I downloaded a small book called "War on Men" on my kindle and, interestingly enough, it is written by a woman. She makes very many points of what is going on today between genders, and it has been going on in the churches as well.
Somehow, society now teaches that women were "kept home" against their will and men were afraid of their abilities. In times past, men went out to work, women were barefoot and pregnant cooking in the kitchen for "her man." To be honest, I do understand in America there were things that kept women in place, namely they couldn't vote, they couldn't hold office, not even drive in the early 20th century. This part I can agree with, but what began happening forever changed how women are being taught in public schools and colleges through liberal viewpoints.
First, we introduce Margaret Sanger, the founder of what is now called Planned Parenthood. To summarize her, she believed women were being abused in the sexual arena by prpviding big families during the latter part of the 19th century and hated the idea of feeling tied down in marriage (though she was married three times herself, but the reasons are different for sure).
She began writing articles initializing birth control, for the reason that women should be dictating birth rates. She wanted women to control men in this matter - in the bedroom. The beauty of this timing was around the same time that Susan Anthony and other women finally broke through on suffrage.
Fast forward to the sixties. Many have heard of the bra burnings that some did, and began the complete claim that women can do the same as men. Through this, in conjunction with the sexual revolution, this brought the "freedom" women were told they needed to survive. Today, liberal women are told men are needed in their lives, their career is the most important. This was the paramount view that society will have on them to be successful. Abortion rates climbed, as children were no longer sought as they were used to in years past. If they were "planned," some were raised without parents. Why should a women be a mother, when a family is no longer constituted as a success story?
Women are being told that men are needed as necessary for themselves. Need sex, find a man for a spell. Men are idiots and all they think about sex and sports (yes, tools, hunting and fishing, I agree) but they are now being taught at a young age to touch their feminine side. Then when these same women are wondering where the tough men are that will treat them like women. These same men they are looking for are avoiding them at all costs. Why should they find these women, they will feel like nothing, only at any request of said women.
Even some will use misinformation to showcase their point. I remember during one of the debates between Obama and Romney where a liberal women quoted an old website on the discrepencies of pay between genders. Romney corrected her, and found out it was more closer than she thinks ($.96 to the $1 in pay for like positions), but did not mention the other discrepency. In 2008, out of the millions of jobs lost, over 70% belonged to men College genders percentages are currently 60/40, in favor of women, for those going for bachelor's degrees. Those in managerial positions of major companies, the same ratio applies who hold these jobs and above.
And there is a war on women? More like the war on men.
You can use discrimination if you are woman, race, and now sexual orientation. Sadly, there is one group that cannot use this, and they are the white adult males. (Yes, they have age discrimination, but this is difficult to prove, so I cannot include this.)
Liberal women want families, but they cannot attract those males they want (unless it includes lots of money). How can they have a successful family structure with a man? Just get pregnant, and prove you can raise a child without a man. Yes, some of them can be, but if they can do it without the commitment of marriage, then feminism proves man aren't needed in society. Just use them to suit your needs.
Today, it has been the war on men disguised as the war on feminism. Most men still want to work on cars, build things, play sports, do the manly things. Schools are trying to find ways to dumb down boys and employ them to try what girls did in the past. The church has allowed women into leadership, seeking the forbidden fruit that God did not want them to have. Are men better suited for leadership? In some ways, because men chose to think through logic and not by emotions. God created women to be soul givers to the children, loving and raising them accordingly. Men are the spiritual leaders and authority of their family. With liberal women demanding that authority, there is no satisfaction for these woman to cede the authority God never chosen to have.
Families are being destroyed. Men are being attacked by women who said they are no longer needed except for sex, and they are then being called sex addicts. Children are being born and raised without fathers at a rate of 40% today. Look at our sad state in America...
Too bad mankind doesn't learn from history, it is too busy seeking to destroy what God creates.
Michael
Jeremiah 6:16a
Thursday, November 21, 2013
Sunday, October 27, 2013
~~~Questions that should have reasonable answers, but don't.~~~
1. What isn't repentance and sin taught BEFORE acknowledging the "sinner's prayer?"
2. Where is it required for God to answer our prayers in the way we want, WHEN we want it?
3. Why is it, when God doesn't seem to be doing a thing, we have to do something?
4. Why are there men advances and women retreats?
5. Why is there continual changing of the Bible to better serve us and not Him?
6. Isn't it ironic that when there is conflict, it is the other person who needs changing and not you?
7. Out of curiosity, why do some worship leaders "feel" to say words to inch out more worship?
8. Why do many "feel" what the LORD is saying? If we know Him, shouldn't we KNOW what He says?
9. If Jesus told the disciples, it is expedient that I go, so the Holy Spirit may come, why don't we ask for the Holy Spirit to come? Isn't Jesus seated at the right hand of the Father and not coming back until the Second Coming?
10. Why do we choose to ignore many parts of the Bible?
Blessings,
Michael
Jeremiah 6:16a
2. Where is it required for God to answer our prayers in the way we want, WHEN we want it?
3. Why is it, when God doesn't seem to be doing a thing, we have to do something?
4. Why are there men advances and women retreats?
5. Why is there continual changing of the Bible to better serve us and not Him?
6. Isn't it ironic that when there is conflict, it is the other person who needs changing and not you?
7. Out of curiosity, why do some worship leaders "feel" to say words to inch out more worship?
8. Why do many "feel" what the LORD is saying? If we know Him, shouldn't we KNOW what He says?
9. If Jesus told the disciples, it is expedient that I go, so the Holy Spirit may come, why don't we ask for the Holy Spirit to come? Isn't Jesus seated at the right hand of the Father and not coming back until the Second Coming?
10. Why do we choose to ignore many parts of the Bible?
Blessings,
Michael
Jeremiah 6:16a
Friday, October 25, 2013
the demise of America...soon.
As from one of my earlier blogs, I believe America does not have much time left to her as we have know it. She has too much going against her and very few in the political arena who can help turn it around. Now that Obamacare is knocking on the door, the economy will have no choice but to collapse under the government's non-budget.
Millions and, possibly me, will have no choice but not to carry insurance. The liberals way of collecting money for their own use. I believe many doctors will leave the profession, and I wouldn't blame them. Everything the government has run has failed miserably, and sought more taxes to cover up the mess. Amtrak, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, USPS are the main culprits, never making a dime in any one day.
There is one thing that culminates into believing that America's destruction, and maybe the rapture, is right around the time clock. Some will not take what I am bringing forth seriously, but there is enough evidence that warrants attention. This is the coincidence of the end of the next seven year period and the blood red moons that come in 2014-2015. Each one of these moons come on Passover and Feast of Tabernacles, and the end of the seven year timetable is around September, 2015.
