Spiritual increase cannot be accomplished apart from God. It is God who gives growth.
There are principles in God's Word which are applicable to every area of life and ministry. God works through men who know how to cooperate with these principles. From the beginning of the world, God has worked on the earth through man. He gave Adam and Eve the task of keeping the garden. He used a man named Noah to preserve life on the earth during the flood.
God raised up Abraham to found the nation of Israel through which He would reveal Himself to the nations of the world. God also used prophets, kings, and judges to accomplish His plan in Old Testament times.
In the New Testament, a man named John the Baptist "prepared the way for the Lord." Jesus began His ministry with common men and when He returned to Heaven He left the destiny of the Gospel in the hands of these same men. The whole Biblical record is one of man cooperating with the principles of God to achieve the purposes of God.
This is true in spiritual growth. God does not bypass man to spread the Gospel. He uses men and women who understand and cooperate with His principles of spiritual growth. Paul summarized this cooperative relationship:
1 Corinthians 3:6 "I have planted, Apollos watered; but God gave the increase. "
Paul stressed the urgency for believers to fulfill their responsibility in the plan of God:
Romans 10:13, 14 "For whosoever shall call upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. How then shall they call on Him in whom they have not believed? And how shall they believe in Him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?"
Jesus said in John 12:32:
"And I, if I be lifted up from the earth, will draw all men unto me."
Jesus was speaking here of His "lifting up" on the cross to die for the sins of all mankind. Through His death, He would draw all men through the power of the Gospel. When you share the Gospel message, Jesus is lifted up. When He is lifted up in your life and your church, people are changed by the power of the Gospel message they see in you.
Spiritual growth is guaranteed when Jesus is lifted up. It may not come as quickly as you expect it, but as you grow in the Spirit, blessings will begin to flow. As they flow through you others will see and know the anointing of God on your life. It is that anointing that can bring the growth that God wants in you and your church.
Tuesday, July 25, 2017
Monday, July 24, 2017
Changed By Sacrifice
Romans 12:1, 2 "I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that ye present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable unto God, which is your reasonable service. And be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind, that ye may prove what is that good, and acceptable, and perfect, will of God."
(1) Those who are in Christ imitate Christ and share his sufferings in this life. While their sacrifice is not redemptive or in the place of another, it is to be for another, as was His for us all.
(2) It reminds the reader that those who are called to a life of sacrifice includes suffering in service for God.
(3) Sacrifice required the surrender of one's best self to God. A blemished sacrifice or half-hearted commitment was not acceptable to God.
(4) It meant a total surrender of one's self or giving something that one does not get back.
(5) This was the replacement of the Old Testament system where they offered bulls and goats. Now the readers were to offer themselves as a living sacrifice.
(1) Those who are in Christ imitate Christ and share his sufferings in this life. While their sacrifice is not redemptive or in the place of another, it is to be for another, as was His for us all.
(2) It reminds the reader that those who are called to a life of sacrifice includes suffering in service for God.
(3) Sacrifice required the surrender of one's best self to God. A blemished sacrifice or half-hearted commitment was not acceptable to God.
(4) It meant a total surrender of one's self or giving something that one does not get back.
(5) This was the replacement of the Old Testament system where they offered bulls and goats. Now the readers were to offer themselves as a living sacrifice.
The sigma (18th letter in the Greek alphabet) in the participle ζῶσαν is because it is feminine, not because it speaks of a completed action. It is a present participle that has a continuous aspect just like the English participle "living." One writer said, "The living sacrifice stands in contrast to those which were killed and refers to a constant dedication to the Lord God."
Paul also uses the Greek Word λογικός, referring to the human spirit, not the more typical πνευματικός, which refers usually to the Spirit of God and sometimes to evil spirits. The precise meaning of it in this context is disputed, but many think at the very least it serves as a contrast to "bodies." Yes, we are to offer our bodies, but such a sacrifice is not to be thought of in a merely external way, but also one that is spiritual.
Paul is commanding his readers to totally give themselves up to God totally. He does not restrict the command to just physical bodies. Rather, lest one make holiness something which is fleeting, he gives a concrete embodiment of the command to holiness. This is true and proper worship because the old system of bulls and goats has passed away, and because true worship to God is a holistic action of the man. God asks for total, not partial, devotion of both body and soul.
Paul said this is "our reasonable service." The word "reasonable" simply means "fair and sensible." It is entirely possible and reasonable that we can live dedicated lives of holiness to the Lord. It does require a change in lifestyle and maybe even a change in our habits, but if Paul is correct, it will be worth it all in the end.
I believe that Paul is correct in his assumption. Do you?
Changed By The Blood
The cross is the instrument of death, the wooden construction upon which Jesus died. The power of the Gospel is inseparable from the power of the cross and the blood shed upon it.
The power of the cross is not in the wooden structure itself. The power is not in any symbol of the cross which we wear or put on our church buildings. The power of the cross is in what happened on that cross. It is in the blood of Jesus which was shed on the cross for the sins of all mankind.
The Bible teaches that the life of man and beasts is in the blood in Leviticus 17:11; 14. Because the penalty for sin is death as by Romans 6:23, and since life is in the blood, God established the principle that forgiveness of sins comes only through the shedding of blood:
Hebrews 9:22 "And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission (from sin)."
In the Old Testament, the blood of animals was offered as sacrifice for sin. The blood sacrifices were made over and over again whenever man sinned. However, in the New Testament, God sent Jesus to shed His blood for sin once and for all. It is no longer necessary that the blood of animals be offered as sacrifice for sin:
Hebrews 9: 12 "Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us."
The power of the cross is in the blood of Jesus. What spiritual power is in that blood? The blood:
-Was shed for the remission (forgiveness) of sins for many-Matthew 26:28
-Brought redemption from sin-Ephesians 1:7; 2:13; 1 Peter 1:2,18-19; Revelation 5:6-9
-Is precious, because it redeemed us-1 Peter 1:18, 19
-Cleanses us from sin-1 John 1:7
-Purges our conscience from sin: Hebrews 9:14
-Speaks for us: Jesus is our intercessor and His blood cries or speaks for us-Hebrews 12:24
-Gives access to God's presence so we can approach Him-Hebrews 9:12; 10:19-22; Ephesians 2:13
-Made Jesus the mediator between God and man- Hebrews 12:24
-Sanctifies us-Hebrews 13:12, 13
-Is the means of justification-Romans 3:24, 25
-Is the cup of spiritual blessings-1 Corinthians 10:16
-Redeems us from sin and sickness-Isaiah 53:4
-Backs Christ's promises-When Jesus took the cup of wine and said "This cup is the new covenant in My blood" he was saying "Every promise that is part of that covenant will be kept at the cost of My own lifeblood" in Luke 22:20
-Is the power behind the resurrection of Jesus-Hebrews 13:20
-Brings life-John 6:53-57
-Enables us to do God's will-Hebrews 13:20-21
-Enables us to overcome all the power of the enemy: Revelation 12:11
-Provides protection-When the blood of the Passover lamb was placed on the doors of the Israelites in Egypt, evil could not enter according to Exodus 12:21-23
These are the reasons Paul said:
1 Corinthians 1:18 "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."
The power of the cross is not in the wooden structure itself. The power is not in any symbol of the cross which we wear or put on our church buildings. The power of the cross is in what happened on that cross. It is in the blood of Jesus which was shed on the cross for the sins of all mankind.
The Bible teaches that the life of man and beasts is in the blood in Leviticus 17:11; 14. Because the penalty for sin is death as by Romans 6:23, and since life is in the blood, God established the principle that forgiveness of sins comes only through the shedding of blood:
Hebrews 9:22 "And almost all things are by the law purged with blood; and without shedding of blood is no remission (from sin)."
