome by the Spirit of God. Let's allow ourselves to become servants of God, thereby attaining true freedom in Christ. Let's allow ourselves to accomplish the duty of being a servant of God by sharing the Gospel with someone today. God bless...
Friday, May 21, 2010
A Unique View of Illegal Immigration
The point of this posting isn't political. Illegal immigration is a hot topic across the United States. My intent isn't to persuade you into taking sides for or against illegal immigration. I hope to present another view, possibly a view which Christians should take on illegal immigration. What does the Bible say?
"Thou shalt neither vex a stranger, nor oppress him: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt (Exo. 22:21 KJV)."
God is telling the children of Israel they shouldn't mistreat or oppress strangers because they were once strangers in Egypt. Let's examine another verse.
"But the stranger that dwelleth among you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God (Lev. 19:34 KJV)."
Notice the language of this verse is stronger than in Exodus 22:21. God is telling the children of Israel the stranger is to be treated as one born among them, a citizen. God is telling the children of Israel they are to love the stranger as they would love themselves.
The word stranger used in both verses is the same. It means a foreigner or an alien. The label illegal immigrant could apply here also. If God required the ancient Israelites to treat immigrants as on born among them, should the modern Christian not do the same? If God required the ancient Israelites to love the immigrants as themselves, should not modern Christians do the same?
Am I advocating immunity to illegal immigrants? No. I'm advocating telling them the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They're here, illegally or not. They need Christ as much as any naturalized citizen of the USA.
When the illegal immigrant becomes born again in Jesus Christ, they become bound to either obey Christ or reject Christ. They become bound to obey the Word of God. What Word applies to this situation?
"Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake...(1Pe. 2:13 KJV)."
The ordinances of man give immigrants to the USA the opportunity to become legal immigrants. Those illegal immigrants who've become born-again Christians have a duty to obey the Word of God. They should work to become legal if they wish to remain in the USA.
The Church, the body of Christ, has been given the opportunity to reach illegal immigrants with the Gospel. Instead of becoming entangled in the political debate, why don't we, the Church, begin reaching out in sincerity and in truth to these people. They need Jesus every bit as much as us "naturalized" Christians do. God bless...
"Thou shalt neither vex a stranger, nor oppress him: for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt (Exo. 22:21 KJV)."
God is telling the children of Israel they shouldn't mistreat or oppress strangers because they were once strangers in Egypt. Let's examine another verse.
"But the stranger that dwelleth among you shall be unto you as one born among you, and thou shalt love him as thyself; for ye were strangers in the land of Egypt: I am the LORD your God (Lev. 19:34 KJV)."
Notice the language of this verse is stronger than in Exodus 22:21. God is telling the children of Israel the stranger is to be treated as one born among them, a citizen. God is telling the children of Israel they are to love the stranger as they would love themselves.
The word stranger used in both verses is the same. It means a foreigner or an alien. The label illegal immigrant could apply here also. If God required the ancient Israelites to treat immigrants as on born among them, should the modern Christian not do the same? If God required the ancient Israelites to love the immigrants as themselves, should not modern Christians do the same?
Am I advocating immunity to illegal immigrants? No. I'm advocating telling them the Gospel of Jesus Christ. They're here, illegally or not. They need Christ as much as any naturalized citizen of the USA.
When the illegal immigrant becomes born again in Jesus Christ, they become bound to either obey Christ or reject Christ. They become bound to obey the Word of God. What Word applies to this situation?
"Submit yourselves to every ordinance of man for the Lord's sake...(1Pe. 2:13 KJV)."
The ordinances of man give immigrants to the USA the opportunity to become legal immigrants. Those illegal immigrants who've become born-again Christians have a duty to obey the Word of God. They should work to become legal if they wish to remain in the USA.
The Church, the body of Christ, has been given the opportunity to reach illegal immigrants with the Gospel. Instead of becoming entangled in the political debate, why don't we, the Church, begin reaching out in sincerity and in truth to these people. They need Jesus every bit as much as us "naturalized" Christians do. God bless...
Thursday, May 20, 2010
The Relevance of Local Churches
Are Christian churches relevant to their local communities? This is a broad question. What makes local churches relevant in their communities? This question is much more focused.
The answer to what makes local churches relevant is the same as what is the reason for the existence of Christian churches. We can find a clear answer to this question of relevance by examining the birth of the Church on the Day of Pentecost.
Jesus commands us to go and make disciples. Luke expands on this command in Acts 1:8 with these words of Christ, "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me."