I also believe God's mercy has to an end for America to change because of her leadership. Democracies in the past of come to an end due to its inability, and unwillingness, to take care of its debt issues. Our current President, Barack Obama, made a statement as a Senator and quoted failing leadership to raising the debt ceiling, which at that time, was requested around $300M. Please check how many times he has raised the debt ceiling in his less than five years of office...I believe it is about 4-5 right now.
Now I will go out on a limb, but I sincerely believe that Obama wants to destroy America. When someone reads this book:
http://www.truthorfiction.com/rumors/p/post-american-world.htm
This should frighten ANYONE who enjoys freedom that only America has. And we elected him not once but twice.
For those who did, you have a liberty death wish. Sadly, the only "opponents" the Republicans had to offer were two moderates. ( I believe McCain has lost his mind and still getting paid for it, not a trade-off for the state of Arizona.) Insurance rates going up for EVERYBODY, some still will not have insurance, and many others cannot afford the rates that Obamacare has forced on insurance companies, and I believe this is deliberate.
A stimulus package that spent almost a cool $1T that went nowhere except the coffers BACK to the Democratic parties, regulations that equaled around 65 PER day for 90 days, from the time his reelection was announced to his second inauguration. More regulations means more restrictions for ALL businesses.
Muslims have not been proclaimed exempt because of "religious beliefs," but the Christians companies do not have the same right. Many businesses were given exemptions as well, good chance they are good donors. Best of all, this is so good, Obama and his administration, as well as select member of Congress, no longer are required to take this catastrophe.
It puzzles me to this day that people are willing to elect a man who has taken every effort to keep his past a complete secret...and do it twice. If our President can get America destroyed, this will allow Israel no other allies willing to come to her aid, and I believe God knows this. With no ally, Israel will have no choice but to call on her Creator for assistance, and He will provide it. America will be judged for her complacency, narcissism, and idolatry. I am hoping I can get my act together, because the rapture is not far away.
When America goes, so does some of the world economy. This will provide the open door for the anti-Christ to step to the limelight and usher in the New World Order. With no Christians on the planet at that time (I know of the 144k remnant, but there is immediate timetable in Revelations to go by), it will be interesting to see how the world will be without God, and the possibility of the Muslims gaining control once the economy collapses, what direction America will go.
I get the impression that strong liberals are hoping the problems they created will no longer be their problem later in life. This time around, they will have to answer, and good chance the Christians won't be asking the questions. Will the young attack the parents?
Millions and, possibly me, will have no choice but not to carry insurance. The liberals way of collecting money for their own use. I believe many doctors will leave the profession, and I wouldn't blame them. Everything the government has run has failed miserably, and sought more taxes to cover up the mess. Amtrak, Fannie Mae, Freddie Mac, USPS are the main culprits, never making a dime in any one day.
There is one thing that culminates into believing that America's destruction, and maybe the rapture, is right around the time clock. Some will not take what I am bringing forth seriously, but there is enough evidence that warrants attention. This is the coincidence of the end of the next seven year period and the blood red moons that come in 2014-2015. Each one of these moons come on Passover and Feast of Tabernacles, and the end of the seven year timetable is around September, 2015.
I also believe God's mercy has to an end for America to change because of her leadership. Democracies in the past of come to an end due to its inability, and unwillingness, to take care of its debt issues. Our current President, Barack Obama, made a statement as a Senator and quoted failing leadership to raising the debt ceiling, which at that time, was requested around $300M. Please check how many times he has raised the debt ceiling in his less than five years of office...I believe it is about 4-5 right now.
Now I will go out on a limb, but I sincerely believe that Obama wants to destroy America. When someone reads this book:
http://www.truthorfiction.com/rumors/p/post-american-world.htm
This should frighten ANYONE who enjoys freedom that only America has. And we elected him not once but twice.
For those who did, you have a liberty death wish. Sadly, the only "opponents" the Republicans had to offer were two moderates. ( I believe McCain has lost his mind and still getting paid for it, not a trade-off for the state of Arizona.) Insurance rates going up for EVERYBODY, some still will not have insurance, and many others cannot afford the rates that Obamacare has forced on insurance companies, and I believe this is deliberate.
A stimulus package that spent almost a cool $1T that went nowhere except the coffers BACK to the Democratic parties, regulations that equaled around 65 PER day for 90 days, from the time his reelection was announced to his second inauguration. More regulations means more restrictions for ALL businesses.
Muslims have not been proclaimed exempt because of "religious beliefs," but the Christians companies do not have the same right. Many businesses were given exemptions as well, good chance they are good donors. Best of all, this is so good, Obama and his administration, as well as select member of Congress, no longer are required to take this catastrophe.
It puzzles me to this day that people are willing to elect a man who has taken every effort to keep his past a complete secret...and do it twice. If our President can get America destroyed, this will allow Israel no other allies willing to come to her aid, and I believe God knows this. With no ally, Israel will have no choice but to call on her Creator for assistance, and He will provide it. America will be judged for her complacency, narcissism, and idolatry. I am hoping I can get my act together, because the rapture is not far away.
When America goes, so does some of the world economy. This will provide the open door for the anti-Christ to step to the limelight and usher in the New World Order. With no Christians on the planet at that time (I know of the 144k remnant, but there is immediate timetable in Revelations to go by), it will be interesting to see how the world will be without God, and the possibility of the Muslims gaining control once the economy collapses, what direction America will go.
I get the impression that strong liberals are hoping the problems they created will no longer be their problem later in life. This time around, they will have to answer, and good chance the Christians won't be asking the questions. Will the young attack the parents?
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Having Trouble With American Church, Part Deux
I am not going to go into great lengths with this post, as I went through a few points in the last related post. Plus, I do not want to take away what the churches have done, namely missions outside of the United States. What concerns me is bringing the doctrines that is learned from church doctrine and teaching to those who truly need to know God and the redemption at the Cross.
I have heard the changes of my former church and its desire to go more "supernatural" than foundational. Granted, I no longer agree with the Assemblies of God doctrine in a few points, and watched how many members of that church (those who were members when we were there) no longer associate with me and my wife. Why?
Because I speak my mind and many don't want to feel challenged in their walk with Christ. More though, is they are not taught about many facets of God, but the pulpits concentrate on the grace, mercy and love of God so much that it makes many congregations so comfortable they will never feel the need to examine their faith (2 Corinthians 13:5).
I have pondered many times over the years why I have had few friends, if any. I had few friends in high school, and we have went our separate ways, as it should. I never thought that the ones I was closest to would not have any contact me, and have avoided to talk with me since. I do agree that with new "people" and jobs comes new responsibility, and as a father and husband, I am in the same boat. These changes from being single to full time dad/husband and or wife/mother is fully understandable can bring new friends, especially when you move. Just ironic that in today's technology that old relationships can't be renewed for a spell, just for old times sake.