In the Old Testament, the blood of animals was offered as sacrifice for sin. The blood sacrifices were made over and over again whenever man sinned. However, in the New Testament, God sent Jesus to shed His blood for sin once and for all. It is no longer necessary that the blood of animals be offered as sacrifice for sin:
Hebrews 9: 12 "Neither by the blood of goats and calves, but by His own blood He entered in once into the holy place, having obtained eternal redemption for us."
The power of the cross is in the blood of Jesus. What spiritual power is in that blood? The blood:
-Was shed for the remission (forgiveness) of sins for many-Matthew 26:28
-Brought redemption from sin-Ephesians 1:7; 2:13; 1 Peter 1:2,18-19; Revelation 5:6-9
-Is precious, because it redeemed us-1 Peter 1:18, 19
-Cleanses us from sin-1 John 1:7
-Purges our conscience from sin: Hebrews 9:14
-Speaks for us: Jesus is our intercessor and His blood cries or speaks for us-Hebrews 12:24
-Gives access to God's presence so we can approach Him-Hebrews 9:12; 10:19-22; Ephesians 2:13
-Made Jesus the mediator between God and man- Hebrews 12:24
-Sanctifies us-Hebrews 13:12, 13
-Is the means of justification-Romans 3:24, 25
-Is the cup of spiritual blessings-1 Corinthians 10:16
-Redeems us from sin and sickness-Isaiah 53:4
-Backs Christ's promises-When Jesus took the cup of wine and said "This cup is the new covenant in My blood" he was saying "Every promise that is part of that covenant will be kept at the cost of My own lifeblood" in Luke 22:20
-Is the power behind the resurrection of Jesus-Hebrews 13:20
-Brings life-John 6:53-57
-Enables us to do God's will-Hebrews 13:20-21
-Enables us to overcome all the power of the enemy: Revelation 12:11
-Provides protection-When the blood of the Passover lamb was placed on the doors of the Israelites in Egypt, evil could not enter according to Exodus 12:21-23
These are the reasons Paul said:
1 Corinthians 1:18 "For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God."
Changed By The Gospel
The word "Gospel" actually means "good news." When we speak of the Gospel in a Biblical sense, it refers to the good news of the Kingdom of God and of salvation through Jesus Christ. The basic elements of the Gospel are summarized by the Apostle Paul:
"For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; And that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures."
The basic elements of the Gospel focus on the life and ministry of Jesus. It includes His death for the sins of all mankind, His burial, and His resurrection from the dead according to the written record of God's Word. There is great power in the Gospel message. Paul said in Romans 1:16-19:
"For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith, as it is written, The just shall live by faith. For the wrath of God is revealed from Heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them."
These verses reveal why the Gospel is powerful. It is powerful because:
-It is the revelation of God's power to man.
-It brings salvation to all men, regardless of race, color, or creed.
-It reveals that which may be known by men about God.
-It reveals the judgment and wrath of God against sin.
-It reveals the righteousness of God.
-It shows how to be justified by faith.
-It is the basis of the faith by which we live.
The power of the Gospel could still change the world today, but first it must start in your life. Will you let it?
If you have not received Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and been forgiven of your sins, then you cannot experience the power of the Gospel. To experience the power of the Gospel you must:
-Admit that you are a sinner:
Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God."
-Believe that Jesus dies for your sins:
John 3:16, 17 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved."
-Confess your sins to God and ask Him to forgive you:
1 John 1:8, 9 "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
-Experience a changed life:
Let the power of the Gospel work in you to change your old life-style, your sinful actions, attitudes, and thoughts:
2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
"For I delivered unto you first of all that which I also received, how that Christ died for our sins according to the Scriptures; And that He was buried, and that He rose again the third day according to the Scriptures."
The basic elements of the Gospel focus on the life and ministry of Jesus. It includes His death for the sins of all mankind, His burial, and His resurrection from the dead according to the written record of God's Word. There is great power in the Gospel message. Paul said in Romans 1:16-19:
"For I am not ashamed of the Gospel of Christ; for it is the power of God unto salvation to every one that believeth; to the Jew first, and also to the Greek. For therein is the righteousness of God revealed from faith to faith, as it is written, The just shall live by faith. For the wrath of God is revealed from Heaven against all ungodliness and unrighteousness of men, who hold the truth in unrighteousness; Because that which may be known of God is manifest in them; for God hath shewed it unto them."
These verses reveal why the Gospel is powerful. It is powerful because:
-It is the revelation of God's power to man.
-It brings salvation to all men, regardless of race, color, or creed.
-It reveals that which may be known by men about God.
-It reveals the judgment and wrath of God against sin.
-It reveals the righteousness of God.
-It shows how to be justified by faith.
-It is the basis of the faith by which we live.
The power of the Gospel could still change the world today, but first it must start in your life. Will you let it?
If you have not received Jesus Christ as your personal Savior and been forgiven of your sins, then you cannot experience the power of the Gospel. To experience the power of the Gospel you must:
-Admit that you are a sinner:
Romans 3:23 "For all have sinned and come short of the glory of God."
-Believe that Jesus dies for your sins:
John 3:16, 17 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish, but have everlasting life. For God sent not His Son into the world to condemn the world; but that the world through Him might be saved."
-Confess your sins to God and ask Him to forgive you:
1 John 1:8, 9 "If we say that we have no sin, we deceive ourselves, and the truth is not in us. If we confess our sins, He is faithful and just to forgive us our sins, and to cleanse us from all unrighteousness."
-Experience a changed life:
Let the power of the Gospel work in you to change your old life-style, your sinful actions, attitudes, and thoughts:
2 Corinthians 5:17 "Therefore if any man be in Christ, he is a new creature: old things are passed away; behold, all things are become new."
Wednesday, July 19, 2017
Spiritual Growth (Part 4)
Some people ignore the subject of spiritual and church growth because they believe an emphasis on numbers is wrong, but in the Bible there are many records of God's concern with numbers. For examples, see Numbers 1:1-3; 2:23-24; 26:1-4; Revelation 7:9; 20:8; Genesis 22:17; and Hebrews 6:14.
Jesus told many parables concerning numeric growth. He also indicated that careful numeric records are kept in Heaven:
Luke 15:7 "I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in Heaven, over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance."
Growth is emphasized in the record of the early church in the book of Acts. Summaries of the growth of the church are recorded in Acts 1:15; 2:41; 4:4; 6:7; 9:31; 12:24; 16:5; 19:20; and 28:30-31.
You must not ignore the subject of growth just because of a few problems with the wrong emphasis. Rather, you must recognize and deal with the problems. There is a wrong emphasis on spiritual growth when the following factors are present:
1. When spiritual growth is compromised to attract the crowds, there is a misplaced emphasis on numbers. Some ministers say only what people like to hear in order to attract great crowds. The Bible warns in 2 Timothy 4:3, 4:
"...the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. And they shall turn away their ears from the truth and shall be turned unto fables."
Read 1 Chronicles 21:18. David's concern with numbers here was motivated by Satan and was an act of pride. When you begin to take pride in great numbers, your emphasis is wrong.
2. There is a sin of the flesh mentioned in Galatians 5:20 which is called "emulations."
Emulations is a form of jealousy which results in imitating others to equal or surpass their achievements. When you are jealous of large ministries and begin to imitate them in order to grow, you have a wrong emphasis on numbers.
3. The goal of spiritual growth is winning new converts to Jesus Christ and teaching them until they become responsible, reproductive members of the Kingdom of God.
There is a difference between church growth and Kingdom growth. If the First Church splits and 100 of their members go to Second Church, church growth occurs in Second Church, but there has been no Kingdom growth. Spiritual growth has not occurred. There has only been a transfer of existing numbers.