"When the day of Pentecost was fully come," the Holy Spirit arrived. The Spirit of God filled the house. The Spirit of God filled each person. They began speaking with other tongues (Acts 2:4). Peter preached the first message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
"And the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls (Acts 2:41)."
"And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved (Acts 2:47)."
Why? The words of Christ in Acts 1:8 were being fulfilled. They had become witnesses of Christ. Those Christians of the first apostolic Church turned their world upside down. They became relevant to their world because they were witnesses to and of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Their priority was taking the Gospel to the lost souls around them.
What then makes today's local churches relevant to their communities? The witness of, and to, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Local churches will be the only Jesus Christ our communities will ever see in this life.
We must share the Gospel with those around us to bring them to the saving grace of Jesus Christ. We must love the lost souls around us, and not exclude them from the great salvation found in Jesus Christ.
This may be a hard statement, but the measurement of relevance could be taken by the number of lost souls being won to Christ in our local churches. Every individual Christian makes up the Church. It is the personal witness of each Christian that will determine the relevance of the Church.
Yes, you will be a witness. You may never utter a word to another person about Christ. The souls around you are watching you. You profess to be Christian. What witness does your activities display? What witness does your daily conversation portray? God bless...
The answer to what makes local churches relevant is the same as what is the reason for the existence of Christian churches. We can find a clear answer to this question of relevance by examining the birth of the Church on the Day of Pentecost.
Jesus commands us to go and make disciples. Luke expands on this command in Acts 1:8 with these words of Christ, "But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me."
"When the day of Pentecost was fully come," the Holy Spirit arrived. The Spirit of God filled the house. The Spirit of God filled each person. They began speaking with other tongues (Acts 2:4). Peter preached the first message of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
"And the same day there were added unto them about three thousand souls (Acts 2:41)."
"And the Lord added to the church daily such as should be saved (Acts 2:47)."
Why? The words of Christ in Acts 1:8 were being fulfilled. They had become witnesses of Christ. Those Christians of the first apostolic Church turned their world upside down. They became relevant to their world because they were witnesses to and of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Their priority was taking the Gospel to the lost souls around them.
What then makes today's local churches relevant to their communities? The witness of, and to, the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Local churches will be the only Jesus Christ our communities will ever see in this life.
We must share the Gospel with those around us to bring them to the saving grace of Jesus Christ. We must love the lost souls around us, and not exclude them from the great salvation found in Jesus Christ.
This may be a hard statement, but the measurement of relevance could be taken by the number of lost souls being won to Christ in our local churches. Every individual Christian makes up the Church. It is the personal witness of each Christian that will determine the relevance of the Church.
Yes, you will be a witness. You may never utter a word to another person about Christ. The souls around you are watching you. You profess to be Christian. What witness does your activities display? What witness does your daily conversation portray? God bless...
Monday, May 17, 2010
The River of Living Water
When the thirsty cry out to God for water, God provides. you see, there's this river. The water flowing in this river is clear as crystal. This river is a pure river of the water of life.
The One who is called Alpha and Omega gives those who thirst this promise, "I will give unto him that is athirst of the fountain of the water of life freely (Rev. 21:6 KJV)."
Jesus cried out, "If any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink (Jn. 7:37)." Jesus Christ is the only source of Living Water. There's no other method of obtaining this water than through Jesus Christ. As Peter stated so clearly, "Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12 KJV)."
You can die from thirst, or you can come to the Source of Living Water and drink deeply. The choice is yours.
Here's what I find interesting. Jesus said whoever drinks of the water he gives will never get thirsty again. He also said, "He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water (Jn. 7:38 KJV)."
Why do I find this interesting? Do we think the river of Living Water stops flowing once it's inside of us? The river of Living Water should flow in us, through us, and back out of us to bring a pure supply of drinking water to any thirsty man, woman, or child we come into contact with.
When is the last time you shared a Drink with someone else? God bless...
Saturday, May 15, 2010
Christian Revival and Politics
We've been looking at the requirements for genuine Christian revival this week. It will help us to take another look at intercessory prayer as a key requirement for Christian revival. Let's move into the realm of Christian revival and politics.
The level of Christian participation in the hot issues of politics today somewhat unnerves me. I'm not saying we shouldn't get involved, that today's political climate shouldn't concern Christians. What I want to get across is exactly the opposite message, only from a different angle.