I also have been in the Navy, spending my last three and a half years on the USS Manitowoc, but I attained a few friends there. One I have been interested in finding out where he is, but to no success. I have found a few others, but they don't seem much into wanting to see where my life is, either. Same goes for some work, as much of my last employment I worked alone.
The difficulty is the "born again" family. When I re-dedicated my life to the LORD, I was drawn to a church, where I later married my wife and became a member until we moved in 2005. I was involved in a Bible study (two of them) for about two to three years and met many people. What is struggled in my mind is how there can be so many different views and doctrines today and if you don't agree totally with them, you don't belong.
You desire to question authority, you are disrespectful. You question doctrines, who are you? You did not go to school, you are not worthy to ask such questions. You bring up judgment, repentance, and many other "items," you are legalistic and deserve to be stranded in your beliefs. I have lost many "friends" because I have chosen to re-examine what I have learned and studied Scripture more thoroughly. I have questioned pastors who have acted like "how dare you?" mentality against their schooling.
It truly saddens me to watch very few "friends" stay connected on my wife's Facebook page. I do not remember the last time I actually TALKED with anyone outside of my family. It truly sucks to be alone, but I have made the righteous decision that it is better to walk with God alone than be in company with those who won't accept me anyway. They have chosen their friends, and someone who thinks they way I do cannot be part of their flock or clique.
It hurts but somehow it is going to prepare me for the future. Smith Wigglesworth said that it is one thing to say you have faith, and another to be a tight corner and prove it. American churches have become lazy, lackadaisical and lukewarm. They are not tested, they are not battle weary, and many have never had their faith tested. I am not talking everyone who is a Christian, for many have walked harder, stricter paths than I have. Nor am I saying I am better in this department, but I refuse to treat God as the owner of a country club. He is Holy, He is Judge, He is Righteous, He is more than love, grace and mercy. He deserves more from us, and we are only willing to give Him enough to where we think He will be satisfied. We chose not to give up what we want most important in our life and claim we have "given it all" for Christ.
|
I found the word "reconciliation" in the Greek dictionary from the KJV literally means "to change mutually." It has also been referenced to the word "exchange." What is not being taught in churches is the exchange that took place, where God wants us to "exchange" our sinful life for one that is like Christ. The dilemma is when we want to short change God. Our exchange today holds little value to the beating and sin offering God placed on the Cross. It is either all or nothing, and we don't want to give all. We hope for that our small amount will be significant, but we don't realize that God holds a scale in His hand, and what we give Him He will give equal in return. Understand this:
We think it is all we need, but God wants to give more, and we always ask more, but we have no room to take it in. Our "spiritual house" is still full of junk (and I know I am a work in progress as well). I guess I have reached a point where this fallacy we call church isn't holding much value in our life...and many do not care. And this is why I have chosen to question things I do not believe are biblical. And I think this is why I do not have friends.
Jeremiah 6:16a
Michael
I have heard the changes of my former church and its desire to go more "supernatural" than foundational. Granted, I no longer agree with the Assemblies of God doctrine in a few points, and watched how many members of that church (those who were members when we were there) no longer associate with me and my wife. Why?
Because I speak my mind and many don't want to feel challenged in their walk with Christ. More though, is they are not taught about many facets of God, but the pulpits concentrate on the grace, mercy and love of God so much that it makes many congregations so comfortable they will never feel the need to examine their faith (2 Corinthians 13:5).
I have pondered many times over the years why I have had few friends, if any. I had few friends in high school, and we have went our separate ways, as it should. I never thought that the ones I was closest to would not have any contact me, and have avoided to talk with me since. I do agree that with new "people" and jobs comes new responsibility, and as a father and husband, I am in the same boat. These changes from being single to full time dad/husband and or wife/mother is fully understandable can bring new friends, especially when you move. Just ironic that in today's technology that old relationships can't be renewed for a spell, just for old times sake.
I also have been in the Navy, spending my last three and a half years on the USS Manitowoc, but I attained a few friends there. One I have been interested in finding out where he is, but to no success. I have found a few others, but they don't seem much into wanting to see where my life is, either. Same goes for some work, as much of my last employment I worked alone.
The difficulty is the "born again" family. When I re-dedicated my life to the LORD, I was drawn to a church, where I later married my wife and became a member until we moved in 2005. I was involved in a Bible study (two of them) for about two to three years and met many people. What is struggled in my mind is how there can be so many different views and doctrines today and if you don't agree totally with them, you don't belong.
You desire to question authority, you are disrespectful. You question doctrines, who are you? You did not go to school, you are not worthy to ask such questions. You bring up judgment, repentance, and many other "items," you are legalistic and deserve to be stranded in your beliefs. I have lost many "friends" because I have chosen to re-examine what I have learned and studied Scripture more thoroughly. I have questioned pastors who have acted like "how dare you?" mentality against their schooling.
It truly saddens me to watch very few "friends" stay connected on my wife's Facebook page. I do not remember the last time I actually TALKED with anyone outside of my family. It truly sucks to be alone, but I have made the righteous decision that it is better to walk with God alone than be in company with those who won't accept me anyway. They have chosen their friends, and someone who thinks they way I do cannot be part of their flock or clique.
It hurts but somehow it is going to prepare me for the future. Smith Wigglesworth said that it is one thing to say you have faith, and another to be a tight corner and prove it. American churches have become lazy, lackadaisical and lukewarm. They are not tested, they are not battle weary, and many have never had their faith tested. I am not talking everyone who is a Christian, for many have walked harder, stricter paths than I have. Nor am I saying I am better in this department, but I refuse to treat God as the owner of a country club. He is Holy, He is Judge, He is Righteous, He is more than love, grace and mercy. He deserves more from us, and we are only willing to give Him enough to where we think He will be satisfied. We chose not to give up what we want most important in our life and claim we have "given it all" for Christ.
|
I found the word "reconciliation" in the Greek dictionary from the KJV literally means "to change mutually." It has also been referenced to the word "exchange." What is not being taught in churches is the exchange that took place, where God wants us to "exchange" our sinful life for one that is like Christ. The dilemma is when we want to short change God. Our exchange today holds little value to the beating and sin offering God placed on the Cross. It is either all or nothing, and we don't want to give all. We hope for that our small amount will be significant, but we don't realize that God holds a scale in His hand, and what we give Him He will give equal in return. Understand this:
We think it is all we need, but God wants to give more, and we always ask more, but we have no room to take it in. Our "spiritual house" is still full of junk (and I know I am a work in progress as well). I guess I have reached a point where this fallacy we call church isn't holding much value in our life...and many do not care. And this is why I have chosen to question things I do not believe are biblical. And I think this is why I do not have friends.
