Truth

Special Edition

2011-12-05T06:32:00.002+01:00

Special Edition

Let him who receives instruction in the Word [of God] share all good things with his teacher
[contributing to his support]. Galatians 6:6 AMP.

We just want to say a BIG THANK YOU to all of you who have been blessed by T4J and have told us so! In fact you have very generously given feedback and reports - this is a popular series! As we continue to make this teaching available - free of charge - we would also like to give opportunity (at least once a year) for all those who are blessed by such teachings, to reciprocate in kind, with their very best seed!

Let him who receives instruction in the Word [of God] share all good things with his teacher [contributing to his support].

We trust the Holy Spirit to convict those who have been blessed on a regular basis, 'furnished' and 'equipped,' by the truth and revelation that is in this God given series.

As a result we trust and believe that you will continue to enjoy these articles for a long time to come! Soon a book will be released - a compilation of articles put together in book format (especially for those who love to print them off to keep for personal study!) Others inform us that they often use T4J articles to ‘teach’ from in various settings; from church meetings to house groups. We are privileged to be a source of real blessing to you (including those you minister to!)

Also many are beginning to ask for these articles in their own languages, to which God is gradually providing faithful, willing men and women to help us translate them. It’s just a matter of time now.

So be encouraged to substantially get behind - what has been a legitimate blessing to you, and give your very best seed, in biblical reciprocation today!

Thank you so much

Dr. Alan

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

Jesus Moved with COMPASSION

2011-07-05T19:24:00.000+02:00

Jesus Moved with COMPASSION

“Jesus had compassion on them and touched their eyes. Immediately they received their sight and followed him” (Matt 20:34 KJV).

In the last Truth for the Journey we discussed how the Church must learn how to operate in bold and godly love and compassion, a characteristic of the Prophetic Church.

Today lets expand on this and focus more on the “compassion” that Jesus moved in as we see directly in Luke 7:13 KJV “When the Lord saw her, he had compassion on her, and said unto her, Weep not.” What was it that Jesus saw that moved Him or triggered the compassion? And what is it that WE see?

It’s a genuine question: what do we see when we look at people? Do we see what God sees or do we only see their faults? Because only seeing their faults causes us to judge them - yet seeing their genuine need - helps us to have genuine compassion! There is a BIG difference between judgment and compassion! Therefore we must see what Jesus sees in people, so that we can operate in the same compassion that He did.

A well-known evangelist Kathryn Kuhlman once said, “You can never get rid of your own troubles unless you take upon yourself the troubles of others.” Some would call this “empathy” by the Spirit of God. Empathy means: stepping into the shoes of others to feel what they feel, identify with others in a deeper way than sympathy.

This could create a major imbalance of course – if taken to the extreme - but like Joyce Myer often encourages those in her audiences who might be habitually complaining about life, to go to their local hospitals, old people’s homes or even spend a day with folks in wheel chairs. As Joyce points out, this quickly corrects the habit of complaining simply by creating a better perspective.

“Seeing” what others go through in their lives, can quickly inspire right perspective in our own lives! And in this context “empathy” is a good thing to pursue. But taken to its unhealthy extreme, empathy can depress and oppress you if you live in other people’s shoes all the time! Depression never achieved anything for God or for anyone else and God cannot use us when we are depressed all the time. It is a deception to make us miserable and ineffective.

Intercession however does involve burdens from the Lord, but is something entirely different from depression! In fact if we are left feeling depressed after an intercession time – it was not a time with God but with our FLESH! Because if genuine the burden will “lift” only to come back when the Holy Spirit inspires prayer again. We will be able to function in our ordinary day lives and continue to be a good witness to our family and friends in between!

The moral of the story is this: without the Holy Spirit even our best attempts at being compassionate are useless! Only He can trigger the right emotions or responses in us. To summarize: true compassion is like the anointing; it will come for a purpose and then lift off us again (everything has a purpose in the Kingdom of God). It’s a divine trigger and works closely with intercession.

Intercession is not cold and feeling-less, but neither is it emotionally driven. The emotion that comes via the Spirit comes and then lifts. It does not linger to depress! In fact when steered by the Holy Spirit, intercession is “white-hot” and totally “on target.” Remembering that there is “joy” in the breakthrough, which is also an emotion. So emotions are defiantly involved in intercession but they do not control the process. The Holy Spirit uses and inspires our emotions – AS WE PRAY!

Paul tells us in Colossians 3:12-15 (AMP) to clothe ourselves with compassion:

Clothe yourselves therefore, as God's own chosen ones (His own picked representatives), [who are] purified and holy and well-beloved [by God Himself, by putting on behavior marked by] tenderhearted pity and mercy, kind feeling, a lowly opinion of yourselves, gentle ways, [and] patience [which is tireless and long-suffering, and has the power to endure whatever comes, with good temper]. Be gentle and forbearing with one another and, if one has a difference (a grievance or complaint) against another, readily pardoning each other; even as the Lord has [freely] forgiven you, so must you also [forgive]. And above all these [put on] love and enfold yourselves with the bond of perfectness [which binds everything together completely in ideal harmony].

And let the peace (soul harmony which comes) from Christ rule (act as umpire continually) in your hearts [deciding and settling with finality all questions that arise in your minds, in that peaceful state] to which as [members of Christ's] one body you were also called [to live]. And be thankful (appreciative), [giving praise to God always].

As Jesus Himself moved with this kind of compassion we too must have love and compassion for those people that God brings our way for ministry (help). For instance when I am ministering I am totally aware of the fact that I need to have love and compassion if I am ever going to be used by God to help bring about the kind of “break-through” that people need in their lives. I can NEVER afford to have a judgmental attitude – in the pulpit or out of it - love must be consistent to be real.

Another example is counseling: the stories that people have shared with me regarding their “sordid-pasts” no longer shock me and I have had to learn not to judge, “for all have sunned and fallen short of the glory of God” as Romans 3:23 tells us. Jesus in His earthly ministry walked in this kind of divine love and compassion and we must also take on this very nature and yoke of Christ (Matt 11:29).

Sympathy is NOT compassion.

On the other hand, there is always the counterfeit. Now there is place for sympathy but for the sake of this article lets call sympathy - “perverted or false-love.” Because often times when we have been tempted to sympathize with people, it has worked “crosswise” with the Spirit of God (been in direct conflict with His purposes) and has usually sided-with the flesh!

For example sympathy has gotten most of us into the conditions that we find ourselves in today! We have been patted on the back and been told, “There, there… things will get better.” But were never shown how to get out of our distress! Basically, sympathy helps us STAY bound while love helps us get OUT!

Agape love on the other hand does not come from the soul, it comes from God and only born-again believers can operate in this kind of love. Therefore agape is the most important ingredient for the intercessor. “This is My commandment: that you love one another [just] as I have loved you. No one has greater love [no one has shown stronger affection] than to lay down (give up) his own life for his friends” (John 15:12-13 AMP).

As intercessors we are to lay down our lives. Lack of intercession is a lack of love for others. We must learn to lay down our lives; we need to develop agape love. This is operated by our “willingness” and not our “feelings.” For instance if we were required to wait until we “felt” love before praying for people, perhaps we’d have to wait a long time!

Love is the key for prayer; in fact scripture commands us to love. Matt 5; 43-48 tells us to love our enemies and pray for those who persecute us. Paul in Col 3:14 tells us above all else to put on love. But what is love? 1 Corinthians 13:4 (GW) spells it out for us: “Love is patient. Love is kind. Love isn't jealous. It doesn't sing its own praises. It isn't arrogant.”

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father I want to intercede well. I want the right motives and the right inspiration. Help me do what you have called me to do, by your Spirit in Jesus name.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

I am filled with the Love of God. I pray the love of God. I manifest the love and compassion of God. His love ministers through me to others. My prayers are answered according to His will and to His divine nature: GOD IS LOVE.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

Unselfish & Unconditional LOVE

2011-07-01T19:58:00.000+02:00

Unselfish & Unconditional LOVE

“Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily” (1 Corinthians 13: 4 AMP).

Lets jump straight in. We are back again with “Truth for the Journey” in this series focusing on intercession. Today we are going to be looking at one ingredient that can never be faltered upon, which of course is LOVE! What other motive is there for prayer? In fact there are many other motives but in reality “love” really ought to be the beginning and end of all our best praying!

Love (agape) in the Greek means: unconditional, pure love. Then compassion (eusplagchnos) in the Greek means: well compassioned, sympathetic, pitiful and tenderhearted. However in the next article we will focus more on the compassion of God. Today we will look mainly at LOVE.

“Love endures long and is patient and kind; love never is envious nor boils over with jealousy, is not boastful or vainglorious, does not display itself haughtily. It is not conceited (arrogant and inflated with pride); it is not rude (unmannerly) and does not act unbecomingly.

Love (God's love in us) does not insist on its own rights or its own way, for it is not self-seeking; it is not touchy or fretful or resentful; it takes no account of the evil done to it [it pays no attention to a suffered wrong]. It does not rejoice at injustice and unrighteousness, but rejoices when right and truth prevail.

Love bears up under anything and everything that comes, is ever ready to believe the best of every person, its hopes are fadeless under all circumstances, and it endures everything [without weakening]” (1 Cor 13:4-7 AMP).

The above scripture is pretty conclusive, where we see the character of “apape” in action (representing God’s love for us). It is an unselfish love without condition. Ultimately God demonstrated this agape love by sending His Son Jesus to die on the cross for us. The result of God’s perfection towards us was this: He had “love” as His chief motive & Jesus as His choicest Gift!

“For God loved the world so much that he gave his one and only Son, so that everyone who believes in him will not perish but have eternal life” (John 3:16 NLT - emphasis added).

We in turn can love God. To love God fully means to lay down ones life and live completely for Him. In the same way that He completely gave Jesus, we must completely give ourselves to Him. Although this does NOT involve us going to the cross again to dye a physical death – it does involve some significant and spiritual death to self! BUT in comparison with what Christ gave up for us, there no significant loss - only gain - in every aspect of life. He did indeed “become poor that we might become rich!”

However there is an extra clause here: as God “so loves us,” we in turn are obligated to “love others.” Allowing His agape love to overflow out from us, to all the people of the world (1John 4:21).

LOVE DEMONSTRATES THE POWER OF GOD

This type of love that we are discussing here is not a soppy, mushy kind of love. Rather it is direct, forceful at times and demonstrates the very power of God. In other words we too must love with power – HIS POWER. Not waiting for people to come to us, but reaching out to them and meeting them with this dynamic love of Christ; a love that waits NOT, but ACTS ALWAYS “…Here am I; send me” (Isa 6:8).

There are millions of people crying out for God, it is our commission and responsibility to reach them. We must say to people “Jesus loves you,” not in a religious way but in a way that people can see that we mean what we are saying. NOTE: people will never want what we KNOW, until they see (with evidence) how much we CARE! We must “act” out our love and not just “mouth” it! Just as God demonstrated His love through Christ, we too must “demonstrate” His love through us. Actions always speak louder than words!

In fact Scripture teaches us to give ourselves to one another in love, meeting each other’s needs. Not a demanding love, but one that is freely given and received, no conditions or strings attached! We must not be afraid to love “forcefully;” we must fearlessly demonstrate our love and God’s love for people.

The following parable of “The Good Samaritan,” fully exhibits this kind of DEMONSTRATED-LOVE that is not by “choice” but “command.”

On one occasion an expert in the law stood up to test Jesus. “Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” “What is written in the Law?” he replied. “How do you read it?” He answered, “‘Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your strength and with all your mind’; and, ‘Love your neighbor as yourself.’” “You have answered correctly,” Jesus replied. “Do this and you will live.”

But he wanted to justify himself, so he asked Jesus, “And who is my neighbor?” In reply Jesus said: “A man was going down from Jerusalem to Jericho, when he was attacked by robbers. They stripped him of his clothes, beat him and went away, leaving him half dead. A priest happened to be going down the same road, and when he saw the man, he passed by on the other side. So too, a Levite, when he came to the place and saw him, passed by on the other side.

But a Samaritan, as he traveled, came where the man was; and when he saw him, he took pity on him. He went to him and bandaged his wounds, pouring on oil and wine. Then he put the man on his own donkey, brought him to an inn and took care of him. The next day he took out two denarii and gave them to the innkeeper. ‘Look after him,’ he said, ‘and when I return, I will reimburse you for any extra expense you may have.’

“Which of these three do you think was a neighbor to the man who fell into the hands of robbers?” The expert in the law replied, “The one who had mercy on him.” Jesus told him, “Go and do likewise.” (Luke 10: 25-37 NIV)

Mercy is an ACT not just a sympathetic emotion (just watch a sad movie!) And this “neighborly-kind-of-love” spoken of in scripture is not emotional either! It is a STRONG-ACTION-TAKING-LOVE.

The Samaritan for instance, did not become EMOTIONAL instead he became RESPONSIBLE. There is a BIG difference! He demonstrated and did not just sympathize with love.

To continue, the needs of others around the world can be touched in numerous different ways. “Intercession” is only one way to ACT and therefore must be coupled with other acts of love and not just the stained walls of our prayer closets! We certainly can’t afford to be so spiritual that we are no earthly good, (even Jesus was not guilty of that!)

Ultimately intercession is a merciful ACT but is also our priestly duty that MUST be fulfilled. Yet by itself, intercession is never enough. If it had been sufficient, Christ would not have died on the cross for us. He would have attended the throne of God instead! However Christ, who still intercedes for us today, put His own hands and feet to His prayers and we must do the same. Providing not just a spiritual but also a physical solution, wherever possible.

It would have been “an-act-of-love-undone” had the Good Samaritan failed the troubled traveler by offering his prayers only. Nevertheless intercession holds a place that is undeniably significant; able to reach places and touch lives like nothing else can.

However the context we are discussing here is that loving our neighbor is the most basic of all motivations for praying. The will to pray - transforms into the will to ACT. Usually when we pray for people, our love for them grows. Then we can step out and ACT out that love on their behalf - as God directs and empowers.

STRONG LOVE CONFRONTS SIN

In closing, while there is always room for discretion, there is also room for powerful and confrontational love (militant). When we dare to love people forcefully (with strength minus the sentiment). The world needs this kind of love. NOT a compromising and religious kind of love, but a strong love that ACTS (in order to solve, fix and to remedy). In addition, strong Godly love is always willing to confront and expose sin, ONLY so that change can take place (via conviction and not condemnation). God loves us too much to leave us the way that we are! This bold, active and Godly type of love - is particularly characteristic of the Prophetic Church.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father I want to be active in the Body of Christ. I want to take up my priestly role and do what You have called me to do. You have positioned me to be effective in Your Kingdom. Continually teach me the ropes of intercession. I want to affirm Your Word with BOLDNESS and to obey Your Holy Spirit as I pray. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

Isaiah 54:17 (YLT) says, “No weapon formed against thee prospereth, And every tongue rising against thee, In judgment thou condemnest. This [is] the inheritance of the servants of Jehovah, And their righteousness from me, an affirmation of Jehovah!”(Young’s Literal Translation)

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

Prayer is an Active Event

2011-06-21T22:17:00.000+02:00

Prayer is an Active Event

“Rend your heart, and not your garments, and turn unto the LORD your God: for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and of great kindness” (Joel 2:13 KJV)

Glad you could join us for yet another “Truth for the Journey.” In our last article we looked at the principle meanings of intercession: a) One who “took the place of” b) Standing in the “gap.” Then we looked at intercession in terms of providing a hedge of protection for others. Standing between them and the enemy. Making up the hedge as mediators, defending them, by using the Word of God. We discussed the “power of attorney,” just like a layer who has the “authority to act on behalf of” others in a court of law.

Today we continue with “Prayer is an Active Event.” In the book of Isa 66:8, “Who hath heard such a thing? who hath seen such things? Shall the earth be made to bring forth in one day? or shall a nation be born at once? for as soon as Zion travailed, she brought forth her children” (KJV). Instead of the word “travail” the NIV uses the word “labor.” Nevertheless this is a very profound statement, taking Zion (as a type) to represent the Church, the Body of Christ.

Getting into “labor” or “travail” during intercession, is likened unto a state of “child-birth.” This type of praying then becomes an active event just as our title suggests! “Active,” in terms of “work,” in addition it’s not a “passive” or “quiet” event. Giving birth can be both strenuous and noisy! Not necessarily a pretty or pleasant experience either! Including the fact that most mothers, at that point, care very little who hears them scream!

So from this we can deduce that “travailing in the spirit” or “giving birth” to the things of God in prayer – can also be a noisy affair at times! To add to this, I quote here from one of Jack Hayford’s books on the subject, “Just as groans of travail precede birth, so Holy-Spirit-begotten intercessions forecast new life, new hope and new possibilities for individuals trapped in the impossible” (page 144, “Prayer is Invading the Impossible”).

To continue, we see in the book of Joel that God promises that if we rend our hearts, crying out and giving birth, that afterwards He will, “pour out His Spirit on all people” (Joel 2:28 NIV). A pouring forth of God’s Spirit brings about “newness of life.” However, there is more to the Spirit than just making us feel good! There is real passion that exists with the Spirit of God, to help individuals, to protect them, to intercede on their behalf and to be their advocate. Yet He still needs our prayers, to help Him bring this about. He needs us to work with Him in this passion of His, for people.

Lets consider at this point that God the Father is seen in a similar as a judge, but is a judge who does not judge according to “emotion” nor “invariable needs,” but according to the book (TRUTH). As for us, we too can pray no other way - THAN ACCORDING TO HIS WILL.

“This is the confidence that we have in him, that, if we ask any thing according to his will, he heareth us” (1Jo 5:14 KJV). “In whom also we have obtained an inheritance, being predestinated according to the purpose of him who worketh all things after the counsel of his own will” (Eph 1:11 KJV) “He that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God” (Rom 8:27 KJV).

Scripture reveals to us that Satan has three main objectives in our lives, to steal, kill and to destroy (John 10:10). However God is NOT willing for destruction, death and theft to take place. He prefers that we work together with His Spirit, so that destruction can be averted. He provided more than a “pass-over” in the New Testament. They had their wooden doorframes and lintels stained with animal’s blood; but it is our whole lives that are stained with Christ’s blood! That speaks of better things than the blood of Able and represents a covenant of much “better” things (Heb 12:24).

Let me add just swiftly that if they had not followed Gods instructions in Egypt, they would have seen a different outcome. The same is true of today. If we follow God’s directive, only then we reap the desired results. His ways work, for those who work them and chiefly we have nothing to fear, so long as we ACT but also PRAY according to His will (directive).

Consider the fact that if praying were EASY then we would not need a helper would we? However the Holy Spirit is our helper in prayer and as E.M. Bounds wrote in his book, The Reality of Prayer, “How vain and delusive and how utterly fruitless and inefficient are prayers without the Sprit.” He goes onto say, “…official prayers they may be, fitted for state occasion, beautiful and courtly, but worth less than nothing as God values prayer” (emphasis added).

However prayer is made easy through the ministry of the Holy Spirit working through us, but without His help, its not hard to say that we are useless at it! Yet travailing in the spirit does indeed bring forth new life, as we saw at the entrance of the tomb of Lazarus:

“When Jesus therefore saw her weeping, and the Jews also weeping which came with her, he groaned in the spirit, and was troubled, and said, Where have ye laid him? They said unto him, Lord, come and see. Jesus wept. Then said the Jews, Behold how he loved him! And some of them said, Could not this man, which opened the eyes of the blind, have caused that even this man should not have died? Jesus therefore again groaning in himself cometh to the grave. It was a cave, and a stone lay upon it. Jesus said, Take ye away the stone. Martha, the sister of him that was dead, saith unto him, Lord, by this time he stinketh: for he hath been dead four days.

Jesus saith unto her, Said I not unto thee, that, if thou wouldest believe, thou shouldest see the glory of God? Then they took away the stone from the place where the dead was laid. And Jesus lifted up his eyes, and said, Father, I thank thee that thou hast heard me. And I knew that thou hearest me always: but because of the people which stand by I said it, that they may believe that thou hast sent me. And when he thus had spoken, he cried with a loud voice, Lazarus, come forth. And he that was dead came forth, bound hand and foot with graveclothes: and his face was bound about with a napkin. Jesus saith unto them, Loose him, and let him go” (Jo 11:33-44 KJV – emphasis added).

Now there is so much in these verses above that we could dissect them all day long! Yet just by highlighting certain parts of it in bold font – it’s easy to see that Jesus was NOT quiet during this event. It was not a moment where Jesus was looking to be “discreet” rather as our title suggests – was an entirely “active event” that everyone heard! According to the Authorized Version it says expressly that Jesus “groaned,” “wept” and “cried with a loud voice.” Jesus was NOT hidden away somewhere in a private prayer closet, but was openly travailing in the Spirit.

By way of small interjection here – if Jesus needed the Holy Spirit in prayer, how much more do we?

Moving on, I draw your attention to notice how the people said, “…behold how he loved him!” because they saw Him cry, “Jesus wept.” People very often tie things to “emotion” and only know how to read emotions, however emotions rarely give an accurate reading! Those present that day did likewise; they put everything down to “emotion” and “sentiment” rather than accurately reading what was truly taking place.

For instance, if Jesus was just all bent-out-of-shape emotionally, as they supposed - just because a good friend had died, then why did He purposefully delay His arrival two full days? “Therefore his sisters sent unto him, saying, Lord, behold, he whom thou lovest is sick. When Jesus heard that, he said, This sickness is not unto death, but for the glory of God, that the Son of God might be glorified thereby. Now Jesus loved Martha, and her sister, and Lazarus. When he had heard therefore that he was sick, he abode two days still in the same place where he was. Then after that saith he to his disciples, Let us go into Judæa again.”

The truth of the matter is that there was a purpose to this event - which Jesus was fully aware of. No! It was NOT an emotion that Jesus was displaying. It was an opportunity to reveal how God answered prayer.

Travail brings life. So it was on that particular day and so it still is today. This type of prayer is so active because new life is involved. Just as a baby must be pushed out into the world so does, new life, new hope etc., etc. Miracles and the will of God must also be pushed into existence. His will from heaven pushed into the earth realm.

A good example of this exists in the Old Testament where Daniel prayed and the angel baring the answer to his prayer, took time getting to him. Dan 10:12 KJV “Then said he unto me, Fear not, Daniel: for from the first day that thou didst set thine heart to understand, and to chasten thyself before thy God, thy words were heard, and I am come for thy words.”

However the very next verse says, “But the prince of the kingdom of Persia withstood me one and twenty days: but, lo, Michael, one of the chief princes, came to help me; and I remained there with the kings of Persia.” This was spiritual warfare being spoken of here. Notice: Daniel did not quit praying until the breakthrough came. This takes perseverance – something that we too must adopt into our praying. It takes courage to wait without growing faint.

In fact it will do us all good to remember what the angel told Daniel, that how on the very first day that he prayed, the answer was on its way! But it took all of 21 days to get there. Do we quit before it arrives? Do we realize that our prayers are as good as answered the first day we pray, but the manifestation of the answer takes a little longer to materialize?

Pain is Forgotten:

Going back to travail, when a woman is giving birth, as Jesus foretold, it is agony. But a moment after the child is born and laid upon the mother’s breast, the pain is forgotten and the joy of the new birth overwhelms her. We can remember this, because there is a lot of joy connected with intercession. An intense joy that comes with the breakthrough and the victory!

When interceding there will be times when we know in the spirit that the breakthrough happened. We will know this breakthrough by the experience of JOY! Now this speaks of more than just emotion, but of reality. There is a difference! We must decide to rejoice that our prayers have been received and answered in the spirit realm, perhaps long before we see any results in the natural realm. Prayer is all about faith. “PRAYING FAITH!” Speaking those things that are not as thought they were! (Rom 4:17)

In our last article we said that intercession is a very powerful weapon in spiritual warfare and we repeat this fact again today. It is indeed a powerful weapon in the onslaught against the enemy; Satan does not like it. If you want to see the Spirit of God move more than He has already, whether in the local church, school, housing estate or in a specific relationship that involves people who are not born again, then we MUST be willing to intercede. We must be of an attitude that allows the will of God to be brought into being, and travail for those in need. Then we will reap the harvest, which God has prepared.

Paul in Galatians 4:19 said, “My dear children, for I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you.” Paul was constantly in a place of weeping before God for his people. This then must also be the place for us.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father I want to intercede. I want to learn. I want to adapt to this new way of life. I want to take Christ’s example, as Your Spirit illuminates it to me and to live out a life of intercession. Help me take my place. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

Travail and labor is part of prayer. I give myself to it. So that new life can come forth just as Lazarus did at the tomb.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

Intercession IS

2011-06-17T19:25:00.000+02:00

Intercession IS

“He was wounded for our rebellious acts. He was crushed for our sins. He was punished so that we could have peace, and we received healing from his wounds. We have all strayed like sheep.

Each one of us has turned to go his own way, and the LORD has laid all our sins on him (Isa 53:5-6 GW).

Hello! Today in “Truth for the Journey” we are continuing our study on this topic of “intercession.” We will take several articles over the coming weeks to discuss this subject and already we have many of you writing in; either through Facebook, email or other, telling us how much you are enjoying these articles! Intercession is an outstanding theme to focus on and all of us must be convicted to engage in this joint and wondrous responsibility.

As we have brought out in previous articles, we are ALL called to this servant’s ministry of compassion, which really expresses the divine nature of God (John 15:13). Intercession is an act of love – it takes obedience to pray. Most of us will agree that rarely have we ever FELT like praying! It’s not a feeling orientated effort, although they are involved. Love is an act of obedience, but feelings follow; this LOVE covers a multitude of sin, in our own lives! In other words we directly benefit from the intercession that we do for others! (1Pet 4:8)

Our attitude towards others really influences how God must handle us. If we don’t forgive for instance – although its God’s nature to forgive – we tie His hands. His word says that if we don’t forgive he cant forgive us (Matt 6:15; 18: 22). This greatly effects our salvation. People forget this. Take it for granted. And assume rather than know that they are heaven bound! (Matt 7:23).

Intercession principally means: a) One who “took the place of” b) Standing in the “gap.”

To intercede is to take the place of another, to stand in the gap on their behalf. Jesus’ greatest act of intercession was to stand in the gap on the cross (Isa 53:5-6 as stated above). However it is also our duty to stand in the gap for others in intercession. “I look attentively, and there is none helping, And I am astonished that there is none supporting, and give salvation to me doth mine own arm. And my wrath--it hath supported me (Isa 63:5 YLT). “He seeth that there is no man, And is astonished that there is no intercessor, And His own arm giveth salvation to Him, And His righteousness--it sustained Him” (Isa 59: 16 YLT).

God is looking for intercessors simply because the Church has not taken its priestly place. “The people of the land practice extortion and commit robbery; they oppress the poor and needy and mistreat the foreigner, denying them justice. I looked for someone among them who would build up the wall and stand before me in the gap on behalf of the land so I would not have to destroy it, but I found no one. So I will pour out my wrath on them and consume them with my fiery anger, bringing down on their own heads all they have done, declares the Sovereign LORD” (Ezekiel 22: 29-31).

Hedge of Protection

The scripture above just proves how people are bound-to-their-own-destruction; the wrath of God is already upon them BUT God wants us to take up our priestly ministry and “stand in the gap” for them. “Standing in the gap” literally means standing between these people and destruction. It’s our priestly duty to make up the hedge and to protect them! (John 10:10)

Looking at different translations can often give a sharper light to a subject. Take the book of Job for instance, chapter 9:32-33 from the New Living Translation where it says, “God is not a mortal like me, so I cannot argue with him or take him to trial. If only there were a mediator between us, SOMEONE WHO COULD BRING US TOGETHER” (emphasis added).

Then in the same verse – perhaps with a slightly better edge on it - the Message Bible says, "God and I are not equals; I can't bring a case against him. We'll never enter a courtroom as peers. How I wish we had an arbitrator  to step in and let me get on with life… Then I'd speak up and state my case boldly.  As things stand, there is no way I can do it." (Job 9:32-35 MSG)

However as mediators or “intercessors” it is with the very Word of God that we defend people, pleading their case before God – according to His own Words. Mediators or “intercessors” are able to bring the very hand of God and the hand of man TOGETHER, just as the New Living Translation nicely brought out above.

Still today God is looking for men and women who will “stand-in-the-gap” and spend time in this act of “intercession.” Many of us talk about the harvest and very often we want to be the ones “reaping” that harvest! We want to be the ones getting involved in all the action! But in order to reap this harvest, first we must spend time “standing in the gap.” As a minister of the gospel, for more than a quarter of a century now, I still only see fruit during a times-of-ministry, if the prayers of the saints (Church) have been offered up before hand. Only then can the rich fruit of ministry be reaped. It is the Churches job to stand in the gap for people.

In the secular world however, someone who “stands in the gap” like this, in a legal manner is called an “attorney.” The Concise Oxford Dictionary gives the following definition for an attorney: “one appointed to act for another in business or legal matters (who has power of attorney and authority to act thus), qualified lawyer, esp. representing clients in proceedings.” In this context as intercessors, we too have been given the “power of attorney” along with the authority to act on behalf of others; the only difference being that the “law” in which we specialize, in order to do our job – is the perfect law of liberty in Christ!

In closing I want to add some notes from my wife. During her many classes on intercession my Jenny enjoyed doing sessions of Q&A because she valued the feedback and the interaction involved with teaching this subject. Just a few of the typical questions that she would be asked during these sessions are as follows:

Q: “Why was God looking for a man and not an angel or a spirit to stand before Him?”

A: Angels don’t intercede. There is no place in scripture given to that – they are messengers and ministering spirits but NOT intercessors! It is man who must intercede on behalf of man – before the Lord. That’s why Jesus had to come in the flesh in the likeness of sinful men.

We are in this world but not of it according to scripture (John 15:19). However as Angels (who are ministering “spirits” but are NOT human) they cannot play the same part that we do. They are not “in the world” they can only visit and bring messages! This is why God uses us – we are here and can act as a “point-of-contact.” I emphasis again that it MUST be human beings who intercede on behalf of other human beings.

Do we really comprehend that Jesus is still as much man, as He is God. As much God as He is man (Spurgeon famously called him the God-man for this very reason!) making this the precise reason why Jesus is still able to intercede before God on our behalf!

Q: “Why can intercessors sometimes step over into Witchcraft – even though their intentions are generally good?”

A: Its true to say that intercession is able to stay-the-hand-of-destruction. We have seen this throughout scripture. Intercession has influence with God and is why we must stand before Him for the sake of others.

“Standing in their place” literally means to pray as if they were praying for themselves so it is imperative that we don’t pray our own will or even theirs – but the will of God ONLY. To do anything other than this – is to step into witchcraft. Mostly this occurs unknowingly. None of us purposefully step into error! We tend not to realize that they are stepping over the boundaries and even think we are praying God’s will. This is why we need the Holy Spirit so badly. He can rightly divide the Word in our hearts, so that out of our mouths comes revelation. We pray this revelation (truth) into a situation that makes praying “on target,” “spot-on” or “hitting-the-bulls-eye” just as we brought out in the last article.

In closing I will add this: Oil and water find it hard to mix! Life by the Spirit is a constant adventure. “Constancy” is everything. Only in our constancy can we prove or demonstrate that we are “given-to” something… whether it be a hobby, a sport or even intercession! The saying “practice makes perfect” suggests that if we do something “much” we become better at it. That’s logic! So therefore it also stands to reason (in agreement with the teachings of E.M Bounds) that much time spent in the presence of God allows us to become better acquainted with His ways, more than someone who just pop-visits!

Recently in a podcast interview John Bevere said, “Too much is ‘assumed’ rather than ‘known’ these days.” I agree that its too easy to take things for granted. So let us decide that its better to KNOW HOW to pray than to assume we know how to pray. It is the Holy Spirit who reveals mysteries and gives revelation. We grow and mature. What was a mystery to us a year ago is no longer a mystery today. In other words He does not “keep-us-ignorant” just to “keep-us-dependent” on Him. No! He teaches us so that we can learn, grow and mature. Let us retain what we have learnt by the Spirit and apply it to prayer!

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Thank you Father once again for the Holy Spirit. I need Him to pray accurately. I want to yield to Him. I want to answer the call to pray. Stir up the gifts in me, so that I pray better. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

THE HOLY SPIRIT LEADS ME IN PRAYER. I AM BEING TRAINED. MY ABILITY TO PRAY IS THROUGH HIM. I YIELD TO THE PROCESS SO THAT I SEE THE FRUIT OF MY INTERCESSION IN JESUS NAME

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

The Spirit Leads

2011-06-15T12:48:00.000+02:00

The Spirit Leads

“So too the [Holy] Spirit comes to our aid and bears us up in our weakness; for we do not know what prayer to offer nor how to offer it worthily as we ought, but the Spirit Himself goes to meet our supplication and pleads in our behalf with unspeakable yearnings and groanings too deep for utterance (Romans 8: 26 AMP).