I am bombarded daily with emails and messages concerning today's politics. Do the activities and actions of our government concern me as a Christian? Absolutely. Will I voice my opinion? Absolutely.
So what does politics have to do with genuine Christian revival? Intercessory prayer. Intercessory prayer is the most important activity the Christian can participate in to affect today's political environment.
When is the last time you prayed for President Obama? When's the last time you prayed for your representatives in the Congress and Senate? I'm not just speaking of formal lip-service prayers. How about praying for your governor and state representatives?
If we truly want to change the course of direction the USA is moving in, or is being moved in by our politicians, we should seriously start interceding for them with God. 1Timothy 2:3 tells us this is good and acceptable in the sight of God.
If we truly want a nation-changing Christian revival, we should seriously start interceding for our politicians as well as for each other. God bless...
The level of Christian participation in the hot issues of politics today somewhat unnerves me. I'm not saying we shouldn't get involved, that today's political climate shouldn't concern Christians. What I want to get across is exactly the opposite message, only from a different angle.
I am bombarded daily with emails and messages concerning today's politics. Do the activities and actions of our government concern me as a Christian? Absolutely. Will I voice my opinion? Absolutely.
So what does politics have to do with genuine Christian revival? Intercessory prayer. Intercessory prayer is the most important activity the Christian can participate in to affect today's political environment.
- "I exhort therefore, that, first of all, supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks, be made for all men;
- For kings, and for all that are in authority; that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and honesty.
- For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Saviour;
- Who will have all men to be saved, and to come to the knowledge of the truth (1Tim. 2:1-4 KJV)."
When is the last time you prayed for President Obama? When's the last time you prayed for your representatives in the Congress and Senate? I'm not just speaking of formal lip-service prayers. How about praying for your governor and state representatives?
If we truly want to change the course of direction the USA is moving in, or is being moved in by our politicians, we should seriously start interceding for them with God. 1Timothy 2:3 tells us this is good and acceptable in the sight of God.
If we truly want a nation-changing Christian revival, we should seriously start interceding for our politicians as well as for each other. God bless...
Thursday, May 13, 2010
Christian Revival - Putting It All Together
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land (2Chr. 7:14 KJV)."
I've heard this Bible verse quoted many times over the last few weeks. The formula for genuine Christian revival is contained within its words. Three items are listed:
Godly sorrow for our failures and rejections of God's leading will compel us into genuine repentance and intercession. As we become reconciled to the One whose name is Holy, we can't help but feel the pain and sorrow of those we know and love who need reconciled to God.
We consider revival to be when countless sinners come to the knowledge and acceptance of God's saving grace. Look closely at whom this verse is directed. "If my people, who are called by my name." This is a direct statement to the church, not to sinners.
True, lasting, genuine revival must start with the believer. It must start with the Church, the body of Christ. We can choose to humble ourselves or eventually the mighty hand of God will do it for us.
We can choose to come to repentance, turning from the wicked ways of our flesh, or we will one day stand before God and plead for mercy.
How can we lay claim to so great a salvation in Jesus Christ and not take the time to share it with at least one person we know? How can we be so justified in the presence of God when we know friends and loved ones who need reconciled to God?
The key ingredient to bringing mighty Christian revival lies in intercessory prayer. The burden for the lost will grow when we begin interceding for them, standing in the gap between mercy and wrath. God turned Job's suffering when he interceded for his friends (Job 42:10).
2Chronicles 7:14 says God will hear us in our brokenness. He will respond to our genuine repentance. He will answer our intercessory prayers. He will forgive the sins of all and heal the land.
My friends, Christian revival is about the forgiveness of sin for all humanity. It's about the healing and restoration of all things God originally created humanity for. Genuine Christian revival is about Jesus Christ. "For God so loved, he gave... that whosoever believeth in him should not perish."
"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12 KJV)."
Let's humble ourselves before God, turn from our iniquity, and begin interceding for the lost souls of our families, our friends, our communities, and our world. Let's begin to proclaim the name of Jesus to a world which is so desperately trying to abolish it. God must respond with genuine Christian revival. He promised it in 2Chronicles 7:14. God bless...
I've heard this Bible verse quoted many times over the last few weeks. The formula for genuine Christian revival is contained within its words. Three items are listed:
- humility - if my people shall humble themselves
- pray - if my people will make intercession in prayer
- repentance - if my people will turn from their wicked ways
Godly sorrow for our failures and rejections of God's leading will compel us into genuine repentance and intercession. As we become reconciled to the One whose name is Holy, we can't help but feel the pain and sorrow of those we know and love who need reconciled to God.