The goal of spiritual growth is not to attract new members from another church, but to reach the unreached with the Gospel. Emphasis on numbers is wrong when the goal of church growth replaces that of Kingdom growth.
4. Jesus ministered to crowds of people during His earthly ministry (Luke 6:17; 7:11; 8:37; 9:14-16; 14:26; 23:27; John 6:2), but Jesus never ignored the individual because of the crowds.
He called individuals out of crowds to minister to them (John 5:3-13; Mark 5:24-34). In John 4, Jesus ministered to one woman who brought an entire village to the Master.
In Acts 8 there is the record of a great revival preached by Philip in the city of Samaria. In the middle of these meetings God spoke to Philip to leave Samaria and go to the desert between Jerusalem and Gaza. Philip immediately left the great revival in which he was ministering. He went from a densely populated country to a lonely desert. He left the crowds in order to minister to just one man, an Ethiopian returning home from Jerusalem. This one man was probably responsible for spreading the Gospel to the entire continent of Africa.
Again, do not despise little things. Remember, a small candle can do what the sun can never do-it can shine at night.
5. When spiritual growth results in church growth, the emphasis sometimes changes from people to things.
Because of growth, a bigger church building may be needed and efforts are shifted from growing disciples to a building program. When your chief concern is with buildings to accommodate growth, numbers have caused you to lose sight of the primary goal.
God is more interested in people than in buildings. The Biblical record of God at work in the world focuses on people. When spiritual growth results in a shift of emphasis from people to material things like buildings, priorities are wrong.
6. Never judge the spirituality of another person or ministry by numbers.
Great numbers are not always an indication of spirituality. Numeric success in some cases is mute testimony that the Church has failed to be the Church. Sometimes, faithfulness to the Word of God and the Lord Jesus Christ may repel rather than attract. For example, when Jesus began to teach the unpopular message of His death, many of His followers deserted Him according to John 6:52-64.
There are other reasons why growth may not be evident. The Bible teaches there are certain seasons for spiritual growth just as there are growth cycles in the natural world. In the natural world, during certain seasons of the year some plants do not reproduce. They have no leaves or fruit and look like a dead branch sticking out of the ground. But in the right season, these plants will blossom and fruit and leaves will come forth.
The same is true in the spiritual world. There are certain times when specific areas of the world are more receptive to the Gospel than others. You can know that by studying the patterns of growth in those areas. Use every bit of information you can glean about that chosen area so you can concentrate your spiritual forces in fields that are "ripe unto harvest."
Jesus told many parables concerning numeric growth. He also indicated that careful numeric records are kept in Heaven:
Luke 15:7 "I say unto you, that likewise joy shall be in Heaven, over one sinner that repenteth, more than over ninety and nine just persons which need no repentance."
Growth is emphasized in the record of the early church in the book of Acts. Summaries of the growth of the church are recorded in Acts 1:15; 2:41; 4:4; 6:7; 9:31; 12:24; 16:5; 19:20; and 28:30-31.
You must not ignore the subject of growth just because of a few problems with the wrong emphasis. Rather, you must recognize and deal with the problems. There is a wrong emphasis on spiritual growth when the following factors are present:
1. When spiritual growth is compromised to attract the crowds, there is a misplaced emphasis on numbers. Some ministers say only what people like to hear in order to attract great crowds. The Bible warns in 2 Timothy 4:3, 4:
"...the time will come when they will not endure sound doctrine; but after their own lusts shall they heap to themselves teachers, having itching ears. And they shall turn away their ears from the truth and shall be turned unto fables."
Read 1 Chronicles 21:18. David's concern with numbers here was motivated by Satan and was an act of pride. When you begin to take pride in great numbers, your emphasis is wrong.
2. There is a sin of the flesh mentioned in Galatians 5:20 which is called "emulations."
Emulations is a form of jealousy which results in imitating others to equal or surpass their achievements. When you are jealous of large ministries and begin to imitate them in order to grow, you have a wrong emphasis on numbers.
3. The goal of spiritual growth is winning new converts to Jesus Christ and teaching them until they become responsible, reproductive members of the Kingdom of God.
There is a difference between church growth and Kingdom growth. If the First Church splits and 100 of their members go to Second Church, church growth occurs in Second Church, but there has been no Kingdom growth. Spiritual growth has not occurred. There has only been a transfer of existing numbers.
The goal of spiritual growth is not to attract new members from another church, but to reach the unreached with the Gospel. Emphasis on numbers is wrong when the goal of church growth replaces that of Kingdom growth.
4. Jesus ministered to crowds of people during His earthly ministry (Luke 6:17; 7:11; 8:37; 9:14-16; 14:26; 23:27; John 6:2), but Jesus never ignored the individual because of the crowds.
He called individuals out of crowds to minister to them (John 5:3-13; Mark 5:24-34). In John 4, Jesus ministered to one woman who brought an entire village to the Master.
In Acts 8 there is the record of a great revival preached by Philip in the city of Samaria. In the middle of these meetings God spoke to Philip to leave Samaria and go to the desert between Jerusalem and Gaza. Philip immediately left the great revival in which he was ministering. He went from a densely populated country to a lonely desert. He left the crowds in order to minister to just one man, an Ethiopian returning home from Jerusalem. This one man was probably responsible for spreading the Gospel to the entire continent of Africa.
Again, do not despise little things. Remember, a small candle can do what the sun can never do-it can shine at night.
5. When spiritual growth results in church growth, the emphasis sometimes changes from people to things.
Because of growth, a bigger church building may be needed and efforts are shifted from growing disciples to a building program. When your chief concern is with buildings to accommodate growth, numbers have caused you to lose sight of the primary goal.
God is more interested in people than in buildings. The Biblical record of God at work in the world focuses on people. When spiritual growth results in a shift of emphasis from people to material things like buildings, priorities are wrong.
6. Never judge the spirituality of another person or ministry by numbers.
Great numbers are not always an indication of spirituality. Numeric success in some cases is mute testimony that the Church has failed to be the Church. Sometimes, faithfulness to the Word of God and the Lord Jesus Christ may repel rather than attract. For example, when Jesus began to teach the unpopular message of His death, many of His followers deserted Him according to John 6:52-64.
There are other reasons why growth may not be evident. The Bible teaches there are certain seasons for spiritual growth just as there are growth cycles in the natural world. In the natural world, during certain seasons of the year some plants do not reproduce. They have no leaves or fruit and look like a dead branch sticking out of the ground. But in the right season, these plants will blossom and fruit and leaves will come forth.
The same is true in the spiritual world. There are certain times when specific areas of the world are more receptive to the Gospel than others. You can know that by studying the patterns of growth in those areas. Use every bit of information you can glean about that chosen area so you can concentrate your spiritual forces in fields that are "ripe unto harvest."
Spiritual Growth (Part 3)
Jesus told a parable about growth in Matthew 13:1-9. He explained the parable in Matthew 13:18-23. In this parable, the seed represents the Word of God. God has promised when we plant His Word, it is not done in vain:
Isaiah 55:11 "So shall my Word be that goeth forth out of my mouth; it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it."
Jeremiah 1:12 "...For I will hasten my Word to perform it."
It is the Word of God that brings change in the lives of men and women. That change results in growth based on the Word of God.
In the final message of Jesus to His disciples He said:
Acts 1:8 "But ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me, both in Jerusalem and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
The power of the Holy Spirit enables spiritual growth. The gifts of the Holy Spirit equip for that growth The fruit of the Holy Spirit causes reproduction.
In the early church, the spread of the Gospel was not left to the full-time pastors, prophets, evangelists, and teachers. Every New Testament believer was spiritually reproductive. If we are to reach the world with the Gospel today then we must return to this strategy of the early church. Both leaders and laymen must share the responsibility for spiritual growth. Our world's population requires a return to the New Testament plan of ministry by each member of the Body of Christ because we cannot reach the world through token efforts and half-hearted dedication.