Welcome back as we move on today with “The Spirit Leads.” In both the New and Old Testaments we are told that Jesus is interceding for us right now. “Who is he that is condemning? Christ is He that died, yea, rather also, was raised up; who is also on the right hand of God--who also doth intercede for us” (Rom 8:34 YLT). “For this cause he will have a heritage with the great, and he will have a part in the goods of war with the strong, because he gave up his life, and was numbered with the evil-doers; taking on himself the sins of the people, and making prayer for the wrongdoers” (Isa 53:12 BBE).

What comfort to know that Jesus is praying for us still! But in addition to this the New Testament reveals that not only Jesus but the Holy Spirit also is interceding - for us and with us (which is mind-blowing!) Our only role is to learn how to pray WITH them. This involves communication and finding out what is on the very heart of God (1 Cor 2:16). Never again do we need to pray “off-target” or as Paul suggested, as one who beats the air! “I therefore so run, not as uncertainly; so fight I, not as one that beateth the air” (1 Cor 9:26 KJV). Or as another translation puts it in a more contemporary manner, “So I run--but not without a clear goal ahead of me. So I box--but not as if I were just shadow boxing” (GW).

We are all called to intercede and with the Holy Spirit’s help we can get it right each time. No more guessing. We can enjoy knowing how and when and where to pray, with His help! Knowing that both Jesus and the Holy Spirit “intercede” we can be sure that “intercession” is as much a powerful weapon in spiritual-warfare, as it ever was. Nothing has changed.

Lets continue by looking at a little Hebrew word called “paga” which was used for “intercession” (see Isa 53:12 KJV - Strong’s ♯06293) in the Old Testament, which meant: “to impinge with violence” & “to collide with.” The Vine’s Dictionary adds: “to strike up against, to be violent against, to invade, to come between, to cause to entreat, to meet with, and pray.”

We could say then that “paga” has a three-fold purpose: 1. Violence 2. Entreaty 3. Coming-between. This actually gives a very good definition of intercession: facing God and facing the enemy - on behalf of others.

Lets break this down further. The two main aspects involved in intercession specifically are “warfare” and “travail.” In terms of warfare this means facing Satan in the name and authority of Jesus Christ on behalf of people, thereby “striking up against” and “colliding with” him (in violence). Then in terms of travail, this is where we “come between” or where we “face the Father” on behalf of people (in entreaty). Intercession has then two main features that are done on behalf of others: facing Satan (warfare) and facing God (travail).

While “paga” is the word commonly used for “intercession” in the Old Testament, in the New Testament it is “enteuxis” (Strongs ♯1783) which means: a petition, supplication, prayer, intercession, (lit: approaching the king). Cognate: 1783 énteuksis – properly, intervention (intersection which literally "hits the mark"); intervention led by God, marking intersection between heaven and earth as it reflects the Lord's specific will. See 1793 (entygxanō). [The root of this term is 5177 (tygxánō) which means "to strike, hit the bulls-eye" ("spot on"). Accordingly, it is used in classical Greek as the antonym of harmartia ("to miss the mark, sin"), so Lucian, Xenophon, Homer, etc. (see Thayer, 5177 /tygxánō).

Thus biblical intercession centers in waiting upon the Lord to learn what hits the mark (is His will) – i.e. guiding the believer to act as His agent. Intercession is not "the tool in and of itself" to act according to the mark, of the intercessor! It always builds on faith (learning God's persuasion).] 1783 /énteuksis ("Spirit-directed intervention") refers to the petitions (intercessions) of believers as they "fall in line with" God's will – revealing how the one intervening should get involved after drawing near to God and agreeing with His revealed will. True intercession (1783 /énteuksis) seeks to act only as the Lord directs, i.e. following His will to act as His hand extended (cf. 1 Jn 4:17). (Greek from: http://strongsnumbers.com/greek/1783.htm)

Although lengthy, the definitions above, given for “intercession” in the Greek – give such a well-rounded view of intercession as denoted in scripture. We can’t escape its original meaning.

However in context with “spiritual warfare” in the New Testament - let me bring out the following scriptures that showcase just how much direct conflict is involved: “For though we walk in the flesh, we do not war after the flesh: For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal, but mighty through God to the pulling down of strong holds” (2 Cor 10:3-4 KJV). “Submit yourselves therefore to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you” (James 4:7 KJV). “For we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Eph 6:12 KJV).

As we have already seen in the Old Testament with paga “colliding with” is part of spiritual warfare! “OUR warfare…” “WE wrestle…” and “flee from YOU” is all direct contact. In addition to this is the passage from Rev 12:11, which says, “they overcame him by the blood of the Lamb, and by the word of their testimony; and they loved not their lives unto the death.” They overcame him... implies direct contact and reveals above all that God (the Holy Spirit) is NOT going to do our warfare FOR US!

Instead the Holy Spirit guides our praying. Goes to meet our prayers and prays through us (Rom 8:26 AMP). God gave us weapons to do our own fighting! Many people don’t understand why spiritual warfare is necessary. To this I say consider this fact: we definitely don’t need battle armor to face God! We only need this when facing Satan.

Everything God gave us must be applied by faith including, “the weapons of our warfare.” We must lift up our own sword and use our own mouths to inflict the enemy. It is our job to “enforce” the victory of the cross. God did His part – we must do ours.

The fact that He (Christ) still prays - does not negate ours. The fact that He is still interceding for us at the right hand side of the Father, coupled with the fact that the Holy Spirit intercedes, does not let us off the hook from interceding ourselves. In fact there should be a “smooth-cooperation” between heaven and earth. As Jesus taught His disciples, “After this manner therefore pray ye: Our Father which art in heaven, Hallowed be thy name. Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven” (Matt 6:9-10 KJV).

Another instance where we see heaven and earth in cooperation is where Jesus said, “if two of you shall agree on earth as touching any thing that they shall ask, it shall be done for them of my Father which is in heaven” (Matt 18:19). The position of heaven and earth appeared to be of great importance to Jesus, as he mentioned this numerous times throughout scripture. Nevertheless there must be collaboration between the two. It is the Holy Spirit’s job to help us do this correctly according to truth (Jo 4:23, 24; 14:17; Eph 5:9).

We have been given authority on this earth to do the Father’s will just as Jesus came to do the will of the Father. We must execute the will of God by the Spirit. No one knows the mind of God but the Spirit of God (1 Cor 2:11, 16; Rom 11:34). We MUST allow the Holy Spirit to guide our praying, otherwise we are guaranteed to pray amiss.

In closing I quote an excerpt from Myles Munroe, who implies that God is illegal on this earth without our cooperation and needs our permission to work here! In context read this interview with Benny Hinn,

“Even God Himself is illegal on earth. Why? Because, He is a spirit and the law He set up by His own mouth was that only spirits with bodies can function on earth legally. Why can't God take care of Pharaoh by Himself? Why can't God invade that government and disrupt that process and set them free by Himself? He is illegal. So God then has to get the attention of a human first. Then spend hours, maybe even days trying to convince this one human to work with Him.”

“Moses came up with every single excuse he could find and gave them. And Almighty God tolerated him, saying, 'Look, if you can't talk, I will speak for you. If you got problems, I'll solve them for you. If you're afraid, I'll give you courage. In other words, whatever you need, please work with me! Cause I want to do something. Give me your body.' So, even though God can do anything, He can only do what you permit Him to do. If you study the Word of God, you will see why it makes so much sense. For example, God has done nothing on earth without a human co-operating with Him. He had to find a human.” (Myles Munroe, "This Is Your Day," Benny Hinn, July 12, 13, 2004)

Final thought: If we take into consideration what Miles said in this interview we can see that Christ indeed “had” to become a man, (he was both son of man and son of God) so that He could cooperate with His heavenly Father from earth. Today we continue this through the guidance of the Holy Spirit, who is the divine administrator of the Body of Christ. We continue to cooperate with this sovereign God who chose to work with man and to limit Himself to our prayers, a mystery unfathomable yet undeniably true!

We cannot deny that throughout the Bible God needed man to operate on this earth. I dare say that God needs our obedience and cooperation still today. Therefore we must work together with His Holy Spirit - just as Christ did during His earthly ministry, so that the will of God can be “released” on this earth as it is in heaven.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Thank you Father for the Holy Spirit who helps me to intercede. Help me work with Him so that I can be effective for You. I don’t want to “beat the air” but to make great power available. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

I AM A TRAINED AND SKILLED INTERCESSOR

To collide with, entreat and to come between. I cooperate with the Holy Spirit – in prayer.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

GOD Delights in Mercy

2011-06-08T11:09:00.001+02:00

GOD Delights in Mercy

“Judgment without mercy will be shown to anyone who has not been merciful. Mercy triumphs over judgment” (Jas 2:13 NIV)

Hello! Lets continue. In the last article we discussed our own fundamental “willingness” towards prayer. Today we move on to discuss – GOD’S WILLINGNESS! Yes! He is more willing and able to answer our prayers than we are willing to pray! We never have to spend hours – in vain babbling – trying to get God’s attention, twisting His arm, manipulating or trying to convince Him of His own will! For if we pray according to His Word, He is already obligated to answer. He cannot refute His own Words!

The Logos – God’s written will – now in leather bound covers with golden edges rather than wooden scrolls, is what we use when we pray. It is our plumb-line and we only get “off-center” when trying to negotiate the terms of His will – against our own!

So is God willing? Yes He is! But consider this fact. Most folks don’t ever struggle with the fact that God is “ABLE” but on the other hand, are not always convinced that He is WILLING. For example, if you asked a random person in the street “CAN God heal? Most would answer, “Yes!” If you then asked “Will God heal?” most would answer, “I don’t know!”

Once we have it settled in our hearts and minds - that God in deed is “always” willing and “always” able to perform His Word, this struggle stops. Rather it is “us” who must be willing. The blockage does not exist with God; it is with us! (Note: sin also creates a blockage between God and man - but that is another subject!)

So if the answer to the question, “Does God WANT to heal?” is “YES!” how can we be so sure? The written Word reveals it to be so. Jesus used the authority – of the “written” word - during his stint in the wilderness! Notice how both Jesus and his opponent the devil knew exactly what was written! The only difference: Satan wrongly divided it while Jesus rightly divided it! BIG DIFFERENCE! One effective and powerful the other twisted and out of context. Demonstrating to us that if we put the same “rightly-divided-Word” in our mouths – it will have just as much power to defeat Satan as it did in the mouth of Jesus! (2 Tim 2:15)

The one to help us with this, of course is the Holy Spirit! But again we will save that for our next article, where we will introduce the role of the Spirit, along side us in prayer. Without Him “we don’t know what to pray for as we ought” (Rom 8:26).

To continue, if God delights in mercy that triumphs over judgment. What on earth does this actually mean? In short – God loves to be merciful but demands also that we show mercy; we achieve this not only through our actions but also through our prayers.

Andrew Murray in his book called “The Ministry of Intercession” chapter 14 wrote the following: “Here is a God of glory able to meet all these needs. We are told that He delights in mercy, that He waits to be gracious, that He longs to pour out His blessing; that the love that gave the Son to death is the measure of the love that each moment hovers over every human being. And yet He does not help.”

“And there they perish, a million a month in China alone, and it is as if God does not move. If He does so love and long to bless, there must be some inscrutable reason for His holding back. What can it be? Scripture says, because of your unbelief. It is the faithlessness and consequent unfaithfulness of God's people.”

“He has taken them up into partnership with Himself; He has honored them, and bound Himself, by making their prayers one of the standard measures of the working of His power. Lack of intercession is one of the chief causes of lack of blessing, Oh, that we would turn eye and heart from everything else and fix them upon this God who hears prayer, until the magnificence of His promises, and His power, and His purpose of love overwhelmed us! How our whole life and heart would become intercession.”

Consider this: if God just calculated all of our needs but never bent to meet them – we would say that He had no mercy. However the world often views Him in just that light: as angry, aboding, ever watching, always unwilling to help but ever ready to punish! No matter how wrong this picture is - do we fit that bill as well? In other words, do we just watch, judge and calculate other’s needs, without ever looking to pray? With all the power available to us, do we administer mercy and justice, as we should (Pro 31:8-9; Ex 23:6 NIV).

Andrew Murray said above that, “…lack of intercession is one of the chief causes of lack of blessing,” and we know this to be true because James 4:2 put it in a nutshell by saying that “we don’t have because we don’t ask!” God has all the power and the resources of heaven and earth at His disposal, in order to answer our prayers, but who is praying? His willingness and power without our cooperation on this earth - avails nothing! This fact that God has “bound Himself, by making our prayers one of the standard measures of the working of His power” makes each one of us tremendously accountable – we can hardly stand it! (But again the Holy Spirit is our Helper!)

In addition to this, we know that throughout church history, revivals ONLY occurred once a prayer campaign was well underway! In 2 Chronicles 7:14 we see confirmation of this… “However, if my people, who are called by my name, will humble themselves, pray, search for me, and turn from their evil ways, then I will hear their prayer from heaven, forgive their sins, and heal their country” (GW - emphasis added).

Our prayers are not made up of vain babblings, human reasoning’s and logical ideas. Yes our intellect is involved to a degree (but even a child can pray), so it is not rocket science! Our prayers are based on faith. Faith in God’s Word alone. This is what pleases God and gets His attention - ABOVE ALL ELSE! (Heb 11:6).

With our prayers acting like this divine “release-valve” for all of heavens richest blessings – it shows imperative (its down to us!) to make sure that God’s ability and willingness is never “held-back!”

Indeed God is waiting – WAITING FOR US! I agree with Andrew Murray; how God’s heart must ache for intercessors to rouse themselves. Let us be the ones!

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father thank you for all the mercy that you have shown towards me. Forgive me for my lack of courage in prayer. For all those times I procrastinated & left it for others to pray. Teach me prayer & use me for Your Glory. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

I AM A MINISTER OF JUSTICE AND OF MERCY.

I am God’s agent on this earth. His ambassador! I am hugely accountable and trust God’s Spirit to guide and to teach me. I use my knowledge of His Word to pray and to increase the blessings of others.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

Are You Willing?

2011-06-03T20:26:00.000+02:00

Are You Willing?

“He sees that there's no one to help. He's astounded that there's no one to intercede. So with his own power he wins a victory. His righteousness supports him” (emphasis added - Isa 59:16 GW).

Welcome back! Lets continue, in our last article we shared several famous quotes from well-known individuals concerning this vast topic, prayer. Because of its vastness we cannot possibly “cover” every aspect of prayer in “every” single article, it will require both patience and time to get through it all! So we will take one step at a time and will begin today with “are you willing?”

Intercession is just one part of prayer, which is a world of study and activity in itself. Not just “relational,” as we brought out already. Rather intercession is the part of all praying that is much “weightier” and holds much more “responsibility.” A task that we are ALL expected to engage in.

So why is intercession a weightier realm of prayer? Simply because there is more spiritual involvement, in other words there is more fervency and feeling in the spirit. Our spirit is more involved in intercession than in ordinary prayers and there is a continuous burden until the prayer is answered.

In addition God still actively seeks intercessors today, “I sought for a man among them, that should make up the hedge, and stand in the gap before me for the land, that I should not destroy it: but I found none” (Eze 22:30 KJV). But however there is a real mystery as to why God still needs our prayers and why it is a force to be reckoned with; that breaks the power of evil and “releases” the plans and purposes of God on the earth.

"This is how you should pray: Our Father in heaven, let your name be kept holy. Let your kingdom come. Let your will be done on earth as it is done in heaven” (Matt 6; 10).

Even in today’s world, we know that prayer does not lack any power, “The earnest (heartfelt, continued) prayer of a righteous man makes tremendous power available [dynamic in its working]” (James 5:16 AMP - see also Eph 6:18; James 4:7-8).

So what stops us? Why the denial, spiritual apathy and laziness? We have all had to face this and fight our own lack of willingness where prayer was concerned, even when thoroughly convinced of its effectiveness. This defies logic. Still we experience on a daily basis this challenge NOT to pray! Yet our enemy is often much more aware than we are, of just how effective it really is!

“From the time of John the Baptizer until now, the kingdom of heaven has been forcefully advancing, and forceful people have been seizing it” (Mat 11:12 GW – emphasis added).

Andrew Murray in his book, “The Ministry of Intercession,” laid a real challenge at our doorstep, both for individuals and the Body of Jesus Christ at large. He wrote, “There is a world with its needs entirely dependent on and waiting to be helped by intercession; there is a God in heaven with His all-sufficient supply for all those needs, waiting to be asked; there is a Church with its wondrous calling and its surprises, waiting to be roused to a sense of its wondrous responsibility and power.” (See also Proverbs 31:8-9 KJV)

So with all this power in our hands, the perfect remedy to all our ills and pains, why do we still lack the “willingness” to pray? (So evident at the local prayer meeting when so few volunteer!) Why was it that even God Himself could not find anyone to intercede?

This is a genuine phenomena, but certainly not unique to our modern experience. It has been true throughout Church history (except during revivals), that even with so much power and influence readily at hand, we still shy away from the very thing that has the potential to change now and history forever!

There is nothing passive about prayer and it “requires” much from us. It is certainly not as simple as just “asking-n-getting” – like a microwave transaction! No! It takes much more diligence and “staying-power” before any “break-through” is realized. Considerable valuable time, thought and energy are required. Yet anyone who is given to prayer will testify, “the results far outweigh the costs!”

Conversely those who are still subject to their fallen nature and “the-human-condition” will not easily be given to anything that requires the slightest bit of “self-sacrifice!” But we are not discussing them. We talk of the prayers of the redeemed; those who know the call to prayer; know its power and objective but still opt out!

If prayer requires much, haven’t we been given so much more? Perhaps this is better handled in the old English of the King James: “…unto whomsoever much is given, of him shall be much required: and to whom men have committed much, of him they will ask the more” (Luke 12:48 KJV).

Together let us meet this call to prayer - so that when God looks for intercessors – He finds them! Let us discover together what this mystery called prayer is all about and may we discover - over the next few weeks - a new found “willingness” to pray that we have never encountered before. A desire to stand in the gap on a level that we have not experienced before; as the Holy Spirit stirs-us-up to our MOST HOLY RESPONSIBILITY!

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father stir up the passion within me to pray; I repent of the sluggish way that I have treated prayer. I am sorry that my prayer life is not what it could be. Help me to mature in and through prayer. Lead me by Your Spirit right now. Teach me and guide me in intercession. I want to be effective for Your Kingdom. No more procrastination! When You search Father - find a willing intercessor in me! Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

I AM WILLING! I am inspired to pray by God’s Holy Spirit. I lack nothing I need to pray effectively. I readily engage in this spiritual effort – knowing that I OVER COME in Jesus name and I help others to overcome. I AM USED BY GOD TO STAND IN THE GAP - MY VOICE IS HEARD – AS I HOLD NOTHING BACK!

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

The Best School for Prayer is on our Knees

2011-05-31T16:57:00.002+02:00

The Best School for Prayer is on our Knees

“Do you know what prayer is? It is not begging God for this and that. The first thing we have to do is to get you beggars to quit begging until a little faith moves in your souls” (John G. Lake).

Hello! In today’s “Truth for the Journey,” we are going to begin looking at the whole subject of “prayer & intercession.” We will be teaching on this subject during our “Summer Bible Camp” this year, just a few months from now! So I decided it would be a good idea to bring some of this teaching to you before hand, to give you a taste of the richness of this intimate life subject.

Just to live as a family with peace in the home, takes prayer! Discussion helps too of course, but much can be accomplished through prayer. In fact much of what we want to cast onto others, the Lord tells us to cast upon Him (1Pet 5:7; Ps 55:22). In this context John Wesley famously said, “I have so much to do that I spend several hours in prayer before I am able to do it.” And Abraham Lincoln said, “I have been driven many times to my knees by the overwhelming conviction that I had absolutely no other place to go.”

We can only be free of our burdens, once we learn to “cast” or “roll” them onto the Lord - a discipline that benefits ALL who apply it, not just those with heavy responsibilities like Wesley or Lincoln. As we will discover, prayer is NOT just for the few. Whatever our station in life, we all need prayer. In fact no measure of success or prosperity can ever be “enough” or “fulfill” our basic need for intimacy – something that can only be found on our knees before the Lord.

So over these next weeks this is going to be the subject matter for our “Truth for the Journey” articles. I trust you will enjoy them and be much inspired to have an individualized revival of your own! Let fresh “revelation” flood your heart and rebirth the desire and urgency for prayer, as you once knew it - in the beginning of your walk with the Lord.

No matter who we are, the cares of this life seek to “crowd-God-out.” This alone makes prayer a “discipline” not a “recreation!”

Below are some quotes that share this conviction to pray:

• Pray, and let God worry. Martin Luther

• Wishing will never be a substitute for prayer. Ed Cole

• Is prayer your steering wheel or your spare tire? Corrie Ten Boom

• A minister's highest mission ought to be to teach his people to pray. H. MacGregor

• Some people pray just to pray and some people pray to know God. Andrew Murray

• There is a mighty lot of difference between saying prayers and praying. John G. Lake

• There is nothing that makes us love a man so much as praying for him. William Law

• Prayer does not fit us for the greater work; prayer is the greater work. Oswald Chambers

• The shortening of devotions starves the soul; it grows lean and faint... William Wilberforce

• In prayer it is better to have a heart without words than words without a heart. John Bunyan

• Do not pray for tasks equal to your powers, pray for powers equal to your task. Phillips Brooks

• We need never shout across the spaces to an absent God. He is nearer than our own soul A.W. Tozer

The most basic element of prayer is “relationship.” That is the essential starting point, from which all other types of praying proceed. A rich and intimate relationship with God, not unlike what E. M. Bounds was referring to when he spoke, “Those who know God the best are the richest and most powerful in prayer. Little acquaintance with God, strangeness and coldness to Him, make prayer a rare and feeble thing.”

Yet even the seemingly “successful” ministers of today, who preach regularly in their own pulpits, admit lacking a decent prayer life! E. M Bounds would rightly comment on this phenomena by saying, “The Church is looking for better methods; God is looking for better men. The Holy Ghost does not flow through methods, but through men. He does not come on machinery, but on men. He does not anoint plans, but men… men of prayer."

With this in mind it definitely seems to me that just about everything in life is designed to take us “away” from praying. Not least modern technology! Take the latest pet-gadgets for example such as the iPhone or iPad. While they are great “tools-for-the-job,” it’s too easy to turn them on first thing every morning. Or even take them to bed, for that last “fix” before we close our eyes! It can be days; even weeks before we realize that “intimacy” is missing, through neglect of the Word or lost opportunities in the presence of the Lord.

The hope is, that this “void” which builds up within, eventually stops us in our tracks and convicts us back to our place of prayer. Where unhindered and “unpretentious” worship flows and where our inner-man feels most at home!

To continue however, besides this personal and “relational” aspect to prayer, there exists the “responsibility” of prayer, which is the main focus of this next series of “Truth for the Journey” articles that you all enjoy so much! However to clarify right at the onset - intercession is NOT a selective ministry for the few. We are ALL initiates! It is no secret society solely for self-confessing martyrs! EVERY believer has the right and the calling to stand in the gap for others. With a life style of constant “preparedness” so that when the opportunity arises and the need beckons - they are “ready” to pray. Such a readiness can only be “developed” into a person’s life that intercedes continually.

“I urge, then, first of all, that requests, prayers, intercession and thanksgiving be made for everyone—for kings and all those in authority, that we may live peaceful and quiet lives in all godliness and holiness. This is good, and pleases God our Savior, who wants all men to be saved and to come to a knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one mediator between God and men, the man Christ Jesus.” (1Tim 2:1-5)

Finally however we must be “skilled” intercessors, as Spurgeon well pointed out, “There is a general kind of praying which fails for lack of precision. It is as if a regiment of soldiers should all fire off their guns anywhere. Possibly somebody would be killed, but the majority of the enemy would be missed” (Charles Haddon Spurgeon). This takes knowledge of the Word and how to rightly “divide” it. Jesus used it expressly in the wilderness to fight Satan; so must we (2 Timothy 2:15; Matt 4:10).

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father, You gave Your Son Jesus to stand in the gap for me. The intercessor of all intercessors, who still intercedes today! Let me know what is on Your heart. Lead that I may follow. I want to allow Your Holy Spirit to pray through me. Help me take my rightful place in the ministry of prayer. Amen

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

I thank You Lord for the spirit of intercession. I receive a fresh impartation and revelation in Jesus name. I AM AN INTERCESSOR, EQUIPPED AND TRAINED TO DO HIS BIDDING. Lives WILL be changed. History WILL be altered. Prayer changes things. Prayer changes people & Prayer changes ME!

(If you would like to join us at this years Summer Bible Camp Click here for more information).

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

Elders are Territorial

2011-05-20T19:38:00.000+02:00

Elders are Territorial

“Remember your leaders who have spoken God's Word to you. Think about how their lives turned out, and imitate their faith” (GW Hebrews 13:7)

Here we are again for another Truth for the Journey! As we continue with this concept of the apostle. We have taken the last articles along with this one to talk about the role of Elders in the Body of Christ, in yester-world and in today’s-world. All authority has “influence” – and all influence has a “realm of influence” over which it operates. Today we are going to look at this in terms of the world territory. So lets begin by looking at what this word “territory” actually means. Its literal meaning as follows: “an area regarded as owned by the state, social group, individual or animal.”

In addition to this, another significant word that describes territory is “province,” which in times-past was the basic “unit of administration” within the Roman Empire. Its earliest usage, was a general term that referred to the “magistrate’s sphere of administrative action.” This term signified both the “rule” of the governor and the “region” that was entrusted to his care (the geographical sense was dominant); and included the “administration of justice.” Therefore when a province was given to a governor, this was for him to: control, supervise, protect and oversee. It literally became his territory – to rule and to govern - for a specific period of time.

Now when it comes to the spiritual aspect of this matter - there are such things as “territorial spirits” (which are active within the heavenly realms) but this is another teaching altogether! However as believers it is our right to exercise our authority within any given territory and we too are meant to be territorial! We are not merely undercover agents that live invisible to the world, with alter-egos that no one knows about! We are not a secret society! Rather we aught to govern those areas or regions that God has entrusted to us as Scripture speaks about - holding-claim to every place we put our feet! (See “Territorial Spirits” by C. Peter Wagner).

This is too general in thought, even though all believers possess authority to a degree – not all believers are called to governmental office – such as elders and apostles for example. So we must not over generalise this issue and so now lets go beyond this and look more closely at our opening title “Elders are Territorial.”

This statement refers to the fact that God placed Elders within the Church to oversee it. Their influence was not merely for the Church only, but regionally and spiritually (in the spirit realm). Their influence is far reaching both practically spiritually. For instance if we go to the Old Testament, we can see that Elders often acted as “magistrates” and “judges,” who represented the people. Therefore it was their job to “administrate justice” within the areas allocated to them. Even today this whole structure has NOT changed - because of time! Rather it still continues today; the only thing that has changed (as stated in our previous articles), is that elders today have the added responsibility of visiting and praying for the sick. They do so in the power of the name of Jesus and His blood!

Elders also represent “pillars” within the Church: of maturity, wholeness, purity, integrity, righteousness, doctrine and all that is true. Every Church needs good Elders!

How then should the Church respond to such Elders? Well firstly there are three major things that need to be noted from scriptures.

Firstly: Elders are worthy of double honour, especially those whose work is preaching and teaching (1 Timothy 5:17). Church members need to respect, uphold and admonish them (1 Thessalonians 5:12-13). The job of an elder is not easy and the church needs to encourage those who are overseeing them and not pull them down or make their job more difficult than it needs to be. In fact, church members should obey their elders and submit to their authority, because they are men who keep watch over the church and who are accountable before God for it (Hebrews 13:17). Also, if an elder is serving the church on a full-time basis, then the scriptures tell us that the worker deserves his wages (1 Timothy 5:18).

Secondly: Church members should not entertain an accusation against an elder unless it is brought by two or three witnesses. Elders do not need to be the subject of gossip, which only serves to undermine their credibility and authority. Members of the church should stop people who do this and stop something getting out of hand or being blown out of proportion to the truth. However, if an Elder is found to be in sin, they are to be rebuked publicly, so that others may take warning (1 Timothy 5:19-20).

Thirdly: The church members should follow the godly example set by the Elders (Hebrews13: 7).

In closing, we all know that scripture tells us to “seek first the Kingdom of God.” The word Kingdom in also represents the “rule and reign” of God in scripture. But here today we look at the role of Elders as they use their God given positions to reign; to rule and to exercise Godly authority wherever they are placed. They actually represent the government of God within the church and must act accordingly.

All of this ties in with the role of the apostle and the apostolic age. The Elders do not function under their own authority nor do the apostles. All authority given by God must work together in unity not in contest or rivalry with each other. A house divided falls. It cannot stand and until the elders can work together with the apostles in the local church as they were ordained and equipped to do so, there will always be a certain lack of authority and power.

So bring it on! Bring on the order of God. The Church is in need of Her power. She needs to be stifled no longer. Let truth be taught and revelation restored to the Body of Christ. As all man-made-efforts to rule and to govern, have left Her barren and lacking powerful influence within society.

But if She regains Her position and spiritual possession - with all Her dignity in tact – the world will learn once again, what it is to FEAR the authority of the living God - that exists within the local church!

Finally, in closing this article - our son who is 16 years old this year got talking to his mother about the story in the bible off Ananias and Sapphire. They were discussing the awesome authority that the apostles exercised in the early church. However over lunch our son came up with this honest and simple question (and I quote him word for word simply because I think others would ask the same question!): “If the apostle is being ‘restored’ where did he go? What happened to him?”

This legitimate question was deserving of a simple reply! “The fact of the matter is…” I told him, “the apostle never went anywhere! HE is not the one being restored – rather the “TRUTH” about his role is being ‘restored’ to the Body of Christ.” “Why?” “Because over time, truth was ‘REPLACED’ by deception and distortion.”

Which brings us to our closing statement. When TRUTH is fully restored to the Church (before Christ returns) via the revealed Word of God (the teaching of “revelation”) the apostle will be able to take his rightful place, along with the elders. No longer stuffy relics of an age-old institute or relegated to stain- glass-windows of rotting church buildings. No! They will not remain this ineffective but will take their rightful places in their intended role as POWERFUL EXECUTORS OF GOD’S AUTHORITY & JUSTICE.

The government of God within the local church is vital. The apostle has a huge part to play in this, along with the elders. May this RESTORATION OF TRUTH advance with speed! How the Church needs Her divine order – just as God planned it and not as man distorted it – by humanistic ideals and replacement theology!

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Nothing can REPLACE truth. We need it in all its glory! Truth brings liberty from bondage. Every generation needs it. So Father raise up those who are adept to teach with a spirit of revelation. Use them by your Spirit to restore truth. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

There is a price for revelation. Apostles have traditionally experienced persecution for the revelation that they carried. The price was worth it. Truth must never lay stagnant and dormant. It is never passive. Rather has always been our liberation (from deception). I choose to take sides with the TRUTH and to stand advocate for it in my generation.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

The Functioning of Eldership

2011-05-17T18:49:00.000+02:00

The Functioning of Eldership

“Let the elders that rule well be counted worthy of double honour, especially they who labour in the word and doctrine” (1 Timothy 5:17).

Hello once again, as we continue this particular series base upon the apostle. In our previous article, “Church Government,” we did focuse largely on the particular roles that elders play and we will linger on this subject a little longer here again today. Elders are vital components within the structure of the Church, including the restoration of the apostolic. Elders and the apostles must work together. NOT in a power struggle but in complete unison, consulting with one another - bringing stability and strength to the local Church.

Also in our previous article, we looked at the many qualifications of being an elder. Today we will look at some of these qualifications but more in depth. However it is true to say that as we begin to see the apostles and elders working together again like in the time of the early church, we are going to begin to see an unleashing of God’s power – restored to the Church - a power that this world will NOT be able to resist or refute! Authority and power – go hand in hand. When perfect order is restored (concerning authority in the local church) there will no longer be any shortage of power - in the Church of the living God.

So lets begin by looking at the early church, where elders seemed to have been responsible for groups of house-churches, (at that time there were no church buildings!) The elders were appointed to make sure these groups stayed on the right track spiritually. They exercised the greatest authority of all the members of a local church and they brought a sense of the Fatherhood of God to the local church, such as: faith, security, confidence and spiritual covering. Elders were also meant to establish and maintain a family atmosphere in a local church, which enabled the flow of love between members. This enabled the Holy Spirit to move in power and enabled new converts to be kept secure after any evangelistic effort. This meant they had to speak with people personally and not rule by notes in the church newsletter.

Elders were “overseers” who had spiritually responsibility for local church members. It has already been stated: it was the elders and NOT the apostles – that ruled the local churches in New Testament times. Trans-local ministries such as apostles and prophets did at times bring some correction or exhortation, but they mostly allowed the elders to carry out their task of overseeing and shepherding the local church unhindered.

From within a group of elders, God typically raises up a “set-elder” - a leader of leaders. This man is often the pastor, vicar, or full-time leader within a church. The elders may be of equal standing, but it would be very unusual for them all to be equal in leadership experience, gift and ability. The man who is called to lead the elders should enable eldership meetings by “chairing” them - in other words “managing” them and keeping them on the right track.