We consider revival to be when countless sinners come to the knowledge and acceptance of God's saving grace. Look closely at whom this verse is directed. "If my people, who are called by my name." This is a direct statement to the church, not to sinners.
True, lasting, genuine revival must start with the believer. It must start with the Church, the body of Christ. We can choose to humble ourselves or eventually the mighty hand of God will do it for us.
We can choose to come to repentance, turning from the wicked ways of our flesh, or we will one day stand before God and plead for mercy.
How can we lay claim to so great a salvation in Jesus Christ and not take the time to share it with at least one person we know? How can we be so justified in the presence of God when we know friends and loved ones who need reconciled to God?
The key ingredient to bringing mighty Christian revival lies in intercessory prayer. The burden for the lost will grow when we begin interceding for them, standing in the gap between mercy and wrath. God turned Job's suffering when he interceded for his friends (Job 42:10).
2Chronicles 7:14 says God will hear us in our brokenness. He will respond to our genuine repentance. He will answer our intercessory prayers. He will forgive the sins of all and heal the land.
My friends, Christian revival is about the forgiveness of sin for all humanity. It's about the healing and restoration of all things God originally created humanity for. Genuine Christian revival is about Jesus Christ. "For God so loved, he gave... that whosoever believeth in him should not perish."
"Neither is there salvation in any other: for there is none other name under heaven given among men, whereby we must be saved (Acts 4:12 KJV)."
Let's humble ourselves before God, turn from our iniquity, and begin interceding for the lost souls of our families, our friends, our communities, and our world. Let's begin to proclaim the name of Jesus to a world which is so desperately trying to abolish it. God must respond with genuine Christian revival. He promised it in 2Chronicles 7:14. God bless...
Wednesday, May 12, 2010
Repentance and Christian Revival
Repentance is the outward action taken based on the inward decision to change. Simply put, repentance requires action based on a decision to change. Today, we will look at genuine repentance as the third requirement for Christian revival.
Let's look at 2Chronicles 7:14 again:
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land (KJV)."
Genuine Godly sorrow leads humanity to repentance. This sorrow usually comes as the result of severe personal trial. We tend to look to a higher source, either for help, or to place blame. When we bring this into the spiritual realm, we begin speaking of revival.
I am baffled when people talk of how great being in the presence of God is. I've heard descriptions ranging from being surrounded by warm goo to sheer terror. It would stand to reason when one stands in the presence of a holy God, lasting change will be the result. Allow me to explain...
One of the most vivid descriptions of being in God's presence is found in Isaiah chapter 6. Isaiah is a prophet, a mighty man of God. Surely he was an upright man living in holiness. But listen to his reaction when he was in the presence of the One called Holy:
"Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts (Isa. 6:5 KJV)."
On our best day, a day where we are sinless (if that's even possible apart from the mercy of God), our righteousness is at best nothing more than filthy rags (Isa. 64:6). Genuine repentance is required for revival because we must be willing to turn from our wicked ways (2Chr. 7:14). Turning from our wicked ways requires change.
We're saved. We're covered by the blood of Christ. We're not wicked. Why do we need to repent? If we're that good, then why do we want, or need, revival? We desire the blessing. We desire the holy anointing revival brings. After a few weeks, however, the emotion fizzles and we're still what we were before. This is why genuine Christian revival requires genuine repentance.
Humility, intercessory prayer, and repentance are the three requirements needed to bring genuine Christian revival. Next, we'll put them together into the context of 2Chronicles 7:14. Comments are welcome. God bless...
Let's look at 2Chronicles 7:14 again:
"If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land (KJV)."
Genuine Godly sorrow leads humanity to repentance. This sorrow usually comes as the result of severe personal trial. We tend to look to a higher source, either for help, or to place blame. When we bring this into the spiritual realm, we begin speaking of revival.
I am baffled when people talk of how great being in the presence of God is. I've heard descriptions ranging from being surrounded by warm goo to sheer terror. It would stand to reason when one stands in the presence of a holy God, lasting change will be the result. Allow me to explain...
One of the most vivid descriptions of being in God's presence is found in Isaiah chapter 6. Isaiah is a prophet, a mighty man of God. Surely he was an upright man living in holiness. But listen to his reaction when he was in the presence of the One called Holy:
"Then said I, Woe is me! for I am undone; because I am a man of unclean lips, and I dwell in the midst of a people of unclean lips: for mine eyes have seen the King, the LORD of hosts (Isa. 6:5 KJV)."