Jeremiah 6:16a
Michael
Wednesday, August 21, 2013
Why I am Having Trouble with Today's Church, Part 1
My family began making arrangements to leave our last church at the beginning of this year. Through the death of my father-in-law, the eventual desire to leave was finally made around April. I couldn't come to some things that do not agree with Scripture and I struggled with it. This is not to say that this church, or any others that I was part of, was not willing to be obedient or serve the LORD, and this can also be seen as finding mundane things wrong instead of focusing on what is right. But the other side of the coin is no one would eat a cake if it had only 1% dog poop in it, with the rest of the cake made with the finest ingredients. I have been having many thoughts recently concerning looking for churches, not a perfect one, for there is no such thing. Just one that is humble in seeking God through the Calvary.
What has happened to the Western Church? Why so much change, especially the last sixty years? What has changed from what blessed America to now, what seems to be a generation of self-righteousness by lowering standards away from God's holiness? Some who read this may not agree with what I am about to say, but I have been having a hard time WANTING to look for a church today, as so many places are accepting doctrine that is more appealing to the secular environment than a desire to be in the presence of the Almighty. Here are things I have been debating in my heart, not any particular order.
Here goes:
1.Worship
When you place the older hymns next to today's contemporary Christian music, the difference is small to many who don't see it, but it is very major. The last five Psalms is replete over music as a prime example of worshiping God, and the older songs are strong in this area. these types of songs have become fewer and far between today, as the praise and worship songs now present how we want to worship Him. I am having a hard time hearing angels sing how they will worship the Almighty, it is all about Him and who He is.
Many churches are seeking more ways to entertain during worship. The bigger the church, the bigger the lights, the bigger the amps, the louder the music. It is meant to invoke the feelings in the younger generation, to have the feel of the concert inside the church walls. With music that compels us to worship God how we feel instead of complete acknowledgement of His holiness, righteousness, even His judgment, the church is missing what true worship is.
I watched a short video on this subject, and this person made a better stance "how you feel?" during worship and compare it to "what you know?" during praise and worship. How you know God is more important than how you feel in the same moment. In essence, how we know and perceive God will determine how we worship Him. In times of yore, the belief is how they knew Him. Today, it is how we feel about worshiping Him.
Big difference.
2. Very little balance in teachings
This can be touchy, but this also determines how the preacher is as well. I have been members of three different churches, but not one since 2010. The one church while we lived in Texas had been different from the pulpit than others, as he said he would use the authority as God instructs him, and he preached as it as so. I have not heard such preaching in person since we moved back up north, and I have missed it.
I am not saying that "good" preaching isn't needed, yes, we should be encouraged through the good news in the Bible. But many pulpits refuse to go after the tougher sermons that allows the Holy Spirit to reprove and correct. All Scripture is used for reproof and correction, but not many are willing to bring those that their congregation spiritually needs.
Don't want to offend women? Avoid those about usurping authority and their attitude toward men if not under submission (Genesis 3:16-17). Sounds too cruel about giving someone living in open sin and "abandon" those to the devil, but it is in the Bible twice (1 Corinthians 5:1-5, 1 Timothy 1:20).
The offering of the sinner's prayer in today's churches tends to be so powerless, all that is required is the number of those raised hands, not of the soul leading toward discipleship. We tend to avoid any type of possible humiliation when it comes to someone's salvation, playing it "safe" by providing the congregation as "cover."
At the end of the service, a pastor will give an invitation to any who wants to be in the kingdom. Some acknowledge "that hand over there," and "I see a hand in the back," ask the congregation to stand, where everyone repeats the sinner's prayer. Service over, those who raised their hands walk out of the church thinking they are now saved, but no closer to God than when they first walked in.
Jesus said if you will not publicly acknowledge Me before men, I will not acknowledge you before My Father (Matthew 10:32-33). How come we will not ask these people to come forward and publicly acknowledge Jesus before the congregation? Didn't Jesus suffer public humiliation that led Him to the Cross? Without this act, mankind is doomed.
No acknowledging of sin, just to ask God for forgiveness. No prayer about changing or repentance, just an invitation of God's love. No expectations of obedience and His holiness, just join in the crowd incognito and claim the Blood.
One instance I will make is when well-known evangelists went to Africa and claimed over 250,000 souls for Christ. One person who heard of this decided to follow through after six months to see their progress in walking with the LORD. They found roughly less than 25,000 still attending church and reading the Bible. What happened to the other 225,000?
This happened when we visited a former church were my family were members. At the end of the service was the call for salvation. Couple hands went up, the congregation stood up, the words went up, when the words were done, we saw one person ask for salvation. He simply walked out of the church. There will be a number given on how many "gave their lives" to the LORD, but did they really? When this happens, the leadership will never know.
One thing I found when I read Charles Finney's book, "Holy Spirit Revivals." He agitated the souls of those who opposed the work of the revival. Mr. Finney's expectation was discipleship, not simple conversion. Today, we have it backwards.
The other part of this is the emphasis on gifts and manifestations than the message of the Cross. I have been to conferences and churches where so much was made on manifestations and certain giftings. One preacher claimed to be "drunk in the spirit," singing "Happy Trails" to the crowd. Another claims that when the Holy Spirit takes over, she violently shakes her head back and forth until she opens the Bible, then the shaking stops. Another claimed oil flowed from her "wounds in her hands" that brought forth healing. One claimed he can control the weather, others mentioned their frequent third heaven trips to the throne of God. All this while manna, gold dust and glory clouds are signs of God.
I heard many people "prophesying" that they "felt" God was saying what they would say, and this would go on for several people, when the Bible explicitly says for two to three speak, and let the others judge (more on this later). There is no balance but on the power gifts, and manifestations that does not glorify God but give an illusion that only God is pleased with them.
When asked of those involved with this on what Scriptures support this, then only answer I got was this can't be "directly" interpreted by the Bible, but that there is nothing impossible to God, so this refers to it directly that this is from Him. Later, we will compare what this doctrine holds to the Hybrides Revival of 1947.
3. Discernment
There are two places where discernment should always be used in which I am going to talk about. The third one is spiritual tongues, which should be used as well, but I hope to tie in one of the other two with this. But before I start, I have seen on media (i.e. Elijah's List), as well as churches and conferences that discernment is needed the most. For Scriptural reference, there are three verses I would like to use for this discussion:
Romans 14:13
Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.
1 Cor. 2:15
But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.