He is often also the spokesman for the eldership as well as being the main church teacher. Remember, every church member, including the elders, needs to submit to God and to any other person God raises up into a position of authority, e.g. an apostle bringing correction from God or a prophet bringing the “Word” of God. This submission to God and each other enables any church to be coordinated by God and fruitful as it seeks to carry out His will.

The scriptures do not reveal a clear job description for elders, but they do show us something of the way eldership functioned within the early church. Studying this can assist elders today in better understanding their significant role and what it is that God desires of them. The qualifications we see in scripture concerning those serving in eldership – reveal the sheer calibre and quality of such men - chosen and expected to be fit for their task! These men had to serve the church to which they where called in a Christ-like way and other members of the church needed to recognize some measure of spiritual gifting and spiritual maturity in them.

For example those recognized, as elders should: direct the affairs of the church they were entrusted with by God, i.e. they were God’s stewards (Titus 1:1f; 1 Timothy 5:17). The Greek word for “overseer” is episkopos and was used in the secular writings of the time to refer to a person with administrative and judicial functions. Therefore eldership is a governmental function, which has authority, and whose goal in the local church is to increase and maintain the rule of God; this affects each individual member, including their respective families, the church itself and the wider community.

Remember God never instituted “DEMOCRACY” as a means of governing His people. Rather He established “THEOCRACY” which means - government by God Himself. He enables His rule by rising up leadership - through whom He can rule (principally eldership in a local church setting). These men, therefore, must walk closely with God and wait on Him, so that they can hear His Word for the church for which they are responsible and obey His directives and take care of God’s church. They should also have a good reputation with those outside the church so that the church will be seen as a place of integrity, where non-Christians can come for help (1 Timothy 3:5,7). They also need to work hard, help the weak and remember that it is more blessed to give than receive (Acts 20:35).

They must be able to teach. The Greek word used here is didaktikos - better translated as “apt or skilled to teach” (1 Timothy 3:2). However, 1 Timothy 5:17 suggests that only some had the labour (or toil) of preaching and teaching in the local church. This probably referred to those elders whose main function was preaching and teaching and perhaps even their full-time employment; hence the following verse about the worker deserving his wages (1 Timothy 5:18). All elders need to be able to teach and disciple (even if it is just in a one-to-one counselling situation), however only some are called to preach and teach in a corporate sense.

Elders, when they are asked, anoint with oil in the name of the Lord those who are sick. The prayer offered in faith will make the sick person well, because the Lord will raise them up… (James 5:14-15) They also need to be on guard and watch over themselves and the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made them overseers/elders, because savage wolves will attempt to come in and will not spare the flock (Acts 20:28-31).

In closing, elders are willing shepherds of the flock, that God has placed under their care - serving as overseers and examples of Christ-likeness to their flock (Acts 20:28; 1 Peter 5:2-3). Their example should be Jesus Christ who is the shepherd and overseer of our souls (1 Peter 2:25; 1 John 2:6). Laying hands on and pray for those in their congregation, thus imparting spiritual gifts and prophecy (1 Timothy 4:14). Encourage (or exhort) those they oversee by sound doctrine and by holding firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, and refute (or convict) those who oppose it (Titus 1:9).

Finally elders are to discern the truth of God in a given situation and guide the church for which they are responsible in the light of that truth. The elders in Jerusalem did this with the apostles and therefore kept the church on the right path (Acts 15:1-31; Acts 16:4).

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father Your entire system of authority is flawless and will never fail us if we trust in You. Help me to trust you as an individual and as part of the corporate Body at large. I want to see the restoration of all things as You promised in Your Word. I want to see the kind of power and authority that this modern world has not seen. Amen

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

Working with authority instead of resisting & rebelling against it – releases it’s power. ALL authority has power and it is my goal in life is to surrender to God’s authority. Immaturity does not understand the meaning of true authority. Yet I choose to measure all of these things - NOT against my own “moral-muscle” or “limited-human-understanding” but against the very Word of God.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

Church Government

2011-05-13T19:11:00.000+02:00

Church Government

“…They continued steadfastly in the apostles' doctrine and fellowship, and in breaking of bread, and in prayers” (Acts 2:42).

In today’s Truth for the Journey we are going to continue right where we left off. We were discussing the significance and the role of “elders” in both the Old and New Testaments. Specifically in the New Testament we saw that there was an addition to their function which was that of “visiting the sick” (as seen James 5:14) we also saw confirmed through scripture, that elders appear to be the “chief representatives of the redeemed” and have a “…priestly function.”

However as we continue in light of the apostle, it was more in a “corporate capacity” by which he provided leadership for the primitive Church; and that leadership was effective both in mercy (Acts 2:42) and in judgement (Acts 5:1-11). They exercised a general authority over every congregation, sending two of their number to supervise new developments in Samaria (Acts 8:14) and deciding with the elders on a common policy for the admission of Gentiles (Acts 15). So in this degree we can see evidenced, the apostles and elders working together for the benefit of the whole.

In Acts when the pressure of work increased, they appointed seven assistants (Acts 6:1-6), elected by the people and ordained by the apostles. They were to administer the Churches charity; these seven have been regarded as deacons from the time of Irenaeus onwards, but Philip, the only one whose later history is clearly known to us, became an evangelist (Acts 21:8) with an unrestricted mission to preach the gospel. Church officers with a distinctive name are first found in the elders of Jerusalem, who received gifts (Acts 11:30) and took part in Council (Acts 15:6).

This office was probably copied from the elder-ship of the Jewish synagogue; the Church itself called a synagogue in James 2:2 and Jewish elders, who seem to have been ordained by imposition of hands, were responsible for maintaining discipline, with power to excommunicate breakers of the law.

But Christian Elder-ship, as a gospel ministry acquired added pastoral (James 5:14; 1 Peter 5:1-3) and preaching (1 Timothy 1:5); and although the disturbances at Corinth may suggest that a more complete democracy prevailed in that congregation (cf. 1 Corinthians 14:26). The general pattern of Church government in the apostolic age would seem to be a board of elders or pastors, possibly augmented by prophets and teachers, ruling each of the local congregations, with deacons to help in administration and with a general superintendence of the entire Church provided by apostles (not bishops!)

The late Dr Bob Gordon once wrote,

There are two biblical qualifications for eldership; these are distinct from others… elders must not be novices and that they must be able to teach. The other qualifications are a check to make sure that those proposed for eldership are living an exemplary Christian life. Those who are to oversee the church need to be good ambassadors for it, for Christ (i.e. be models of Christlikeness), and for the truths they were teaching and not merely professional leaders.

Elders, therefore, need to be: men of prayer; true worshippers of God; men of the Word of God; Men of true spiritual authority and maturity; men of mature spiritual experience and understanding. Men who are spiritually ahead of those in the church, men of vision (which is sourced in God), who receive God’s guidance and revelation and who are sensitive to the moving of the Holy Spirit; and men of faith, because without faith it is impossible to please God. Elders are recognised by who they are and not what they do, and not by age or official title. They need to be men who have largely got their spiritual priorities right and their life in spiritual order.

The qualifications in the New Testament for an Elder (Overseer) are many:

1. Shepherds of God’s flock that is under their care, serving as overseers – not because they must, but because they are willing, as God wants them to be (1 Peter 5:2).

2. Not greedy for money nor a lover of money (1 Peter 5:2; 1 Timothy 3:3).

3. Eager to serve (of ready mind or willingly (1 Peter 5:2).

4. Examples to their flock, not lording it over those entrusted to them (1 Peter 5:3).

5. The husband of but one wife (1 Timothy 3:2; Titus 1:6). (Note divorce is allowable in Scripture in certain circumstances; therefore, this phrase refers to bigamy or polygamy, not divorce).

6. A man whose children (are faithful and not accused of riot or unruly) (Titus 1:6).

7. Blameless (Titus 1:6-7).

8. Not overbearing (not self-willed) (Titus 1:7).

9. Not quick tempered (not soon angry) (Titus 1:7).

10. Not given to much wine (1 Timothy 3:3: Titus 1:7).

11. Not violent (no striker or brawler) (1 Timothy 3:3; Titus 1:7).

12. Not pursuing dishonest gain (Titus 1:7).

13. Hospitable (a lover of and given to hospitality) (Titus 1:8; 1 Timothy 3:2).

14. One who loves what is good (Titus 1:8)

15. Self-controlled (sober) (1 Timothy 3:2)

16. Upright (just) (Titus1:8).

17. Holy (Titus 1:8).

18. Disciplined (temperate) (Titus 1:8).

19. Able to hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that they can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it (Titus 1:9).

20. Above reproach (1 Timothy 3:2).

21. Temperate (vigilant) (1 Timothy 3:2).

22. Respectable (of good behaviour) (1 Timothy 3:2).

23. Able (apt or skilled) to teach (1 Timothy 3:2).

24. Not quarrelsome (contentious or given to fighting) (1 Timothy 3:3).

25. Gentle (patient) (1 Timothy 3:3).

26. Not covetous (1 Timothy 3:3 AV).

27. Able to manage their own family well and see that their children obey them with proper respect… If anyone does not know how to manage (rule) their own family (house), how can they take care of God’s church (1 Timothy 3:4-5).

28. Not a recent convert (a novice), or they may become conceited (puffed up with pride) and fall under the same judgement as the devil (1 Timothy 3:6).

29. Of good reputation with outsiders (have a good testimony among those who are outside), so that they will not fall into disgrace and into the devil’s trap (lest they fall into reproach and the snare of the devil) (1 Timothy 3:7).

30. Able to work with other men in mutual submission, because they are called to work as an eldership team and not as individuals (elders of a congregation are always mentioned in the plural).

Important Note: A true elder will tend the sheep whether recognised or not and will not want position or self-aggrandisement, but rather will simply want to serve the flock to which God has called him. A man who starts to do this, but gives up because he was not recognised or officially appointed, proves that he is selfishly motivated. Such a man is not serving because “he is called to the task by God” but is serving for his own gain rather than the Churches good.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Thank You Father for sound Church government. Perfect order exists within Your Kingdom. Nothing works more smoothly thank Your perfect will, IF it is willingly studied and implemented by men. Help us Father to submit to Your pattern of Church government as an act of worship and to signal of our trust in You. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

Today I recognise that it is to my own advantage to follow and obey the pattern that God has laid out for His Church. Today it is my priority to find my place in God’s will and to walk in it by His Spirit.

I will make allowances for others to find their place also, as they grow and learn

Not just extend that privilege to myself alone!

I have a spirit of cooperation; I am not isolated. I am able to work with God and with others.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

The Office of an Elder

2011-05-10T16:25:00.000+02:00

The Office of an Elder

“…I saw four and twenty elders sitting, clothed in white raiment; and they had on their heads crowns of gold.” (Revelations 4:4)

Welcome to todays Truth for the Journey entitled “the office of an elder” where we want to get back to talking about the apostle. Many have enjoyed the teaching surrounding the apostle and the apostolic ministry – so much so in fact that one of our friends in Nigeria, who feels passionate about the subject, has gathered together all the articles referring to the apostle and (with permission) is publishing them into a booklet… fantastic!

So lets get back to the teaching on the apostle in regard to those who are promoting the hierarchy of Bishops as the top structure of the Church etc. To refresh the word bishop simply means elder as quoted from my teaching manual in the our first article on this series;

The word episkopos occurs five times in the NT: once of Christ (1 Pet 2:25) and in four places of “bishops” or “overseers” in local churches (Acts 20:28; Phil 1:1; 1 Tim 3:2, Tit 1:7). The verb episkopeo occurs in Hebrews 12:15 (“watching”) and (in some NT MSS) 1 Peter 5:2 (“exercising the oversight”)… A bishop then has “oversight of,” he is an “overseer.” 1 Peter 5:2 says, “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof.” The Greek word for “oversight” is episkopeo, Strong’s ♯1983 - to oversee, to beware, to look diligently, take the oversight. Extra words given: direction (about the times), have charge of, take aim at (spy), regard, consider, take heed, look at (on), mark

So to continue lets take a look at eldership now in both the New and Old Testaments (before we begin let me add that we will be looking at whether it is right to call oneself a bishop or not in following articles!)

The Office of Elder in the Old Testament: The Hebrew word for elders: ‘zaqen’, [OT] Does not necessarily mean an old man, but does imply one of maturity and experience (Numbers 11:16). They where recognised as the highest authoritative body over the people. They acted as the religious representatives of the nation (Jeremiah 19:1; Joel 1:14; 2:16).

As well as handling many political matters and settling inter tribal disputes (Joshua 22:13-33) the town elders where a sort of municipal council, whose duties included acting as judges in apprehending murderers (Deuteronomy 19:12), conducting inquests (Deuteronomy 21:2) and settling matrimonial disputes (Deuteronomy 22:15; 25:7).

The “elders of Israel,” first heard of in Exodus 3:16-18, were assembled by Moses to receive God’s announcement of the liberation of Egypt. The covenant was ratified at Mount Sinai in the presence of 70 elders of Israel (Exodus 24:1,9,14 cf. 19:7), the “nobles” (KJV) or chief men of the nation (24:11). Later 70 elders were specially anointed with the Spirit to aid Moses in governing the nation (Numbers 11:16-25). In cases when the whole community sinned, the elders of the congregation or community were to represent it in making atonement (Leviticus 4:13-15)

The authority of the elders was in principle greater than that of the King (cf, 2 Kings 23:1). It was this group which demanded that Samuel appoint a king (1 Samuel 8: 4-6), and they were parties to the royal covenant which established David as king (2 Samuel 5:3).

In Babylon the elders were the focal point of the Jewish community in exile (Jeremiah 29:1; Ezra 8:1; 14:1; 20:1-5), and after the return to Jerusalem they continued active (Ezra 5:5, 9; 6:7-8,14; 10:8,14). While their authority was originally civil, by New Testament times the ‘elders of the people’ (presbyeroi tou laou) shared with the chief priests the power of determining religious affairs and if necessary of expulsion from the synagogue.

Elders in the New Testament: An elder in the NT is really a ‘bishop’. In his vision of heaven, John saw 24 elders seated upon thrones surrounding the throne of God, clothed in white garments and wearing golden crowns (Revelations 4:4). They fall down in worship and cast their crowns before God’s throne (4:10; cf. 11:16; 19:4), and with their harps and bowls of incense, symbolising the prayers of the saints, they sing a new song to the Lamb (5:8-10).

As elders they represent God’s people; their thrones and crowns symbolise a kingly role, while their acts of worship and the bowls of incense suggest a priestly function. Thus they seem to be the chief representatives of the redeemed as a kingdom of priestly function. (Revelations 1:6; cf. 20:6; 1 Peter 2:5,9; Exodus 19:6).

They used the same word for ‘elder’ in the OT and the NT, but the content of the Christian Elder’s ministry has changed, for it now includes visitation of the sick (James 5:14).

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father help me to understand Your divine initiative where leadership structure is concerned. Help me to grasp, in particular the role of elders and the office of responsibility that they carry. Help me to respect and work with them as I should, as they exercise the role of authority that You have placed them in. Help me to support and pray for them according to Your Word. Amen

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

God Himself set in place all elders and those in positions of authority or oversight – for our benefit. I choose to work with God’s structure and will not be dictated to by man’s limited idea of structure. I have a spirit of cooperation and not rebellion. I work together with those God has chosen instead of standing as judge over them – waiting for them to fail. God’s system is flawless and genuine – free of hidden agendas and ambitions. Even though those He chooses and uses are still human! My eyes and trust are on God - not on the structure itself. We fail or succeed based up on our ability to keep our eyes on God!

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

Relationship between the Apostolic and the local Church!

2011-04-19T13:56:00.004+02:00

Relationship between the Apostolic and the local Church!

“…look carefully at Jesus, the apostle and chief priest about whom we make our declaration of faith” (Hebrews 3:1 GW).

In today’s Truth for the Journey we are going to look at the relationship that should exist between the apostle and the local Church – how they should relate. We will look at how the authoritative structure within the Church works. Also we will look at gifts – for example is an apostle a position of “office” or a “gift?” This we can answer straight away - the position of an apostle is an office and NOT a gift. Or in other words; the apostle has a governing office and can function in any of the gifts. Therefore the apostle has an office to govern, along with ministry gifts and the authority to establish. It’s important to interject here - in no uncertain terms - that THE APOSTLE DOES NOT “TAKE” AUTHORITY BUT IT IS “GIVEN” BY THE LOCAL CHURCH.

Apostle James offers us an exception from the rule by the fact that although he was considered an apostle in scripture, he did not actually leave the church in Jerusalem. Seemingly, he never ministered outside of Jerusalem. But Apostle Paul travelled continually during his thirty-plus years of ministry. His longest stay at any local church was two years in Ephesus. So this begs the question; “can an apostle be a ‘sent-one’ and be a ‘stayed-one’ at the same time?” Yes! So long as he is “establishing,” “building” and fulfilling a mandate that he has ultimately been sent by God from (from birth) to fulfil. However this depends largely on his “gifting” too and not just his “office.” Now his office is one thing, and his gifting helps him to carry out the mandate upon his office. I.e. an apostle whose main gifting is to be a pastor can build right where he is – while still able to be very internationally minded (not parochial or narrow in scope) with the spiritual capacity to travel or to “go,” but primarily “stays!”

Now in addition to this, it must be stated that all the gifts are EQUAL - they just have different tasks to do. Likewise all the “offices” are EQUAL; they just operate with different gifting. For example a local elder who has a governing-office to “oversee,” is one who has been given dominion in a certain area. However when it comes to the local church in relation to the apostle – it has to be said that being part of one Body – includes being “connected” with the rest of the Body. And a great part of what the apostle does is through “connections.” He is a great connector. The Holy Spirit uses the apostolic ministry more than any other to do His great global networking!

Now having said all this – any position of authority or given office of governing authority (whether apostle, elder/bishop) is not dictatorial but submissive – particularly the apostle who is able to “recognise” what God has already established and continues to establish.

It is also crucial to observe here that once the local elders have been set in and their role established – it is THEY who have the authority over the local church and “NOT” the apostle. Now of cause he still has authority to bring correction like a shepherd-father-figure would - but he does not stay around to carry this out. His role is to oversee… To view this in scripture we go to the verses quoted below in order to highlight or showcase this point perfectly – when Paul was troubled to write with much concern to warn the Church in Corinth of his pending rebuke!

“I'm afraid that I may come and find you different from what I want you to be, and that you may find me different from what you want me to be…. I already warned you when I was with you the second time, and even though I'm not there now, I'm warning you again. When I visit you again, I won't spare you. That goes for all those who formerly led sinful lives as well as for all the others. Since you want proof that Christ is speaking through me, that's what you'll get. Christ isn't weak in dealing with you. Instead, he makes his power felt among you. He was weak when he was crucified, but by God's power he lives” (2 Cor 12:20; 13:3-4 GW).

Obviously the apostle has a continuing position of responsibility when it comes to the local church but he is not there to stay and to “RUN” the local church or implement the local vision! This again is the role of the set leading elders.

Let us move on now to the next step and take a look at how apostolic teams in particular should function and work together. Before we do this let me point out ever so briefly how important structure is. The spine or backbone is our natural structure. None of us can live without it! And spiritually speaking the same is true also. Even Satan’s kingdom has structure to it. We see this evidenced in the sixth chapter of the book of Ephesians and verse 12 where it says; “This is not a wrestling match against a human opponent. We are wrestling with rulers, authorities, the powers who govern this world of darkness, and spiritual forces that control evil in the heavenly world” (emphasis added - GW). It is very distinct here that there are varying levels in the kingdom of darkness, levels of authority or hierarchy to execute its mandates. This represents none other than a governing “structure” – yet perhaps in reverse from that of the Kingdom of God. And by using the words, “in-reverse” I don’t suggest for a moment that this means “equal-to” God’s Kingdom – albeit the other way around – by no means! Yet Satan once knew just how the Kingdom of God functioned and was internally structured… therefore he most certainly would have modeled his best attempts at organizing his hordes of darkness - upon what he saw working with pristine order and condition within the Kingdom of God!

Structure is valued by those who understand how it works (and by structure I don’t mean that we get all rapped up in knots because we have adopted some form of legalism, nevertheless “structure-less-ness” is far from freedom – but more like anarchy and chaos and who can have success in the midst of confusion?) Anyhow take business for example; they could never thrive without structure. Organizations would collapse the world over without structure and so would every great building of antiquity that we know! From the tower of London and Big Ben to the Eiffel tower – still known as the tallest structure in Paris! Nothing of significance can remain standing without some form of structure holding it up!

So we must not be “structure-shy” especially within the Church where we tend to feel obliged to run a “free-for-all” and expect it to work! It must not be said by our enemies that the Body of Christ has no backbone or that we are spineless! But nor let us try and create our own image of structure based upon what we think Church should be like… No! Rather we should submit ourselves to what God has already laid out in scripture to work (irrespective and notwithstanding our misguided reservations towards…) the apostolic ministry!

Instead we should shout, “Welcome back!” For the Church as we know it – has indeed been feeble and without strength – yes even much of it has been guilty of being spineless and void of spiritual backbone! But now is the time to embrace true spiritual structure as Christ deemed fit to bestow upon the Church and to recognize once again the importance of this “apostolic ministry” within His Body. Who are we to resist any rate? We must work-with and not against true spiritual structure.

It is true to say that it has never been enough for the spiritually immature - “floppy-n-floaty” (freshly filled with new wine Christians) to get this great and awesome job done! Nor has it ever been enough just for the “stuffy-n-religious-bookworm-types” to give their official nod to everything! What we need is the precious working of God’s Holy Spirit, the power of His Word and the coming together of His mighty Body worldwide – “a-great-working-together” – to get this great and divine commission complete!

So as we continue then, from our brief look at the supposed “hierarchy” of Satan’s kingdom – lets us now look at the “structure-of-authority” as it should exist within God’s kingdom – according to scripture (in other words apostolic teams working together) - as follows:

Derek Prince presence to us,

1) Main Forces of Human Leadership:

A] Apostolic teams and Presbyteries (elders):

1. Both usually PLURAL
2. A shepherd is a pastor

a) Shepherd (singular) always refers to Jesus (Acts 20:17)
b) Elders (plural) are overseers (or bishops) or shepherds (see also 1 Peter 5:1-2).

3. As shepherds (Elders) are united, so will their flocks be.

B] Elder’s Responsibility is to Govern – Conservation (1 Timothy 5:17; Titus 1:5):

a) In the O.T. the elders place was at the gate

b) Their function: judgement, counsel and government

c) The N.T. concurs with this

C] Apostolic Team’s Function is Extensive (Romans 15:20-21):

a) Reach the unreached

b) They did not operate alone

D] Governing Body in an Area is Sovereign:

a) Same applies to a family, mother and father are sovereign

Independence and sovereignty are not the same.

b) Sovereign: accountable to God

c) Independent: out from under God’s authority possibly?

E] Apostolic Teams:

Mobile

Top Authority of Church Extension

Presbyteries

Local / Resident

Govern Locally Conservation

a) Balance is 50% emphasis on either side in N.T Church

b) The current balance is 98% conservation and 2% extension.

F] There is no Place for Independence in Christianity:

2) Interdependence:

A] Apostles Appoint Elders (Acts 14:21-23):

a) After elders become installed, a group of believers becomes a

church.

B] Apostles sent out by Elders (Acts 13: 1-4):

a) They became apostles after being prayed for and sent out

(Acts 14:14)

b) They where selected by the Holy Spirit from the most

Experienced and fruitful

c) Then new leadership emerges from the less experienced.

C] Reproductive Cycle (Acts 16:1; 1 Thessalonians 2:6):

a) Apostle means; one sent forth

b) It all starts with God the Father.

3) Jesus Set the Pattern:

A] The first Apostle (Hebrew 3:1):

a) Women have a place (Luke 8:1-3)

B] The Early Church was mobile:

C] Apostolic Attestation :

a) It takes the supernatural to make Gentiles obedient (Romans

15:18-19)

b) (2 Corinthians 12:12)

D] Marks of the Apostle:

a) Perseverance, character, not giving up

b) Signs, wonders and mighty deeds.

E] The issue is NOT Apostle Succession, but Apostolic Ministry (1 Cor. 4:20):

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father for any living creature to exist there must be structure. Without this – it cannot survive. Whether it is the food chain that sustains it or the spin that holds it up! We all need structure in our lives. Fresh converts care little about structure – but there is need for this in your Body just as in the human body. Without a backbone we can no longer stand up! Father help us to grasp the structure of the apostolic ministry. Help us to receive it by faith and the security that it is meant to bring. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

Today I have spiritual backbone. I have a spiritual spine. I have structure. I accept this structure and I accept the restoration of the apostolic ministry within the Body of Christ; the power, authority and spiritual security that it brings, including the networking capabilities that it brings… to banish that tendency to be isolated. I confess today that I recognise my personal need for the working of the Holy Spirit and the fulfilment of scripture – through the apostolic ministry.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

The Apostolic Ministry functions Today!

2011-04-15T13:17:00.000+02:00

The Apostolic Ministry functions Today!

“For the same God who worked through Peter as the apostle to the Jews also worked through me as the apostle to the Gentiles” (Gal 2:8 NLT).

Welcome to today’s article, where we will continue this theme that the apostolic ministry which Christ Himself ordained - still functions today. However in order for this apostolic ministry to function correctly as He desired (and not as formulism or man-made hierarchy prefer it), we must be “in-charge-of-our-egos” especially where clerical titles are concerned! Even though Christ Himself gave these gifts their titles, we must not think of ourselves more highly than we should (Romans 12:3). Consider this that in addition to “holding-office” the apostle is also a “ministry-gift” to the Body; nevertheless he is first a “servant” before he is anything else – just as are all the other gifts/offices that Christ ordained.

Also we can be certain that Satan is out to destroy this “structure” that God is building now through His apostolic ministries. Satan knows full-well that a house divide against itself (against its own ordained structure) will collapse. He capitalizes on this by triggering some of the “in-fighting” that exists between the different “gifts” which renders them almost entirely “counter-productive” in their quest. Furthermore deception for the “individual-gift” occurs when he (Satan) deceptively steers us down paths that have not been ordained for us! Let’s be honest, a little “steering” here and there, is all it takes to make even the most “sincere” amongst us, totally ineffective! In other words our adversary might not be able to influence our love for Christ or dampen our zeal but he certainly can and does influence our egos, time and time again! All apostolic ministries must never forget that they have been called to serve the Church and not their own egos! When power is involved – this can be challenging (1 Peter 5:5-8).

Now looking at the individual apostle and where he stands with the other apostolic gifts is also very important! But before we go there let’s just take a moment to deliver this simple illustration, perhaps well known to many! Take your hand and look at each of the five fingers. Imagine each one represents the different ministry gifts that Christ gave to His Body! The index finger: represents the prophet – the one who points the way and says just like Isaiah “This is the way; walk in it…” (30:21) Therefore he gives direction, tells of the spiritual condition of the church and exposes its sin!

The middle finger: represents the evangelist. His ministry is more widespread than others. He reaches further. He is stifled if left in the confines of the church. He loves to be out in the field. He needs to be let loose to do his job, supported and equipped by the church that sends him out – to go beyond its confines and be effective. The ring finger: represents the pastor’s ministry. He is totally committed to his flock - loving as a Sheppard would - caring, encouraging and meeting the individual needs of his sheep. The little finger: represents the teacher’s ministry – the finger small enough to clear away the wax in the ears so that folks can hear well and understand better!

Lastly the thumb: represents the apostle. It is sturdier than the other fingers and can touch all of the others with ease! This implies that an apostle can function in all of the other ministry gifts - when necessary. He brings stability and flexibility which is essential for the Body to grown with strength and maturity. However and perhaps most importantly is the fact that without a thumb it is impossible to “grasp” anything! However, the thumb by itself is also not able to grasp anything – it needs the other fingers to cooperate with him in order to get the job done!

Its elementary then that just as the fingers of one hand must work together, so too must apostolic ministries cooperate and collaborate together so that they can collectively benefit the Body to which they have been called.

Apostolic Gifts flowing Together

Fivefold Ministries: These are the fivefold ascension gift ministers as revealed in Ephesians 4:11—Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor and Teacher. They are not gifts of the Holy Spirit per se, but an extension of Christ’s headship ministry to the Church. Their primary ministry and function are to teach, train, activate and mature the saints for the work of their ministries (Eph. 4:12-13).

Apostle. One of the fivefold ministries of Ephesians 4:11. The Apostle is a foundation-laying ministry (Eph.2:20) that we see in the New Testament establishing new churches (Paul’s missionary journeys), correcting error by establishing proper order and structure (First Epistle to the Corinthians), and acting as an oversight ministry that fathers other ministries (1 Cor. 4:15; 2 Cor. 11:28).

The New Testament Apostle has a revelatory anointing (Eph. 3:5). Some major characteristics are great patience and manifestations of signs, wonders and miracles. We will know more and see greater manifestations concerning the apostle during the peak of the Apostolic Movement.

Prophet: He is a man of God whom Christ has given the ascension gift of a “prophet” (Eph. 4:11; 1 Cor. 12:28; 14:29; Acts 11:27; 13:1). A prophet is one of the fivefold ascension gift ministers who are an extension of Christ’s ministry to the Church. He is an anointed minister who has the gifted ability to perceive and speak the specific mind of Christ to individuals, churches, businesses and nations. GREEK: “prophetes” (prof-ay-tace) a foreteller, an inspired speaker (STRONG’S Concordance, p. 62; VINE’S Concordance, p.894). A proclaimer of a divine message, denoted among the reeks as an interpreter of the oracles of gods.

In the Septuagint it is the translation of the word “roeh” – a seer – indicating that the prophet was one who had immediate intercourse with God (1 Sam. 9:9). It also translates the word “nabhi,” meaning either “one in whom the message from God springs forth, or one to whom anything is secretly communicated” (Amos 3:7; Eph. 3:5).

Prophetess: Greek: “prophetis” – the feminine of phrophet (Gr. Prophetes). A woman of God whom the Holy Spirit has given the divine prophetic ability to perceive and speak the mind of Christ on specific matters to particular people. STRONG’S: a “female foreteller or an inspired woman.” She is a specially called woman who functions like the New Testament prophet to minister to the body of Christ with inspired speaking and prophetic utterance (Acts 2:17; 21:9; Luke 2:36; Isa. 8:3; 2 Chron. 34:22; Jude 4; Ex. 15:20). Prophetess is the proper title for a woman with this ascension gift and calling. Prophet is the proper title for a man with this ascension gift and calling.

Evangelist: The traditional view of the evangelist is a bearer of the “Good News,” proclaiming the gospel to the unbelieving world. This is exemplified by modern-day evangelists who preach the message of salvation in crusades and the like. However, Philip, the New Testament Evangelist mentioned in Acts 21:8, demonstrated a strong supernatural dimension to the Evangelistic ministry. Philip preached the gospel to the lost (Acts 8:5), moved in miracles (8:6), delivered people from demons (8:7), received instructions from an angel (8:26), had revelation knowledge (8:29), and was supernaturally translated from Gaza to Asotus (8:26, 40). We are looking forward to the restoration of this type of Prophetic Evangelist to the Body of Christ.

Pastor: “Poiment, a shepherd, one who tends herds or flocks (not merely one who feed them), is used metaphorically of Christian ‘pastors’.” Episkopeo (overseer, bishop) is an overseer, and Pesbuteros (elder) is another term for the same person as bishop or overseer (VINE’’). They normally give the title to the senior minister of the local church, regardless of his fivefold calling. It is a shepherding ministry to feed and care for the flock.

Responsibilities that appear connected with pastoral ministry include oversight and care of the saints, providing spiritual food for their growth and development, leadership and guidance, and counsel. Prophetic pastors not only do the things normally associated with pasturing, but also move in supernatural graces and gifts of God (prophesying, word of knowledge, healing) and have the vision and willingness to develop the saints in their gifts and callings.

Teacher: An instructor of truth. “All scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness” (2 Tim. 3:16). A New Testament Apostolic-Prophetic Teacher is one who not only teaches the letter of the word, but also ministers with divine life and Holy Spirit anointing (2 Cor. 3:6). He exhibits keen spiritual discernment and divine insight into the Word of God and its personal application to believers.

Apostolic-Prophetic Lifestyle: These are the people who live their lives according to the Logos and Rhema word of God. The logos is their general standard for living and the rhema gives direction in specific areas of their lives. The fruit of the Holy Spirit is their characteristic motivation, and the gifts of the Spirit are their manifestation to meet the needs of mankind. They are allowing their lives to become a prophetic expression of Galatians 2:20; “I am crucified with Christ; nevertheless I live; yet not I, but Christ liveth in me: and the life which I now live in the flesh I live by the faith of the Son of God, who loved me, and gave Himself for me.” *(Apostles, Prophets and the coming moves of God, By Dr. Bill Hamon. Page 279-281)

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father I want to grasp everything that you have intended for my life. I need the thumb to do that (with my natural hands) and I need the apostolic ministries working together to do that for me spiritually. I fully respect the ministry gifts and offices that you have ordained for the Church – help me to submit my life and “my-way” of doing things in order to cooperate with the five-fold ministries that are in place where I live. Forgive me when I have fought those who have been ordained to work your master plan and for those times in particular when I have made their jobs harder instead of easier...! Amen

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

The apostolic is in full swing. The best is yet to come. Much is being restored back to the church and we will see the power of the early church. The days of “Ananias and Sapphira” will return – where the fear of God will reign again and those outside the church walls with respect her position of authority on the earth – even if it fails to properly understand! There is power and authority when the apostolic ministry is allowed to function and flow by the Spirit of God just as they were supposed to. I look forward with great expectation and anticipation to the complete restoration of all things. Hallelujah!