On our best day, a day where we are sinless (if that's even possible apart from the mercy of God), our righteousness is at best nothing more than filthy rags (Isa. 64:6). Genuine repentance is required for revival because we must be willing to turn from our wicked ways (2Chr. 7:14). Turning from our wicked ways requires change.
We're saved. We're covered by the blood of Christ. We're not wicked. Why do we need to repent? If we're that good, then why do we want, or need, revival? We desire the blessing. We desire the holy anointing revival brings. After a few weeks, however, the emotion fizzles and we're still what we were before. This is why genuine Christian revival requires genuine repentance.
Humility, intercessory prayer, and repentance are the three requirements needed to bring genuine Christian revival. Next, we'll put them together into the context of 2Chronicles 7:14. Comments are welcome. God bless...
Tuesday, May 11, 2010
Prayer and the Christian Revival
We're praying for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit in a wave of major Christian revival. We speak of praying for revival. We continually request all to pray for revival. We're all in agreement we should be praying for Christian revival.
I must bring 2Chronicles 7:14 to the forefront today. "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land (KJV)."
This verse lays out three requirements for revival. We focused on humility yesterday. We 'll focus on prayer today. The verse tells us we're to pray and seek God's face to reap the reward of Him hearing, forgiving, and healing us.
What exactly is this verse speaking of when it says, "and pray, and seek my face?" We often interpret it to mean praying for revival. However, the word pray used here means to intercede. The word seek means in worship or prayer.
To intercede means to intervene between two parties to reconcile their differences. We are to pray for those who need reconciled to God. We tend to make prayer for revival all about us. Yes, we need revived. For this to happen, we are instructed to begin interceding in prayer for those living apart from God.
I have friends who aren't living for God. I have family and relatives who have need to be reconciled to God. I'm not alone in this situation. Everyone of us can identify with this. We need to begin intercessory prayer for these friend, family members, and relatives. Genuine Christian revival will be the resulting answer to these prayers.
Genuine repentance as a requirement for Christian revival will be the next topic of discussion. Feel free to leave your thoughts and comments. They are much appreciated. God bless...
I must bring 2Chronicles 7:14 to the forefront today. "If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land (KJV)."
This verse lays out three requirements for revival. We focused on humility yesterday. We 'll focus on prayer today. The verse tells us we're to pray and seek God's face to reap the reward of Him hearing, forgiving, and healing us.
What exactly is this verse speaking of when it says, "and pray, and seek my face?" We often interpret it to mean praying for revival. However, the word pray used here means to intercede. The word seek means in worship or prayer.
To intercede means to intervene between two parties to reconcile their differences. We are to pray for those who need reconciled to God. We tend to make prayer for revival all about us. Yes, we need revived. For this to happen, we are instructed to begin interceding in prayer for those living apart from God.
I have friends who aren't living for God. I have family and relatives who have need to be reconciled to God. I'm not alone in this situation. Everyone of us can identify with this. We need to begin intercessory prayer for these friend, family members, and relatives. Genuine Christian revival will be the resulting answer to these prayers.
Genuine repentance as a requirement for Christian revival will be the next topic of discussion. Feel free to leave your thoughts and comments. They are much appreciated. God bless...
Monday, May 10, 2010
Christian Revival
Are you hungry for an outbreak of genuine Christian revival? Do you desire to see and experience a true outpouring of God's Spirit? Do you long earnestly for the power and demonstration of the Holy Spirit?
There are three basic requirements which must be met for a genuine outbreak of Christian revival. Let's look at the first one today. It's humility.
"For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in a high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones (Isa. 57:15 KJV)."
This verse begins with an exalting description of God speaking to humanity. God is the high and lofty one. God is the honorable one. God is Alpha and Omega. God inhabits eternity, and God's name is Holy. But this lofty One whose name is Holy also dwells with the one who possesses a contrite and humble spirit.
This first instance of the word contrite in this verse means crushed. Jesus said, "Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven (Mt. 5:3 KJV)." We must approach the One whose name is Holy in humility. We must crush all human pride. We must break all ties to self-exaltation. Then, we will be blessed. Then the kingdom of heaven will be ours.
Isaiah 57:15 tells us the One named Holy dwells with the humble to revive the spirit of the humble and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. The second use of the word contrite is the actual Hebrew root meaning to bruise or to be broken.