There are enough Christians in the world that the entire world could easily be reached with the Gospel. There lacks only a sufficient number of inspired people to recognize and respond to the opportunity for spiritual growth. In order to "GROW" we must "GO INTO ALL THE WORLD AND PREACH THE GOSPEL TO EVERY CREATURE."
The command given by Jesus to believers is to "go" into all the world with His gospel message of deliverance. You do not have to wait for the command to "go" because it already has been given. In relation to the spread of the Gospel, the command is to "go" and watch for the stops, not stop and wait for the "go."
The Bible speaks of four types of church growth accomplished through spiritual growth:
1. Geographic growth was predicted by the Lord Jesus:
Again, Acts 1:8 says, "But ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
Growth was to extend geographically throughout the nations of the world.
2. The church would experience numeric growth as it grew geographically.
Numeric growth of the first church is recorded in the book of Acts. For example, the church had increased from 12 to 120 in Acts 1:15; to 3,000 in Acts 2:41; and to 5,000 in Acts 4:4.
3. The early church experienced ethnic growth also.
The Gospel was extended beyond the Jews to include Gentiles or people of all nations.
4. Internal spiritual growth is also important.
Followers of Jesus must grow in spiritual quality as well as quantity:
2 Peter 3:18 "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ..."
God's desire according to Ephesians 4:15 is about:
"Speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ."
Again, if you want to grow, you've got to go!
Isaiah 55:11 "So shall my Word be that goeth forth out of my mouth; it shall not return unto me void, but it shall accomplish that which I please, and it shall prosper in the thing whereto I sent it."
Jeremiah 1:12 "...For I will hasten my Word to perform it."
It is the Word of God that brings change in the lives of men and women. That change results in growth based on the Word of God.
In the final message of Jesus to His disciples He said:
Acts 1:8 "But ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me, both in Jerusalem and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
The power of the Holy Spirit enables spiritual growth. The gifts of the Holy Spirit equip for that growth The fruit of the Holy Spirit causes reproduction.
In the early church, the spread of the Gospel was not left to the full-time pastors, prophets, evangelists, and teachers. Every New Testament believer was spiritually reproductive. If we are to reach the world with the Gospel today then we must return to this strategy of the early church. Both leaders and laymen must share the responsibility for spiritual growth. Our world's population requires a return to the New Testament plan of ministry by each member of the Body of Christ because we cannot reach the world through token efforts and half-hearted dedication.
There are enough Christians in the world that the entire world could easily be reached with the Gospel. There lacks only a sufficient number of inspired people to recognize and respond to the opportunity for spiritual growth. In order to "GROW" we must "GO INTO ALL THE WORLD AND PREACH THE GOSPEL TO EVERY CREATURE."
The command given by Jesus to believers is to "go" into all the world with His gospel message of deliverance. You do not have to wait for the command to "go" because it already has been given. In relation to the spread of the Gospel, the command is to "go" and watch for the stops, not stop and wait for the "go."
The Bible speaks of four types of church growth accomplished through spiritual growth:
1. Geographic growth was predicted by the Lord Jesus:
Again, Acts 1:8 says, "But ye shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
Growth was to extend geographically throughout the nations of the world.
2. The church would experience numeric growth as it grew geographically.
Numeric growth of the first church is recorded in the book of Acts. For example, the church had increased from 12 to 120 in Acts 1:15; to 3,000 in Acts 2:41; and to 5,000 in Acts 4:4.
3. The early church experienced ethnic growth also.
The Gospel was extended beyond the Jews to include Gentiles or people of all nations.
4. Internal spiritual growth is also important.
Followers of Jesus must grow in spiritual quality as well as quantity:
2 Peter 3:18 "But grow in grace, and in the knowledge of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ..."
God's desire according to Ephesians 4:15 is about:
"Speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ."
Again, if you want to grow, you've got to go!
Spiritual Growth (Part 1)
Spiritual growth starts with a relationship between one person and the Lord Jesus Christ. Spiritual life flows into the soul and spirit of one who has accepted Jesus as Savior. That spark of life, nurtured in the spiritual womb of the Church, grows until a new disciple is created. That disciple has the ability to reproduce spiritually by leading others to the Lord Jesus Christ.
Whether in the natural or spiritual worlds, growth starts with a single cell of life. This is why God said in Zechariah 4:10:
"For who hath despised the day of small things?"
The Biblical principles of growth do not change, but the methods by which you grow may vary. The methods change, but the purpose always remains the same. The principles of God always remain the same, but the strategy to reach these purposes changes. God's purpose from the beginning of time has been:
Ephesians 1:20 "...That in the dispensation of the fullness of times, He might gather together in one all things in Christ both which are in Heaven, and which are on earth, even in Him."
As the spiritual life of His people and historical conditions changes among the nations, God changes His strategy as necessary to accomplish His purposes. For example, when fathers in Israelite families failed in their spiritual duty, God raised up the priests. When the priests became corrupt, He called prophets as spiritual leaders.
Jesus used many different methods of ministry. He did not deal with all people in the same way. His methods varied, but His purpose remained the same, and that was to touch and change the lives of men and women.
Here are some basic principles you must understand in the "day of small things" before you begin to grow:
-God's concern has always been with the whole world:
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."
-God is "not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" according to 2 Peter 3:9.
-Jesus expressed this same concern when He said in Luke 19:10:
"For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost."
He also said in Matthew 9:13 "For I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."
Yes, God is concerned with the multitudes and with numbers, but not from the human aspect. He is concerned with the addition of believers who will reproduce and spread the Gospel. Start your spiritual walk with the same concern as God, which is reaching the entire world with the Gospel message one soul at a time.
Whether in the natural or spiritual worlds, growth starts with a single cell of life. This is why God said in Zechariah 4:10:
"For who hath despised the day of small things?"
The Biblical principles of growth do not change, but the methods by which you grow may vary. The methods change, but the purpose always remains the same. The principles of God always remain the same, but the strategy to reach these purposes changes. God's purpose from the beginning of time has been:
Ephesians 1:20 "...That in the dispensation of the fullness of times, He might gather together in one all things in Christ both which are in Heaven, and which are on earth, even in Him."
As the spiritual life of His people and historical conditions changes among the nations, God changes His strategy as necessary to accomplish His purposes. For example, when fathers in Israelite families failed in their spiritual duty, God raised up the priests. When the priests became corrupt, He called prophets as spiritual leaders.
Jesus used many different methods of ministry. He did not deal with all people in the same way. His methods varied, but His purpose remained the same, and that was to touch and change the lives of men and women.
Here are some basic principles you must understand in the "day of small things" before you begin to grow:
-God's concern has always been with the whole world:
John 3:16 "For God so loved the world, that He gave His only begotten Son, that whosoever believeth in Him should not perish but have everlasting life."
-God is "not willing that any should perish, but that all should come to repentance" according to 2 Peter 3:9.
-Jesus expressed this same concern when He said in Luke 19:10:
"For the Son of man is come to seek and to save that which was lost."
He also said in Matthew 9:13 "For I am not come to call the righteous, but sinners to repentance."
Yes, God is concerned with the multitudes and with numbers, but not from the human aspect. He is concerned with the addition of believers who will reproduce and spread the Gospel. Start your spiritual walk with the same concern as God, which is reaching the entire world with the Gospel message one soul at a time.
The Calling of God (Part 3)
If you are to really understand the spiritual call of the laity, you must go back to the Old Testament. God's plan was for the entire nation of Israel to be "priests" or ministers:
Exodus 19:6 "And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation..."