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

Are there Apostles Today?

2011-04-13T15:27:00.000+02:00

Are there Apostles Today?

“And they kept their attention fixed on the Apostles' teaching and were united together...” (Acts 2:42 BBE)

Welcome again to today’s Truth for the Journey – in this continued study of the apostle. While these articles are enjoyed by many across the internet, we enjoy the tremendous feed back and many positive remarks that they provoke! In particular, one email that we received this week was from an apostle from Spain called “Emilio Sevilla.” He dropped me a line to encourage but also to elaborate a little deeper on the meaning of the word apostle. I quote him “The word apostle means ‘sent – to - establish’ because the word is made up of two words which are, APO-STELLO - APO means to be sent forth and STELLO means to establish… this is why apostles should not rest until they have established the Kingdom in their given area…” end quote. Thanks… Emilio for your in put!

To see this in its various forms we simply go to the Strong’s Greek Concordance. To do so we take the precise place in scripture where Paul emphatically introduces himself as an “apostle” in his letter to the Corinthians; “Paul, called to be an apostle of Jesus Christ through the will of God…” (1 Cor 1:1 KJV) or as the Young’s Literal Translation puts it “Paul, a called apostle of Jesus Christ… (YLT). The Greek word that was used here is the compound word apostolos: (ap-os’-tol-os 00652) specifically meaning; a delegate; specially, an ambassador of the Gospel; officially a commissioner of Christ ("apostle") (with miraculous powers):--apostle, messenger, he that is sent. However there are actually numerous compound words that help make up or have influence up on the meaning of this word apostle - which we have all become familiar with. But for now lets move on.

For sure the more we see what apostles do, the more we realise how indispensable their ministry is. The Acts of the Apostles is a book with no ending, as it records that which Jesus began to do and teach; He continues to do and say through His apostles. Apostolic men who have the ability to father the Church, it’s pastors and people and who are real blessings from God, so much needed for today.

Yet there are still those who ask “are there apostles for today?” Of course the answer has to be an unequivocal “Yes!” But let us qualify this answer because there are many who would answer with “No!” To those who still question the validity of apostleship for today I would say that if there are prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers then there must be apostles. Why? Because Jesus Himself gave and commissioned ALL FIVE of these gifts to His bride and as long as this institution that we call Church remains upon the earth – until Christ returns for it – then these five gifts will remain in total!

As we stated in the last article, apostles willingly work together just as the twelve did in the beginning to lay the foundation for the very first church in Jerusalem. However – where they really “unique” as some like to suggest in an attempt to imply that apostles had their rightful place in the beginning but are obsolete for today.

Unique? Yes! In the context only that they walked with Christ from the time of his baptism by John the Baptist until he rose from the dead. They were also eyewitnesses of all that Jesus said and did. Some of them even recorded what they experienced (testimony), which became part of the New Testament that we have today. In addition they not only received divine revelation but also communicated that revelation once and for all – yet even with this fact the bible never stipulated that these were the first and final apostles for the Church.

The most prominent apostles of all were Peter and Paul. The most important was arguably Paul – who was not even among the original twelve, yet neither was Barnabas who we also found being called an apostle in scripture (see Acts 14:14-15). This is the point. Scripture clearly states that they were both apostles. Furthermore, we find in Galatians 1:19 that James the brother of Jesus was also considered an “apostle.” In addition to this we find Paul writing about the apostolic ministry of Silvanus and Timothy – (incidentally not part of the original twelve!) in his letter to the Philippians and there exists many more examples in scripture of this. So it appears quite significantly that there were indeed many more apostles that the bible identifies – outside of the original twelve! They even lived and functioned during the same lifetime as the original twelve but were not included into that band. This identifies that the apostolic ministry was in circulation and was not limited to a certain number.

So the purpose of the apostles for the early church was clear. They helped lay the foundations and continued to establish and build upon what Christ had said and done. With this in mind then, let us ask the following question regarding today’s church. “Is the building finished? Is the bride ready? Is the church full-grown and are the saints completely equipped? Has the Church attained its ordained maturity and unity?” I dare say this: only when the answer to these questions is “yes” can we dispense with the apostolic ministry.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father thank you once again for the commission that Christ laid upon the apostolic ministry for yesterday and for today. All five are indispensible and we need each in order to become what You ordained for us in this generation. We are limited by time and space - while still living in these tents (natural bodies) so help us use our time wisely to be most effective for You. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

Jesus is the apostle and high priest of my confession. I accept the role of the apostle in Him and through others. In its place it brings blessing, stability and maturity. I flow with the apostolic. I understand its purpose and am not threatened by what God ordained.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

Marks of an Apostle

2011-04-09T11:46:00.000+02:00

Marks of an Apostle

“…the signs of the apostles were worked out among you in all patience, in miracles and in wonders, and by works of power” (2 Cor 12:12).

Here we are again - yet another Truth for the Journey! In our last article we mainly discussed the difference between two certain types of apostles; namely the ascension and the resurrection apostles. We also spoke of the basic meaning of the word apostle as used in scripture – as “sent-forth” not by man but by God. Today however we are going to progress further by discussing the major functions and characteristics of the apostle.

There are clear elements that dominate the calling and gifting of an apostle; which causes all apostles to act in similar ways. In other words, they can be very different in personality and background, but their gifting will have similar functions and boundaries. Firstly and arguable the most important is that apostles are very good at “working-together” whereas other gifts are more prone to “compete.” An apostle is not willing to lay on another’s foundations, but will allow others to build with him.

I would say that this is one of the quickest ways of seeing whether someone is an apostle or not! As all true apostles will work together. Those who are not team players, who climb over others to get “ahead” and “compete” – are behaving like ruthless businessmen but NOT as an apostle. Apostles do not compete. Instead they have a unique understanding about foundations and how “counter-productive” it is to build upon the foundation that another has laid. He will not waste his time. He will work “with” instead or go lay his own.

Also another feature or characteristic of the apostle is that of a pioneer. They go first. When scripture says, “….first apostles” in (1 Cor 12: 28) this was NOT a sentiment of “hierarchy” – rather it literally meant that the apostles would “go-first” in that they would go in front and pioneer! They break-open new ground and are not at all shy of ploughing where it has never been ploughed before. Nor do they shy away from “hard-work.” In fact you have never known real hard work until you have gotten around an apostle! Ask those who know! Their work ethic is second to none and they have durability and spiritual back bone that others (even half their age) lack!

Their ability to endure hardship is also a trait of the apostle. They are not flimsy in their approach. They are tough but fatherly. They observe and watch when others race and chase. They have wisdom and a panoramic view of how things are developing. They keep their finger on the pulse – knowing where everything is up to in its overall development. This is unique to the apostle. Who spiritual sight – is more far reaching than that of the other gifts. Even though the prophet is traditionally the “seer” it is the apostle who can over-see production and development in the Kingdom of God – with much more scope than the prophet – that’s why they need each other.

Apostles can have different gifting, such as an apostle who is a pastor or an apostle who is a teacher and so forth. Nevertheless we can see at many different intervals within scripture the “apostles” working together. In Acts 2:42 it says “They devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching… to the breaking of bread and to prayer.” Note how it uses the plural of “apostles’” and not just the teaching of “one” apostle. We could add here that for a genuine apostle - it is not a fame-game. They don’t require all the credit, but they MUST be accomplished. They are productive wherever they are. Paul was not stifled in prison or under house arrest. Nothing deterred him from his mission. Not chains or hardship. In addition to this, apostles are not nervous about money, whether in abundance or in lack. They know how to abase and abound. They are given to seasons and are ready for anything. One major characteristic apart from being extremely hard working and focused is their drive and belief in “preparation.” They are always preparing and therefore are always ready. They live prepared!

“Sturdy” is equalled to “nerdy” in the world’s eyes, but for an apostle “spiritual-backbone” is everything. One of their greatest satisfactions is derived from seeing “spiritual-maturity” outworked in the people. In addition they help “release” the gifting’s within others, which stir up the saints for ACTION and brings an explosion of life and activity! No one can sit around an apostle and get away with it! They motivate people and therefore no one feels comfortable being “sedentary” around them! Their work ethic can make even a “work-a-holic” feel lazy! But all is taken in their stride, with an inner-drive that comes by inspiration of the Holy Spirit. Each apostle has a specific “time-frame” to work to that they are completely aware of and they work ceaselessly to achieve the goal set before them. (Note: seasoned apostles don’t tire with age instead they just employ more wisdom and learn better how to delegate!)

Nothing displeases them more than to see rampant apostasy amongst God’s people and spiritual carelessness or sloppiness. Therefore its also good to point out that the apostle is not heavily prone to taking spiritual short-cuts. No architect would do it. The safety of their overall structure would be compromised and the apostle sees things much the same way!

Another characteristic is that of “order” – the apostle has an affinity with all things “order.” They bring order into chaos and restoration where there is brokenness. They are the ones trusted with God’s blue print as they are God’s builders. No one can build in chaos and just as Nehemiah had get rid of the pile of rubbish before he could continue building - so too will an apostle – deal with, delegate and organise so that “spiritual-waste” or “trash” can be aptly dealt with.

Eight points to Remember!

1). Plurality of Apostles - works as part of a Team: (1 Thess. 1:1; 2:6) Lets look a little deeper at the apostle’s ability to work alone but also as part of a team. He is not easily threatened and likes to work with others. In fact over “twenty men,” at one time or another, were associated with Paul in his apostolic travels. True apostles are not charismatic lone-rangers who lack and even despise the checks and balances of plurality. This is one reason that they like to bring on younger men in their calling in God, such as Paul did with Timothy.

2). Gifts and Anointing: (1 Thess. 1:5a) They have spiritual “power” not just ecclesiastical “status.” They enjoy the charisma of the Holy Spirit rather than their ordination papers or may not even be officially ordained by a denomination. God is rising up a new breed of apostolic ministers who will readily admit that they are embryonic and earnestly desire and covet the wonders and miracles that is one of the signs of a true apostle. “The things that mark an apostle - signs, wonders and miracles – were done among you with great perseverance” (2 Cor 12:12).

3). Has a Proven Character: (1 Thess. 1:5b) We see in scripture that the apostles were men of integrity with mastery over wrong motives. For example they were not out to deceive, flatter or make money from those they ministered to (1 Thessalonians 2:2-6); men worthy of imitating.

4). He is a Man of Patience and Gentleness: (1 Thess. 2:6-7) Because he is a man of faith he can afford to wait. Because he is a man of love he does not have to throw his weight about. Building with living bricks takes time and trouble. Taking another look at the sign of a true apostle, (2 Corinthians 12:12) we find the word perseverance, (patience...KJV). This reveals that true apostles are not mere remote office managers presiding over some new charismatic empire, which they lay claim to “covering”. True apostles are prepared to spend time with individuals and not just leaders at that. (Unless one is called to leaders specifically) They are “on-site” superintendents of the work.

5). A Bearer of God’s Word: (1 Thess. 2: 13) “And for this purpose I was appointed a herald and a apostle – I am telling the truth, I am not lying – and a teacher of the true faith to the Gentiles (1 Tim 2:7). No man can ultimately be recognised as an apostle, who does not have a proven ministry as a preacher and a teacher of the Word of God, for it is that which is the root of his authority, the source of his life and the dynamic of his ministry, he is a preacher and teacher of the Word before he is an apostle.

6). He Stands or Falls by The Church: (1 Thess. 1:6-7) 1) Like Peter, he should have been a fellow-elder in a local Body. There, he can be tested and checked as he learns like everybody else, what it is to submit to one another in the fear of the Lord. As a local elder, he knows the responsibility of rule and pastoral care, which leaders in the Church have, and then as an apostle, will be able to speak into other Churches with greater sensitivity. “To the elders among you, I appeal as a fellow-elder, a witness to Christ’s sufferings and one who also will share in the glory to be revealed: Be shepherds of God’s flock that is under your care, serving as overseers – not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve...” (1 Pet 5:1-2)

7). One who is “sent-out” by the Church to which he belongs, an apostle carries credibility with him. Those who receive him can expect that he will have worked out at home whatever he is laying on them as counsel; in this way Paul and Barnabas were “released” by the Church at Antioch (Acts 13:1-3). Being sent out by the Church of which they were a part - they are eager to return to give their support and report. “From Attalia they sailed back to Antioch, where they had been committed to the grace of God for the work they had now completed. On arriving there, they gathered the church together and reported all that God had done through them and how he had opened the door of faith to the Gentiles” (Acts 14:26-27).

8). Finally and most importantly true apostles appreciate being “accountable.” This gives them a sense of security, saves them from the wrong kind of independence and reminds them they exist to serve the Body and not themselves. They desire the best for the Church (1 Thess. 2:19).

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father thank you for the stability that the apostolic ministry brings to your Body, I crave the stability that you have provided through your apostolic ministries. We need the spiritual back bone that you have desired for us. Thank you Father that all things are possible through Christ who strengthens us.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

Hebrews 3:1 says that Jesus is the apostle and high priest of my confession, who was “sent-forth” to bring salvation to the world.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

Types of Apostles

2011-04-05T15:59:00.000+02:00

Types of Apostles

“Paul, an apostle - sent not from men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead...” (Galatians 1:1)

Welcome back! Today we are going to continue with our current theme surrounding the Apostolic Ministry and specifically in this article we are mainly going to focus on what differentiates between two separate groups of apostles. In successive articles that will follow on directly after this, we will discuss the many different aspects of this subject. However to begin here right at the start, the word “apostle” literally means: “to-send-forth,” in other words, someone who has received a commission and will go-forth to fulfil it while representing the very same authority that sent them. We see this in the following scriptures; “Jesus said to them, ‘If God were your Father, you would love me, for I came from God and now am here. I have not come on my own; but He sent me...’” (John 8:42) “Because of this, God in his wisdom said, ‘I will send them prophets and apostles, some of whom they will kill and others they will persecute’” (Luke 11:49). “Again Jesus said, ‘Peace be with you! As the Father has sent me, I am sending you’” (John 20: 21).

Therefore an “apostle” is not someone who is sent by men or appointed by men, but by God. Again we go straight to scripture in order to see this; “Paul, an apostle - sent not from men nor by man, but by Jesus Christ and God the Father, who raised him from the dead... (Gal 1:1) “Paul called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God...” (1Cor 1:1) “He who receives you receives me, and he who receives me receives the one who sent me...” (Matt 10:40 - see also Acts 14:14; 15:23; Rom 16:7; 2 Cor 8:23; 1 Thess 1:1).

However before I go any further, let me add to this by taking an excerpt from one of Ulf Ekman’s books called “The Apostolic Ministry” (p20-21).

“Apostles and Prophets lay the foundation for the Church: This century has seen increasing revelation on the ministry gifts. We have begun to understand what a pastor is, how an evangelist functions and what a teacher does. However, there are two special gifts that we need to understand so that God can develop strong local churches in the Last Days. There is a fierce struggle concerning these gifts going on right now across the earth. The devil hates strong churches. He tries to crush them, tear then down and render them passive and ineffective. If he can remove the gifts that develop strong local churches, then he’ll be satisfied. Apostles and prophets are the gifts that do this more than any other.

The apostle and the prophet are like spearheads, and the church is built on the foundation they lay (Eph 2:20). If they are not allowed to lay a proper foundation, then the church will lose direction, strength, anointing and spiritual insight. You can have good meetings, interesting conferences and fantastic campaigns without these gifts. But when the preachers leave and the crowds disappear, where is the strength that’s needed for the local church? If you look closely, you’ll see that the church is small, exhausted, confused and unsure of its direction.

The apostle and the prophet, especially the apostle, channel strength to the churches that helps them grow on a daily basis. Churches are not built on conferences, campaigns and seminars. They are built by the steady labour of ordinary people, who are constantly developing and maturing. Maturity, in a biblical sense, refers to increased vigour and stability, which makes us stronger. The apostle’s ministry is vital and the Bible gives us many examples of this”.

Therefore it is important that we have a balanced concept of what an apostle is and what an apostle is really sent to do. Otherwise (and just as I have witnessed around the world), this authentic and much needed role of the apostle is “misunderstood” and is desperately lacking in the church. Often it is misconstrued as something intolerable, domineering and threatening. It couldn’t be further away from the truth and totally robs the church of a vital element that will help it grow strong and STAY strong! In stead of complaining about weaknesses in the Church – let the apostle take back his rightful position in the Body of Christ – and then we will witness the power and strength of the early church, that we all crave to see! The devil fears this strength and will do anything to uphold the myth that apostles (and prophets) are obsolete and not necessary anymore. The devil IS a liar! Oh how we need the apostolic ministry today… and little will be achieved without it. Nothing substantial anyhow… we can make a fanfare about anything. But will it stand the test of time? To be of significance again – we need the apostolic ministry to do what it was sent forth to do – to bring stability, maturity and growth.

None of us want to create works that have no substance. Consider how puff-pastry is just fluff-n-stuff! It looks substantial on the outside but once we break through its crust – little substance is found. It lays on top, glazed and looks impressive – but has little (if any) foundation. Spiritual puff pastry is a far cry from what God has planned for His church and for that which Christ has died to liberate.

Resurrection Apostles:

Let’s commence onto different types of apostles. Ignorance not only fails to recognise the significance of the apostolic apostleship but also refused to grasp its depth of identity. Take for instance the original twelve - minus Judas – those directly commissioned by Jesus. These are the RESURRECTION APOSTLES. They received the “in-breathing” of resurrection life directly from Him, as the first fruits of His new creation. From Him they received proof of His being alive and principles of the Kingdom first hand. Reinforced by Mathias (Acts 1:12f) they received the promised Holy Spirit at Pentecost. These are the APOSTLES OF THE LAMB as seen clearly in the 21st chapter of the book of Revelations verse 14; “The wall of the city had twelve foundations, and on them were the names of the twelve apostles of the Lamb” (emphasis added).

In addition Paul must be included in this group of resurrection apostles, “...and last of all he appeared to me also, as one abnormally born” (1 Cor 15:8). It must be noted here that it is the testimony of this exclusive group of men that forms the definitive standard of teaching and doctrine for us. For example, we believe Jesus through their word – in the context that Jesus spoke of here in John 17:20, “My prayer is not for them alone, I pray also for those who will believe in me through their message...”

Strictly speaking (concerning these “resurrection apostles”) their only true successor is the New Testament itself; which preserves the record of their inspired testimony. “I have much more to say to you, more than you can now bear. But when he, the Spirit of truth, comes; he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on His own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. He will bring glory to me by taking from what is mine and making it known to you...”(John 16:12-14)

All subsequent apostolic ministries (namely “ascension apostles”) must submit to and accurately reflect their testimony. I can be said like this; the words of the “resurrection apostles” are still primary and still Scripture; but however, any other apostolic word is derivative and non-scripture. Unfortunately this is just where some of our modern-day apostles (both resent-past and present) have made their errors. Some of them have wrongly imagined that this status of being an “apostle” gave their own words the same footing and weight as scripture itself! Clearly mistaken they have misunderstood their proper boundaries.

To be clear about this, no one is receiving “additional revelation!” that can add or take away from the original foundation of the gospel. We already have the revelation of the New Testament. Paul said, “But though we, or an angel from heaven, preach any other gospel unto you than that, which we have preached unto you, let him be accursed” (Gal 1:8). Paul warned that we are to take heed how we build upon the foundation that has already been laid (1Cor 3:10). Quite simply we can’t add to it or take anything away from it.

Ascension Apostles:

As mentioned already above, there exists a clear and definitive distinction between these two sets of apostles; those of the resurrection (apostles of the Lamb) and those of the ascension. In addition to this fact and to further explain this, it can be said that Paul was very much a “pivot” in that he was not only the last of the RESURRECTION APOSTLES (who actually saw the risen Lord Jesus Christ) but was also the first of a new series of apostles, namely the ASCENSION APOSTLES.

Again I want to appreciate the writings of another apostle here – so we will return to Ulf Ekman’s book to insert another paragraph of his book, that has the full title: “The Apostolic Ministry – can the Church Live without It?” (P23).

“The Apostolic Ministry has Long-term Effects: we must be set free from the idea of a religious “St Paul” as portrayed in marble statues, icons and ancient historical images. We must see him in the unique role he had. It was Paul who received the revelation of Jesus’ resurrection and wrote one-third of the New Testament. He remains the most important example of a Christian today after Jesus – our primary example.

Paul is an example in two areas: first he shows us how a Christian should live… lives of consistency. Second, he exemplifies the ministry of an apostle. He demonstrates the function of an apostle and the results that follow… Every ministry gift operates within the restrictions of time. The ministry of John the Baptist was effective for only a short period of time, yet his influence was great. Paul not only affected his era, but his influence has remained from generation to generation up to our present day.

An examination of the apostolic ministry will show that its influence continues even after the apostle has died. History speaks of men who weren’t called apostles but were in fact just that. Wycliffe was definitely an apostle, as his degree of influence demonstrates. Huss, Luther, Calvin, Knox and Wesley were also apostles. How do we know? From their preaching, their message, their ministry and the enduring legacy they left behind. These are some of the signs of the apostle”.

Yes! And like I said in the last article – the apostle is certainly in it for long-haul not the short term. Even his natural death can not limit his influence! That’s exciting… but there is much more to an apostle than this - we have only discussed “some” of the signs of an apostle – there is much more yet! And we will endeavour to draw this out with each article that follows...

Inclosing for today let me summarize by saying that clearly not all apostles were like Paul. Some had a lesser anointing and some a greater anointing, all with differing gifts. But the fact remains; there are two distinct categories of apostles; the resurrection and the ascension. Today these commissioned individuals “sent-forth” with great influence can still be referred to as “ascension apostles.”

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father its clear at every turn we take – when we study Your Word – how magnificently You made provision for Your Church to succeed and to thrive; to overcome and to have influence in this earth – from generation to generation. We must continue having maximum impact today in this world, help us to accept the role of those You have sent-forth as apostles today and to willingly loose our ignorance about this subject - apostolic apostleship. Restore truth to Your Body, restore revelation… so that Your will can be achieved in this earth and not hindered by our own ignorance, unwillingness or un-teachable spirits...

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

I accept the will of God – not only for my personal life – but also for the entire Body of Christ. I do not stand against revelation being restored back to the Church. I yield to God’s Spirit, who is causing the apostles to rise once again around the earth; divine foundation layers – who influence the nations and the generations to come.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

Laying Foundation

2011-04-01T19:35:00.003+02:00

Laying Foundation

“...built on the foundation of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone. In Him the whole building is joined together and rises to become a holy temple in the Lord. And in Him you too are being built together to become a dwelling in which God lives by his Spirit.” (Eph 2:20)

Many years ago I was ordained a “bishop” amongst other titles that I have gained over the years – not that we are chasing titles – but it is important for the Church to recognise whose who. There are many extremes out there; some choose to “deny” or “discourage” titles in the Church, while others are teaching what “they” perceive-to-be-correct for whatever reason.

Of course all of us cannot go further than what has been revealed to us personally. For example, in the Faith Movement everybody is a “pastor!” In the Evangelical Movement – there is greater emphasis on eldership with a “set” minister – recognising the pastoral gift, evangelist and teacher but denying the apostle and prophet.

Take for instance when I am traveling through Europe – its easier to use the word “apostle” but when I travel into the African church – there is a greater emphasis on “bishops” – and everyone else is beneath that hierarchy. We will discuss a number of these aspects of leadership over these next few weeks.

Now even though I’m not suggesting here that we “throw-out-the-baby-with-the-bath-water,” we still must bring the “correct teaching” – where leadership is concerned – back into the Church.

The following is an excerpt from one of my many teaching manuals, entitled “The Age of Apostolic Apostleship,” (p58-59).

Bishop:

There is nothing in this system, which corresponds exactly to the modern diocese episcopate; bishops, when they are mentioned (Phil 1:1) are from a board of local congregational officers and the position occupied by Timothy and Titus is that of Paul’s personal lieutenants in his missionary work. It seems most likely that he was then specially designated with the title of bishop; but even when the monarchical bishop appears in the letters of Ignatius, he is till the pastor of a single congregation.

The word episkopos occurs five times in the NT: once of Christ (1 Pet 2:25) and in four places of “bishops” or “overseers” in local churches (Acts 20:28; Phil 1:1; 1 Tim 3:2, Tit 1:7). The verb episkopeo occurs in Hebrews 12:15 (“watching”) and (in some NT MSS) 1 Peter 5:2 (“exercising the oversight”)… A bishop then has “oversight of,” he is an “overseer.” 1 Peter 5:2 says, “Feed the flock of God which is among you, taking the oversight thereof.” The Greek word for “oversight” is episkopeo, Strong’s ♯1983 - to oversee, to beware, to look diligently, take the oversight. Extra words given: direction (about the times), have charge of, take aim at (spy), regard, consider, take heed, look at (on), mark.

I was on a ministry trip recently where I was asked to be involved with a presbytery of bishops, where there was ordination of several individuals. Some of these “bishops” I might add, were involved with and even chaplains to “presidents” and “high-government-officials” within their respective countries! Eventually the last person to be ordained that day – was that of an “apostle!” Therefore I want to clarify the true position of the apostle – in regards to the other five-fold-ministry gifts and put the “bishop” back into his “overseeing-role” of the local-church! To do this we will look again at the scriptures to see the position-that-goes-with-the-title and whether certain “replacement” doctrine has been received and therefore taught.

Its important therefore to realise that we are in the times of the apostolic and the prophetic – therefore firstly I want us to define together this gift of an apostle and whether there are indeed apostles in today’s church! Please don’t at this point – decide that titles do not matter as Paul the apostle in his writings often declared himself, “Paul an apostle.” Why? Because there is a structure within the Body-of-Christ that Christ Himself has laid.

1. The First Objective of an Apostle: “By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should be careful how he builds...” (1 Cor. 3:10) Strong’s ♯753 architekton (ar-khee-tek’-tone); from 746 and 5045; a chief constructor, i.e. ‘architect’, KJV – masterbuilder.

Superintendent: he is more than just an architect; He is like a “superintendent” of the building process. Strong’s ♯ 5045 tekton (tek’-tone); from the base of 5098: an artificer (as producer of frabrics), i.e. (specifically) a craftsman in wood: KJV – carpenter. This apostolic function is the necessary basis for every local Church which, forms part of the household of God. “Consequently, you are no longer foreigners and aliens, but fellow citizens with God’s people and members of God’s household, built on the foundations of the apostles and prophets, with Christ Jesus Himself as the chief cornerstone” (Eph. 2:19-29).

2. He Lays a Foundation of Life in Christ: “By the grace God has given me, I laid a foundation as an expert builder, and someone else is building on it. But each one should be careful how he builds. For no one can lay any foundation other than the one already laid, which is Jesus Christ” (1 Cor. 3:10). This is done through the Word - but not ‘just’ teaching; “For though ye have one thousand instructors in Christ, yet have ye not many fathers: for in Christ Jesus I have begotten you through the gospel”(1 Cor. 4:15 KJV).

Note: “Speakers” only have “hearers” – Fathers have children! A father-in-the-faith is not a remote and austere figure that separates himself from the people but is “real” and able to be “personal” within relationship - as a father is with his son. Remember the emphasis being made here is that an apostle is a “build-er” more than a “bless-er!” For example he is not easily given to the “shallow-short-term-solution” (that is often miss-represented as “blessing!”) but is in it for the “long-term;” willing to go the extra “distance” with people, in order to “build” into their lives. In fact, an apostle is never in it for the “hit-n-run” or “quick-fix” but sticks with it until he sees the fruit! “My dear children, for whom I am again in the pains of childbirth until Christ is formed in you...” (Gal 4:19)

3. He Lays a Foundation of Obedience to Christ: he stresses clearly from the beginning, the Lordship of Jesus Christ for whom he is pledged to make disciples. He aims to bring about the “obedience of faith” and looks for that obedience to be complete. “Through him and for his name’s sake, we received grace and apostleship to call people from among all the Gentiles to the obedience that comes from faith” (Rom 1:5).

It is harder to get away with even the minimum when an apostle is involved with your life! He aims to help each individual in the church to build his house upon the only sure foundation of obedience - the commandments of Jesus. “Then Jesus came to them and said, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptising them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age’” (Matt 28: 18-20). “Therefore everyone who hears these words of mine and puts them into practice is like a wise man who built his house on the rock...” (Matt 7:24).

4. He Lays a Foundation of Doctrine: before the Church can go on to maturity, the foundational doctrine must have been clearly laid. This is the responsibility of the apostle. To build and to work, making sure that every member of the Church is clear on repentance and faith, baptism in water and the Holy Spirit, on eternal judgement and the resurrection from the dead. “Therefore let us leave the elementary teachings about Christ and go on to maturity, not laying again the foundation of repentance from acts that lead to death, and of faith in God, instructions about baptisms, the laying on of hands, the resurrection of the dead, and eternal judgement. And God permitting, we will do so” (Heb. 6:1-3).

He will establish them on the same sure foundation of their death and resurrection with Christ. “So then, just as you received Christ Jesus as Lord, continue to live in Him, rooted and built up in Him, strengthened in faith as you were taught, and overflowing with thankfulness” (Col. 2:6-7).

He confirms in them the dynamic of what it means to be united with Christ. (Romans 6:1 ff) He contends with every error and distortion that would detract from the fullness of Jesus and diminish the believer’s full experience of Him. “See to it that no-one takes you captive through hollow and deceptive philosophy, which depends on human tradition and the basic principles of this world rather than on Christ. For in Christ all the fullness of the Deity lives in bodily form, and you have been given fullness in Christ, who is the Head over every power and authority” (Col 2:8-10). Legalism, antinomianism, mysticism, asceticism, pseudo-spirituality – all alike are refuted and corrected. For the apostle, the truth (the Word) is the only basis for building.

5. Result: the “master-builder” is responsible for the whole construction and supervises the entire work. He is especially concerned for the fitting-out of the building for its intended use. For example, a house has to be finished so that the occupants can take up residence. An apostolic leader is similarly concerned for the house of God. He is concerned for its building. He sees that the parts of the building are fitted and equipped to serve their function. All this is so that the Church may once more be a dwelling place fit for God and his Holy Spirit (Eph 2:20).

PRAYER FOR THE DAY

Father thank you for the totality that you gave to Your Body the Church.

It lacks no good thing, if it follows after the pattern that You laid out for it in Your Word.

Church is not a place where we survive but where we are supposed to thrive! Thank you Father for all of your marvellous provision for our nurture and development. Amen

CONFESSION OF THE DAY

Today I walk within the clear boundaries of the Body of Christ. I study to show myself approved and to learn how to rightly divide the Word of Truth. I read the Logos and I hear the Rhema. My life is propelled forwards because I believe His Word and hear His voice; “I am not ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto… everyone that believeth” (Rom 1:16).

THANK YOU FOR HELPING TO MAKE THIS MINISTRY POSSIBLE! WE LOVE YOU…!

Motto: ‘God Chooses, then the Spirit Tests, but You Must Respond!’

Authority Who Has It?

2011-02-15T07:31:00.002+01:00

Authority Who Has It?

“Given to me was all authority in heaven and on earth”
(Matt 28:18 - Young's Literal Translation)

Welcome once again to Truth for the Journey. Today we are looking at the role of authority and who has it! We all know that we have been given authority; inherited through Jesus Christ to overcome in this life; to lay hands on the sick and to cast out demons etc. Spiritually speaking this means we reign in life and have dominion. Nevertheless we are all part of the Body of Christ, which has a specific “structure” with leadership – called “Church” and whether we perceive we are individually gifted or not – this gives no “automatic-right” for any of us to become a leader within the local church. (Qualification for leadership - authoritative office if God appoints - takes a number of years).

So today I would like to begin by speaking about the apostolic and apostles in general. Which means this article is not a written “spot-light” based upon the believer’s authority but more specifically in regard to “5-fold-governmental-authority.” (Note: successive articles will touch on elders and deacons including whether the title “Bishop” is just another word for “Elder” currently mistaken as the “supreme-title” of the Church, replacing that of the apostle!)

First and foremost, authority begins and ends with Christ but the question is; who else has authority? To help answer this we are going to look at the 5 fold ministry gifts, ordained by none other than Christ Himself and known as the “resurrection apostles.” The one that we will focus on the most in this article is the apostle but before we continue let me make this statement; “authority and responsibility can only be given by those who have it.” Our opening scripture reveals very clearly that ALL authority - both in heaven and on the earth belongs Christ. That is a lot of authority! And it’s not a power sharing scheme either… all means all. Jesus will never SHARE authority power with anyone, but He does GIVE it to those He delegates (chief components in this of course are the ascension or 5 fold ministry gifts). Lets see this again briefly in the following verses: “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me...”(Matt 28:18) “It was he who gave some to be apostles, some to be prophets, some to be evangelists, and some to be pastors and teachers, to prepare God’s people for works of service, so that the Body of Christ may be built up...”(Eph 4:11,12).