We must approach God in total humility and brokenness if we want to experience a genuine Christian revival. We display no need for Christian revival without humility and brokenness. Next up will be prayer and its place in the desire for Christian revival.
Comments and suggestions are welcome. God bless...
There are three basic requirements which must be met for a genuine outbreak of Christian revival. Let's look at the first one today. It's humility.
"For thus saith the high and lofty One that inhabiteth eternity, whose name is Holy; I dwell in a high and holy place, with him also that is of a contrite and humble spirit, to revive the spirit of the humble, and to revive the heart of the contrite ones (Isa. 57:15 KJV)."
This verse begins with an exalting description of God speaking to humanity. God is the high and lofty one. God is the honorable one. God is Alpha and Omega. God inhabits eternity, and God's name is Holy. But this lofty One whose name is Holy also dwells with the one who possesses a contrite and humble spirit.
This first instance of the word contrite in this verse means crushed. Jesus said, "Blessed are the poor in spirit: for theirs is the kingdom of heaven (Mt. 5:3 KJV)." We must approach the One whose name is Holy in humility. We must crush all human pride. We must break all ties to self-exaltation. Then, we will be blessed. Then the kingdom of heaven will be ours.
Isaiah 57:15 tells us the One named Holy dwells with the humble to revive the spirit of the humble and to revive the heart of the contrite ones. The second use of the word contrite is the actual Hebrew root meaning to bruise or to be broken.
We must approach God in total humility and brokenness if we want to experience a genuine Christian revival. We display no need for Christian revival without humility and brokenness. Next up will be prayer and its place in the desire for Christian revival.
Comments and suggestions are welcome. God bless...
Friday, May 7, 2010
The Wrath of God and Repentance
Is God really going to pour out his wrath on this world? How could a nice, loving, good God be so angry with humanity that he'd destroy it? Does God require repentance?
"Now is the end come upon thee, and I will send mine anger upon thee, and will judge thee according to thy ways, and will recompense upon thee all thine abomination. (Eze. 7:3 KJV)."
If God didn't spare Israel and Judah, what makes us thing we're privileged to be spared the judgment of an angry God? Let's take this one step farther. If there's no judgment for iniquity, why do we preach salvation in Christ?
We read over and over again of God rendering judgment on humanity throughout the Old Testament. His judgment was swift and decisive. Except for Noah, his wife, his sons, and their wives, God wiped out the entire human race because of its sin. What makes us think God won't do the same to us?
It must stand to reason if there's salvation, there must also be judgment. We read throughout the Old Testament of the mercy and longsuffering of God. We will find the first reference to God's longsuffering when Moses receives the second writing of the Ten Commandments from God.
"The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin (Ex. 34:6-7 KJV)."
This is why Jesus could say these words, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (Jn. 3:16 KJV)."
That's why Peter wrote, "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (2Pe. 3:9 KJV)."
If there's no punishment for sin, there's no need for salvation. If there's no sin, there's no need for a Savior. Maybe the time has come for Christianity to face the fact sin is sin, and God requires repentance. It's eternity that hangs in the balance.
Isaiah cried for weeping, mourning, baldness, and sackcloth (Isa. 22:12). Ezekiel preached to cast away all transgressions and make a new heart (Eze. 18:31). Hosea cried out for repentance (Ho. 14:2). Joel called for fasting, weeping, and mourning (Joel 2:12).
John the Baptist preached, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand (Mt. 3:2). Jesus said except we repent we will perish (Lu. 13:3). He repeated himself two verses later. Peter called for repentance in Acts 2:38 and Acts 3:19. Paul said God commands all men everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30)."
God is merciful. God is gracious. God is longsuffering. But one day, Christ will return. Humanity will be judged for its deeds, good or bad (Acts 17:31). I wonder, who is God waiting for? Who will be the last one to repent? God bless...
"Now is the end come upon thee, and I will send mine anger upon thee, and will judge thee according to thy ways, and will recompense upon thee all thine abomination. (Eze. 7:3 KJV)."
If God didn't spare Israel and Judah, what makes us thing we're privileged to be spared the judgment of an angry God? Let's take this one step farther. If there's no judgment for iniquity, why do we preach salvation in Christ?
We read over and over again of God rendering judgment on humanity throughout the Old Testament. His judgment was swift and decisive. Except for Noah, his wife, his sons, and their wives, God wiped out the entire human race because of its sin. What makes us think God won't do the same to us?