1 John 4:1
Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
Understand, many Christians abuse the word judge, and other times it ignores the word similar to it. The main word for judge is krino, which is used to make a final determination in the spiritual, but discern had two words that can be translated from the Greek as such:
anakrino and diakrino. Note both have the same root word - krino- but different prefixes. Let's look at the differences.
From the Strong's concordance:
diakrino, dee-ak-ree'-no; from Greek 1223 (dia) and Greek 2919 (krino); to separate thoroughly i.e. (literal and reflexive) to withdraw from, or (by implication) oppose; figurative to discriminate (by implication decide), or (reflexive) hesitate :- contend, make (to) differ (-ence), discern, doubt, judge, be partial, stagger, waver.
anakrino, an-ak-ree'-no; from Greek 303 (ana) and Greek 2919 (krino); properly to scrutinize, i.e. (by implication) investigate, interrogate, determine :- ask, question, discern, examine, judge, search.
Please note diakrino is separate, to oppose, to withdraw, this could imply to remove by discrimination. Anakrino means to investigate thoroughly to make a rightful decision. Both are rooted in making a judgmental call, one is used for separation, the other is to investigate.
Now that I have laid a base for my discussion, we will see where these need to be in play according to prophetic words and teaching/preaching of the Word. As I start with the latter, it is very appalling that to see the young generation easily assume that anything spoken at the pulpit is the Word of God.
I have walked into many churches and very few of the congregation younger than forty never had a Bible. I am not saying everyone, but a definite majority. Even more troubling is how many different versions and translations we have currently of the Bible, so there are many dilemmas on how the rightly discern what is being preached today. Very few people in church check in their Bible to see of the Word is being taught correctly. It is so much easier for everyone to bring their smartphones, read the verses superficially on the big screen, and walk out feeling "fulfilled" you went to church this week.
I am not judging preacher's hearts in what I am about to say. Many do love the LORD but now a pastor goes to Bible college to learn. Is this wrong? No and yes. It is good they learn how to teach, how to lead, but many learn according to the doctrine and denomination of the college. When they leave, they will continue to teach in the ways of the college.
Many churches in the Methodist, Lutheran and Presbyterian churches are now accepting what is an abomination to the LORD, and allowing it access to the pulpit. How did this manage to override hundreds or thousands of years of teachings. Even the Catholic church has seen a chink in the armor, as Pope Francis quotes about "judging" those living the homosexual lifestyle, as long as they do not let it out of their head.
How is it that today's preachers and scholars demand they know more than those in the past? I haven't been able to find it, but there were scholars from different versions of the Bible demand their translation is right on the John Ankerberg Show. KJV, NKJV, NIV, NLT and I think NASB all were debating, spending quite a bit of time proving the others were not right. How did this happen?
I remember having a discussion over the phone with a pastor, and every time there was a reproof, he quoted scholars every time. What, no Holy Spirit? Isn't He the guide to all truth for all? One thing I learned in the difference between today's English and the language written then, which is Koines Greek. America's English continues to change and evolve, while Koines is a dead language. The difficulty is when scholars and other people use current definitions to translate the language of yore. With ours always changing, eventually the translation will do the same.
Discernment in the prophetic word is almost nonexistent in churches today. All that is needed is "thus saith the LORD," roll out some words that sound biblical, and you are now a bonafide prophet. I used to be crazy for this manifestation of the Holy Spirit but with what I have heard, from churches to cell groups to personal givings, I am not testing and being apprehensive of these types of words freely spoken as if they were from God. We need to judge these righteously, but how?
One is to base it according to Scripture. Two, base off the works of the Holy Spirit, since one part of prophesying is from Him. Third, it should glorify Jesus, as this is will of the Holy Spirit. Fourth, it needs to bring you closer to God (Deuteronomy 13:1-5). Too much of sounds wonderful, but where does it lead you? Do you "feel good" about it for yourself? If that is true, it isn't about you, it is about Him (Jeremiah 9:23-24).
Some leaders flaunt it so freely that anything that resembles "reading their mail" to acknowledging the desires of our heart is not necessarily from the LORD, either. I have no doubt the devil knows my weaknesses and my heart's desire as well, and if these "good words" keep you dwelling on them and not focused on the Almighty, then this isn't truly a word from the LORD.
Personal prophecies can be more dangerous, as some are given by those who add or interpret what they feel is from the LORD. Others that I have heard only "followed" what was said, and seemed to have no validity or originality. Prophetic words holds power, but many do not realize the enemy would like to distort its worth, and "Make more money," by thus I mean if it is used too much, it loses its worth.
4. The doctrine of Balaam
We need to note that Balaam is mentioned at least three times in the New Testament, and they are all related, but different in its context. There is the way of Balaam (2 Peter 2:15), there is the error of Balaam (Jude 11) and the doctrine of Balaam (Revelations 2:14). I will concentrate on the later, because I believe this has infiltrated many churches, albeit in different methods, depending on the church.
In simple words, Balaam's desire was to get what he wanted, and that was riches. He was hoping that God would not be watching when he met with King Balak, and he wanted what he had to offer, and he would do anything to have it. Eventually, he told Balak that be sneaking in to the camp women that would lead them into idolatry, which I believe lead to deaths into the thousands.
Now that we are under a new covenant, God has chosen a different route for mankind, through His Son Jesus, but His hatred for this doctrine hasn't changed. Doctrines have come in through the side door, and is bringing many of His children into idol worship today. Even I have fallen into this trap, and it is a difficult one to get out.
As I mentioned earlier, there are churches that are being influenced more on the signs and wonders, the emergent church, and the Word of Faith movement than ever today. I am ever saddened by seeing a former church take more grasp on the supernatural than the Omnipotent One. It seems many churches are now allowing many doctrines that preachers in before the sixties would not dare touch. We wouldn't claim idol worship as it was in the Old Testament, but it seems we do it while it is still in our heart, and the church is allowing it.
We as a church now are finding ways to change the image of God in our hearts because we know in our current state we would fail in the sight of a Holy God. The lower we go in our image of Him, the better we feel in the lifestyle we desire to have. We are not challenged to be in His presence, but also have mistaken what we term His presence. Which brings me to number five.
5. False revivals
I believe the Toronto Outpouring, the Brownsville Revival, and the worst of all, the Lakeland Outpouring, have produced nothing more than people looking for power without repentance. The church in Brownsville today is some million dollars in debt, and the pastor who was in charge during the "movement" felt a leading for a traveling ministry, leaving while the going was good. My point is that, if God was involved with this, would He leave His church in this financial state? We all know the simple answer.