“Ministry Gifts” then, exist primarily for the building up and preparing of God’s people for works of service. It could be said like this: principally they have “earthly” authority and receive their ordination directly from the Lord Himself, without human involvement. Such was the case with the original disciples who lived with Jesus during His “earthly” ministry. Equally so, however, was the case with Paul who was “...one born out of due time...” (I Cor l5: 8 KJV). “The things that mark an apostle - signs, wonders and miracles - were done among you with great perseverance” (2 Cor 12:12 - emphasis added).

Therefore it is true to say that the original New Testament apostles literally had “ultimate authority” on this earth, which was no small thing! (Something that we will clarify as we go along in successive articles, so stick around!) For instance if there was a dispute regarding doctrine, then the apostles were the final adjudicators; they had the last say. Some of the apostles by their very nature also fulfilled the offices of elder (bishop) and overseer. The reverse however does not necessarily apply. A person recognised as an elder is not automatically an apostle or other ministry gift to the Church. The apostle is perhaps the most difficult of the five ministry gifts to explain.

Known to us then in more familiar terms as the “Fivefold Ministries” these are perhaps better called the “Five Ascension Gifts” as we already saw revealed in Eph 4:11 above: “Apostle, Prophet, Evangelist, Pastor and Teacher.” Let me point out however, these are not just gifts of the Holy Spirit per se, they are Office and Gifting combined, an extension of Christ’s headship ministry to the Church. Their primary ministry and function is to teach, train, activate and mature the saints for work of service (Eph 4:12-13).

As one of the five and concerning the apostle in particular - the apostle is a “foundation-laying” ministry (Eph 2: 20) that we see in the New Testament, establishing new churches (i.e. Paul’s missionary journeys), correcting error by establishing proper order and structure (first epistle to the Corinthians), and acting as an oversight ministry that fathers other ministries (see 1 Cor 4:15; 2 Cor 11:28).

The New Testament Apostle has a “revelatory-anointing” (Eph 3:5). Some major characteristics are great patience and manifestations of signs, wonders and miracles. However we will know more and see greater manifestations surrounding the ministry of the “apostle” during the peak of the Apostolic Movement to come.

A keynote to point out here of course is that no person ever went or ever will walk straight into an apostolic ministry! There is always a process just as we saw with Paul: “In the church at Antioch there were prophets and teachers: Barnabas, Simeon called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen (who had been brought up with Herod tetrarch) and Saul” (Acts 13:1). Evidently Paul was recognised operating in other ministry gifting (Teacher) before he was commissioned by the Holy Spirit and then “sent-out” as an apostle by (his) the leaders. This is a good point to remember. In other words, no one is born an apostle. It takes serious preparation and maturity to walk in that office plus it is not chosen by the individual – rather it is bestowed upon them, at God’s bidding – not their own. Paul was no volunteer! God had to throw him down off his high horse first and that was just to get his attention. Rather Jesus “informed” Paul of his selection; he was not “consulted!”

It is a sovereign act of God. Entirely for His choosing and while many are called – few are chosen; few can walk in such an office. Therefore “self-assigned” or “self-appointed” apostles are real glutens for punishment, as scripture clearly reveals that it is no walk in the park to be a genuine apostle! Its not a title for glory, its an office of government; spiritually weighty and generally unpopular! As spearheads and pioneers, they take the brunt of onslaught, while at the same time as they faithfully lead others to victory! Not everyone has what it takes! Remembering that part of the calibre and proof of leadership is generally that other people naturally “follow!” It’s self-explanatory then that if no one is “following,” those claiming “leadership” status are clearly just in wishful thinking! The gift will speak for itself.

Generally if an apostle walks in a room, his presence fills the room and is felt by everyone! They possess such “weight” in the spirit that rarely goes unnoticed. They become recognised quickly as well as targeted and spoken about quickly! (A lot!) These are the true joys of apostle-hood (with its inherent and unrelenting passion). No one in their right mind would sign up for a role like this, rather the Lord Himself confers it on man simply because there are no volunteers!

However to continue, the apostle will usually have one or more of the other five-fold ministry gifts - as his major gifting as well; this is called his “gift-mixture.” For example; Apostle Paul was a Teacher. Apostle Peter was a Pastor. Apostle Barnabas was a Prophet. We need to look at scripture to see what kind of men these were and what they did to discover their ministries as true apostles of Christ. The most important is shown in the listing found here: “Now you are the body of Christ, and each one of you is a part of it. And in the church God has appointed first of all apostles, second prophets, third teachers, then workers of miracles, also those having gifts of healing, those able to help others, those with gifts of administration, and those speaking in different kinds of tongues” (1 Cor 12:27-28).

So does this “apostolic ministry” merely exist to “bless” or to “build?” To bless is one thing, to build is quite another. We could say it like this: to “bless” and just “excite” people all the time, requires humanism, stamina and lots of charisma! This usually results in human appreciation, generally large love-gifts and popular return bookings (invited back!) Yet for God this will never be enough! A true apostle cannot be bought or sold. He is not a crowd pleaser. Even if he does please the crowd, that’s not his primary intention. Why? Because Jesus is not just interested in “exciting crowds” but in “building His Church” and building with this “Master Builder” (Jesus) is genuinely “hard work!” It takes dedication on an unprecedented scale and life-long commitment (the apostolic ministry is not for the faint of heart!)

We can say it like this: all apostles are in it for the long haul. They don’t need convincing. They don’t even “sprint!” Rather they plod, even when everyone else is having a spiritual sugar rush; running here and there on nervous human energy! In fact by the time others collapse from weariness, the apostle just keeps on keeping on, steady and undeterred. Mature with lengthy “staying-power” - because he has had to learn to “suffer-LONG!” Apostles generally show no interest for time wasting activities and are notoriously “stable.” They bring order and Godly discipline wherever they go and exude an admirable “stature.” People are drawn to them, for all sorts of reasons, both good and for bad. In other words they can attract trouble like bees to honey, or moth to a flame simply because they have been dispatched as God’s “voice” in the earth; anything and everything wants to shut them up!

Going back to building. In order to “build” a master plan is required and the master designer is not haphazard. The builders need insight into God’s plan and strategy for the Church. The apostle in close collaboration with his prophetic teammates seeks always to build according to the patterns shown on the “mountain” of revelation. They serve at a sanctuary that is a copy and shadow of what is in heaven. This is why Moses was warned when he was about to build the tabernacle: “See to it that you make everything according to the pattern shown you on the mountain” (Heb 8:5 - emphasis added).

As it was in Nehemiah’s day, there must be a “clearing-away” of accumulated rubbish! Today there exists, to a very large extent; wrong thinking in regards to the actual role of the local Church. Many see it as a place to attend only when needing a blessing. A cavalier “easy-come-easy-go” attitude prevails. In addition there are such individuals who perceive that they can justifiably manipulate the Church in order to serve their own ends (personal-gain - financial, sexual or otherwise) or simply fill a vast ego! Either way Christ is not usually “front-and-centre” in those types of churches!

Then there are those churches who try to embody new ideas and structures within their services and mingle it in with the “old-way.” Generally this effects no real or worthwhile change, but instead introduces “competition” into their churches - where the old now has to compete with the new! We see this featured in Mark 2:21-22, “No one sews a patch of un-shrunk cloth on an old garment. If he does, the new piece will pull away from the old, making the tear worse. And no one pours new wine into old wineskins. If he does, the wine will burst the skins, and both the wine and the wineskins will be ruined. No, he pours new wine into new wineskins” (Mark 2:21-22).

With all intents and purposes an apostle is a prolific “builder” and will always have that desire to BUILD. He will establish new churches and/or re-establish existing ones, but his ministry will always be the same. In fact restoration and pioneering go hand in hand for the apostle – “building” or “re-building” are the same to him – it’s all “building” and is precisely what he will be found doing. It is his calling card. To bring into order “…to build and to establish” (see Jer 1:10; 18:9; 31:28; 33:2).

Philip Mohabir in his book “Hands of Jesus,” (Pages 24, 28-29, Published by Power House, Thisted Denmark 2003) says that; Paul sets forth in Ephesians 4 the core values and essential virtues that form the kernel from which local church life and practice flow. They are unity expressed in diversity, maturity, stability and corporeity. The ascended Lord gave apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors and teachers to the Church to build these characteristics in the very fibre of local church life. He has given five gifts for this purpose. We cannot do it with three or even four. In His infinite wisdom, He knew we need five. God is generous but not superfluous. Any other structure, system, strategy, or man-made method will fail to produce the kind of Church that Jesus wants and for which He died.

But now is the time when the Lord is restoring the apostolic and apostles to the Church. Now is the time for the whole Body of Christ to experience the authority and anointing of apostles just as it was in the book of Acts. To see the Church rise to its full potential and built according to New Testament pattern, we must rise in vision and faith. To see the Church become all that the Lamb died to make it, we need another apostolic reformation.

In these days the Lord is preparing the Church, His Bride, for glory, equipping her to reap a final gigantic harvest and at the same time preparing the world for judgement. As Dr. Sam Matthews said, let us allow the Holy Spirit to orchestrate us into a worldwide penetration of the gospel. It is time to become part of the second apostolic reformation. As mentioned before “The vision is rushing to completion” (Dr. Sam Matthews). The five ascension gifts are not optional extras, but essential imperatives, ordained by God for the Church. Their importance and role to the body are a divine arrangement by Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. We cannot fulfil the apostolic mission of the Church without their active presence. If the Church 2000 years ago needed them, how much more do we need them today when the days are so much more evil? Oh, how we need them!

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father I value all of the ascension gifts that You have placed within the Body. Open the eyes of my understanding so that I can properly comprehend their function and to flow with and appreciate how You use still want to use them today in order to equip the rest of the Body. Help me cooperate with all that You are doing in the Church right now, especially the part that You need me to play and to flow with Your dealings for the sake of the whole and not just my own interests. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
God has given five gifts - we cannot get by with three or even four – but FIVE! In His infinite wisdom, He knows that we need five. He is generous but not superfluous. Any other structure, system, strategy, or man-made method will fail to produce the kind of Church that Jesus wants and for which He died. All five of the gifts are potent parts of the overall structure. All five must be recognised to nurture growth and stability as God planned it. The ascension gifts are not optional extras, but essential imperatives, ordained by God for the Church. Their importance and role to the body are a divine arrangement by Father, Son, and Holy Spirit.

Spiritual Gifts Vs Governing Authority

2011-02-11T20:53:00.002+01:00

Spiritual Gifts Vs Governing Authority

“Has the Lord indeed spoken only by Moses?
Has He not spoken also by us?” (Numbers 12: 2)

Welcome back dear reader to today’s Truth for the Journey! We enjoy meeting like this and trust that today’s article will continue to stimulate your thinking and enlighten your understanding according to Ephesians 1:18! In our last article we looked at grace in terms of “gift-discernment” and today we will resume our look at grace, but this time we look at grace in terms of “gift vs. authority.”

So lets jump straight in by saying that being “gifted” does not automatically make you “autonomous” (independent). In other words, none of us are an end in ourselves nor can we have authority in ourselves! None of us can function independently from the rest of the “Body” and thrive or survive! In actual fact our gift only operates and functions in its fullest degree and glory when it is functioning with the rest of the Body and “submitted-to-the-correct-authorities” within the Body. There is some confusion at large in the Body of Christ today, over this very issue, because immaturity and misunderstanding say that because a person operates in a “gifting” (albeit genuine) this automatically gives him or her “governing-authority.” Absolutely Not!

Lets look at it like this: it is a grave mistake to confuse mere “spiritual-gifting” with “governing-office.” All of us as believers have a measure of authority but this amounts to the general believer’s authority and does not include governing-authority or being in an office of authority within the Body. Therefore having a “gift” does not give anyone of us an automatic “position-of-authority,” just a general authority, which is the right of “every” believer. In fact we all have been given “significant-authority” in order to lay hands on the sick and to raise the dead!

Along with general authority as a believer we have general gifts that have been distributed amongst us – but none of this gives us an automatic “office-of-authority.” To help explain this further, scripture tells us clearly that it is the Holy Spirit who is the giver of the gifts but that Jesus Himself is the One who places certain individuals into positions of “governing-authority” (called Offices.) An ordinary believer’s authority is something we can gain overnight! But to have a “governing-authority” in the Body of Christ is something else altogether. Irreparable damage has been done because of the lack of adequate understanding in this very area. (See 1 Cor 12: 4-31 & Eph 4: 11-12).

If a person begins to operate in a legitimate “gift” but after some time refuses to yield them selves over to an established authority structure, then that gifting will become distorted and perverted; warped and void of purity because of its false agenda. It’s far too easy for a person to become disillusioned when they have no real accountability. Distortion develops with misuse and lack of submission to God’s governing authorities.

The same person, who is gifted now, is not automatically ready to have “governing-authority” NOW! Mere “gifting” never gave any man “governing-authority,” this only comes via divine appointment and preparation; being made ready through testing and faithful serving!

For illustration purposes let us refer to Miriam and Aaron who spoke against Moses in the Bible. Whether they did this openly or privately is not made clear but nonetheless God heard their conversation and was not too happy about it. We must consider that although both Aaron and Miriam were “genuinely-gifted” and already had some “position-of-authority,” it was Moses nonetheless who was God’s “governing-authority” at that time. Their “supernatural-gifting” (whether legitimate or not) – afforded neither of them any room whatsoever to usurp Moses “governmental-office.”

This was a direct insult to God. So serious in fact was this offence before God that Miriam became leprous because of it. However both were forgiven and restored, nevertheless it reveals the “dangers” of “usurping” God given and “appointed-authority.” It illustrates perfectly the difference between mere “spiritual-gifting” and “governing-authority.”

It might be true to say that false prophets don’t always set out “false” – rather they “become” that way. Just like Miriam and Aaron would have become, if they had continued trying to use their “gifting” to “rank-themselves” above their elder brother [Moses]. It must be understood therefore that no man or woman can “assume” the kind of authority that Moses had been given by God – certainly not on the grounds of “spiritual-gifting!” God alone “appoints” individuals to such positions and we can see just how vehemently God defends it!

We must never forget that none of us can successfully operate outside of God’s “authority-structure,” as our human ability to remain authentic, trustworthy, faithful, reliable, genuine, dependable or accurate – outside of His boundaries of authority - is zero! In fact to remain “true” rather than “false” within our gift capacity, we must remain continuously submitted to God given, ordained and appointed authority. No human reasoning or logic can add anything to or take away from this concept.

Conclusion: In short, we must learn not to hold our own opinions too highly or be threatened by the credentials of others. We must work hard to show ourselves and approved and be diligent to get genuine instruction and guidance from the Holy Spirit; who will never lead us to usurp authority. For our gifts to flourish and to live peaceful lives we must not violate the boundaries of God’s authoritative structure and governing authority. We can only enjoy the true benefits of authority, whilst we cooperate with it!

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Thank you Father for all of the gifts that You have given to the Body. We are deficient for nothing. If we abide in Christ we lack no good thing. Thank You for the authority that You have given to me as a believer and according to the specific call upon my life - also for the authority that you have called me to cooperation with. Help me to submit myself to Your governing authority. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
“God ascended on high, He led captives in his train and gave gifts to men.” These gifts are to function as God purposed them. In my life He will find His gifts in operation just as He planned. He will also find me walking in willing submission to His governing authorities.

Discernment of Gifting

2011-02-08T18:15:00.003+01:00

Discernment of Gifting

“Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations” (NIV).

Welcome back as we continue this theme about grace. In our last article we discussed grace in three major contexts: “authority,” “ability” and “responsibility.” By nature these articles of necessity are relatively brief, especially when it comes to particularly vast subject matter. And while the topic of grace is much wider than we can study here in just a select few articles; consolidation of such subjects nonetheless, can go a long way in helping us understand their true nature and function in our lives. However I am not attempting to over simplify this subject of grace; yet in just a few articles we can establish the grace’s role in our lives.

So far and chiefly, we have looked at grace in terms of “stewardship” (essentially our divine purpose for living and being here in this world!) where we are given (graced with) the “ability,” “authority” and “responsibility” necessary in order to “manage” God’s affairs on this earth; in His behalf! However this is in accordance with what He has chosen and decided. The old adage is true: God uses who He chooses and chooses who He uses! The call on our lives is not dependent on any choice of ours. We only choose to be willing and to yield, while the mandate originates with God alone.

However let us continue and move on to today’s concept of “gift discernment.” Exactly what has God graced our lives with? Just like Paul, we must be able to “recognise” who we are in Christ and what we have been called to “do,” without this, it is inevitable that we will both be “unfruitful” and “ineffective” – (regardless of any good intentions!) Therefore we must discover what God’s plan for our individual lives really is and more importantly what His plan is to benefit other people’s lives through ours? Gifting is “always” for others and not for self! So along with the gift we must also recognise who is going to “benefit” and what exactly is He looking to “influence” with His Kingdom? God always has a strategy plan!

Evidently it becomes a major necessity for us to have clarity on this issue. We must begin by accepting the fact that “divine distinction” does exist and that we must work together with it not against it. Quite simply, there are many folks today who are failing to see this “divine distinction” not only in their own lives but also in the lives of others; as a result many are “struggling” and “staining” themselves to be something that God has not called them to be. We often succumb to the peer pressure of becoming what others perceive for us rather than what God has “appointed” for us.

Today it would be true to say that there exists much confusion between “Body gifting” and “ministry calling,” something that has caused pain, heartache and much “disillusionment.” To help clear this up lets look at four major factors that need to be considered when it comes to ministry gifting:

1] The Sense of Call: Today I believe that we often mix up “desire” with “call.” Of course, the scripture tells us to “desire” the best gifts (see 1 Cor. 12: 31). However “desire” can never override “call.” First and foremost any “desires” must line up with the will of God for our lives.

2] The Desire for the Work: The call always comes first from God’s point of view as we see here in Jeremiah 1:5 – “Before you were formed in the womb I called you” (appointed, sanctified, set apart, separated, consecrated and dedicated!) However this was news to Jeremiah! Who was less than ecstatic about the proposal! Rather he went into an immediate verbal inventory of all the excuses and reasons why the opposite was in fact true! Not unlike the rest of us do! Inadequacy often rears its ugly head in the face of stepping up to the call. Nevertheless in the midst of trauma we can discover the “desire” to serve the Lord.

With all this in mind we need to distinguish what “desire” in this context actually means. It goes beyond just a human sense of looking to “enjoy” something. Rather in this context it is more of an “inner yearning,” a “knowing” that we must “face” this call or we are going to die! (It can feel this intense; like your whole life depends on it, even before you really understand why).

And while it might be possible to “enjoy” serving God, desire from the inner man is something quite different; that inward yearning we spoke of, goes much deeper; according to the Strong’s it is akin to “jealousy” or being “zealous” (see Grk No. 2206).

3] Exercise the Gift: A man’s ministry makes room for itself. A genuine call from God will manifest itself - if it is exercised properly. God does not appoint us to a position of “spiritual inertia” (inactivity, lethargy, disinterest, inaction or unwillingness). Rather He appoints and anoints for ACTION (…faith without works is dead!) So there is a built-in dynamic to this “call” of God that we all face and it only finds expression through continual “practice” and not “theory!”

4] Fruitfulness: So many people lay claim to ministries in advance of “fruitfulness” and “appointment,” when in fact fruitfulness is the real sign of ministry. “Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through a prophetic message when the body of elders laid their hands on you” (1 Tim 4:14); “…fan into flame the gift of God,” (2 Tim 1:6); “Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms” (1 Pet 4:10).

There is a distinction in kind, between a talent, which we were born with and a gift imparted by the Holy Spirit. It is noticeable in Paul’s ministry that he was not averse to using his natural talents in his service for the Lord. For example he was obviously intellectually gifted but also practically so and at times used his natural abilities to support his own ministry (see Acts 18:3 for tent making).

But it is also important to see how Paul laid such talents aside when it came to operating in revelation (see 1 Cor 2:1-3). God uses both in the leader but in fact, it is dedication of all that we have and are which removes the clear distinction between natural talent and divine gift in the leader.

Every Called Person has a Handicap: The great heroes of the Bible had handicaps even those with mighty signs and wonders; they were mere humans with many limitations and flaws. Moses committed murder and had a terrible speech impediment. Miriam fueled a conspiracy against Moses during the wilderness journey of the Israelites. David committed adultery and murder. A harmless little old lady intimidated Elijah. And when the chips were down, Peter denied even knowing Jesus! Saul of Tarsus rounded up Christians and threw them in jail or had them stoned and it goes on.

“I don’t know about you, but I like the fact that none of these heroes were larger than life on their own. That gives me hope, because I was anything but a success before I met the Lord. If anything, God specialises in taking people who are self-willed, arrogant, or just plain ordinary, and making them into successful human beings. By successful, I don’t mean rich and famous. I mean humble, loving, and generous. People who are becoming the best they can be in Christ.” (Dick Bernal).

What seems to be our tragedy becomes our triumph. We learn how to turn the “messes” of our lives into “messages” and how to change the “tests” into “testimonies,” and as my wife often says turn our “cares” into “prayers;” our “worry” into “worship” and last but not least how to find “peace” in the “pain.” Our strength is always in God.

What is our biggest hindrance to success - is it failure? – No! We are our own hindrance! Making mistakes is not a hindrance for victory! We see in scripture when Elijah went straight from a great victory into a great flop! Jonah: everything God told him to do – he did the exact opposite! We have all come to that place where we have found our “problems” were not really the issue; instead we discovered that our “problems” where actually God given “opportunities!”

This transpires simply because problems can help make us people who reach out “past” and “beyond” our natural abilities. Whereas a person who reaches out to God without any problems or challenges whatsoever, sees little if any change, growth or increase etc.

In reality who needs to look for problems? Problems exist and God has called every one of us to be problem solvers. Problems represent NEEDS! Problems are not wrong. They are not negatives if we look at them positively. They are needs that God has called us and given us the ability and anointing to meet and solve. For sake of illustration there were two salesmen who came back from Africa, one was down and the other was up – thrilled to bits. One said, “They don’t wear shoes in Africa – it’s hopeless.” The other said, “No one has shoes in Africa, they all need our shoes!”

God told us that we are to get a harvest, to multiply and reproduce. That means we must see and experience “increase” because God has said. In other words, blessing is not a “feeling” but a “condition” therefore it is important to consider this vital fact: God’s expression for our lives is an expression of His promises.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father thank You for the call and the distinction that You have placed in my life. I am at Your bidding no my own. I am available to Your plans and not my own. I trust Your strategies for the future and for my part in that overall scheme of events. Thank You for the desire that You placed in my heart to serve You. That inner passion that yields to You and not to circumstance.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
I fan up the gift of God inside of me today. I make myself available to be used by Him. I have the grace: authority and the ability to meet that responsibility – in Jesus name.

A Work of Sovereign Grace

2011-02-04T20:48:00.003+01:00

A Work of Sovereign Grace

“Having gifts (faculties, talents, qualities) that differ according to the grace given us, let us use them…” (Rom 12:6-8 AMP)

In the previous Truth for the Journey we looked at the difference between being called and appointed. Today we are going to be looking at the “grace” needed for that “appointment.” Chiefly looking at the life of Paul the Apostle, we see that he too needed grace to do what He was appointed to do. So to begin with the most important fact to remember is that the “call-of-God” is actually a working of His “sovereign-grace” (sovereign – because it is His choice to make and His alone!) In other words, God does not always call the most likely or the most naturally talented! In fact His choosing is rarely ever popular and all mystery concerning His “calling” or “election,” can only be answered within the very heart of God! (1 Corinthians 1: 27-29).

However as our opening scripture sates and as the NIV continues it says, “We have different gifts, according to the grace given us. If a man’s gift is prophesying, let him use it in proportion to his faith. If it is serving, let him serve; if it is teaching, let him teach; if it is encouraging, let him encourage; if it is contributing to the needs of others, let him give generously; if it is leadership, let him govern diligently; if it is showing mercy, let him do it cheerfully” (Romans 12:6-8).

A major weakness concerning our “gift-discernment” tends to have been our lack of understanding concerning the “responsibility” that is involved in our election. In this respect then, natural talents don’t add up to much when answering the specific “call of God!” This is where stewardship comes into it, as we see Paul mentioning here in 1 Peter 4: 10 “As each of you has received a gift (a particular spiritual talent, a gracious divine endowment), employ it for one another as [befits] good trustees of God's many-sided grace [faithful stewards of the extremely diverse powers and gifts granted to Christians by unmerited favour].” Granted this is a bit of a mouthful in the Amplified and is perhaps better when more simply put, as here in the Authorised Version, “…as every man hath received the gift, even so minister the same one to another, as good stewards of the manifold grace of God” (KJV).

Nevertheless we see in both these respected versions of the bible the use of the word “steward.” God has simply called us to be “good-stewards” of His grace (authority and ability). Notice we are not stewards of just “anything” - but specifically of His “grace.” To help us define this word “steward” a little better, let me say the following: the biblical doctrine of stewardship defines a man’s relationship to God. It identifies God as owner and man as manager. God makes man His “co-worker” in “administering” all aspects of our life. The apostle Paul explains it best by saying, “For we are God’s fellow workers; you are God’s field, God’s building” (1 Cor 3:9). This helps us to better evaluate our position in this life.

In essence then, stewardship defines our purpose in this world - as assigned to us by God himself. It is our divinely given opportunity to join with God in His worldwide and eternal redemptive movement (Matt 28:19-20). In truth stewardship is not God “taking” something from us; rather it is His method of bestowing His richest gifts upon His people.

In addition to this, I suggest that the following words best describe this concept of “stewardship” as seen in scripture: manager, foreman, guardian, governor, procurator and administrator (see Gal 4:1-2 AMP). In fact we see this more contemporary word of “manager” specifically in the “God’s Word Translation” of the Bible where it says, “Each of you as a good manager must use the gift that God has given you to serve others” (1 Peter 4:10). Clearly then, our faithfulness in managing God’s affairs exceeds the traditional boundaries of just managing finances correctly or faithfully paying our tithes and offerings! Paul likens his own calling to that of an “administrator” or “steward” of God’s grace. He viewed God like the master of a great household who wisely administrated His affairs through Paul - an obedient servant of Jesus Christ (see Eph 3:2 & 1 Cor 9:17).

To continue with our focus on “grace” however it is important to notice how often this word “grace” is actually used by Paul in the scriptures: “…the grace God gave me to be a minister of Christ Jesus” (Rom 15:15); “They recognised the grace given to me” (Gal 2:9); “I became a servant of this gospel by the gift of God’s grace given me…” (Eph 3:7); “Assuming that you have heard of the stewardship of God’s grace (His unmerited favour) that was entrusted to me [to dispense to you] for your benefit” (Eph 3:2 AMP).

I believe that Paul constantly referred to “the-grace-given-to-me,” simply because he was overcome by the fact that God had not only put “grace” into his life, but more specifically “a-grace” into his life. There is a difference! And the specific “grace” that God had given to Paul literally controlled and directed his entire life. We see this clearly in Romans 12:3 where he says, “For by the grace given me I say to every one of you…”

Incidentally - speaking by the grace God had given to him – did not refer to a special eloquence of speech! No! But something far more potent – which was the very “authority” of God! Gracious speech had nothing to do with it; but the “authority-by-which-he-spoke” was the key. The grace of God (refers also to the gift of God) which was given to Paul for his life and ministry – that also warranted him the authority he needed to administrate on God’s behalf. Therefore grace can quite simply be seen as the “authority” and the “ability” of God in our lives. Given to us to benefit others and to “manage” God’s affairs on His behalf...

Finally, this was Paul’s motivation. He knew what the grace was. He identified the grace within his own life. He understood that he was both called “by-grace” and called “into-grace.” The authority and the ability of God were with him, to achieve God’s purpose through him. And it is with this in mind that we must also refer this to our own lives. The grace of God and the gift of God go hand in hand. His authority and His ability work together. Continually through scripture we witness this as the words “gift” and “grace” are always closely linked throughout the New Testament, as seen in the following scriptures:

• Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God’s grace in its various forms (1 Pet 4:10).

• To each of us grace has been given as Christ apportioned it (Eph 4:7).

• And gifts of the Holy Spirit distributed according to His will (Heb 2:4).

• Now to each one the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good (1 Cor 12:7).

• There are different kinds of gifts, but the same Spirit (1 Cor 12:4).

In closing most of the spiritual “gifts” are for the Body and this is why they can be referred to as the Body gifts. Examples of these are listed in 1 Corinthians 12:7-11. However while there are general gifts for the Body, there are also specifically gifted individuals to the Body (See 1 Corinthians 12: 27-31, or Ephesians 4:7-13). In other words there are callings and gifting and then there are specific “offices” that hold a specific governing authority and ability. All as God wills it according to His Master plan and His glory!

In the next “Truth for the Journey” we will continue our look into the proper function of grace. I trust you will be back here with me shortly - to complete this journey together.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father I thank You that You have equipped Your Body well. We have Your authority and we have Your ability to do what You have called us to do. Father continue to equip my life, teach me Your ways that I may always be found faithfully serving You. Let my life fit within Your purposes and plans. Help me constantly yield myself to You, in and through Jesus Name. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
Father I am assured and know that [You being a partner in my labour] all things work together and are [fitting into a plan] for good to and for me who loves You and is called according to [Your] design and purpose. I am confident in Your ability in me. I rest in Your authority and power. I lean not upon my own understanding. I trust Your ways in and through my life. I understand that Your purposes don’t just benefit me, but others also. My life is at Your disposal. I am available for You to use as You will. Hallelujah! (Rom 8:28)

Establishing Leadership

2011-02-01T19:34:00.003+01:00

Establishing Leadership

"...I warn everyone among you not to estimate and think of himself more highly than he ought [not to have and exaggerated opinion of his own importance], but to rate his ability with sober judgment each according to the degree of faith apportioned by God to him." (Romans 12:3)

It is my desire in this Truth for the Journey to help people understand whether they are 'called' or 'appointed' by God to whatever position or realm He has decided. We are not looking here to discover the depths of how a ministry operates in its function, but simply how to be prepared in the positioning of ourselves within the Body of Christ. Only then will those in Authority be able to recognise that which God has imparted within us; which in turn releases us into our destiny.

The Difference between Called and Appointed:
The democratic society we live in is far removed from the definition of a kingdom, where a king rules because he inherited the throne! Democracy differs in that her leaders are elected and not inherited. A system where leadership roles are open to the talented and asserted, but as for the Kingdom of God, it operates on an entirely different premise.

"...I warn everyone among you not to estimate and think of himself more highly than he ought [not to have an exaggerated opinion of his own importance], but to rate his ability with sober judgment, each according to the degree of faith apportioned by God to him. (Romans 12: 3)

Jesus himself appointed offices of service, found in Ephesians 4:11, only Jesus himself through the Holy Spirit gives this authority to men. When we assume authority rather than receive authority we are on dangerous ground. Self-exaltation, is the promotion of self-purposes rather than seeking first the kingdom of God. Consider those who have been called but not yet appointed, who then commission themselves and who end up serving themselves; our commission can only come from the Lord.

Spiritual leaders, "...Chosen from among men" and are "...appointed to act on behalf of men in things relating to God..." Furthermore, "...One does not appropriate for himself the honour...but he is called by God..." Just as Jesus, "...did not exalt Himself...but was appointed..." (Hebrews 5:1,4,5 Amp)

Appointment comes from God alone, even Jesus did not assume his place, but was appointed by the Father. We may be called, but we also require appointment. Consider Paul who in Romans 1:1 in the NIV states that he was both "called" and "separated."

The call comes first then the appointment! You may have been called before the earth began or while you were still in the womb but that was not when you stepped into your "office!" You step into your call [salvation] before you ever step into your office.

Note: Paul went through years of testing once he submitted himself to the leaders at Antioch. "They must first be tested; and then... let them serve..." (1 Timothy 3:10)

Separated actually means chosen, Jesus said "Many are called, but few are chosen..." (Matt. 22:14). Meaning that not many make it through those 'testing' periods, but the few who make it are those who have been successfully 'separated' unto the Lord! All ministries must go through a period of testing and preparation (this preparation varies from gift to gift) before we go through or move through into our assigned assignment, our appointed time!

There are 'offices' and 'positions of service,' mentioned in the bible, (1Corinthians 12: 28) "And God has appointed these in the church: first apostles, second prophets, third teachers, after that ... helps...." Paul during those first years in Antioch did not occupy a fivefold office (Ephesians 4:11) in fact he served in the ministry of helps, then was promoted to the office of a teacher (2Timothy 1:11; Acts 13:1).

John Bevere in his book "Thus saith the Lord", (p120, Published by Creation House) says, 'Not only would Paul be tested in the realm of helps but in the office of teacher as well. When Paul was promoted from teacher to apostle we again see how God chooses and separates those that He wants to fill certain offices or positions.'