It must stand to reason if there's salvation, there must also be judgment. We read throughout the Old Testament of the mercy and longsuffering of God. We will find the first reference to God's longsuffering when Moses receives the second writing of the Ten Commandments from God.
"The LORD, The LORD God, merciful and gracious, longsuffering, and abundant in goodness and truth, Keeping mercy for thousands, forgiving iniquity and transgression and sin (Ex. 34:6-7 KJV)."
This is why Jesus could say these words, "For God so loved the world, that he gave his only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in him should not perish, but have everlasting life (Jn. 3:16 KJV)."
That's why Peter wrote, "The Lord is not slack concerning his promise, as some men count slackness; but is longsuffering to us-ward, not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance (2Pe. 3:9 KJV)."
If there's no punishment for sin, there's no need for salvation. If there's no sin, there's no need for a Savior. Maybe the time has come for Christianity to face the fact sin is sin, and God requires repentance. It's eternity that hangs in the balance.
Isaiah cried for weeping, mourning, baldness, and sackcloth (Isa. 22:12). Ezekiel preached to cast away all transgressions and make a new heart (Eze. 18:31). Hosea cried out for repentance (Ho. 14:2). Joel called for fasting, weeping, and mourning (Joel 2:12).
John the Baptist preached, "Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand (Mt. 3:2). Jesus said except we repent we will perish (Lu. 13:3). He repeated himself two verses later. Peter called for repentance in Acts 2:38 and Acts 3:19. Paul said God commands all men everywhere to repent (Acts 17:30)."
God is merciful. God is gracious. God is longsuffering. But one day, Christ will return. Humanity will be judged for its deeds, good or bad (Acts 17:31). I wonder, who is God waiting for? Who will be the last one to repent? God bless...
Wednesday, May 5, 2010
Today: A Good Day to Praise the Lord
"For we know that if our earthly house of this tabernacle were dissolved, we have a building of God, an house not made with hands, eternal in the heavens (2Co. 5:1 KJV)."
Today is a good day to praise the Lord! Yes, it can be said that every day is a good day to praise the Lord. Yesterday is already past. The opportunity to praise the Lord yesterday is gone. Tomorrow hasn't happened yet. Today is the day of opportunity in which we can praise the Lord.
What does this have to do with 2Corinthians 5:1? Hebrews 9:27 tells us, "it is appointed unto me once to die." You and I will one day pass from this earthly existence. We are going to die; it's inevitable. We don't know exactly when we will die. We aren't guaranteed we will be alive tomorrow.
"Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanished away (Jas. 4:14 KJV)."
2Corinthians 5:1 is my hope of tomorrow. There is an eternal home awaiting in the heavens for me the moment this flesh draws its final breath. Those who are dead to sin and alive in Christ can take hope in the knowledge we will one day put of this mortality. Therefore all we have is today.
It is said that Christ is our guarantee for tomorrow. I'm not sure how, being as we have no assurances of tomorrow based on James 4:14. My friends, Jesus Christ is our tomorrow! Therefore, "behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation (2Co. 6:2 KJV)."
Being as today is the only time I still have, today is a good day to praise the Lord! God bless...
Today is a good day to praise the Lord! Yes, it can be said that every day is a good day to praise the Lord. Yesterday is already past. The opportunity to praise the Lord yesterday is gone. Tomorrow hasn't happened yet. Today is the day of opportunity in which we can praise the Lord.
What does this have to do with 2Corinthians 5:1? Hebrews 9:27 tells us, "it is appointed unto me once to die." You and I will one day pass from this earthly existence. We are going to die; it's inevitable. We don't know exactly when we will die. We aren't guaranteed we will be alive tomorrow.
"Whereas ye know not what shall be on the morrow. For what is your life? It is even a vapour, that appeareth for a little time, and then vanished away (Jas. 4:14 KJV)."
2Corinthians 5:1 is my hope of tomorrow. There is an eternal home awaiting in the heavens for me the moment this flesh draws its final breath. Those who are dead to sin and alive in Christ can take hope in the knowledge we will one day put of this mortality. Therefore all we have is today.
It is said that Christ is our guarantee for tomorrow. I'm not sure how, being as we have no assurances of tomorrow based on James 4:14. My friends, Jesus Christ is our tomorrow! Therefore, "behold, now is the accepted time; behold, now is the day of salvation (2Co. 6:2 KJV)."
Being as today is the only time I still have, today is a good day to praise the Lord! God bless...