The fiasco of the Lakeland Outpouring led by Todd Bentley has left its mark, and right now he is in South Africa attempting to resurrect his ministry in more revival meetings. Many named prophets and self appointed apostles made fools of themselves by giving him great prophesies and words without discerning his work behind the scenes. Rick Joyner desired to make a name again after his error by "gently restoring him" to ministry, all the while allowing Bentley to keep his girlfriend and get married as soon as his divorced cleared the courts. to finalize how history repeats itself, GOD TV decided not to learn from its mistake and started preempting more programming to showcase Bentley's new attempt at his boot kicking healings.
The Hybrides Revival of 1947 makes no comparison to any of these revivals. All the aforementioned was more of power, prophetic, and signs and wonders. The Hybrides Revival was so authentic, there is absolutely NO WORD on manifestations. More on mercy, holiness, and getting right in repentance through acknowledgement of their depraved soul in the face of a Holy God. People did not ask for healing, they asked for mercy. They did not seek manna, people saw their spiritual condition and prayed for repentance. They were agitated in their minds and souls and they HAD to get right. It had to be HIM, and there was no other alternative.
People ran to the police station, looking for what was needed to avoid the punishment of hell, and one boy was asked to pray. He got one word out - "Father" - and the Holy Spirit took over. Now, when my wife hears someone say that the presence of God is strong today, she says when she sees people running down to the altar in repentance, THEN she will believe it.
I will, too.
6. Preparing for Tribulation
The world is walking in the last days, and the fading freedoms that America has had is deluded many Christians into a false sense of security. We believe God is going to protect us in every way, but that is not totally true. There is one section of Scripture that many fail to realize, because it is another set that is never taught from the pulpit:
Hebrews 11:35-40
Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: [36] And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: [37] They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; [38] (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. [39] And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: [40] God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.
Anyone notice this is the so called "faith" chapter? How come everyone can go after the first few verses of the chapter, and easily avoid these last few verses? Because we don't believe it will happen to us There us another Scripture that Christians should hold in their heart:
2 Tim. 3:12
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
I want to look at the last couple verses of Hebrews 11, and compare it to the verse above in 1 Timothy 3, and see where it would lead those trusting in the LORD completely. For those living godly, they will suffer for it in the world. God sees it as a good report, and will provide a BETTER thing than what earth can offer. We tend to focus much on the promise, and not the reward for our faithfulness. Remember, Jesus says we should store treasures in heaven, for the ones here pale to the eternal.
It will get worse, the Bible says so. Are Christians prepared to stay the course when the world begins to fully turn on them? Granted, I do not how ready I am, and there are people being persecuted all over the world, and America has shown little concern, but we will pray for healings and miracles for ourselves. Don't think it won't make it into America, because it already is here. It doesn't seem bad now, but it is gaining strength to where it will become more physical than political.
I do not have all the answers, and I do not want to be in a "perfect" church, there is no such thing. If there were, would they need Jesus to begin with? I see so much change in the church compared to the writings in Charles Finney, John Wesley, even Smith Wigglesworth in the early twentieth century. Finney and Wesley saw the depraved soul of the church, and cried out to the LORD to move and be a vessel, and revivals came about from conviction and agitation from acknowledgement of sin in our lives. Now it is better to sleep a dream a pleasant life in church than live it. I have struggled as well, so I am no better than others. It is my heart is searching in a different way for God that what churches are showing. the church has changed, and I am hoping it finds the err of its ways. We need a return to the old ways, which was good (Jeremiah 6:16a). I hope we do not have the response in the second part of that verse (but they would not listen).
Truthfully, I am hoping for a church that holds more value in the way the Bible was taught and led, not as it wants to not to offend. It is the only true way to attract the sinners and bring a true revival.
Michael
What has happened to the Western Church? Why so much change, especially the last sixty years? What has changed from what blessed America to now, what seems to be a generation of self-righteousness by lowering standards away from God's holiness? Some who read this may not agree with what I am about to say, but I have been having a hard time WANTING to look for a church today, as so many places are accepting doctrine that is more appealing to the secular environment than a desire to be in the presence of the Almighty. Here are things I have been debating in my heart, not any particular order.
Here goes:
1.Worship
When you place the older hymns next to today's contemporary Christian music, the difference is small to many who don't see it, but it is very major. The last five Psalms is replete over music as a prime example of worshiping God, and the older songs are strong in this area. these types of songs have become fewer and far between today, as the praise and worship songs now present how we want to worship Him. I am having a hard time hearing angels sing how they will worship the Almighty, it is all about Him and who He is.
Many churches are seeking more ways to entertain during worship. The bigger the church, the bigger the lights, the bigger the amps, the louder the music. It is meant to invoke the feelings in the younger generation, to have the feel of the concert inside the church walls. With music that compels us to worship God how we feel instead of complete acknowledgement of His holiness, righteousness, even His judgment, the church is missing what true worship is.
I watched a short video on this subject, and this person made a better stance "how you feel?" during worship and compare it to "what you know?" during praise and worship. How you know God is more important than how you feel in the same moment. In essence, how we know and perceive God will determine how we worship Him. In times of yore, the belief is how they knew Him. Today, it is how we feel about worshiping Him.
Big difference.
2. Very little balance in teachings
This can be touchy, but this also determines how the preacher is as well. I have been members of three different churches, but not one since 2010. The one church while we lived in Texas had been different from the pulpit than others, as he said he would use the authority as God instructs him, and he preached as it as so. I have not heard such preaching in person since we moved back up north, and I have missed it.
I am not saying that "good" preaching isn't needed, yes, we should be encouraged through the good news in the Bible. But many pulpits refuse to go after the tougher sermons that allows the Holy Spirit to reprove and correct. All Scripture is used for reproof and correction, but not many are willing to bring those that their congregation spiritually needs.
Don't want to offend women? Avoid those about usurping authority and their attitude toward men if not under submission (Genesis 3:16-17). Sounds too cruel about giving someone living in open sin and "abandon" those to the devil, but it is in the Bible twice (1 Corinthians 5:1-5, 1 Timothy 1:20).
The offering of the sinner's prayer in today's churches tends to be so powerless, all that is required is the number of those raised hands, not of the soul leading toward discipleship. We tend to avoid any type of possible humiliation when it comes to someone's salvation, playing it "safe" by providing the congregation as "cover."
At the end of the service, a pastor will give an invitation to any who wants to be in the kingdom. Some acknowledge "that hand over there," and "I see a hand in the back," ask the congregation to stand, where everyone repeats the sinner's prayer. Service over, those who raised their hands walk out of the church thinking they are now saved, but no closer to God than when they first walked in.
Jesus said if you will not publicly acknowledge Me before men, I will not acknowledge you before My Father (Matthew 10:32-33). How come we will not ask these people to come forward and publicly acknowledge Jesus before the congregation? Didn't Jesus suffer public humiliation that led Him to the Cross? Without this act, mankind is doomed.