In Acts 13:1-2 we can see how Paul is listed along with other teachers in Antioch and how the Holy Spirit wanted them to be separated unto Him. The appointed time had finally come, the one who had been called to be an apostle all those years earlier on the road to Damascus in Acts 9:15 had finally, after many years of testing and loyal service now been separated unto God to be an apostle. First he was 'Called', then he served in 'Helps', later in the 'office of a Teacher' and then lastly in that of an 'Apostle'. Why? Because Paul was faithful, to promote the Lord and not himself (1 Corinthians 4:2).

Note: God used the established leadership whom Paul had faithfully served...

"Then, having fasted and prayed, and laid hands on them, THEY SENT THEM away. So, being sent out by the Holy Spirit, they went..." (Acts 13:3-4)

God did not use anyone Paul was not already in submission to; instead he used an established authority that had already been set up in Antioch. God will not undermine the leadership in the Body of Christ in order to raise someone up into a position of leadership. Why, because your character is far more important than your gifting.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
God help me to rate my abilities with sober judgment, according to the faith You have given me, as directed in your Word in Romans 12:3. I want to walk out the destiny that You have mapped out for me in and don't want to walk by self assertion or ambition. I take my rightful place legitimately, with a humble spirit. Give me courage to continue in times of testing, so that I may serve You faithfully (1 Timothy 3:10). Father it is you alone who has called and separated me, therefore I seek not to be 'self appointed' but to submit to Your ways. Amen

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
True leadership positions are positions of serving. Jesus said that to be the greatest amongst others is to be the servant of all. This is the route I choose, not that of self attained austerity but of God given authority. In all things I submit to God and resist the devil; who flees ONLY from those who have the power to resist him. True submission has that power! Neither heaven or hell must listen to rebellion! Therefore I confess my submission to God's divine order of authority in and through leadership... today! (James 4:7).

Kingdom Identified

2011-01-25T19:26:00.003+01:00

Kingdom Identified

“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matt 4:17).

Welcome to today’s Truth for the Journey! Here we will continue with our discovery of the Kingdom and its true identity. Let’s begin by saying that since the very beginning of history, men have always tried to create the “perfect” society! For instance the famous Greek philosophers like Plato always dreamt of the “ideal society” - based upon ethical, political and social philosophies – but in reality their desires were always too “idealistic” ever to be realized!

When it comes to the Bible however, it was first via the Old Testament prophets that a picture of a future age emerged, where men would live together without armaments of war! (This was something that Plato and others where idealistically “reaching” for and would ever find “unattainable” based on their humanistic and philosophical ideals that were outside of God!) It was Isaiah who spoke of spears being turned into pruning hooks, and nations not lifting up swords against each other. In fact, the peace of the world would be so dramatically different that he used the images of a wolf lying down with a lamb, leopards with kids, and calves with young lions to signify the radical change in world affairs, which would come in the future.

As our opening scripture states, the message, which Jesus preached, was one of repentance because the beginning of a new era was at hand (Matt. 4:17) and His teachings, illustrations, and parables primarily dealt with the kingdom of God. Including the prayer that He taught His disciples; “Thy kingdom come, thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven” (Matthew 6:10). Jesus continually emphasised the kingdom with His disciples. When studying the gospels this is very plain to see but when it comes to Matthew’s gospel he called it the “kingdom of heaven” simply because it was written primarily for the Jews. However it remains that little agreement exists on what the kingdom of God is and what the message of the gospel of the kingdom should be.

For instance Dr. Paul Y. Cho in his book, “More Than Numbers” states, “Augustine perceived the kingdom of God to be synonymous with the church. The Reformed movement had a large part in redefining the meaning of the kingdom of God. Calvin basically agreed with Augustine. He differed on what aspect of the church represented the kingdom of God. His feelings were that the true church, which was within the obvious church, was the earthly manifestations of the kingdom of God.

The task of the church would be made possible by the use of a special power called the gospel of the kingdom of God. This gospel of the kingdom of God would so affect the lives of first men and then nations that there would be a mighty transformation of social, political, and economic reality. The church was likened to leaven which would slowly so permeate the dough of the earth that at a point in history the earth would proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord and King. At this point the Lord Jesus Christ would return to earth to accept the kingdom prepared for him by his heavenly Father.

There has been another school of theology, which does not try to explain the kingdom of God in terms of the future but tries to understand the kingdom of God in its present social context. Harvey Cox is just one of many modern theologians who view the kingdom of God as a social order brought about by the church. The problems of inequality, prejudice, as well as the rest of our social concerns are to be addressed and dealt with by a church, which is conscious of its mission. Biblical terms are redefined to make them more relevant of today’s problems. Many of our liberal church leaders are motivated by what they see is the lack of concern within the more conservative evangelical church leaders.”

However theological views of the kingdom of God are intrinsically flawed and a much greater foundation exists than mere “reason” for establishing what the kingdom of God really is; which is the very Word of God. The following are basic biblical principles that reveal what the kingdom of God is:

The kingdom of God is not only for the future, but also for the present. “For the kingdom of God is not meat and drink; but righteousness, and peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost” (Romans 14:17). Paul reveals to us that the kingdom of God transcends the natural existence of man and caused him to experience in the here and now, the fruit of the Holy Spirit. That if you associate with the Holy Spirit you will become like the person you are associating with. The natural result of association with the Holy Spirit will be a way of life, which is more concerned with the quality God bestows to life rather than the essential aspects to life, eating and drinking.

Paul also reveals that the kingdom of God is something that we have entered into as a result of our being regenerated by the Holy Spirit. “[God] hath delivered us from the power of darkness, and hath translated us into the kingdom of his dear Son” (Col. 1:13). The word, “translated,” used in our English text, in the Greek is metestasen, which literally means to change sides. As I study this verse, I see a picture of a football game. Each team is on the opposite end of the field. On one side is the team, which represents the kingdom of darkness. On the other side is the team, which represents the kingdom of God. During the game, one of the main players of the darkness team takes off his shirt and number, goes to the opposing bench and puts on the kingdom of God shirt. Then he goes on the field to play against the darkness boys. He simply switches sides. This is what happened to us. We were transformed from one kingdom to the other, the Kingdom of our Lord.

The kingdom of God is also described in its future prospect for eternal blessedness: “Wherefore the rather, brethren, give diligence to make your calling and election sure: for if ye do these things, ye shall never fall: For so an entrance shall be ministered unto you abundantly in the everlasting kingdom of our Lord and Saviour Jesus Christ” (2 Peter 1:10,11 KJV). In Matthew Jesus spoke of the future when he said, “Many will come from the east and west and sit at the table with Abraham, Isaac and Jacob in the kingdom of heaven” (8:11). Yet in Matthew 13, our Lord tells parables which give further clarification to what he meant by the kingdom of heaven. He says that once the kingdom is purged, the righteous would shine like the sun.

Jesus is the representation of what it is like to be in the kingdom. “The kingdom of God is not coming with signs to be observed; nor will they say, ‘Lo, here it is!’ or ‘There!’ for behold, the kingdom of God is in the midst of you” (Luke 17:20-21, RSV). This verse can be applied to the fact that the kingdom of God was there in their midst. The “you” here is the plural, which in English is hard to understand. Jesus was there in their midst. The Pharisees were not to look for a glorious manifestation in the future, but the kingdom was before them and they were too blind to observe that God was working without a lot of fanfare.

The kingdom’s paradox has to be viewed on the basis of a balanced understanding. Jesus told Pilate in John 18, “My kingdom is not of this world.” Yet he also said in Luke 13 that the kingdom of God would start out rather unobservable, like a mustard seed. Yet, this seed, almost unnoticed, would grow up and affect the entire world. Rather than seeing opposing views in Scripture as contradictory, I consider them as a balance. Therefore, the kingdom of God is future, but it is present. It is not of this world, but it affects this world. It can be entered into at the present time, but there is a future fulfilment. You can’t see it with the natural eye, but the kingdom of God is everywhere Christ is. As we analyse the kingdom further we realise that the word kingdom can be understood in different ways.

Both the word baileia, the Greek word translated kingdom; and the Hebrew word malkuth signify the rank and authority exercised by a king. Our present thinking deals with the people who are under the king’s authority or the actual territory over which kingly authority is exercised. So the nature of the authority may be closer to the understanding of the biblical concept of kingdom than the actual subjects of the authority.

Psalm 145:13 expresses in poetic terms something of this idea, “Thy kingdom is an everlasting kingdom, and thy dominion endureth throughout all generations.” In classical Hebrew poetry, the two verses of the poem are to express the same idea in differing ways. Therefore the poet’s concept of the kingdom was that it was God’s actual dominion.

Take for instance King Herod – a.k.a. “Herod the Great!” - the unpopular king of Israel. Although he rebuilt the temple to majestic grandeur and built a great many fine public buildings in Jerusalem, he had no real kingdom. There was no genuine basis for his authority apart from Roman might. He had gone to Rome and had been given the kingship over Israel without a legitimate basis for having this kind of authority.

He was not born to it. A recognised prophet did not anoint him. He was not a descendant of Judah. He had no legitimacy. Although he lived in a palace, wore a crown and was called King Herod, his kingdom was bought and not earned. In Great Britain there are estates that can be bought which will carry a title with them. So if you have enough money, you may buy a title. Yet, this is not the same as being given a title by the queen; or being born into a noble family. Money might buy you a title, but that title is not legitimate.

As we analyse this thinking further, it causes us to understand the prayer which Jesus told us to pray: “Thy kingdom come. Thy will be done in earth, as it is in heaven.” More than asking God to take over the world in a cataclysmic event, there seems to be the desire in the heart of the Lord for the authority of God to be as obvious to the earth as it is obvious in heaven.

To conclude then, I personally believe that the kingdom of God concerns the nature of His reign and His authority; genuine, indisputable and eternal! The reign of God is present, but it will also be in the future. God has always been in charge! He is the Creator of the earth and for that matter the entire universe. He is all-powerful. However, in this human arena called earth, God has allowed Himself to be limited. Satan was given a realm of authority; he is the god of this present age. He has authority over this world’s systems. His seat of authority is in the immediate atmosphere surrounding the world. Nevertheless God provided an escape from the territory over which Satan rules or has authority. He provided Jesus Christ, the last Adam! Amen.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father thank You for complete and utter victory through Christ Jesus! I gladly reserve my life for Your glory. I give myself to Your Kingdom. To Your rule and authority. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
Today I walk in the authority, power and rule of almighty God, because I seek first His Kingdom. I allow Him to govern my life. I am liberated; spirit, soul and body! I am no longer subject to the powers of darkness. I am no longer oppressed. Because the Son has set me free, I am free indeed. Glory be to God!

The Kingdom Reign of God

2011-01-22T11:15:00.004+01:00

The Kingdom Reign of God

“Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done, on earth as it is in heaven.”
(Matt.6:10)

Here we are again looking to pursue “Truth for the Journey!” In our last article we looked at “knots” and how the New Testament referred to the kingdom of God as being like a “net.” We looked briefly at the vital role of “knots” in a net and how they bring stability and strength. We talked about how each knot represented “divine relationships” or “contacts” within God’s Kingdom by using this powerful statement, “Divine connections produce strong relationships that in turn develop and enhance God’s Kingdom.”

So in keeping with this emphasis on the kingdom, let’s move on to talk more about what the kingdom really is all about. To begin with, when the Bible refers to the “Kingdom of God,” it is actually referring to the “reign” (authority) of God more than the “realm” over which He rules or over which His authority resides. In other words, it is more about His authority than anything else! However in our modern day vernacular this has gotten a little lost, either in translation or in cultural references and we tend to assume that “kingdom” refers to a “place” or “territory” more than to “authority.”

Clearly this makes it vital for us to correct our focus a little so that the true context is not lost and where we can properly adhere to the true meaning of "kingdom" as seen in scripture. That kingdom is essentially more to do with reigning, ruling and exercising authority than it is about the realm where that authority functions. I would say this is a far more dynamic concept. Much less passive! And it is within the New Testament that the predominant meaning of "Kingdom" was God's reign or rule; with any other meaning seldom used.

For instance if we were to say, “The Gospel of the Kingdom of God,” this would best be understood as "THE GOOD NEWS OF THE REIGN OF GOD." The Gospel is the good news and the kingdom is his reign. Hence the good news of His reign! We must consider this and make it personal; His Kingdom is His rule, His authority and His government therefore when we receive the Kingdom of God; we receive / accept His government and rule over our lives and hearts. To solidify this concept, we can remember what Jesus said; that we must "receive the kingdom of God like little children" (Mark 10:15). In other words, we must receive the government of God over our lives in childlike trust, because He has our best interests at heart. Besides when He “governs” our lives, nothing else can!

Consider this a little further. Every time we have prayed the “Lord's Prayer,” we have actually petitioned God to "reign" over us, ("...thy kingdom come..." Matt. 6:10). The correct context being that “His will” must be obeyed on earth (by men) just as it is obeyed in heaven! Because when He is obeyed by men and His will is done in this present life, then the Kingdom of God has already come! It is already here! It is upon us! And obedience is always the key to truly dwelling in the kingdom of God. If we truly live in the Kingdom of God NOW, by allowing Him to govern over us, this in turn must mean that we see the things of His kingdom coming to pass, not occasionally but regularly and routinely. We know that what is “normal” to the kingdom of God; is not normal to this world (healings and miracles) but must be “common-place” to us!

When the Bible was written, the hearers of the Gospel possessed this early understanding of "kingdom," and had a better grasp of its meaning than we do today. When they heard that the Kingdom of God was at hand, they understood that it meant God's authority was being restored to the earth and that to enter the Kingdom of Heaven meant entering God's reign and experiencing the benefits of this in our immediate lives. Or perhaps today we would say in “real-time” which simply means “right-now!” Religion always keeps God “out-there” somewhere… but He and the rule of His kingdom is “right-here” and “right-now!”

Many preachers have told us that entering the "Kingdom of Heaven" means going to heaven when we die. While this is true, it leaves us with very little understanding of the purposes of God and His intentions for His Church. Failure to preach and understand the “kingdom” of God is the reason that few Christians live the life of “OVER COMERS” today.

It is when the Kingdom of God becomes a “present reality” and not just a “future hope,” that mankind is able to enjoy the blessings of God's rule and reign in their individual lives. Where they enter the more “abundant” and “victorious” life that is promised in Scripture, yet sadly is only enjoyed by a minority of Christians today. Those who enjoy true Kingdom benefits today are not some elite group who live opulent life styles, but rather those who have genuine "...righteousness and peace and joy in the Holy Spirit," as mentioned in Romans 14:17. This IS the kingdom of God!

This is not to say that there is no future realm when Christ returns, but it opens to us the marvelous possibility that He will return to a world where His reign is already well established. Not to the fractured and feeble Church we have become, that is divided and has lost its grasp on what the true biblical concept of the Kingdom really is. When the Kingdom of God is proclaimed to the Church and by the Church, we will have returned to the original biblical truth of the matter. Even more importantly, we will be obeying the instruction of our King Jesus, to proclaim the Gospel of the Kingdom of God, hastening the day of His return.

The Kingdom of God is the only thing that Jesus ever called the “Gospel.” Few people understand this fact. And the fact remains that if we fail to proclaim the “Gospel of the Kingdom,” we are not actually obeying His instruction to preach the “Good News of the God’s Reign and Authority!”

The government of God is the best news that anyone can ever hear, because it is God's only solution to all of man's ills. When we accept this “King Jesus” as the ultimate “ruler” of every aspect of our lives, then and only then can we truly experience Kingdom living as it should be, which is a righteous, peaceful and joyful life style in the presence of the Holy Spirit (Rom 14:17).

As ambassadors of His Kingdom our role on this earth is to administer His Kingdom justice here; His rule, reign and righteousness. This is the role of every single believer, to reign spiritually and administer His spiritual justice in order to put into effect His Kingdom right here and right now.

To administer in the dictionary means to manage the affairs of, formerly give out, and to apply. This explains our role quite well in contemporary terms, because we have to minister into our everyday circumstances simply by applying God's spiritual truth and spiritual laws. We do this without denying or breaching natural laws, in order to do things from a Kingdom perspective! BUT the laws of God's kingdom obviously supersede all others and we can apply these truths into the spiritual realm and let it take effect there. Remember that everything originates in the spiritual realm first anyway (Gen 1:1-2) and has its eventual effect here on the earth.

Take for instance such scriptures as Matt 6:10 for example, where it says, "...as it is in heaven" and in Matt. 18:18 especially in the Amplified version where it talks about binding and losing on earth, just as it already is in heaven. We are enforcers who enforce the things of God but in the spirit realm FIRST. Because that's where the struggle is, it is a spiritual battle and not one of flesh and blood (Eph 6:12).

There are places of course where preaching is illegal and believers are forced underground but traditionally this has not hindered the gospel, on the contrary that's often when it runs the fastest, spreads hardest and supersedes all obstacles. But this is another discussion altogether!

What we are talking about here is applying God's spiritual truth into the atmosphere, letting it supersedes all else; yet without breaching natural or political laws, to the best of our ability! (Remember just being righteous in an unrighteous world is spiritual warfare in itself. We don’t have to open our mouths and we create conflict just being here – spiritually speaking! Even our worship is warfare, because it creates an atmosphere that is “contrary” to the atmosphere of this world. Therefore even before we open our mouths, we are not welcome! Anything we engage in is spiritual warfare! Our very presence on earth creates a contradiction and a conflict. (Essentially we represent a real and present “resistance” to evil – particularly when yielded to the Holy Spirit.)

Our next Truth for the Journey will continue this theme on the Kingdom, to truly identify the more in depth aspects of the kingdom. See you back here soon!

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father Your Kingdom rule is my freedom. I lean upon You and not upon my own understanding. Take everything I have to give You, including myself, and use it for Your Glory. I rejoice to be part of Your Kingdom. Govern my life. Lead me by Your Spirit. Fill me with the power of Your Word. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
Today I take my place. I take dominion. I walk out the authority that God has given me, to govern and reign in this life, through His name.
I only have authority because I am submitted to His authority.

A Network of Relationships

2011-01-18T18:13:00.003+01:00

A Network of Relationships

Do you have any spiritual relationships? ...having the same attitude and the same love, living in harmony, and keeping one purpose in mind...
(Phil 2:1-2 GOD’S WORD Translation)

Welcome back! As always we enjoy your company as we share this journey together and today we move on from where we left off in the last article; in which we mentioned the importance of spiritual hubs. By way of a short introduction into today’s “Truth for the Journey” let me begin by saying that one of the signs of the times - in reference to what the Holy Spirit is doing – is that He is very much orchestrating divine connections that “produce strong relationships;” this in turn develops Kingdom business.

Also we looked at how spiritual hubs were a sign of the “apostolic,” it is also important to state that without “networking” (first in regards to relationships within the family, but secondly where ministry is concerned) there would be little growth, if any where “spiritual bubs” are concerned. For this very reason the Holy Spirit is directing us to continually focus on “building relationships” so that a strong NET is produced. A net of relationships that net-work together in order to “produce” for the Kingdom of God.

To continue, this network of relationships is called “apostolic” and is what the Holy Spirit has been and will continue to develop for this end time move of God. These relationships look for apostolic support and encouragement from other men and women of God in order to move forwards boldly and powerfully in the Holy Spirit. This is where they are properly released to fulfil their destinies for the Glory of God.

A Network literally means: a linking of people with a common interest or area of concern. Therefore as we move on in this New Millennium we will see a new emphasis on and the development of such networks; working together interdenominational and via association. Networking does not imply that all groups should come under some “Pope” like figure head or apostolic movement. Networking simply implies associations or groups who work together like “fishing nets.” Each member of a network is like that of a KNOT that ties the net together. Those who have vision, grace and wisdom, to network with other networks will become the great fishing net that God will use to draw in the great multitude of souls.

Dr Bill Hamon says of such Networks, “This gives the Holy Spirit the opportunity to bring a greater unity and corporate vision within the Body of Christ. This will enable all available resources to be harnessed to work together towards assisting the Body of Christ to initiate and sustain an effective thrust towards souls. The common meeting ground is to have the corporate vision of reaping the great end time harvest and proclaiming Jesus Christ as Lord over all the earth.”

In the Amplified version it aptly refers to a dragnet here in Matthew 13:47, “Again, the kingdom of heaven is like a dragnet which was cast into the sea and gathered in fish of every sort.” The Message Bible on the other hand calls it a “fishnet” where the Authorised Version simply uses the word “net” which in the Greek refers to fishing net but also to a pack-saddle (which in the East was merely a bag of netted rope) but interestingly the root meaning for “net” actually means “to equip!” (See Gk. #4522 Strong’s). Also see the following scriptures: Matt 4:19; 9:35; 13:49; John 21:1-ff; James 3:13; 4:1-8; 1 Pet 5:5-10.

Effectively, a Network depends upon people (pastors and ministers) who are totally committed in every aspect of their life to the Lord Jesus Christ. People who are willing to use their God given talents and abilities without regard to the cost, with great joy. Remembering that this relationship of association networking is not to threaten or contradict denominational loyalties or cause division but to help bring strength, depth, unity, clarity, and the Word of God that can only enhance better skills and insights into sharing the Word of God.

One of the aims of a Network is as follows: to help establish ministry centre’s of excellence and significance for this present move of God. “Spiritual Hubs of Government’” enhance God’s Kingdom and provide a “platform” (for ministry gifts) to speak into cities and nations in an effective way. To develop ministries, enhancing and bringing them into positions of leadership, to influence every area of society. To combine their skills, experience and abilities, to make increasing individual and corporate impact in the regions of their influence for the Kingdom of God and for the Glory of the Lord Jesus Christ.

Lastly let’s take a look at the purpose of Knots: we could say that divine appointments are like “knots” in a net. They are strong connections that can take the strain and bombardments of team work or apostolic relationships. In other words each person is a knot; the net is only as strong as each “knot” or “connection.” Knots bring certain stabilizing features that help empower the net; the same is true of the Kingdom such as strength, ability, security, prosperity, healing, unity, harmony and trust.

FACT: Fishermen spend a great portion of their time mending and cleaning their nets; perhaps more time than actually fishing! Likewise we too must spend larger portions of our time in “ministry” on relationships that will help develop the net, His Net! This way we will be more effective.

FACT: when used to catch fish, nets see a large percentage of what is caught, thrown directly back into the sea: either wrong type or wrong size. Likewise we too will catch “undesirable” things in our nets at times. In addition consider this: God is looking for fish that can be gutted! In other words: those who are not ready to “give” themselves are thrown back... but those who can be “processed” and “prepared” are kept...!

Our emphasis here is evidently the “Kingdom of God” just as Matthew 13:47 clearly stated; “the kingdom of heaven is like a net...” (NIV) This was a direct teaching about the Kingdom not a net; but parallels are drawn and the net is used as a metaphor. However certain characteristics about the Kingdom can be deduced based on our knowledge of nets and I will close by saying that the Kingdom of God involves the following: the restoration of the nets equals the healing of relationships; knots equal the need to submit one to another in order to move forwards; just as knots in a net have to work together in order to make the net effective. Finally in conclusion: networking is equal to the Kingdom of God. We must be willing to work together and be steered by the agenda of the Holy Spirit for the sake of His Kingdom.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father Your Kingdom is likened to a net. Help me to willing work as part of your Net. Connect me Father with Your “divine connections” and keep me from wasting kingdom time by trying to forge relationships that are not of Your Spirit. Or from time wasters who pursue a relationship with me out of falsehood; those false relationships that don’t help to build Your Kingdom, that look only to serve a different purpose. Help me to avoid being distracted by relationships that have no allegiance to Your Kingdom, and no desire to build Your Kingdom but only their own! Amen

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
Romans 14:17 says “the kingdom of God is not a matter of eating and drinking, but of righteousness, peace and joy in the Holy Spirit...” (NIV) I choose to walk in righteousness, peace and joy and I choose to be led of the Holy Spirit. I will be used as a knot in the Kingdom to bring strength and stability not for myself but for others.

Signs of the Times

2011-01-14T13:57:00.003+01:00

Signs of the Times

Take your everyday, ordinary life... and place it before God as an offering... Don't become so well-adjusted to your culture that you fit into it without even thinking (Rom 12:1 The Message).

Hello and welcome back to today’s Truth for the Journey. I trust you enjoyed our last article, which was very informative and I hope you were inspired to be a baton catcher and a baton passer for your generation! However as we move on, today’s article discusses the “Signs of the Times.” For this we will continue where we left off and I will begin by saying that the question that the last hundred years leaves us is this: “What next?” The only answer that can be given is that we must surrender to the move of the Holy Spirit and the authority of God’s Word! Only this marriage of God’s Spirit and God’s Word will move us forwards in this generation.

Let me insert something here that came out during a conversation between Dr Robb Thompson and Oral Roberts, which I happen to agree with very much indeed. In Oral’s living room one day they began discussing how the Lord produced such great believers in the past. To which brother Oral made the following comments; “In the last century – we never heard about the word commitment. The word we consistently used was SURRENDER.”

I also would like to suggest that SURRENDER is a key word for any of us wanting to move on with the Holy Spirit today. We must learn once again what it means to be fully surrendered to the Lord. In Psalms 37:7 it says “Surrender yourself to the LORD, and wait patiently for him. Do not be preoccupied...” (God’s Word Translation). However the Authorized Version uses the word “rest” in place of “surrender” here - which basically means to “stop yourself, to hold your peace and to quieten yourself!” (See Strong’s Heb #1826)

To continue and to answer the question: “What next?” I will simply suggest that this has already begun taking place by “The Apostolic and Prophetic Movement.” To qualify this point of view, let me add something that Roberts Liardon spoke with me recently; “The most successful students and ministers now come from schools that are birthed by Apostolic Ministries. In the times of the reformation, seminaries were the place where great ministers were formed, but over time many of them have become places where God’s Word and the present day workings of the Holy Spirit are discredited. It seems that God has moved the place where He trains and launches His ministries and this increasingly is within the apostolic streams.”

In addition to this, it’s true to say that Church historians do recognise that the restoration of truth has been and is being restored to the church. You might say this began as far back as 1517. We can recognise these individual movements according to a particular century and decade. But to summarise, it is important to identify that the Church age could not be brought to a place of full maturity until the fivefold ministry gifts were restored, that every one as a church member could be prepared to be part of a ministry team I.e., a vehicle to reach society as seen in Ephesians 4:11 – 16.

These major truths have been restored, Salvation by grace through faith (Ephesians 2: 8-9) was the beginning (1500), which we now call ‘The Protestant Movement.’ In the 1600’s ‘The Evangelistic Movement’ began with water baptism and the separation of Church and State. In the 1700’s ‘The Holiness Movement’ came into being with sanctification, the Church being set apart from the world. In the 1800’s ‘The Faith Healing Movement’ with divine healing for the physical body and the recognition that healing was provided for in the atonement.

In the 1900’s ‘The Pentecostal Movement’ exploded on the scene at a small Bible School in Topeka, Kansas with former Methodist pastor Charles Fox Parham, with the Holy Spirit baptism, the evidence of speaking in tongues, and the gifts of the Spirit, the forerunners being Evan Roberts of the Welsh Revival (1904) and also William J. Seymour (from 1906 onwards) of the famous Azusa Street Revival USA. Then in the 1950’s the ‘Latter Rain Movement’ began with the prophetic presbytery, singing praises and melodious worship.

Now from this time forth, The Five Fold Apostolic Ministries have been placed back in the Church, with recognition. The Evangelist Ministry and mass evangelism was reactivated. Then in 1960, The Pastoral gift was restored to being the sovereign head of the Local Church, with renewal of all restored truth to all movement churches; this was known as ‘The Charismatic Movement.’

Then in 1970, ‘The Faith Movement’ began with faith confessions, prosperity and victorious attitudes for life; with The Teaching Ministry re-established as a major ‘five-fold ministry’.

In the 1980’s we saw The Prophetic Movement begin with the prophet ministry restored and the company of the prophets brought forth. We also saw through this prophetic movement, a release of certain characteristics and revelations, such as the activation of warfare praise and prophetic intercession and much teaching on the Joshua generation, which challenged us to cross over into the Promised Land.

Then in the 1990’s ‘The Apostolic Movement’ began with the Apostle’s ministry being restored to bring divine order, structure and finality the restoration of the five fold ministries. Along with this gift, there have been fresh appearances of the miraculous, signs and wonders, unity amongst leaders and a great harvest of souls.

These are not competitive, controlling authorities, but servant-hood governments that have come to serve the people of God and help them fulfil their course and purpose. They will teach spiritual principles and not just mechanics of the Word. They will understand that there are different mechanics for different things in different parts of the world. However, the spiritual principles remain the same. These churches will train the people to use their unction and to follow the leading of the Holy Spirit to reap a bountiful harvest of souls, wherever they go in the earth. (The following 5 principles were inspired by Roberts Liardon’s early teachings; the 6thprinciple is my own addition!)

Six Principles:
1. Divine training takes place:
In a spiritual hub, you will find schools of training with divine purpose and commitment – a place where revelation will abound. Some of these schools will serve and minister to a particular territory; some will serve the nations.

2. Ministries are based in Hubs:
It is a hub where travelling ministries base themselves. A ministry that succeeds and is effective in the earth must have a place of divine feeding, divine love, expectance and prayer.

3. Ministries and Divine Projects are launched:
It is a place where those who have prepared their hearts and lives are launched into spiritual position. There is an abundance of the word and the Spirit. Those who are truly called abound and prosper in the strength of their calling because of the environment of a spiritual hub. In this place, it is important to remember that because it is easy to feel called in a spiritual hub environment, we must search ourselves to make sure we have received the divine impartation to stand against the rough territories and to fulfil the commission or the path to which one is called.

4. Restoration for Laity and Ministries Takes Place:
For those who go out into the earth and build the works of God, it is good to have a place of refreshing where they can receive strength and help. It is wise to receive help when you need it, and to be renewed in your vision. If you are weary in well doing on the field, you must return to a place where you can be filled spiritually and encouraged.

5. It Effects the Culture of a City or a Region:
The maturity, revelation and anointing of the churches in this Millennium will change the cities where they are based. Morality, crime and the economy will be positively affected. Cities where the Spirit of God rules strongly will grow and prosper. There are many testimonies given where churches have had major break troughs because of their strong prayer and righteous mentality. Bars have shut down, prostitution and crime to almost nil rate

6. The Pulling down of Strongholds:
This has taken place because of the dealings with the principalities and powers over their territories. Dr C. Peter Wagner says, in his book Territorial spirits that; ‘…evil spirits are assigned to geographical areas.’ Let me make it plain, these have to be pulled down before we will see change and revival. Remember; time is a rewarder of faithfulness.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father thank you for this generation of believers - I want to be part of a movement that knows once again how to be properly surrendered to your Holy Spirit. Help me Father to fully surrender my life in Jesus name. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
Today I surrender my spirit, soul and body to be used by God the Holy Spirit, in this generation. I choose to be part of the “what next” phenomena on planet earth! I rightly take my place, in willing obedience with Him by my side.

Passing the Baton between Generations.

2011-01-11T18:40:00.002+01:00

Passing the Baton between Generations.

"One generation will praise your deeds to the next.
Each generation will talk about your mighty acts" (Psalms 145:4 GW).

For this "Truth for the Journey" let's look in detail at recent church history in order to view how the "baton" was successfully passed from one generation to the next. Knowing that through the perseverance and obedience of others - History as we know it was altered forever! In particular we are going to look at how things progressed from the "Azusa Street Revival" onwards and how certain individual's effected their own era, while still affecting our lives today.

To begin with and in addition to the ministers who received their Pentecostal experience at Azusa Street, thousands/millions of others were indirectly influenced by the revival in Los Angeles. Among them was Thomas Ball Barratt of Norway, a Methodist pastor who became known as the Pentecostal Apostle to Northern and Western Europe. After being baptized in the Holy Spirit and receiving tongues in New York City in 1906, Barratt returned to Oslo where, in December 1906, he conducted the first Pentecostal services in Europe. From Norway, Barratt traveled to Sweden, England, France and Germany where he sparked other national Pentecostal movements. Under Barratt, such leaders a Lewi Pethrus in Sweden, Jonathan Paul in Germany and Alexander Bobby in England were brought into the movement. From Chicago, through the influence of William Durham, the movement spread quickly to Italy and South America. Thriving Italian Pentecostal movements were founded after 1908 in the United States, Brazil, Argentina and Italy by two Italian immigrants from Chicago, Luigi Francescon and Giacomo Lombardy.

In South Bend, Indiana - near Chicago - two Swedish Baptist immigrants, Daniel Berg and Gunnar Vingren, received the Pentecostal experience. Believing they were called prophetically to Brazil, they embarked on a missionary trip in 1910 that resulted in the formation of the Brazilian Assemblies of God. The Brazilian Assemblies developed into the largest national Pentecostal movement in the world and had some 25 million members by 1990. Also hailing from Chicago was Willis C. Hoover, the Methodist missionary to Chile who in 1909 led a Pentecostal revival in the Chilean Methodist Episcopal Church. After being excommunicated from the Methodist Episcopal Church, Hoover and 37 of his followers organized the Pentecostal Methodist Church, which has some 1.5 million adherents in Chile.