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
Prophecy and the Word
Does God take issue with all the noise in the land? Does God have a problem with all those who claim to be prophesying in his name? What should we do when multitudes of men and women are crying out, "Thus says the Lord?"
A Serious Indictment
"Hear the word of the LORD, ye children of Israel: for the LORD hath a controversy with the inhabitants of the land, because there is no truth, nor mercy, nor knowledge of God in the land (Ho. 4:1 KJV)."
I've heard many speak of the darkness covering our land. I've read articles speaking of the iniquity which so captivates the inhabitants of this land.
Hosea 4:1 speaks clearly of God having a problem with the inhabitants of Israel in his day. Does this same controversy apply to us today? Yes, it does. Look around you. Where is truth? Where is mercy? Where is the knowledge of God in this land?
Want of Truth In the Land
"Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD (Amos 8:11 KJV)."
Are we experiencing a famine of the Word of God in our land today? America is being flooded with prophets speaking all manner of words from judgment and damnation to incredible prosperity and wealth. They all claim, "Thus says the Lord."
How can so many prophesy with such diversity? How can so many fall prey to so many words? Could it be there's a famine of the true Word of God in this land? Could it be because so many really don't know the true Word?
Jesus said the Scriptures tell us of him (Jn. 5:39). Paul admonishes us to study the Word (2Ti. 2:15). Why? So we, you and I, can correctly divide the Word of Truth. The word divide, or dividing, means to expound correctly. Expound means explain. We are to study the Scriptures so we can explain the Word of Truth.
Who, or what, is the Word of Truth? "In the beginning was the Word (Jn. 1:1 KJV)." Jesus Christ is the Word of Truth. Period. How can we lay claim to knowing the Word of Truth when we don't know Scripture? How can we know Scripture without reading it? How can we know truth if Truth isn't in our hearts?
Try the Spirits, Believe the Spirit
The Apostle John tells us to not believe every spirit, but try them to see if they're of God or not (1Jn, 4:1). When somebody says, "Thus says the Lord," it must be in alignment with Scripture. If "thus says God" doesn't line up with the Word, the one speaking is a false prophet.
I encourage all who believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, to get into the Scriptures. Feast on them. Hide them in your heart. It is the knowledge of the Word which will allow you to discern between truth and fable. God bless...
A Serious Indictment
"Hear the word of the LORD, ye children of Israel: for the LORD hath a controversy with the inhabitants of the land, because there is no truth, nor mercy, nor knowledge of God in the land (Ho. 4:1 KJV)."
I've heard many speak of the darkness covering our land. I've read articles speaking of the iniquity which so captivates the inhabitants of this land.
Hosea 4:1 speaks clearly of God having a problem with the inhabitants of Israel in his day. Does this same controversy apply to us today? Yes, it does. Look around you. Where is truth? Where is mercy? Where is the knowledge of God in this land?
Want of Truth In the Land
"Behold, the days come, saith the Lord GOD, that I will send a famine in the land, not a famine of bread, nor a thirst for water, but of hearing the words of the LORD (Amos 8:11 KJV)."
Are we experiencing a famine of the Word of God in our land today? America is being flooded with prophets speaking all manner of words from judgment and damnation to incredible prosperity and wealth. They all claim, "Thus says the Lord."
How can so many prophesy with such diversity? How can so many fall prey to so many words? Could it be there's a famine of the true Word of God in this land? Could it be because so many really don't know the true Word?
Jesus said the Scriptures tell us of him (Jn. 5:39). Paul admonishes us to study the Word (2Ti. 2:15). Why? So we, you and I, can correctly divide the Word of Truth. The word divide, or dividing, means to expound correctly. Expound means explain. We are to study the Scriptures so we can explain the Word of Truth.
Who, or what, is the Word of Truth? "In the beginning was the Word (Jn. 1:1 KJV)." Jesus Christ is the Word of Truth. Period. How can we lay claim to knowing the Word of Truth when we don't know Scripture? How can we know Scripture without reading it? How can we know truth if Truth isn't in our hearts?
Try the Spirits, Believe the Spirit
The Apostle John tells us to not believe every spirit, but try them to see if they're of God or not (1Jn, 4:1). When somebody says, "Thus says the Lord," it must be in alignment with Scripture. If "thus says God" doesn't line up with the Word, the one speaking is a false prophet.
I encourage all who believe Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the living God, to get into the Scriptures. Feast on them. Hide them in your heart. It is the knowledge of the Word which will allow you to discern between truth and fable. God bless...
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