As priests, each person in Israel was to be a witness of the one true God to unbelievers. The establishing of an official priesthood did not change God's plan for Israel. The priesthood was like the "clergy" of today with special leadership roles, but the entire nation was still to serve as ministers of the message of God to heathen nations.
In the New Testament, believers are given a similar calling. They are to be priests or ministers of the Gospel:
1 Peter 2: 9 "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praise of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."
The calling of believers is to bear witness of God who has brought them out of spiritual darkness into the "light" of Jesus Christ. Believers are told to "walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called" in Ephesians 4:1. There is one calling and that is to bear witness to the Gospel message. It is the vocation of all believers. Each person is accountable for their response to this call.
The call is not based on education or natural ability. God uses ordinary laymen in order that He alone may receive the glory:
1 Corinthians 1:26-29 "For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise, and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are. That no flesh should glory in His presence."
In the Bible, God reveals a special plan to enable believers to fulfill their calling. Multiplication is a basic principle of all growth in the natural world. Growth does not take place by adding just one unit to another. Living cells multiply. Each new cell produced has the ability to reproduce.
God's plan of multiplication is similar in the spiritual world. Paul summarized this plan when he wrote these words to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:2:
"And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also."
Paul told Timothy to select faithful men and commit to them the things he had been taught by Paul. These faithful men were to have the ability to teach others. Through this organized plan of reproduction, the Gospel would spread throughout the world.
We often use the period of a year as the average time necessary to convert someone to the Gospel and train him to be a reproductive Christian. In reality, the process could take more or less time, depending on the person involved, so it is not possible to set a firm time limit. Yet, if a believer would reach just one person and disciple them each year and have them pledge to disciple one person each year, the world could easily be reached with the Gospel message.
Exodus 19:6 "And ye shall be unto me a kingdom of priests, and an holy nation..."
As priests, each person in Israel was to be a witness of the one true God to unbelievers. The establishing of an official priesthood did not change God's plan for Israel. The priesthood was like the "clergy" of today with special leadership roles, but the entire nation was still to serve as ministers of the message of God to heathen nations.
In the New Testament, believers are given a similar calling. They are to be priests or ministers of the Gospel:
1 Peter 2: 9 "But ye are a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, an holy nation, a peculiar people; that ye should shew forth the praise of Him who hath called you out of darkness into His marvelous light."
The calling of believers is to bear witness of God who has brought them out of spiritual darkness into the "light" of Jesus Christ. Believers are told to "walk worthy of the vocation wherewith ye are called" in Ephesians 4:1. There is one calling and that is to bear witness to the Gospel message. It is the vocation of all believers. Each person is accountable for their response to this call.
The call is not based on education or natural ability. God uses ordinary laymen in order that He alone may receive the glory:
1 Corinthians 1:26-29 "For ye see your calling, brethren, how that not many wise men after the flesh, not many mighty, not many noble, are called: But God hath chosen the foolish things of the world to confound the wise, and God hath chosen the weak things of the world to confound the things which are mighty; And base things of the world, and things which are despised, hath God chosen, yea, and things which are not, to bring to nought things that are. That no flesh should glory in His presence."
In the Bible, God reveals a special plan to enable believers to fulfill their calling. Multiplication is a basic principle of all growth in the natural world. Growth does not take place by adding just one unit to another. Living cells multiply. Each new cell produced has the ability to reproduce.
God's plan of multiplication is similar in the spiritual world. Paul summarized this plan when he wrote these words to Timothy in 2 Timothy 2:2:
"And the things that thou hast heard of me among many witnesses, the same commit thou to faithful men, who shall be able to teach others also."
Paul told Timothy to select faithful men and commit to them the things he had been taught by Paul. These faithful men were to have the ability to teach others. Through this organized plan of reproduction, the Gospel would spread throughout the world.
We often use the period of a year as the average time necessary to convert someone to the Gospel and train him to be a reproductive Christian. In reality, the process could take more or less time, depending on the person involved, so it is not possible to set a firm time limit. Yet, if a believer would reach just one person and disciple them each year and have them pledge to disciple one person each year, the world could easily be reached with the Gospel message.
Paul heard the Macedonian call-Is God calling you to reproduce in His kingdom?
The Holy Spirit (Part 4)
The Holy Spirit also has specific ministries affecting the growth and development of the Church:
1. The Holy Spirit formed the Church:
On the Day of Pentecost recorded in Acts 2:1-41 the Holy Spirit formed the Church. The Bible teaches that the Church is the habitation of God built by the Holy Spirit:
Ephesians 2:19-22 "Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together growth unto a holy temple in the Lord; In whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God through the Spirit."
2. The Holy Spirit inspires worship:
The worship of the Church should be inspired by the Holy Spirit:
John 4:23, 24 "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in Spirit and in truth; for the Father seeketh such to worship Him. God is a Spirit; and they that worship Him must worship Him in Spirit and in Truth."
Philippians 3:3 "For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the Spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh."
3. The Holy Spirit directs missionary activities:
This is evident in the record of the missionary activities of the first Church:
Acts 8:29 "Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot."
Acts 16:6-10 "Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us. And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavored to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them."
Acts 13:2-4 "As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus."
4. The Holy Spirit selects ministers:
Some denominations appoint or elect ministers to serve in the Church. Many people go to college or seminary to be trained as ministers, but the requirement set by Scripture is that ministers be called and selected by the Holy Spirit:
Acts 20:28 "Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood."
5. The Holy Spirit anoints preachers:
1 Corinthians 2:4 "And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power."
6. The Holy Spirit guides decisions:
Acts chapter 15 records a special meeting of leaders to discuss various problems in the Church. Their final decision was guided by the Holy Spirit:
Acts 15:28 "For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things."
7. The Holy Spirit baptizes the church with power:
The book of Acts opens with the record of this great event:
Acts 2:1-4 "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as a fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance."
This baptism was the powerful force behind the internal, expansion, extension, and bridging growths of the Church recorded in the remainder of the book of Acts.
This is a simple explanation of what the Holy Spirit does in the church. Does your church let him move as he desires? Do you allow yourself to become a vessel of the Holy Spirit? If not, avail yourself to unlimited resources through the Holy Spirit. He can make a difference in what you do for Christ.
1. The Holy Spirit formed the Church:
On the Day of Pentecost recorded in Acts 2:1-41 the Holy Spirit formed the Church. The Bible teaches that the Church is the habitation of God built by the Holy Spirit:
Ephesians 2:19-22 "Now therefore ye are no more strangers and foreigners, but fellow citizens with the saints, and of the household of God; And are built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, Jesus Christ Himself being the chief corner stone; In whom all the building fitly framed together growth unto a holy temple in the Lord; In whom ye also are builded together for a habitation of God through the Spirit."
2. The Holy Spirit inspires worship:
The worship of the Church should be inspired by the Holy Spirit:
John 4:23, 24 "But the hour cometh, and now is, when the true worshipers shall worship the Father in Spirit and in truth; for the Father seeketh such to worship Him. God is a Spirit; and they that worship Him must worship Him in Spirit and in Truth."
Philippians 3:3 "For we are the circumcision, which worship God in the Spirit, and rejoice in Christ Jesus, and have no confidence in the flesh."
3. The Holy Spirit directs missionary activities:
This is evident in the record of the missionary activities of the first Church:
Acts 8:29 "Then the Spirit said unto Philip, Go near, and join thyself to this chariot."
Acts 16:6-10 "Now when they had gone throughout Phrygia and the region of Galatia, and were forbidden of the Holy Ghost to preach the word in Asia, After they were come to Mysia, they assayed to go into Bithynia: but the Spirit suffered them not. And they passing by Mysia came down to Troas. And a vision appeared to Paul in the night; There stood a man of Macedonia, and prayed him, saying, Come over into Macedonia, and help us. And after he had seen the vision, immediately we endeavored to go into Macedonia, assuredly gathering that the Lord had called us for to preach the gospel unto them."