African Pentecostalism owes its origins to the work of John Graham Lake (1870-1935), who began his ministry as a Methodist preacher but who later prospered in business as an insurance executive. In 1898 his wife was miraculously healed of tuberculosis under the ministry of Alexander Dowie, founder of the religious community called Zion City near Chicago. In 1907, Lake was baptized in the Holy Spirit and spoke in tongues. Zion City also produced almost 500 preachers who entered the ranks of the Pentecostal movement. After his Pentecostal experience, Lake abandoned the insurance business to answer a long standing call to minister in South Africa. In April 1908, he led a large missionary party to Johannesburg where he began to spread the Pentecostal message throughout the nation.

Lake succeeded in founding two large and influential Pentecostal churches in South Africa. The white branch took the name Apostolic Faith Mission in 1910, borrowing from the name of the famous mission on Azusa Street. David du Plessis, known to the world as 'Mr Pentecost,' came from this church. The black branch eventually developed into the Zion Christian Church, which had six million members by 1993. Soon after Lake returned to the United States, the movement reached the Slavic world through the ministry of a Russian-born Baptist pastor Ivan Voronacv, who received the Pentecostal experience in New York City in 1919. Through prophecies, he was led to take his family with him to Odessa, Ukraine in 1922. There he established the first Pentecostal church in the Soviet Union. Voronacv was arrested, imprisoned and martyred in a communist prison in 1943. The churches he founded survived extreme persecution and have become today a major religious force in Russia and the former Soviet Union.

Pentecostalism reached Korea through the ministry of Mary Rumsey, an American missionary who had been baptized in the Holy Spirit at Azusa Street in 1907. At that time, Rumsey believed that she was called to Japan and Korea. It was not until 1928, however, that she landed in Korea. Before World War II, she had planted eight Pentecostal churches there before being forced out of the country by the Japanese. In 1952, those eight churches were turned over to the AG, whose missionaries immediately opened a Bible School in Seoul. One of the first students to enroll was a young convert by the name of Paul Yonggi Cho. After he graduated from Bible College, Cho pioneered a Korean church that became the Yoido Full Gospel church. By the time it had over 700,000 members it was heralded the largest single Christian congregation in the world.

As for the Neo-Pentecostals, Charasmatics & Third Wavers - the first wave of the Pentecostal pioneer missionaries produced what has become known as the Classical Pentecostal Movement, with more than 14,000 Pentecostal denominations throughout the world. This phase was followed by organized Pentecostal denominational mission efforts that produced fast growing missions and indigenous churches. The final phase was the penetration of Pentecostalism into the mainline Protestant and Catholic churches as 'charismatic renewal' movements with the aim of renewing the historic churches.

It is worth noting that these newer 'waves' also originated primarily in the United States. They included the Protestant Neo-Pentecostal movement, which began in 1960 in Van Nuys, California, under the ministry of Dennis Bennett, Rector of St Marks Episcopal (Anglican) Church. Within a decade, this movement had spread to all the 150 major Protestant families of the world, reaching a total of 55 million people by 1990. The Catholic Charismatic Renewal movement had its beginnings in Pittsburgh in 1967 among students and faculty at DuQuesne University. After spreading rapidly among students at Notre Dame and the University of Michigan, the movement spread worldwide.

In the subsequent years since its inception, the Catholic movement not only has gained the approval of the church but also has touched over 90 million Catholics in 120 countries. The newest category that was added to these was called the 'Third Wave' of the Holy Spirit. It originated at Fuller Theological Seminary in 1981 under the classroom ministry of John Wimber, founder of the Association of Vineyard Churches. This 'wave' comprised mainline evangelicals who experienced sign and wonders but who disdained labels such as Pentecostal or charismatic. The Vineyard was the most visible movement of this category. By 1990, the Third Wavers were credited with some 33 million members worldwide.

Evangelists & Healers: Throughout the previous century, Pentecostals produced many evangelists who were known for their mass healing crusades. These included Maria Woodworth-Etter, Aimee Semple McPherson (Founder of the International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1927), Oral Roberts, Kathryn Khulman, Reinhard Bonnke, Benny Hinn and Peter Youngren. Beginning in the 1950's with Oral Roberts, the 'televangelist' genre appeared bringing healing, tongues, prophecies and other spiritual gifts into living rooms across the nation. Some of the most successful ones included Pat Robertson's Christians Broadcasting Network and Paul Crouch's Trinity Broadcasting Network. Notable evangelists Jimmy Swaggart and Jim Bakker fell in the televangelist scandals of the 1980's.

Most religious and secular press carried news of the renewal. This was paralleled by the publication of millions of books and tapes sold in conferences and crusades internationally. New periodicals spawned by the movement included Dan Malachuk's Logos magazine and Stephen Strang's Charisma and Ministries Today magazines. In the late 1970's a newer movement of 'faith' teachers drew national attention. These included Kenneth Hagin Sr., Kenneth Copeland and Fred Price. In this 1990's millions of people tuned in to the teachings of Copeland and Price, while others enroll in Hagins's Rhema Bible College in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma, and a host of other Spirit-filled Bible schools. Overseas, the crusades of the German Pentecostal evangelist Reinhard Bonnke regularly drew crowds of up to 500,000 in cities throughout Africa; (then later on up to one million in one crusade; truly phenomenal!) the same is true of Rev. Peter Youngren's crusades in India

Major educational institutions arose during the 20th century as well. Healing evangelist Oral Roberts founded a university under his name in Tulsa, Oklahoma, in 1965, and Pat Robertson founded Regent University in Virginia Beach, Virginia, in 1978. In addition, liberal arts colleges and Bible colleges were planted worldwide. In a sense, the charismatic movement in the United States reached a peak in 1977 when 50,000 people from all denominations gathered in Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Missouri, for the General Charismatic Conference led by Kevin Ranaghan. Planners for this conference were confronted by the major controversy of the era, which involved the 'shepherding' teachings of four charismatic leaders from Fort Lauderdale, Florida: Derek Prince, Bob Mumford, Charles Simpson and Don Basham. This movement fell apart after the four separated in 1986.

In the 1990's, Pentecostals and Charismatics were re-invigorated by new waves of revival that featured such Pentecostal spiritual manifestations such as 'holy laughter', 'falling under the Spirit', and other 'exotic' manifestations. Leading in this new wave was the South African Pentecostal evangelist Rodney Howard Browne. Beginning in 1993, manifestations appeared at the Toronto Airport Vineyard church led by Pastor John Arnott. Although Arnott's church was disfellowshiped by John Wimber and the Vineyard movement, the force of the revival has continued throughout the decade.

Another wave came in 1995 when a notable revival began at Brownsville Assembly of God in Pensacola, Florida. Led by Pastor John Kilpatrick and evangelist Steve Hill, the Brownsville meetings have attracted more than two million visitors, and recorded almost 200,000 conversions. Those resulting 'times of refreshing' revealed at the end of the Pentecostal century that the movement was far from over and poised itself when entering the new millennium with undiminished power. Only time can reveal the true impact on the world that the Pentecostal movement had throughout the 20th century.

Finally - from the likes of Rev. Charles F. Parham, William J. Seymour, John Wesley, , Thomas B Barratt, John G. Lake, Alexander Dowie, Maria Woodworth-Etter, Aimee Semple McPherson, Oral Roberts, Kathryn Khulman, Reinhard Bonnke, Benny Hinn and Peter Youngren, Kenneth Hagin Sr., Kenneth Copeland and Fred Price, John Wimber, Oral Roberts, Pat Robertson, John Kilpatrick, Steve Hill to the infamous Rodney Howard Browne; everyone of these above mentioned gifts to the Body of Christ had a responsibility to "catch" the baton held out to them... Had they dropped their baton, then life as we know it today, just wouldn't be the same! These men and women of God, epitomize what it is to RUN WITH THE FAITH OF THE SON OF GOD in our time.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father in Daniel 4:3 it says that Your "...kingdom is an eternal kingdom" and that Your "...power lasts from one generation to the next." Thank You that I can be a baton passer by the Help of Your Holy Spirit and that I will never drop that baton all the while I allow Him to guide my steps totally. I ask you Father to continually help me so that I can leave a mark for You on my generation which will help mark the next - for your Glory. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
Today I am used by God to help bring progression to the things of His Kingdom. I invest my life in His Kingdom and deposit my life completely. Nothing will be "stalled" or "delayed" because of me. I flow with God's Spirit and keep in step with His infinite timing. His divine plan for each generation supersedes all that I am or aspire to be. Hallelujah!

Introduction to Leadership

2011-01-07T15:25:00.002+01:00

Introduction to Leadership

FIRST OF all, then, I admonish and urge that petitions, prayers, intercessions, and thanksgivings be offered on behalf of all men, for kings and all who are in positions of authority or high responsibility, that [outwardly] we may pass a quiet and undisturbed life [and inwardly] a peaceable one in all godliness and reverence and seriousness in every way (1 Timothy 2:1-2 AMP)

Welcome to today’s article for Truth for the Journey! We will be looking at a subject now that is close to my heart. Over the years I have been hosting leadership gatherings around the world, of which I am very grateful and honoured. However, in my travels I have been consistently challenged by the lack of understanding that prevails. Firstly the lack of understanding of what it means to be a leader and what qualifications are necessary; secondly the lack of insight people seem to have of leadership from a New Testament point of view and the subsequent “out-working” of Church “structure” as seen in scripture.

It’s disconcerting because as a result of this ignorance we tend to get caught up in the extremes that exist that provide no real way forwards at all. So over the next period of time, I want to discuss what it means to be a leader.
• What qualifies us to be one?
• Who appointed us?

Titles are also misused – certainly within the apostolic movement today. Therefore we will also discover what it means to lift oneself up to be a bishop! As many currently perceive that the title of “bishop” exceeds that of “apostle.” We must clear up this confusion within the Body of Christ.

However let it be understood from the very onset of this subject – right here in the introduction - that it is not now, nor will it ever be my intention to use this material to violate, subject, mislead, manipulate or control others (which is often wrongly “perceived” about the apostolic). Instead my heart towards this vast subject is to help bring some much needed “clarity,” as there is so much out there that helps bring much “confusion-to-the-table.” My intention in teaching bout the Apostolic is only to shed some light “all-things-apostolic” as they should be according to New Testament scriptures. None of us should ever manipulate or control the work and move of the Holy Spirit or the lives of any individual committed to networking apostolically - in any capacity.

So to begin with let’s start by saying that although “structure” is good and necessary we must never lose sight of the fact that we are ONE BODY. When structure stands in the way or when we worship or idolise our structures rather than Jesus Christ who is the HEAD of ONE BODY, then we have moved away from the Holy Spirit and truth. Unity recognises that there is ONE BODY. Disunity segregates and divides. We do not become members of a club or organisation – we are members of the ONE BODY of CHRIST.

We must not present ourselves in a said “Association” or “Network” in such a way to imply that those who do not believe and worship the same way as ourselves are out of order with God or are in some kind of error. This is not the prerogative of some kind of Pope Initiative, whether it is the Catholic, Charismatic, Pentecostal, Evangelical, Kingdom, Faith, Prophetic or the apostolic kind.

We all need to appreciate that each person and fellowship has a responsibility to follow their own revelations, convictions and practices, but not to impose them upon the corporate Body of Christ. Dr. Bill Hamon in his book titled, ‘Apostles, Prophets and the Coming Move of God,’ on page 49 (1997) says, ‘Such presumptuous declarations, teachings and actions cause divisions in the Body of Christ. Every erroneous Christian group has established certain doctrines and practices that are unique to them. This then makes them an exclusive, “elected” group that sees itself as superior to all others.’

Mr Hamon goes on to say, ‘Exclusivism leads to cults.’ He says that, ‘the manifestations of this attitude are seen in the extreme groups that arose during the time of the Holiness and Pentecostal Movements: Mormonism, Christian Scientists and Jehovah Witnesses. But sad to say, there are also some of the extreme right that are still counted as “mainline” Christian denominations who believe that they are the only true people of God. They base this conviction on a certain baptism formula, way of worship, Church order or some other unique doctrine or practice.’

‘No one man or group has it all.’ The New Testament Scriptures emphatically and repeatedly declare that Christ has only ONE Church here on Planet Earth. No denominational, fellowship, network, association or restoration camp makes up the entirety of the Church. Every born again, blood washed, sanctified child of God is a member of Christ’s Church. They may be Charismatic Catholics, Evangelicals, Pentecostals, Prophetic people or Present-Truth Apostolic people. We are only parts of the whole and members in particular of the corporate Body of Christ. All truth and life are found in the whole, not just in one particular part or member. We need each other and will never come to maturity and fullness of truth without each other. The New Wine is in the cluster – not just in one individual grape (Isaiah 65:8).

However, the late Dr Bob Gordon said, “…a balanced view of leadership is necessary. Leaders are not called to lord it over God’s people. Neither are God’s people called to be free democrats. Both extremes seem to have reared their heads in recent years”.

This however does not detract from the responsibility of any network from fulfilling the commission given by the Lord Jesus Christ to “Go and make disciples…and teaching them…” (Matthew 28: 16-20).

“According to the grace of God which was given to me, as a wise master builder I have laid the foundation, and another builds on it. But let each one take heed how he builds on it. For no other foundation can anyone lay than that which is laid, which is Jesus Christ” (1 Cor 3:10, 11 NKJV).

“The great need of the day is growth, balance and maturity.”

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father show me how to effectively pray for my leadership and all those who are in positions of responsibility in your Kingdom. I want to make their work light not heavy or burdensome. I also want to live a peaceful life! Show me your heart in intercession. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
In the realm of leadership that has been assigned to me, whether in the work place or at home with my family. I will take my place. I will lead well. I will lead where it is my place to lead and I will lift up and support with prayer those whose God given authority exceeds mine; those who are responsible figures in and for my life. I will do this through Spirit led intercession; praying the Word of God over their lives.

The Origin of Christmas vs. Blended Traditions

2010-12-23T12:14:00.004+01:00

The Origin of Christmas vs. Blended Traditions

(Part 2)

“Every good present and every perfect gift comes from above, from the Father who made the sun, moon, and stars...” James 1:17 (GOD’S WORD Translation)

Welcome back! Now today we are going to answer the question that we posed during the last Truth for the Journey: “The Wonders of Christmas.” The question that we asked was this, “Where is the Christ of Christ-Mass?” To answer this adequately we must look into the origin of Christmas. To do so I will use some material from one of my own books, which takes a positive in-depth look at the “evolution” that Christmas as a great religious holiday has undergone. It has radically altered since its inception up until now; as we would recognise it today. Most of us love Christmas – even those of us who claim not to stand on ceremony too much, even we secretly love elements of Christmas too (especially the gifts!) but do we really know much about this important public Holiday – especially since most of us participate - every single year!

Let me add before I go any further, you might not be aware that in the USA “Christ” and the name of “Jesus” is such a threat these days (especially in the public arena) that we are no longer meant to say “Happy Christmas” but instead say, “Happy Holiday!” In my opinion this is political correctness gone a little too far! Yet as we look into the traditions behind Christmas - you might be slightly fascinated by some of the following facts:

FACT: First let’s begin with “Saint Nicholas” & the “Christmas Stocking!” Needless to say, Saint Nicholas was not really a fat man who climbed down chimneys at night, but he was a popular Priest (from fourth century Turkey - who eventually became a Bishop). He was a godly man who was a generous “giver” and remains an inspiration to us all today. However in memory of his many acts of charitable deeds and generosity, the day of his death [December 6th A.D.343] became customarily known as St. Nicholas Day; on the eve of which, gifts were exchanged in his remembrance. This tradition grew popular and spread throughout Greece (where Nicholas means "victorious" or "hero of the people!"), into Russia (where he was called "Nikolai, the Wonder-Worker,") and then into the rest of Europe.

Ordained as a young teenager, Nicholas entered the priesthood at 19 years of age. Included amongst the many accounts of his life and ministry, is the report that “twin brothers were raised from the dead!” It was written about him that one could hardly keep count of the virtue and goodness that he spread around himself.

One particular story of St. Nicholas' goodness was when he gave to a poor man, so that his three daughters could be married. The man was so poor that his daughters had no dowries, and in his desperation, was going to sell them into white slavery. To prevent this from happening, Nicholas threw a bag of gold pieces through the man's window at night; he did things this way to preserve his own “anonymity” and to ensure that God received the glory - not man! [The funny part of this story – is that this particular gift from Nicholas just happened to randomly land inside some “stockings” that the young girls had hung up by the fire that night to dry!] So it’s quite easy to see from this, just where such traditions - that we have held dear for so long – have originated from and just how such stories have shaped our concept of Christmas; evolving layer by layer over time.

As the story continues; apparently one by one the daughter’s dowries were met and paid; they were no longer outcasts and thus made them “eligible” for marriage. However, (as the legend tells it...) by the time Nicholas had done this consecutively for each daughter, including the third; the father caught him in the act! However Nicholas made the girl’s father “swear-on-an-oath” that he would never “reveal” the truth behind who was responsible for such gifts of kindness - as long as Nicholas was still alive.

Consider just how much this story of a generous old man of God and the cartoon character we now call “Santa Claus” have been totally mixed up, twisted and distorted (including an “elf-workshop” at the North Pole!) Yes it’s laughable, but how many generations of parents have unintentionally deceived their children, with stories that they believed without question and without any background knowledge?

FACT: The worship of dead “saints” was actually denounced during the “Protestant Reformation” of the 1500's - since then “St. Nicholas Day” has not been observed in England. Therefore the role of gift bearer was transferred to a mythical character named “Father Christmas” patterned after the pagan Roman god “Saturn” (aka "god of peace and plenty"). Father Christmas was a large man clothed in SCARLET or DEEP GREEN robes - lined with fur! The day of “gift-giving” in England was changed from December 6 to December 25 to coincide with the date that the church had chosen to celebrate the birth of Jesus.

• In Holland and Belgium: the traditional day of December 6th was still celebrated but there “Sinter-Klaas” rode through the streets on a white horse rewarding good children with treats and toys but giving rods to bad children!
• In Germany: the saint was referred to as "Nicholas-Dressed-in-Fur" who also left sweets for good children and rods for the naughty ones!
• In Scotland: it was John Knox who put an end to Christmas celebrations in 1552 which was not revived again until television reintroduced St. Nicholas in the 1950's.

FACT: Christopher Columbus brought the first celebration of St Nicholas Day to the New World when he landed in the West Indies December 6, 1492 and named the harbour: “Port of St Nicholas” in honour of the patron saint of sailors. All of these traditions blended with immigration to the New World; as the English and Dutch came and intermarried “Father Christmas” and “Sinter Klaas” blended into one figure. Dutch Americans eventually adopted December 25th as their day of celebration and by the end of the civil war, “St Nicholas” the bishop, was generally known in the US as “Santa Claus.”

FACT: A mixture of poets and cartoonists between the 1800's and 1900's continued to define this character in word pictures and drawings. America particularly - was a melting pot for old world cultures and characters from the Dutch "Sinter Klaas" and the Lutheran "Kris Kringle" giving gifts for children. You might be interested to know that Father Christmas’ team of reindeer - were borrowed from a Russian legend!

The tragedy of course is that the “genuine work and ministry” of a man of God - such as Nicholas (who had such fullness of God that even the dead were raised!), has had his testimony distorted so much so, that the memory of this powerful man of God is hidden in tales - of a fat-bellied-pipe-smoking-pie-eater! Yet as we have discovered, the “true” story of St Nicholas, is actually a beautiful picture of SELFLESS-GIVING, which Christmas is all about - rather than the stress and hype that Santa now represents.

The true story of St Nicholas represents the giving heart of our Father God, who incidentally does NOT carry rods to punish children (or adults!) but rather gives good gifts to ALL who will receive them, as we see here in James 1:17 “EVERY GOOD GIFT AND EVERY PERFECT GIFT IS FROM ABOVE, AND COMETH DOWN FROM THE FATHER OF LIGHTS... ” (KJV) We know that the greatest gift the Father gave us was “Jesus” – who is our Hope, Victory and Redemption. He is the true meaning of Christmas. Notably the word "Christmas" occurs nowhere in the Bible! But is an old English word that basically means; "Christ's Mass" which refers to the celebration of the Lord's Supper, i.e. the Mass. The earliest occurrence of the word on record is 1038 A.D. Christians at this time considered the Mass (Lord's Supper) to be the most important part of the celebration of Christ's birth, hence it came to be called Christmas.

SO CONSIDER THIS: as Christians we must seek to put “Christ” back into “Christ-mass!” Even though Christmas is not a biblical holiday per se – as there is no bible reference at all – we must take this opportunity to “openly celebrate” our triumphant Saviour, and King! We are not Catholic and nor are we secular – who have lucratively cashed-in on Christmas for generations – but we are believers. We must avoid its paganism and even it catholic elements; and use it only in context of “worship” and “evangelism” - without adopting its pagan symbolism. (If we do so, then Halloween must be acceptable also!) So Pastors everywhere this Christmas must ensure that they are preaching truth and not myth! In addition we are celebrating Jesus as a “Mighty One” – not as a “Baby-in-a-Manger!” Which leads us to our next point of interest: “The Nativity & The Christmas Tree!”

FACT: It should not come as any surprise that Christmas has evolved from a mixture of Paganism and Christianity. Take for example the "Nativity" this was a term that was derived from the Roman and Greek worlds – when sun worship took place, "Mithraism". This winter festival was called "The Nativity" or "The Nativity of the sun." It is believed that this festival was adopted by the Roman Catholic Church and combined with Christianity because it was so popular and was held during the same time of year! The Roman winter festival was named “Saturnalia” which involved the practice of exchanging presents. There is nothing wrong with that of course but to link it to the gifts that the wise men gave to Jesus would be false. By the time they gave those gifts to Jesus he was no longer in his manger but in his house! (See Matthew 2:9-11) which was some considerable time after his birth; where they gave gifts to “Him” and not to “each other!”

FACT: The Christmas tree - as we recognise it today only dates back a few centuries, whereas the idea concerning "SACRED TREES" is very ancient.

For example:
• An old Babylonian fable symbolised the “Evergreen” tree with the resurrection of Nimrod!
• Among the Druids the "Oak" was sacred,
• For the Egyptians it was the “Palm”
• For the Romans it was the "Fir" which was decorated with red berries during Saturnalia.
• The Scandinavians however worshiped a god called “Odin” who was believed to bestow special gifts at yuletide to those who approached his Sacred Fir Tree!
• There are also at least ten Biblical references to the "Green Tree" (emphasis on green is toward the evergreen that stays green all year round) which is associated with idolatry and false worship (see 1Kings 14:23 etc).

All things mentioned above considered, now compare what Jeremiah said in chapter 10:3-4 with today's custom of decorating a tree at Christmas time. “For the customs of the people are vain: for one cutteth a tree out of the forest, the work of the hands of the workman, with the axe. They deck it with silver and with gold; they fasten it with nails and with hammers, that it move not. They are upright as the palm tree, but speak not...”

While it is evident that the people of Jeremiah's day were actually making an idol out of the tree, I am not suggesting for a minute that people who place Christmas trees in their homes or churches are actually worshiping those trees! No! But such customs do however provide vivid examples of how influential “MIXTURES,” have occurred over time.

NOW HOWEVER LET ME ADD THE BALANCE: BOYCOTTING CHRISTMAS WOULD NOT BE WISE! Communism with its roots in atheism opposes all forms of religious expression and we don't want to be seen in the same light; this would not be clever! So fanatical opposition to Christmas is not a suggested plan of action; however what we do need is proper balance to “avoid” the extreme. The Bible is clear that without knowledge we perish; ignorance is never bliss - long term! Rather as Christians we need to use this established day on our yearly calendar, as an opportunity to witness and reveal Christ to the world.

Final Conclusion: Christmas is all about the expression of giving... specifically the Father-heart-of-God - who so “loved that He gave..." Jesus as seen in John 3:16. Consider this: His divine nature was expressed through the life of a humble priest who left his mark on successive generations and had a lasting impact throughout the world. Although the stories were distorted and blended through the mix of cultural differences, artistic licence and commercialism – STILL THE HEART BEHIND CHRISTMAS IS ONE OF GIVING AND GENEROSITY. THIS MUST NOT BE LOST SIGHT OF IN THE TINSEL OF THE SECULAR WORLD. Yes Christmas is a time to be merry, to share joy, to love and be loved, in the spirit of giving; which is the very nature of God - who generously GAVE Christ to us all; HE IS TRUE HOPE AND GOOD NEWS FOR THE WORLD.

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Thank you Father for your gift of eternal life this Christmas... Use me to reveal your nature to my loved ones. Let it be revealed in my face and the way that I posture myself towards them. You are a light to this world. Let others see Christ through my lifestyle this Christmas. Be evident beyond the tinsel and the festivities; be evident through me. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
Father it is your nature to give and I want to be more like you. Today I confess that I too am a giver. I give my time, energy, resources and love. I commit everyday to give what is in my power to give; even if it is just a word to edify or a smile to comfort. "I confess that as long as I am alive I will cause others to thrive and as long as I am living I will be constantly found giving!" Hallelujah

The Wonders of Christmas

2010-12-21T15:37:00.003+01:00

The Wonders of Christmas

(Part 1)

“Where is He Who has been born King of the Jews? For we have seen His star in the east at its rising and have come to worship Him”
(Matthew 2:2 AMP)

Hello and welcome to today’s Truth for the Journey (part 1 of 2). This part is mainly the introduction; in the second part we are going to look at the “Origins of Christmas vs. Blended Traditions” and what is really behind this festival that we all enjoy so much. Yet again Christmas is just around the corner and what a wonderful time of the year this can be! People are mostly upbeat, positive and friendly; everyone is looking forward to the “festivities” ahead!

Jenny and I love this time of year. With “pagan-trappings-aside,” Christmas can be a truly genuine family affair – which can only be good! Our children love the snow; 12 inches this year – for Italy that is really quite something! (In fact my wife and I actually spent our honey moon here in Tuscany almost 17 years ago, and in all that time we have never witnessed snow like this year!) On top of everything else about Christmas we can’t forget all the exceptional company that we share, the yummy delicacies that we taste and the happy conversations that we enjoy!

It’s also an opportunity to see folks that we haven’t seen all year round; close friends and extended family, as well as giving and receiving gifts! In the midst of all of this is all the other paraphernalia that goes along with Christmas: the decorations, the songs and all the special entertainment that’s available – it’s all so seemingly delightful! Nonetheless there is a vast difference between the Christ-motivated-and-Christ-centred-festivities that we are “meant” to enjoy and the commercialised-version-of-Christmas that we all get “propelled” into each year!

In our particular house-hold - I can honestly say that we have “never” celebrated “Santa” or “Saint Nicholas” with our children or our relatives - yet we certainly enjoy the family and the “gift-giving-gift-receiving” part of Christmas – it’s the best part! Although I might add; no one should wait to “stand-on-ceremony” or for “special-occasions” before they buy gifts for their loved ones! We should do it all year round and find fun ways of “randomly-expressing-our-love!” In fact that can be much more enjoyable at times; especially with children!

Actually I like to buy them all gifts when they least expect it. That way they learn that they don’t have to “earn” my love; rather I can shower them with love regardless! Even when funds are low, one can still find “inventive” and “ingenious” ways of blessing those special and closest to us – without waiting for special events like birthdays and such. We are free to love – all-year-round! Likewise we are free to show our reverence for Christ, His birth, death, burial and resurrection – all-year-round! And not just stand on ceremony – weddings, funerals, christenings and church-calendar-holidays! We must be free.

Going back to Santa however, we chose not to “mislead” or “misinform” our children [including the tooth fairy or Easter bunny!] Our children have always enjoyed Christmas and Easter without introducing all the paraphernalia that other children experience. Proof that Christmas can still be enjoyed without any of that. I believe that we can be transparent concerning the truth about Christmas (with its pagan origins) yet without spoiling the awesome opportunity that it presents for “evangelistic-witnessing.” A lack of wisdom results in extreme behaviour which is only ever misinterpreted as being negative. (Then again, balanced and faith filled behaviour can also be misinterpreted as negativism by certain people!) However my point is this; people in general tend to love holidays and being festive - BUT can they still see the Christ of Christmas or just the Christmas tree and all the other trimmings? Has He been “crowded” out altogether? I beg to suggest this is true.

Then in addition to this revelation, every Christmas we have another one, such as: "Oh-no-we've-over-spent-again!" The novelty of Christmas usually wears off between the last present opened and the final washing-up! In the midst of all this - Jesus has long been and principally replaced by “commercialism” and our “lust-for-things!” Especially in this hi-tech world of ours; the latest computer games, gadgets and gismos have simply taken-over-our-interest! These things are not bad in themselves. Who wants to be a kill-joy or party pooper? After all Christmas is the ultimate-excuse-to-party for most folks – even with church folks! (This includes college-parties, student’s-night-out, the annual-office-party or simple family-get-togethers).

Then the “anticlimax” arrives - January! All those fancy and expensive gifts that we indulged ourselves with are now “half-price” in the January-sales! What a come-down after such fun and now we have to go back to work (business-as-usual) in order to “pay” for it all – meaning that our major “festivity-hang-over” is none other than our own “debt!” (All this while more than half the world remains dismissed to dire poverty, while we squander the very money that would help them most. Consider that the money spent on fireworks alone would quite easily feed the many masses of hungry folks all over Africa!)

Having said all of this (we are all guilty of festive indulgence one way or another!) it is safe to assume that Christmas for most people has little, if anything to do with the birth of our Messiah and King. Yet for Christians specifically – there should be some depth of understanding where this holiday is concerned and what it is really all about.

QUESTION: does the average Christian understand the type of evolution that “Christmas” has radically undergone over the generations? What does all the paraphernalia that we so readily accept really “represent?” (The evergreen, the mistletoe and not forgetting Saint Nick) Most of us can acknowledge that much of what we accept as the true accessories of this holiday have actually “distorted” its original meaning. “Christmas” actually meant “Christ-Mass.” Knowing this then - is it wrong to ask, “Where is the Christ of CHRIST’S-MASS?”

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father thank You for the awesome opportunity that this major holiday represents for witnessing; help me to utilize this time well to witness to my family and close friends. Give me wisdom and understanding to walk out this holiday with reverent and Godly fear. My interests this Christmas exceed materialism – for “You” are my primary focus this holiday, along with those that You have placed on my heart, who need to be reached in some way. Use me this Christmas. Amen

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
Father You so greatly loved and dearly prized this world that You gave up Your only begotten (unique) Son, so that whoever believes in (trusts in, clings to, relies on) Him shall not perish (come to destruction, be lost) but have eternal (everlasting) life. This is the true gift and prize of Christmas. Hallelujah! (John 3:16 AMP)

Will we Inherit the Kingdom of God?

2010-12-15T18:09:00.004+01:00

Will we Inherit the Kingdom of God?

(Fifth is this Series)

“Now, the effects of the corrupt nature are obvious: illicit sex, perversion, promiscuity... drunkenness, wild partying... people who do things like that will not inherit the kingdom of God” (Gal 5:19-26 GW).

Welcome back once again to today’s Truth for the Journey; final part of this 5 part series, “The Abnormal Sexual behaviour of the End Times.” And what a journey this has been! This article is a little longer than usual, but I have used this particular article to wrap up a very wide subject indeed and will continue right where we left off. Now homosexuality exists within the Church as well as outside of the Church and there are those today who are still prepared to stand up in the face of this growing tide and speak God’s Word directly at it! Over the years such people like Ulf Ekman have taken a more “militant” approach to homosexuality and been controversially very out spoken about the Bible’s stance towards homosexuality. I quote him in the next few paragraphs, during a time when he was studying to become a priest in Uppsala, Sweden. Start quote: “One of the professors invited a number of homosexuals – “Christian” homosexuals, as they referred to themselves. They were asked to talk about the positive aspects of homosexuality to a group of between 200-300 prospective priests. ‘A small group of us knew that they were coming, so we took some time that morning to pray. We took authority over the spiritual forces, which lie behind homosexuality.’ ‘This section of our education was nothing other than the seduction of future priests to accept homosexuality as a genuine form of love. It was then hoped that they would go on to spread that opinion in churches throughout the country.’

‘However, homosexuality is not a genuine display or expression of love. According to the Word of God, it is an abomination in the eyes of God. Of course, just as with every other abomination, it is possible to be delivered from homosexuality. The blood of Jesus cleanses from all sin, when this sin is confessed. If evil spirits are involved, they can be cast out and the person can be set free.’

‘The moment I set foot in the room,” Ulf Ekman said, “I noticed that for some reason the professor looked slightly shaken. He was upset and grumpy. It was obvious that the spirit powers, which we had bound, were now disturbed.’ This group of five homosexuals began to talk about how ‘fantastic’ it was to be a homosexual and just how Christian it was. Afterwards we had the opportunity to ask questions. ‘I was given the floor, so I turned to the first chapter of Romans and read what it says there about homosexuality. Then I said, “You say that homosexuality is talked about only in the Old Testament and that the New Testament has nothing to say about it, but just seems to accept it. But here in Romans 1:27 is the same word which is used in Leviticus 18:22; the word ‘abomination.’ The Word of God says that it is not at all acceptable, but that it is an abomination.’