No acknowledging of sin, just to ask God for forgiveness. No prayer about changing or repentance, just an invitation of God's love. No expectations of obedience and His holiness, just join in the crowd incognito and claim the Blood.
One instance I will make is when well-known evangelists went to Africa and claimed over 250,000 souls for Christ. One person who heard of this decided to follow through after six months to see their progress in walking with the LORD. They found roughly less than 25,000 still attending church and reading the Bible. What happened to the other 225,000?
This happened when we visited a former church were my family were members. At the end of the service was the call for salvation. Couple hands went up, the congregation stood up, the words went up, when the words were done, we saw one person ask for salvation. He simply walked out of the church. There will be a number given on how many "gave their lives" to the LORD, but did they really? When this happens, the leadership will never know.
One thing I found when I read Charles Finney's book, "Holy Spirit Revivals." He agitated the souls of those who opposed the work of the revival. Mr. Finney's expectation was discipleship, not simple conversion. Today, we have it backwards.
The other part of this is the emphasis on gifts and manifestations than the message of the Cross. I have been to conferences and churches where so much was made on manifestations and certain giftings. One preacher claimed to be "drunk in the spirit," singing "Happy Trails" to the crowd. Another claims that when the Holy Spirit takes over, she violently shakes her head back and forth until she opens the Bible, then the shaking stops. Another claimed oil flowed from her "wounds in her hands" that brought forth healing. One claimed he can control the weather, others mentioned their frequent third heaven trips to the throne of God. All this while manna, gold dust and glory clouds are signs of God.
I heard many people "prophesying" that they "felt" God was saying what they would say, and this would go on for several people, when the Bible explicitly says for two to three speak, and let the others judge (more on this later). There is no balance but on the power gifts, and manifestations that does not glorify God but give an illusion that only God is pleased with them.
When asked of those involved with this on what Scriptures support this, then only answer I got was this can't be "directly" interpreted by the Bible, but that there is nothing impossible to God, so this refers to it directly that this is from Him. Later, we will compare what this doctrine holds to the Hybrides Revival of 1947.
3. Discernment
There are two places where discernment should always be used in which I am going to talk about. The third one is spiritual tongues, which should be used as well, but I hope to tie in one of the other two with this. But before I start, I have seen on media (i.e. Elijah's List), as well as churches and conferences that discernment is needed the most. For Scriptural reference, there are three verses I would like to use for this discussion:
Romans 14:13
Let us not therefore judge one another any more: but judge this rather, that no man put a stumblingblock or an occasion to fall in his brother's way.
1 Cor. 2:15
But he that is spiritual judgeth all things, yet he himself is judged of no man.
1 John 4:1
Beloved, believe not every spirit, but try the spirits whether they are of God: because many false prophets are gone out into the world.
Understand, many Christians abuse the word judge, and other times it ignores the word similar to it. The main word for judge is krino, which is used to make a final determination in the spiritual, but discern had two words that can be translated from the Greek as such:
anakrino and diakrino. Note both have the same root word - krino- but different prefixes. Let's look at the differences.
From the Strong's concordance:
diakrino, dee-ak-ree'-no; from Greek 1223 (dia) and Greek 2919 (krino); to separate thoroughly i.e. (literal and reflexive) to withdraw from, or (by implication) oppose; figurative to discriminate (by implication decide), or (reflexive) hesitate :- contend, make (to) differ (-ence), discern, doubt, judge, be partial, stagger, waver.
anakrino, an-ak-ree'-no; from Greek 303 (ana) and Greek 2919 (krino); properly to scrutinize, i.e. (by implication) investigate, interrogate, determine :- ask, question, discern, examine, judge, search.
Please note diakrino is separate, to oppose, to withdraw, this could imply to remove by discrimination. Anakrino means to investigate thoroughly to make a rightful decision. Both are rooted in making a judgmental call, one is used for separation, the other is to investigate.
Now that I have laid a base for my discussion, we will see where these need to be in play according to prophetic words and teaching/preaching of the Word. As I start with the latter, it is very appalling that to see the young generation easily assume that anything spoken at the pulpit is the Word of God.
I have walked into many churches and very few of the congregation younger than forty never had a Bible. I am not saying everyone, but a definite majority. Even more troubling is how many different versions and translations we have currently of the Bible, so there are many dilemmas on how the rightly discern what is being preached today. Very few people in church check in their Bible to see of the Word is being taught correctly. It is so much easier for everyone to bring their smartphones, read the verses superficially on the big screen, and walk out feeling "fulfilled" you went to church this week.
I am not judging preacher's hearts in what I am about to say. Many do love the LORD but now a pastor goes to Bible college to learn. Is this wrong? No and yes. It is good they learn how to teach, how to lead, but many learn according to the doctrine and denomination of the college. When they leave, they will continue to teach in the ways of the college.
Many churches in the Methodist, Lutheran and Presbyterian churches are now accepting what is an abomination to the LORD, and allowing it access to the pulpit. How did this manage to override hundreds or thousands of years of teachings. Even the Catholic church has seen a chink in the armor, as Pope Francis quotes about "judging" those living the homosexual lifestyle, as long as they do not let it out of their head.
How is it that today's preachers and scholars demand they know more than those in the past? I haven't been able to find it, but there were scholars from different versions of the Bible demand their translation is right on the John Ankerberg Show. KJV, NKJV, NIV, NLT and I think NASB all were debating, spending quite a bit of time proving the others were not right. How did this happen?
I remember having a discussion over the phone with a pastor, and every time there was a reproof, he quoted scholars every time. What, no Holy Spirit? Isn't He the guide to all truth for all? One thing I learned in the difference between today's English and the language written then, which is Koines Greek. America's English continues to change and evolve, while Koines is a dead language. The difficulty is when scholars and other people use current definitions to translate the language of yore. With ours always changing, eventually the translation will do the same.
Discernment in the prophetic word is almost nonexistent in churches today. All that is needed is "thus saith the LORD," roll out some words that sound biblical, and you are now a bonafide prophet. I used to be crazy for this manifestation of the Holy Spirit but with what I have heard, from churches to cell groups to personal givings, I am not testing and being apprehensive of these types of words freely spoken as if they were from God. We need to judge these righteously, but how?
One is to base it according to Scripture. Two, base off the works of the Holy Spirit, since one part of prophesying is from Him. Third, it should glorify Jesus, as this is will of the Holy Spirit. Fourth, it needs to bring you closer to God (Deuteronomy 13:1-5). Too much of sounds wonderful, but where does it lead you? Do you "feel good" about it for yourself? If that is true, it isn't about you, it is about Him (Jeremiah 9:23-24).