Acts 13:2-4 "As they ministered to the Lord, and fasted, the Holy Ghost said, Separate me Barnabas and Saul for the work whereunto I have called them. And when they had fasted and prayed, and laid their hands on them, they sent them away. So they, being sent forth by the Holy Ghost, departed unto Seleucia; and from thence they sailed to Cyprus."
4. The Holy Spirit selects ministers:
Some denominations appoint or elect ministers to serve in the Church. Many people go to college or seminary to be trained as ministers, but the requirement set by Scripture is that ministers be called and selected by the Holy Spirit:
Acts 20:28 "Take heed therefore unto yourselves, and to all the flock, over the which the Holy Ghost hath made you overseers, to feed the church of God, which He hath purchased with His own blood."
5. The Holy Spirit anoints preachers:
1 Corinthians 2:4 "And my speech and my preaching was not with enticing words of man's wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power."
6. The Holy Spirit guides decisions:
Acts chapter 15 records a special meeting of leaders to discuss various problems in the Church. Their final decision was guided by the Holy Spirit:
Acts 15:28 "For it seemed good to the Holy Ghost and to us, to lay upon you no greater burden than these necessary things."
7. The Holy Spirit baptizes the church with power:
The book of Acts opens with the record of this great event:
Acts 2:1-4 "And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as a fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance."
This baptism was the powerful force behind the internal, expansion, extension, and bridging growths of the Church recorded in the remainder of the book of Acts.
This is a simple explanation of what the Holy Spirit does in the church. Does your church let him move as he desires? Do you allow yourself to become a vessel of the Holy Spirit? If not, avail yourself to unlimited resources through the Holy Spirit. He can make a difference in what you do for Christ.
The Holy Spirit (Part 3)
Here is a list of the spiritual gifts. The Bible does not list them by the categories I've listed here. I've done this grouping simply for your information only.
The special gifts are Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, and Teachers.
The speaking gifts are prophecy, teaching, exhortation,
the word of wisdom, and the word of knowledge.
The serving gifts are the discerning of spirits, giving, leadership, helps, administration, serving, faith, hospitality, and mercy.
The sign gifts are miracles, healing, tongues, and interpretation of tongues.
The proper use of spiritual gifts is a real key to effective spiritual power. Without them, it is like trying to do a job in the natural world without the proper tools.
This endument of power of the Holy Spirit also enables you to live a Christ-like life. This is accomplished through qualities the Holy Spirit develops in your life. These qualities are called spiritual fruit. The fruit of the Holy Spirit refers to the nature of the Holy Spirit being evident in the life of a believer. God desires that all the fruit be evident in your life. Here is a list of the fruit of the Holy Spirit:
Galatians 5:22, 23 "But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.
Meekness, temperance; against such there is no law."
These qualities give you the spiritual power to be like Jesus.
As Jesus promised, the Holy Spirit was given by the Father as the disciples waited in Jerusalem in Acts 2. The Holy Spirit has already been given, but each believer needs to receive this power through the personal experience of the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
How do you receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit?
1. Repent and be baptized!
You must first experience the power of the Gospel by repenting from sin and receiving Jesus Christ as your personal Savior. It is also suggested that you be baptized in water:
Acts 2:38 "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."
2. Believe that it is for you!
Acts 2:39 "For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call."
3. Desire it!
John 7:37-39 "Jesus stood and cried, saying, if any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the Scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake He of the Spirit, which they that believe on Him should receive; for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)"
4. Realize it's a gift!
The Holy Spirit has already been given. It was given to the Church on the Day of Pentecost recorded in Acts 2. Because it is a gift, you can do nothing to earn it. Begin to praise and thank God for the gift of the Holy Spirit.
5. Yield to God!
As you praise God for the gift of the Holy Spirit, speak your praises audibly as they did on the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2. As you praise God audibly you may first experience stammering lips. Yield your tongue to the Holy Spirit and He will speak through you words foreign to your understanding. The stammering lips will soon develop into a language as you continue to praise God:
Isaiah 28:11 "For with stammering lips and another tongue will He speak to this people."
Acts 2:4 "And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance."
6. Seek the prayers of other Spirit-Filled believers!
The Holy Spirit can also be received through the laying on of hands by believers. Acts 8, 9, and 19 show how Spirit-filled believers can help you experience the baptism in the Holy Spirit.
The special gifts are Apostles, Prophets, Evangelists, Pastors, and Teachers.
The speaking gifts are prophecy, teaching, exhortation,
the word of wisdom, and the word of knowledge.
The serving gifts are the discerning of spirits, giving, leadership, helps, administration, serving, faith, hospitality, and mercy.
The sign gifts are miracles, healing, tongues, and interpretation of tongues.
The proper use of spiritual gifts is a real key to effective spiritual power. Without them, it is like trying to do a job in the natural world without the proper tools.
This endument of power of the Holy Spirit also enables you to live a Christ-like life. This is accomplished through qualities the Holy Spirit develops in your life. These qualities are called spiritual fruit. The fruit of the Holy Spirit refers to the nature of the Holy Spirit being evident in the life of a believer. God desires that all the fruit be evident in your life. Here is a list of the fruit of the Holy Spirit:
Galatians 5:22, 23 "But the fruit of the spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith.
Meekness, temperance; against such there is no law."
These qualities give you the spiritual power to be like Jesus.
As Jesus promised, the Holy Spirit was given by the Father as the disciples waited in Jerusalem in Acts 2. The Holy Spirit has already been given, but each believer needs to receive this power through the personal experience of the baptism of the Holy Spirit.
How do you receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit?
1. Repent and be baptized!
You must first experience the power of the Gospel by repenting from sin and receiving Jesus Christ as your personal Savior. It is also suggested that you be baptized in water:
Acts 2:38 "Then Peter said unto them, Repent, and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and ye shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost."
2. Believe that it is for you!
Acts 2:39 "For the promise is unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call."
3. Desire it!
John 7:37-39 "Jesus stood and cried, saying, if any man thirst, let him come unto me, and drink. He that believeth on me, as the Scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spake He of the Spirit, which they that believe on Him should receive; for the Holy Ghost was not yet given; because that Jesus was not yet glorified.)"
4. Realize it's a gift!
The Holy Spirit has already been given. It was given to the Church on the Day of Pentecost recorded in Acts 2. Because it is a gift, you can do nothing to earn it. Begin to praise and thank God for the gift of the Holy Spirit.
5. Yield to God!
As you praise God for the gift of the Holy Spirit, speak your praises audibly as they did on the Day of Pentecost in Acts 2. As you praise God audibly you may first experience stammering lips. Yield your tongue to the Holy Spirit and He will speak through you words foreign to your understanding. The stammering lips will soon develop into a language as you continue to praise God:
Isaiah 28:11 "For with stammering lips and another tongue will He speak to this people."
Acts 2:4 "And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance."
6. Seek the prayers of other Spirit-Filled believers!
The Holy Spirit can also be received through the laying on of hands by believers. Acts 8, 9, and 19 show how Spirit-filled believers can help you experience the baptism in the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit (Part 2)
There is one main purpose for the power of the Holy Spirit. All the purposes of the Holy Spirit are targeted to accomplish this greater purpose. The greatest purpose of the Holy Spirit is revealed in the promise by Jesus in Acts 1:8:
"But yet shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
The power to become witnesses for Jesus is the true evidence of the Holy Spirit. It was present immediately in the life of the Apostle Peter. Before the Holy Spirit experience, Peter fearfully denied he knew Jesus. After receiving the endument of power of the Holy Spirit, Peter stood and gave a powerful witness to the Gospel that resulted in the salvation of 3,000 people.