‘I did not raise my voice or shout or prophesy; I just spoke calmly, led by the Holy Spirit. When I said this, the entire auditorium exploded. The Word of God came into the room like a hammer. The otherwise cultivated, aesthetic, humane, humanistic professor had suddenly become a different man. What was really inside him suddenly came out; he became angry and irritated.... Their intention had been to come and neatly seduce us all, but now their plans had come to nothing. I did not stand up and say, “Thus says the Lord,” but said, “I’d like to read a scripture.” This scripture acted as a spear, a sword and a lance, which caused total chaos. The professor completely lost his head and several others turned to and shouted, “How lacking in love!” Pastor Ekman concludes, ‘This treachery is taking place today in schools, companies and within political debates, not just regarding homosexuality, but also the New Age movement and occultism. Wherever you look you will discover this ‘sophisticated’ form of seduction. Some Christians have even become so sophisticated that they too have swallowed these things. It is time that we stood up and kicked the devil out of every single area where he has found an entrance.’

‘There is no reason why we should have to follow the devil’s rules. God plays according to different rules. If the devil presents himself politely, intellectually and seductively, you can prophecy in the broadest dialect and say, “Thus says the Lord!” God looks at the heart! God is looking for prophets who will prophesy in the Holy Spirit and not just run around getting angry at people or with no more than personal opinions to shout about everything” - End Quote.

In the previous series that we did about the specific seduction of women in the end times, we discussed the high level of “promiscuity” that currently exists amongst females (young and old). In light of this we must continue to remember that homosexuality is not a perversion that only affects men but also women of course. As our opening scripture stated; women also abandon their “natural affection.” The “feminisation” of men and the “masculinisation” of women is all part of the distortion Satan wants to create. Or we could say the same thing using a different word choice such as; the “emasculation” of men and “defeminising” of women – either way it is the same thing! And one magazine that likes to promote all types of perversion (not surprisingly) is a more recent magazine entitled “Jezebel!” (Find at http://jezebel.com/).

Then in addition to this, let me make a brief mention of an event that not everyone is aware of, that radically reinforces the feminist agenda and has gathered much ground in recent years, called: “Lilith Fair.” This even showcases major international music artists - female only – which also raises substantial funds for various charities in the process.

When initially founded by famed and talented musician Sarah McLachlan - she was a professing “lesbian” but has since changed her status! However concerning the event itself and for your own interest you can visit the official site “lilithfair.com.” I have found that many folks are oblivious to the fact that this myth exists, however “Lilith” is supposedly the name of not only the first wife of Adam but technically the first ever woman! Basically this ancient Jewish myth that surrounds the early notion that Adam had not just one wife but two! Lilith was apparently the rebellious one of the two, who left him because she could no longer submit to him! Needless to say then, that Lilith is naturally used to represent female hatred and resentment towards “all male authority” - especially and most pointedly - God’s!

To continue however, while the story of Lilith might sound a truly crazy notion indeed, it is still most definitely being utilized by various Neo-Pagan groups and the New Agers as well as help front the Feminist agenda. At this point I would like to add an interesting quotation from none other than “Marilyn Manson” who appeared to support this Lilith Fair event, from its inception and who, during an interview with MTV in 1997, famously said the following and I quote: "I think the Lilith Fair was far more subversive and satanic than anything that I could have done because here you have people playing this very innocuous folk music that's providing America with love and very dangerous ideas about women's sexuality. And I think a lot of Christians would be upset if they knew!" End quote. This was the same individual who more famously “ranted” to his mass audience during MTV’s Video music awards the same year; “We will no longer be oppressed by the fascism of Christianity!” Evidently then, this feminist agenda features large and is a key element in satan’s strategy to war against human sexuality (see http://www.neverisapromise.com/interviews/MTVYRock.html).

If you enjoy art like my wife and I do, you might know of Dante Gabriel Rossetti who was a member of the “pre-Raphaelite Brotherhood” (consisting of four English painters who formed a secret society in the 19th century. They pursued what they considered the “sincerities” of the early renaissance period - ‘before’ Raphael – hence the term pre-Raphaelite!) During this time we know that Lilith as a myth had not faded out of people’s minds, but was “alive-and-well” in the consciousness of the Victorians, as seen in Dante’s painting famously called “Lady Lilith!” (To see this painting go to http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Lady-Lilith.jpg) Lilith was described in Judaic literature not only as the first wife of Adam and the seducer of men but was also interestingly associated with the murder of children. At this point I can interject that the sexual abuse of children has never just been a male dominated phenomenon; there are female pedophiles existing out there, in fact throughout history and even recently there have been high profile cases in the media where nursery workers have been convicted of child sex abuse – female pedophiles. In fact there is such a thing as pedophile-couples where both partners engage in the act of molesting and videotaping their own children. Once again, sexual sin is not a “male” problem but a “human” problem.

Nevertheless Dante’s depiction of Lilith was not so much a pedophile, but a women who was both powerful and evil (temptresses); a prevalent theme in 19th-century painting, particularly among the Pre-Raphaelites. Art buffs everywhere will know that Humanism and Renaissance essentially feature “man apart from God.” (Renaissance itself means “Rebirth” – involving all culture, arts, literature and learning - outside of Church confines). In fact many of the early paintings from the renaissance involved much nudity and immorality – and perhaps most notably many of the “Popes” commissioned and patronized (funded) such arts!

Actually it could be said that the early renaissance poets and artists wanted to study “any” subject that had as little, if anything to do with God, Jesus or the Church at all! They preferred instead to employ any number of mythologies, philosophies and paganisms as topics for their work; specifically and including the male nude. Actually Florence is considered the “birthplace” of the Renaissance, and as one of the wealthiest cities of the time; it both housed and funded much of its famous arts (mainly via the powerful Medici family). But it’s important to add here that Florence as a city was also famous for its immorality, particularly “sodomy” - which lent to the fact that much of its art work involved “the naked male form.” In other words the renaissance had its preoccupations with sodomy and controversy and its birth place was Florence.

Evidently then, every generation has had its own “seductions” to deal with, including the same lies that permeate throughout. However due to the “human condition” it matters little which; people, geographical location, time in history, political agenda or climate that existed - the sins involved remain the same! And times continue to change, for better and for worse. And to make this a little more contemporary; recently I turned on my computer to watch the evening news and a flash announcement/segment concerning hotels, went something like this; (direct quote :) “Many hotels are now declaring themselves “Gay Friendly” but are they really or are they just chasing the lucrative Pink-Pound?” (BBC World News, Live Station, Dec 2010). This led me to take a closer look into what the markets are saying about this now illustrious “Pink-Pound,” knowing that whatever affects the economy – affects all of us! In simple terms; nothing is considered “news-worthy” by the world’s media “unless” it affects the economy!

This is precisely why the gay movement is growing in influence and receiving more attention - because it is now affecting the economy on a much larger scale! According to marketingweek.co.uk, “The concept of the “pink pound” has been in use since the Nineties, but it is only in recent times that this market has moved into the mainstream. Brands such as Lloyds TSB, Ikea, Pepsi and Heinz have all launched campaigns that appeal to a gay audience.” (Occasionally, the similarly termed "blue pound" is used specifically for lesbians – this adds new emphasis to the “colour-of-money!”). (http://www.marketingweek.co.uk/analysis/features/pink-pound%E2%80%99s-value-rises-in-mainstream-markets/3020077.article and/or http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pink_money )

According to Nick Gadsby, (associate director of research firm Lawes Consulting), “...the rise in gay civil partnerships, and the Liberal Democrats putting fully-fledged gay marriage on their agenda, means gay families will become a more conventional part of British society.” He told a Westminster Forum in September: “What you’re going to see [in society] is a lot more gay couples settling down to a relatively traditional conservative life of shopping at Sainsbury’s and trying to get their kids into the best school.” He goes on to say, “This means that marketers need to focus on becoming more inclusive in their messaging... The pink pound is being slightly diverted from the more fun aspects that are traditionally associated with gay culture.” He continues, “Indeed, a range of targeted services from mainstream brands have launched in the past few years to meet an anticipated specialist need from the gay community.” Thomson Holidays’ specialist “Freedom” is an example of this... “Freedom offers a “GayComfort” seal of approval on all the hotels it promotes on its site, which product manager Tommy Lynch says “allows us to choose hotels that are willing to take our training on board to help them better understand how to work with gay customers... We wanted to do more than just advertising because people can be cynical about corporations becoming ‘gay friendly’.”

So in all of this we can see very clearly that times indeed are changing, in more ways than one. Society as we have known it will be unrecognizable just decades from now! And I will use this as my final quote (marketingweek.co.uk): Case studies - UK advertisements featuring gay characters:

• Ikea promoted its catalogue in 2009 by depicting a man coming home to his flat to find his girlfriend cooking dinner for her new female partner, with the strap line: “It’s change time”.
• Pepsi aired an advert in 2008 that showed two men in a bar encouraging their friend to chat to a woman. The man drinks PepsiMAX to get confidence and walks past two women, one being model Kelly Brook, before approaching a man at the end of the bar.
• Heinz released an advert in 2008 showing a man making sandwiches for his two children and his male partner. The two men then kissed each other goodbye before going to work. Heinz withdrew the ad after receiving several complaints that it was “inappropriate”. However, the brand’s decision to pull the ad resulted in a boycott of the brand by both gay and straight people (Source: Stonewall’s guide on how to market to gay consumers).

In closing, there have been some who have asked me, “What is the eternal fate of someone who is gay?” To answer this I will allow scripture to speak for itself; “It is obvious what kind of life develops out of trying to get your own way all the time: repetitive, loveless, cheap sex; a stinking accumulation of mental and emotional garbage; frenzied and joyless grabs for happiness; trinket gods; magic-show religion; paranoid loneliness; cutthroat competition; all-consuming-yet-never-satisfied wants; a brutal temper; an impotence to love or be loved; divided homes and divided lives; small-minded and lopsided pursuits; the vicious habit of depersonalizing everyone into a rival; uncontrolled and uncontrollable addictions; ugly parodies of community. I could go on. This isn't the first time I have warned you, you know. IF YOU USE YOUR FREEDOM THIS WAY, YOU WILL NOT INHERIT GOD'S KINGDOM” (Galatians 5:19-26 The Message Bible).

Lastly I want to thank all of you who have been following this series and given such generous feed back! I hope and pray that you will continue to travel with me and take on board some truth for your own journey, as we delve into topics from today’s world – whether directly or indirectly – affecting each and every one of us. At which point I must add - for anyone who is finding the struggle and temptation of sexual sin utterly “over whelming,” - take courage and be reminded that God is bigger and more powerful than it all. Remember that those whom the Son sets “free” are “free-indeed!” There is always a way out – especially when there seems to be no way - there is “always” hope: “No test or temptation that comes your way is beyond the course of what others have had to face. All you need to remember is that God will never let you down; he'll never let you be pushed past your limit; he'll always be there to help you come through it” (1 Cor 10:13 The Message).

Finally: English martyr and evangelical preacher John Bradford (circa 1510–1555) once coined a famous phrase that we have all come to know and respect: "There but for the grace of God, goes John Bradford." It is believed that he said this in response to seeing criminals being led to the scaffold. So let me encourage every one of us today - to hold this same attitude of grace...

“There but for the grace of God, go I...”

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father I want not only to “know” Christ but to be “known” by Him: “Not everyone that saith unto me, Lord, Lord, shall enter into the kingdom of heaven; but he that doeth the will of my Father which is in heaven. Many will say to me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in thy name? and in thy name have cast out devils? and in thy name done many wonderful works? And then will I profess unto them, I never knew you: depart from me, ye that work iniquity.” (Matthew 7:21-23 KJV) Help me Father to remain true to You and Your Word. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
Today with God’s grace I will continue to enter through the narrow gate; for wide is the gate and spacious and broad is the way that leads away to destruction, and many are those who are entering through it. Even though the gate is narrow (contracted by pressure) and the way is straitened and compressed it is the way that leads to life, and I choose to be one of the few who finds it” (Matthew 7:13-14 AMP). I know this to be true that I am no better or worse than anyone as all things are common to all men and “there but for the grace of God go I...” (1 Cor 10:13)

Standing by Truth vs. Finger Pointing!

2010-12-10T19:34:00.003+01:00

Standing by Truth vs. Finger Pointing!

(Part 4)

“God gave them over and abandoned them to vile affections and degrading passions. For their women exchanged their natural function for an unnatural and abnormal one, and the men also turned from natural relations with women and were set ablaze (burning out, consumed) with lust for one another...” (Romans 1: 26, 27 AMP)

Good to have you back again for today’s “Truth for the Journey” - fourth in a five part series surrounding the subject of “Abnormal Sexual Behaviour in the End Times.” Now as we know there are many different sexual “orientations” nowadays but the most commonly known are; heterosexual, bisexual, and homosexual (including lesbian) however there is also a newer term that is not so familiar, which is called “metro-sexual.” According to the online “Urban Dictionary” this terminology is defined as, “...a normally straight male who possesses qualities of a gay male without being attracted to men. A metro often appreciates the finer things in life and enjoys making himself look good; be it through styling his hair or wearing fashionable clothes.”

Apparently “metros” are often, “mistaken for being gay because of their fashion sense and hygiene habits...!” It goes onto say, “An American metro-sexual is like your average European male. In France or Italy, men can be manly and work on cars and know about art and fashion at the same time. They are cool with that and don't need some special name for their less "masculine" side. In the U.S. we think men all have to be either dumb gorillas or homosexuals. There is some grey area!” (See http://www.urbandictionary.com/) Interestingly most folks are unaware that this terminology even exists!

Nevertheless whether “homo/bi/hetero or even metro – sexual” - we are “all” sexual beings – in fact we were all created to be “sexual.” Here I must also add that “every” orientation that exists can be guilty of “perversion” in fact I emphasise that “all” forms of sexuality has gone array - not just homo-sexuality. Therefore if we adopt a self-righteous posture, something that never has or ever will help anyone – least of all effectively reach homosexuals for Christ!

Instead we must humbly but steadfastly present the truth (without compromise or fear) even though the truth has the potential to “offend” we must never forget that it also has the “power-to-liberate!” We must never take the option/opportunity to receive or reject the truth away from people. We must never try to protect or rescue folks from the truth; because this is only motivated by self-preservation and fear not a genuine passion for their salvation. (Remember Jesus had the opportunity to “rescue” or “preserve” himself from the cross but He didn’t take it!) Therefore truth must never be concealed or muzzled and as scripture says we should never be “...ashamed of the gospel of Christ: for it is the power of God unto salvation to everyone that believeth...” (Rom 1:16 (KJV). Consider that those very people that we might be tempted to try and protect from being “offended” by the Gospel, might just believe it and become set free!

In addition the very reason that I continually point out that we are “all” capable of “perversion” is because what we are really discussing here is the basic manifestations of “fallen nature” (or “the human condition” without God). Something which affects EVERY SINGLE ONE OF US! Not just singled out people groups or certain sexual orientations! And I say this in order to avoid any sense of “finger-pointing.”

We all come into the kingdom with an unregenerate mind; perhaps even with some demonic strongholds or oppressions. But the process of sanctification – putting off the old man and putting on the new – is a chance that we have all been given; to yield to God’s Spirit by living our lives from the “inside-out” rather than vice versa – when the flesh dictates. We all have the opportunity to stubbornly follow our “earthy-animal-instincts” or surrender to the Holy Spirit and be convicted by His purity - where we can be forgiven, our minds renewed and our lives transformed (see 1 John 1:9).

Its always good to know that we can not only be forgiven but also purified – which all of us have needed! In fact nowhere does religion give us the right to be “superior.” Instead we better keep our own lives in check because nothing separates us from anyone else – other than the cross of Christ. In other words the only difference between us is that we have accepted Christ death burial and resurrection and they have not yet! Yet 1 John 1:9 stands for all of us who are still in the sanctification process; “If we confess our sins, he is faithful and just and will forgive us our sins and purify us from all unrighteousness (NIV).

Today even many so called “believers” no longer come to Christ for forgiveness because they don’t see that they have sinned or done anything wrong. However whether we are sinner or saint; once again the Message Bible helps us out with its awesome clarity, “If we claim that we're free of sin, we're only fooling ourselves. A claim like that is errant nonsense. On the other hand, if we admit our sins—make a clean breast of them—he won't let us down; he'll be true to himself. He'll forgive our sins and purge us of all wrongdoing. If we claim that we've never sinned, we out-and-out contradict God—make a liar out of him. A claim like that only shows off our ignorance of God.”

To continue however it has to be said that the gay community vehemently resent being seen as “perverse” or “diseased!” To prove this point I quote again from the “urbandictionary.com” where it’s definition of a homosexual states; “Homosexuality is not a perversion or a disease, but merely an aspect of sexuality that has been around for thousands of years...” (Note: this online dictionary is very raw in places so take caution when you read, yet I chose to quote from particular dictionary because it adequately represents a general view from off the streets...) It goes on to say, “Why are so many people homophobic? Homosexuals are great! Men should like gays... homosexuals by default don't add to the already grossly swollen human population” (bizarre perhaps but an opinion currently held by many... and I will refrain from quoting their more flowery speech used to “defame” the bible and its stance on homosexuality!)

Now I don’t say any of this to “elevate” or “advocate” an argument “for” homosexuality (such as selective ministers have recently done while “coming-out” on TV - confessing that after years of marriage with multiple children, they were gay all along). By no means! Nevertheless there is much that we tend to forget as believers (which does us no justice out there in the public arena) and our behaviour is usually based on ignorance rather than wisdom, but I am not suggesting that we compromise ourselves. Even if Jesus was seemingly “silent” about this specific gay issue, He was not silent however when it came to “fornication” or to “sin” as seen in Matthew 5:32 where it says, “...whosoever shall put away his wife, saving for the cause of fornication, causeth her to commit adultery...” The Greek word porneia is used for fornication here means: idolatry, harlotry, adultery and incest as well as fornication (see Strong’s # 4202). And fornication basically is; “premarital sex” or “any” willing sex outside of marriage – including extra-marital (adultery).

According to the bible fornication is SIN. And this is what Jesus specifically had to say about SIN, “I assure you, most solemnly I tell you, Whoever commits and practices sin is the slave of sin” (John 8:34 AMP). The rest of the bible has much to say about fornication, as seen in the following scriptures: Rom 6:12-14; 1 Cor 6: 9-10; 13 +18; 7:2; 10: 6-8 7:2; 2 Cor 10:3-5; Eph 5:1-3, 5; Gal 5: 19-21; 1 Thess. 4:3-5; Rev 21: 7-8. According to John 1:1-4; Jesus Christ is the Word of God. So even though Jesus while in person did not have oodles to say about sexual sin – the rest of His Word does. And HE IS THE WORD! “In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. The same was in the beginning with God. All things were made by him; and without him was not anything made that was made. In him was life; and the life was the light of men” (John 1:1-4 KJV).

Nevertheless let me further clarify by saying this; the word “homosexual” is just another “name-tag” that people use; whereas “fornication” instead identifies the “sin” and “spiritual-influence” that is behind certain sexual behaviour. So if Jesus did not focus on “name calling” or “finger-pointing” but focused more on the “root” of the issue – then we must do likewise.

All of us must continually submit our sexuality back to God, trusting Him. As most of us have found out the hard way that - “all flesh” is corrupt without Christ – especially our own! “Therefore let anyone who thinks he stands [who feels sure that he has a steadfast mind and is standing firm], take heed lest he fall [into sin]” (1 Corinthians 10:12 AMP). What a warning for all of us! We must handle all such issues with a deep sense of humility (again not false humility or self righteousness!)

The fact that none of us are “immune” is a point that brought out brilliantly by “The Message” translation of the Bible, “...we are just as capable of messing it up as they were. Don't be so naive and self-confident. You're not exempt. You could fall flat on your face as easily as anyone else. Forget about self-confidence; it's useless. Cultivate God-confidence (1 Cor 10:12).

We saw this point brought out clearly in previous articles within this series – that usually the same folks who display much outrage for such “sensitive and controversial issues,” can be some of the biggest offenders! So let us not fall into the same chasm of hypocrisy. As I keep repeating – we are all sexual and all capable of sexual vice – regardless of orientation or name tagging. It is all just one big deception of the enemy to “distort and pervert” reality!

So it is certain then that a vast amount of sexual and emotional confusion exists today, mainly due to the fact that folks are essentially “disconnected” from God. They have lost their “natural affection” one to another - but also their “true spiritual and eternal identity.” In addition to this, it is true to say that “ANYTHING” THAT IS OUTSIDE OF ITS “ORIGINAL ORDER” WILL FAIL ITS “ORIGINAL DESIGN.”

In closing it could be said that while the whole world is in confusion about this issue – however the Bible seemingly is not! In fact the following scriptures could not be clearer! Take for instance the Old Testament in Leviticus 18:22 where it says “Do not lie with a man as one lies with a woman; that is detestable.” Or as our opening scripture in the New Testament read, “For this reason God gave them over and abandoned them to vile affections and degrading passions. For their women exchanged their natural function for an unnatural and abnormal one, And the men also turned from natural relations with women and were set ablaze (burning out, consumed) with lust for one another--men committing shameful acts with men and suffering in their own bodies and personalities the inevitable consequences and penalty of their wrong-doing and going astray, which was [their] fitting retribution” (Romans1: 26, 27 AMP).

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father You have set in motion what is normal or abnormal. Your ways are perfect. You decide normality. Humanity is incapable of knowing right from wrong without Your guidance. Our moral standards are perverse without Your righteousness. Help me today to seek first Your Kingdom and Your righteousness that all else will go well with me and be in divine order as You planned it. Amen (Matt 6:33).

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
Father according to Your Word in Matthew 6:33, I confess that I will “seek (aim at and strive after) first of all Your kingdom and Your righteousness (Your way of doing and being right)” knowing that true order will reign in my life and “all things taken together will be given me besides.” Amen

No Longer Politically Correct

2010-12-07T19:15:00.006+01:00

No Longer Politically Correct

(Part 3)

“There is a Tolerance for Everything BUT Christianity!”
(By Gianna Jessen - Abortion Survivor - www.giannajessen.com)

Welcome back to yet another Truth for the Journey. Make certain to read all 5 parts of this series. Then you will avoid any premature conclusion! A subject like this is way too vast for one article to cover adequately alone. So... bare with us as these articles stretche out into several parts as I wanted to do this subject some justice - as much as is possible in these small article layouts. Yet going by all the generous feedback that I regularly receive, I know these articles are being enjoyed by many very much indeed! So keep reading and keep enjoying!

Now as we continue with this particular journey through the world of “sexuality” and it’s various forms of manifestations – let me start by responding to some of your “genuine concerns” that such openness might procure some sort of legal prosecution! As much as I deeply value every response that comes in – let me humbly remind us all that when it comes to being a “voice” (with spiritual influence) there are weighty responsibilities attached. What we are engaged in goes beyond mere “soap-boxing” or just “vocalizing our opinions” and “airing our views.” There is much more to this; we are engaged in a spiritual battle - whether we like this idea or not!

Then particularly as bible believing Christians we are “accountable” for our beliefs before the Lord. (In fact any preacher who is “not” declaring truth, will be particularly accountable before the Lord!) Beliefs that must have genuine “conviction” behind them - not just mental and intelligent assent! Gone are the days were we just learn a form of “religious-behaviour” that holds no weight behind especially when “tested!” And tested we will be, as the Message Bible so eloquently puts it, “I know how great this makes you feel, even though you have to put up with every kind of aggravation in the meantime. Pure gold put in the fire comes out of it proved pure; genuine faith put through this suffering comes out proved genuine. When Jesus wraps this all up, it's your faith, not your gold, that God will have on display as evidence of his victory” (1 Peter 1:7).

We are going to have to make a choice in these times; to speak our faith with conviction and wisdom so that others can be equipped and instructed in truth or to be “muted” and “censured” by political correctness – where the truth goes untold. Will we chose to hide “incognito” like some “secret-society” or “elite-religious-order” (through fear), or be “open” and “transparent?” There will come a time indeed, where Christians must go “under-ground” but until that time fully arrives, then we owe it to the rest of the world to proclaim God’s truth fearlessly and faith-filled!

Also let me remind us that Paul wrote large portions of the New Testament, whilst in prison or under house arrest! Minority groups such as those protesting for “gay rights,” have only grown (in phenomenal strength) today because they have relentlessly “spoken-out” about their rights. Now what about the rights of the believer? Are we so idle that we will allow our rights to be slowly taken away from us? Will we wait until it’s too late? Throughout history, whenever they tried to “clamp” the gospel - it spread more rapidly! Nevertheless persecution has never actually ended by the way! It has always been present and “rife” within the world and Christianity or the name of Jesus in the public arena has “never” been politically-correct. Paul himself was politically incorrect and did not fit in with the political climate of his day. But look how God used him and how God will use us! What would Paul say about the events of our world? Would he allow himself to be muted and silenced so easily? No sir and neither should we allow fear to dictate our beliefs! Silent faith affects nothing and no one – for it is dead! (James 2:20) Silent faith is a false kind of faith; that only masquerades as faith but in reality is weak and voiceless!

However it is significant at this point to understand that our warfare is indeed spiritual. We are not up against anyone. Eph 6:12 warns us that we are not fighting “flesh and blood.” No! Our warfare is totally spiritual – and spirits of “lust” are influencing and actively “degrading” our societies; we cannot just idly sit and watch - so passively without any objection. What is our faith good for if we are no longer salty to the world around us – has our salt so easily lost its flavour?! (Matthew 5:13).

So let’s move on and continue with this (part 3 of 5) “The Abnormal Sexual behaviour – of the End Times.” According to scripture lust is something that “burns” with us (1 Cor 7:9 and Isa 57:5) and something that we must guard against. “Don't be naive. There are difficult times ahead. As the end approaches, people are going to be self-absorbed... profane... addicted to lust, and allergic to God. They'll make a show of religion, but behind the scenes they're animals" (2 Timothy 3:4 The Message Bible).

In a world of “no-restraint” bible-believing Christians are considered “fundamentalists” or “extremists” and are very unpopular with the sort of crowd who want to dabble in every kind of “sexual-expressionism” there is. It is certain that we are no longer “politically correct” just as Gianna Jessen said recently, whom I have quoted in our opening statement. (By the way I strongly recommend that you watch her powerful testimony on YouTube via the link below including bornalivetruth.org.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kPF1FhCMPuQ&feature=youtube_gdata_player

However we are unpopular because the very scriptures that we confess and believe in - threaten their freedom, stifle their beliefs and their way of life. So what do we do about that - alter the cannon of scripture as we know it? Take out those scriptures that are most offensive? Once we start doing that, where would it stop – until the whole bible is dissembled!? The answer is this: scripture offends because it is meant to. It brings separation just like Jesus said that it would (Matthew 10:33-36; Rev 22:18)

However even with all political, psychological debates aside – even in the eyes of a child who knows no better or worse – would be able to identify from a biological and scientific point of view that a “vagina” was fashioned specifically to receive a penis and a penis was fashioned or formed to penetrate a vagina – not an anus; which incidentally was created for waste disposal and the elimination of toxins from the body; nothing more or less. Sodomy (anal sex) is a perversion of natural order. Likewise when we pervert the natural order of “gravity” – we end up paying a hefty price for that – the same can be said of sexual vice. And as said in previous articles in this series, God has generously designed the act of sexual intercourse to be “pleasurable” not painful (like child birth) but because of “perversion,” much more “pain” is derived from sex - than the true pleasure that God intended. In fact we are “outdoing ourselves,” (for the quick fix and cheap thrill).

So when it comes to the definition of “perversity” it’s no good getting all upset with the Bible and all the Christians who believe it verbatim (word for word). Because every dictionary that exists also points the finger at perversion – and calls it exactly for what it is! Now perhaps I am being a little bit pedantic here, but this is no “word-game” or “quiz on moral standards.” If a person chooses a lifestyle that involves regular acts of sodomy – that decision is theirs to make (only when they enforce that act on others, does it become a criminal act). For instance it is strongly believed that “Leonardo Da Vinci” was gay – because in his early twenties he was arrested and accused of sodomy with a young male prostitute. This made Leonardo not only famous for his great works of art but also for enjoying the permanent presence of pretty young males (models). His society was much less tolerant than it is today and was nearly “hung” for his crime. However the “political-will” and “climate” of our day has dramatically changed since then - nevertheless no such changes in society will “alter” the Bible! No matter how much anger it stirs up or evokes.

It is common knowledge that the act of sodomy and the lifestyle of homosexuality are one. This makes it difficult to separate the person from the sin. But as believers we must tolerate the individual but not take on their beliefs systems. I personally believe that we need wisdom in handling this issue. And must always love people without compromising what we believe. In the past there was bullying and discrimination towards homosexuals (which I don’t condone). Now they are gaining ground and strength as a minority group. But in a world where freedom of speech and human rights has actually stifled our rights and our freedoms – where do we go from here. The answer has to be “FAITH AND NOT FEAR!”

FACT: there are still “anti-sodomy laws” still in place today. When doing some research recently, I discovered some facts about “State Laws on Sex Crimes” in USA and an article entitled: “When is Sodomy Unlawful?” It is interesting with all this talk about same sex marriage becoming legal and the upsurge of homosexuality – that regardless specific laws are still in place throughout the US to actually penalize “sodomy” if found guilty and is still referred to as a “Crime Against Nature.” Information as follows:

“According to criminaldefenselawyer.com “Historically, the act of sodomy ("the Sin of Sodom"), which is basically anal penetration, was held by courts as "deviant" and was punished harshly. In some cases, the laws' language extended to acts of oral penetration and bestiality. Although most statutes did not expressly state the purposes of the law, it was impliedly known that these laws were basically laws against homosexual acts. In the U.S. during the 50s, every state had some variation of law criminalizing the act of sodomy. The pivotal 2003 case of Lawrence v. Texas nullified all state anti-sodomy laws that penalized consensual sex done in privacy. However, a few dissenting states still retain anti-sodomy laws in their criminal codes and seek to enforce them.”

State Law
Since Lawrence, most states have repealed their sodomy laws. Only a few states retain anti-sodomy laws on their books, usually referred to as "crimes against nature" or "deviate sexual intercourse." Among those dissenting states (with penalties) are:

• Alabama - 13A-6-65(a)(3). Sexual Misconduct. "He or she engages in deviate sexual intercourse with another person." Consent is no defense. Misdemeanor punishable by a fine up to $2,000 and/or up to 1 year imprisonment.
• North Carolina - 14-177. Crime Against Nature. Carnality "with mankind or beast" (no gender restriction). Felony punishable up to 3 years imprisonment.
• Oklahoma - 21-886. Crime Against Nature. "Committed with mankind and beast (same sex only)." Felony punishable up to 10 years imprisonment.
• Texas - 21.06. Homosexual Conduct. "Deviate sexual intercourse with another individual of the same sex." Misdemeanor. $500 fine.
• Virginia - 18.2-361. Crimes Against Nature. Both homosexual and heterosexual, anal and oral penetration. Includes bestiality. Felony punishable up to 5 years imprisonment.
http://www.criminaldefenselawyer.com/resources/criminal-defense/sex-crimes/when-sodomy-unlawful

Once again I maintain as I always have – that “sexuality is sexuality.” It is all “SEX” and there is as much sexual perversion with “hetero-sexual” activity as there is in “homo-sexual” activity. And this is where most folks miss the boat. It’s not about homosexuality; rather about the sad “perversion” of human “sexuality” from what God intended it to be. (Some call this perverted state that we find ourselves in as the “human-condition”).

Now I don’t doubt that homosexual couples have “meaningful” unions as much as heterosexual couples do (but this does not negate the Bible). Some are even life-long monogamous relationships (one partner at a time) and others are serial polygamists (having more than one partner at any one time) but this is true of “any” orientation also. Whether gay or hetero - we are all capable of fidelity or infidelity. We are all capable of perversion no matter who we are. And we are not discussing personality here nor the human rights of gay individuals but about the wider topic of “human-sexuality” and satan’s “all-out-agenda” to pervert everyone of us; to divide us and enrage us against one another. He hates humanity. Perversion is his “prize weapon” – that keeps us away from knowing God intimately as we were designed to (not sexually intimate but spiritually).

PRAYER FOR THE DAY
Father Your agenda for my life is pure and unadulterated. Your thoughts towards me are good and not evil, so that I have an expected end and a future. I yield myself to Your awesome plan. Help me every day to walk it with Your Spirit by my side. Judgement starts with the House of God first. Help me to trust You, so that I can live according to the truth of Your Word – even when it is politically incorrect. Amen.

CONFESSION OF THE DAY
Today I have faith; Your gift to me. Faith that is not willing to compromise. Your Word is a lamp unto my feet, I will not stumble or fall when I walk with You. No matter the political minefields laid before me, Your Word will see me through. You are my Rock and my salvation. Hallelujah!