Some leaders flaunt it so freely that anything that resembles "reading their mail" to acknowledging the desires of our heart is not necessarily from the LORD, either. I have no doubt the devil knows my weaknesses and my heart's desire as well, and if these "good words" keep you dwelling on them and not focused on the Almighty, then this isn't truly a word from the LORD.
Personal prophecies can be more dangerous, as some are given by those who add or interpret what they feel is from the LORD. Others that I have heard only "followed" what was said, and seemed to have no validity or originality. Prophetic words holds power, but many do not realize the enemy would like to distort its worth, and "Make more money," by thus I mean if it is used too much, it loses its worth.
4. The doctrine of Balaam
We need to note that Balaam is mentioned at least three times in the New Testament, and they are all related, but different in its context. There is the way of Balaam (2 Peter 2:15), there is the error of Balaam (Jude 11) and the doctrine of Balaam (Revelations 2:14). I will concentrate on the later, because I believe this has infiltrated many churches, albeit in different methods, depending on the church.
In simple words, Balaam's desire was to get what he wanted, and that was riches. He was hoping that God would not be watching when he met with King Balak, and he wanted what he had to offer, and he would do anything to have it. Eventually, he told Balak that be sneaking in to the camp women that would lead them into idolatry, which I believe lead to deaths into the thousands.
Now that we are under a new covenant, God has chosen a different route for mankind, through His Son Jesus, but His hatred for this doctrine hasn't changed. Doctrines have come in through the side door, and is bringing many of His children into idol worship today. Even I have fallen into this trap, and it is a difficult one to get out.
As I mentioned earlier, there are churches that are being influenced more on the signs and wonders, the emergent church, and the Word of Faith movement than ever today. I am ever saddened by seeing a former church take more grasp on the supernatural than the Omnipotent One. It seems many churches are now allowing many doctrines that preachers in before the sixties would not dare touch. We wouldn't claim idol worship as it was in the Old Testament, but it seems we do it while it is still in our heart, and the church is allowing it.
We as a church now are finding ways to change the image of God in our hearts because we know in our current state we would fail in the sight of a Holy God. The lower we go in our image of Him, the better we feel in the lifestyle we desire to have. We are not challenged to be in His presence, but also have mistaken what we term His presence. Which brings me to number five.
5. False revivals
I believe the Toronto Outpouring, the Brownsville Revival, and the worst of all, the Lakeland Outpouring, have produced nothing more than people looking for power without repentance. The church in Brownsville today is some million dollars in debt, and the pastor who was in charge during the "movement" felt a leading for a traveling ministry, leaving while the going was good. My point is that, if God was involved with this, would He leave His church in this financial state? We all know the simple answer.
The fiasco of the Lakeland Outpouring led by Todd Bentley has left its mark, and right now he is in South Africa attempting to resurrect his ministry in more revival meetings. Many named prophets and self appointed apostles made fools of themselves by giving him great prophesies and words without discerning his work behind the scenes. Rick Joyner desired to make a name again after his error by "gently restoring him" to ministry, all the while allowing Bentley to keep his girlfriend and get married as soon as his divorced cleared the courts. to finalize how history repeats itself, GOD TV decided not to learn from its mistake and started preempting more programming to showcase Bentley's new attempt at his boot kicking healings.
The Hybrides Revival of 1947 makes no comparison to any of these revivals. All the aforementioned was more of power, prophetic, and signs and wonders. The Hybrides Revival was so authentic, there is absolutely NO WORD on manifestations. More on mercy, holiness, and getting right in repentance through acknowledgement of their depraved soul in the face of a Holy God. People did not ask for healing, they asked for mercy. They did not seek manna, people saw their spiritual condition and prayed for repentance. They were agitated in their minds and souls and they HAD to get right. It had to be HIM, and there was no other alternative.
People ran to the police station, looking for what was needed to avoid the punishment of hell, and one boy was asked to pray. He got one word out - "Father" - and the Holy Spirit took over. Now, when my wife hears someone say that the presence of God is strong today, she says when she sees people running down to the altar in repentance, THEN she will believe it.
I will, too.
6. Preparing for Tribulation
The world is walking in the last days, and the fading freedoms that America has had is deluded many Christians into a false sense of security. We believe God is going to protect us in every way, but that is not totally true. There is one section of Scripture that many fail to realize, because it is another set that is never taught from the pulpit:
Hebrews 11:35-40
Women received their dead raised to life again: and others were tortured, not accepting deliverance; that they might obtain a better resurrection: [36] And others had trial of cruel mockings and scourgings, yea, moreover of bonds and imprisonment: [37] They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; [38] (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth. [39] And these all, having obtained a good report through faith, received not the promise: [40] God having provided some better thing for us, that they without us should not be made perfect.
Anyone notice this is the so called "faith" chapter? How come everyone can go after the first few verses of the chapter, and easily avoid these last few verses? Because we don't believe it will happen to us There us another Scripture that Christians should hold in their heart:
2 Tim. 3:12
Yea, and all that will live godly in Christ Jesus shall suffer persecution.
I want to look at the last couple verses of Hebrews 11, and compare it to the verse above in 1 Timothy 3, and see where it would lead those trusting in the LORD completely. For those living godly, they will suffer for it in the world. God sees it as a good report, and will provide a BETTER thing than what earth can offer. We tend to focus much on the promise, and not the reward for our faithfulness. Remember, Jesus says we should store treasures in heaven, for the ones here pale to the eternal.
It will get worse, the Bible says so. Are Christians prepared to stay the course when the world begins to fully turn on them? Granted, I do not how ready I am, and there are people being persecuted all over the world, and America has shown little concern, but we will pray for healings and miracles for ourselves. Don't think it won't make it into America, because it already is here. It doesn't seem bad now, but it is gaining strength to where it will become more physical than political.
I do not have all the answers, and I do not want to be in a "perfect" church, there is no such thing. If there were, would they need Jesus to begin with? I see so much change in the church compared to the writings in Charles Finney, John Wesley, even Smith Wigglesworth in the early twentieth century. Finney and Wesley saw the depraved soul of the church, and cried out to the LORD to move and be a vessel, and revivals came about from conviction and agitation from acknowledgement of sin in our lives. Now it is better to sleep a dream a pleasant life in church than live it. I have struggled as well, so I am no better than others. It is my heart is searching in a different way for God that what churches are showing. the church has changed, and I am hoping it finds the err of its ways. We need a return to the old ways, which was good (Jeremiah 6:16a). I hope we do not have the response in the second part of that verse (but they would not listen).
Truthfully, I am hoping for a church that holds more value in the way the Bible was taught and led, not as it wants to not to offend. It is the only true way to attract the sinners and bring a true revival.
Michael
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