It was the power of the Holy Spirit in the early church that resulted in the spread of the Gospel throughout the world. The book of Acts is a record of the powerful witness which was evidence of baptism in the Holy Spirit.
This endument of power comes through an experience called "the baptism of the Holy Spirit." Jesus spoke of this baptism:
Acts 1:5 "For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence."
Peter spoke of this baptism:
Acts 11:16 "Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that He said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost."
The true evidence of the baptism of the Holy Spirit is spiritual power, but this experience is also accompanied by a physical sign. There are three places in the New Testament where we are told what happened when people were baptized in the Holy Spirit. These include the first giving of the Holy Spirit recorded in Acts 2:2-4; at the house of Cornelius in Acts 10:44-45; and when the converts at Ephesus received the Holy Spirit as recorded in Acts 19:6.
In comparing these passages, one physical sign is common to all three: Those who received the Holy Spirit spoke in languages other than their native tongue. These were not languages they had learned. They were languages given through the power of the Holy Spirit. The "tongues" of the Holy Spirit can be in actual languages used on earth:
Acts 2:7, 8 "And they were all amazed and marveled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?"
The tongues can also be in a language not known to man. This is called an "unknown tongue":
1 Corinthians 14:2 "For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries."
The tongues given by the Holy Spirit serve powerful purposes in the lives of believers. Some of the purposes for tongues found in 1 Corinthians 14 are:
-Prayer to God-Verse 2
-Self-edification-Edification is not exalting self, but means encouragement, improvement, and development. Verse 4.
-When interpreted, they edify the Church-Verse 12
-Intercession-Verse 14. See also Romans 8:26-27
-Praise-Verses 15,17
-Fulfillment of prophecy-Verse 21. See also Isaiah 28:11, 12
"But yet shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."
The power to become witnesses for Jesus is the true evidence of the Holy Spirit. It was present immediately in the life of the Apostle Peter. Before the Holy Spirit experience, Peter fearfully denied he knew Jesus. After receiving the endument of power of the Holy Spirit, Peter stood and gave a powerful witness to the Gospel that resulted in the salvation of 3,000 people.
It was the power of the Holy Spirit in the early church that resulted in the spread of the Gospel throughout the world. The book of Acts is a record of the powerful witness which was evidence of baptism in the Holy Spirit.
This endument of power comes through an experience called "the baptism of the Holy Spirit." Jesus spoke of this baptism:
Acts 1:5 "For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost not many days hence."
Peter spoke of this baptism:
Acts 11:16 "Then remembered I the word of the Lord, how that He said, John indeed baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost."
The true evidence of the baptism of the Holy Spirit is spiritual power, but this experience is also accompanied by a physical sign. There are three places in the New Testament where we are told what happened when people were baptized in the Holy Spirit. These include the first giving of the Holy Spirit recorded in Acts 2:2-4; at the house of Cornelius in Acts 10:44-45; and when the converts at Ephesus received the Holy Spirit as recorded in Acts 19:6.
In comparing these passages, one physical sign is common to all three: Those who received the Holy Spirit spoke in languages other than their native tongue. These were not languages they had learned. They were languages given through the power of the Holy Spirit. The "tongues" of the Holy Spirit can be in actual languages used on earth:
Acts 2:7, 8 "And they were all amazed and marveled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?"
The tongues can also be in a language not known to man. This is called an "unknown tongue":
1 Corinthians 14:2 "For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries."
The tongues given by the Holy Spirit serve powerful purposes in the lives of believers. Some of the purposes for tongues found in 1 Corinthians 14 are:
-Prayer to God-Verse 2
-Self-edification-Edification is not exalting self, but means encouragement, improvement, and development. Verse 4.
-When interpreted, they edify the Church-Verse 12
-Intercession-Verse 14. See also Romans 8:26-27
-Praise-Verses 15,17
-Fulfillment of prophecy-Verse 21. See also Isaiah 28:11, 12
-Sign to unbelievers-Verse 22.
Jesus also left His followers with a responsibility to extend the Gospel to the ends of the earth:
Matthew 28:19, 20 "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world."
The power of the Holy Spirit was given to help the Disciples fulfill this task according again to Acts 1:8.
Part of this power of the Holy Spirit is spiritual gifts which the Holy Spirit gives believers to equip them to minister effectively. The task is too great to be accomplished with natural abilities.
These spiritual gifts are not the same as natural talents. Natural talents and abilities are given at the time of physical birth and/or developed by natural efforts. They may also be used in ministry, but they are not the same as spiritual gifts.
Spiritual gifts are powerful abilities given by the Holy Spirit to enable the task of ministry. Gifts of the Holy Spirit are God-given abilities, which are:
Ephesians 4:12-15 "For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ; Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ; That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ."
The main passages listing the spiritual gifts available to believers through the Holy Spirit are found in Romans 12:1-8; I Corinthians 12:1-31; Ephesians 4:1-16; I Peter 4:7-11.
Jesus also left His followers with a responsibility to extend the Gospel to the ends of the earth:
Matthew 28:19, 20 "Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost: Teaching them to observe all things whatsoever I have commanded you: and lo, I am with you alway, even unto the end of the world."
The power of the Holy Spirit was given to help the Disciples fulfill this task according again to Acts 1:8.
Part of this power of the Holy Spirit is spiritual gifts which the Holy Spirit gives believers to equip them to minister effectively. The task is too great to be accomplished with natural abilities.
These spiritual gifts are not the same as natural talents. Natural talents and abilities are given at the time of physical birth and/or developed by natural efforts. They may also be used in ministry, but they are not the same as spiritual gifts.
Spiritual gifts are powerful abilities given by the Holy Spirit to enable the task of ministry. Gifts of the Holy Spirit are God-given abilities, which are:
Ephesians 4:12-15 "For the perfecting of the saints, for the work of the ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ; Till we all come in the unity of the faith, and of the knowledge of the Son of God, unto a perfect man, unto the measure of the stature of the fulness of Christ; That we henceforth be no more children, tossed to and fro, and carried about with every wind of doctrine, but speaking the truth in love, may grow up into Him in all things, which is the head, even Christ."
The main passages listing the spiritual gifts available to believers through the Holy Spirit are found in Romans 12:1-8; I Corinthians 12:1-31; Ephesians 4:1-16; I Peter 4:7-11.
The Holy Spirit (Part 1)
Luke 24:49 "And behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high."
Jesus made this important promise to His followers regarding spiritual power.
The power of the Gospel and the power of the Blood of Jesus are two key principles in understanding the Biblical concept of power. Experiencing both is necessary to receive spiritual power. You have already experience the importance of them both as a believer. But there is another vital spiritual experience which you must receive. It is the power of the Holy Spirit promised by Jesus.
Jesus told His followers in John 14:16, 17 that He would.
"Pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him; but ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you."
The Spirit of which Jesus spoke is the third person of the Trinity of God, the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit would "endue" or literally "clothe" the Disciples in spiritual power:
Please realize that this great spiritual power was to be experienced after receiving the Holy Spirit:
Acts 1:8 "But yet shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
-Power is a spirit:
2 Timothy 1:7 "But God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. "
Luke 4:14 "And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and there went out a fame of Him through all the region round about."
-That "spirit of power" is the Holy Spirit:
Acts 10:38 "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with Him."
The Holy Spirit ministers in many powerful ways in the lives of believers. The Holy Spirit:
1. Dwells in him-1Corinthians 6:19-We are actually the temple or dwelling place of the Holy Ghost.
2. Unites him in one spirit with God and other believers- 1 Corinthians 6:17-There is great power in unity.
3. Intercedes for him-Romans 8:26-This powerful intercessor prays for us according to God's will.
4. Guides him-John 16:13-The Holy Spirit enables us to walk in power and not confusion. He guides us to the place of power, the perfect will of God.
5. Imparts the love of Christ to him and through him- Romans 5:5-You will learn more about the power of love in the next chapter.
6. Reveals Biblical truth to him-1 Corinthians 2:10- Powerful spiritual revelation comes through the Holy Spirit.
7. Comforts him-Acts 9:31 and John 14:17, 26-He comforts us in times of grief.
8. Conforms him to the image of Christ-2Corinthians 3:18-We are powerless to change ourselves into the image of Christ. Self-improvement plans are doomed to failure. But through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can be conformed to the image of Jesus.
9. Teaches him-John 14:26-he greatest teacher takes up residence within us when we are endued with the power of the Holy Spirit. Knowledge is powerful, and the Holy Spirit imparts spiritual knowledge.
10. Inspires him to true worship-John 4:24-Praise and worship are powerful spiritual strategies. In some Old Testament battles they were the main methods used against the enemies of God.
11. Quickens him-Romans 8:11-The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in us to quicken us. This means we are endued with resurrection-like power while yet in these mortal bodies.
12. Sanctifies him-2 Thessalonians 2:13, 14-We do not have to try to live a holy life through self effort. The power of the Holy Spirit sanctifies our thoughts and actions. He enables holy living.
13. Changes him-Titus 3:5-Power is necessary to effect change and the Holy Spirit gives power for positive change.
14. Convicts him of wrong-John 16:8-11-The Holy Spirit convicts of wrong and leads us to repentance. This enables the continued flow of God's power.
15. Gives assurance of salvation-Romans 8:16-Knowing your position gives you power. The Holy Spirit assures your position in God.
16. Gives him liberty-Romans 8:2-Liberty provides the greatest opportunity for power. The Holy Spirit gives liberty through Jesus Christ.
17. Speaks through him-Mark 13:11-We are not limited by our own speaking ability. The Holy Spirit speaks God's Words of power and authority through us.
18. Demonstrates God's power-1 Corinthians 2:4-The Holy Spirit enables the demonstration of God's power in every area of life.
19. Strengthens him-Ephesians 3:16-When you are weak, God's strength is manifested.
Jesus made this important promise to His followers regarding spiritual power.
The power of the Gospel and the power of the Blood of Jesus are two key principles in understanding the Biblical concept of power. Experiencing both is necessary to receive spiritual power. You have already experience the importance of them both as a believer. But there is another vital spiritual experience which you must receive. It is the power of the Holy Spirit promised by Jesus.
Jesus told His followers in John 14:16, 17 that He would.
"Pray the Father, and He shall give you another Comforter, that He may abide with you for ever; Even the Spirit of truth; whom the world cannot receive, because it seeth Him not, neither knoweth Him; but ye know Him; for He dwelleth with you, and shall be in you."
The Spirit of which Jesus spoke is the third person of the Trinity of God, the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit would "endue" or literally "clothe" the Disciples in spiritual power:
Please realize that this great spiritual power was to be experienced after receiving the Holy Spirit:
Acts 1:8 "But yet shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.
-Power is a spirit:
2 Timothy 1:7 "But God hath not given us the spirit of fear; but of power, and of love, and of a sound mind. "
Luke 4:14 "And Jesus returned in the power of the Spirit into Galilee: and there went out a fame of Him through all the region round about."
-That "spirit of power" is the Holy Spirit:
Acts 10:38 "How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with Him."
The Holy Spirit ministers in many powerful ways in the lives of believers. The Holy Spirit:
1. Dwells in him-1Corinthians 6:19-We are actually the temple or dwelling place of the Holy Ghost.
2. Unites him in one spirit with God and other believers- 1 Corinthians 6:17-There is great power in unity.
3. Intercedes for him-Romans 8:26-This powerful intercessor prays for us according to God's will.
4. Guides him-John 16:13-The Holy Spirit enables us to walk in power and not confusion. He guides us to the place of power, the perfect will of God.
5. Imparts the love of Christ to him and through him- Romans 5:5-You will learn more about the power of love in the next chapter.
6. Reveals Biblical truth to him-1 Corinthians 2:10- Powerful spiritual revelation comes through the Holy Spirit.
7. Comforts him-Acts 9:31 and John 14:17, 26-He comforts us in times of grief.
8. Conforms him to the image of Christ-2Corinthians 3:18-We are powerless to change ourselves into the image of Christ. Self-improvement plans are doomed to failure. But through the power of the Holy Spirit, we can be conformed to the image of Jesus.
9. Teaches him-John 14:26-he greatest teacher takes up residence within us when we are endued with the power of the Holy Spirit. Knowledge is powerful, and the Holy Spirit imparts spiritual knowledge.
10. Inspires him to true worship-John 4:24-Praise and worship are powerful spiritual strategies. In some Old Testament battles they were the main methods used against the enemies of God.
11. Quickens him-Romans 8:11-The same power that raised Jesus from the dead is at work in us to quicken us. This means we are endued with resurrection-like power while yet in these mortal bodies.
12. Sanctifies him-2 Thessalonians 2:13, 14-We do not have to try to live a holy life through self effort. The power of the Holy Spirit sanctifies our thoughts and actions. He enables holy living.
13. Changes him-Titus 3:5-Power is necessary to effect change and the Holy Spirit gives power for positive change.
14. Convicts him of wrong-John 16:8-11-The Holy Spirit convicts of wrong and leads us to repentance. This enables the continued flow of God's power.
15. Gives assurance of salvation-Romans 8:16-Knowing your position gives you power. The Holy Spirit assures your position in God.
16. Gives him liberty-Romans 8:2-Liberty provides the greatest opportunity for power. The Holy Spirit gives liberty through Jesus Christ.
17. Speaks through him-Mark 13:11-We are not limited by our own speaking ability. The Holy Spirit speaks God's Words of power and authority through us.
18. Demonstrates God's power-1 Corinthians 2:4-The Holy Spirit enables the demonstration of God's power in every area of life.
19. Strengthens him-Ephesians 3:16-When you are weak, God's strength is manifested.
Wednesday, July 12, 2017
Noise (Part 5)
Jude 17-23 "But, beloved, remember ye the words which were spoken before of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ; How that they told you there should be mockers in the last time, who should walk after their own ungodly lusts. These be they who separate themselves, sensual, having not the Spirit. But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost, Keep yourselves in the love of God, looking for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ unto eternal life. And of some have compassion, making a difference: And others save with fear, pulling them out of the fire; hating even the garment spotted by the flesh."
Jude told us there would be mockers who would walk after their OWN ungodly lusts. They would separate themselves, sensual, not having the Spirit. The word "sensual" here means "governed by breath." Jude simply tells us their will be some false teachers and prophets who do what they want and live the way they want to and still proclaim to be holier than thou.
Friends, we see that in every walk of life, but more so in the church today than ever before. We have encountered more rebelliousness from people who want what they want and not God than ever before. We have seen ministers destroyed because their lusts were revealed to the public. Jude said that we should keep ourselves in the love of God, building up our faith, and praying in the Holy Ghost, with our eyes on the mercy of Jesus Christ unto eternity. This is the key to staying spiritually strong in these troublesome days.
The biggest excuse people use to stay away from God and the church is the hypocrisy that they see in those who profess to be Christians. I think we have all questioned that before. I have seen in my ministry good people so swayed by a teacher that they would defend his wrongs just so he could teach. These were not unspiritual people or hypocrites, but they would justify his wrongs because they enjoyed his spin on the lessons. Some of those same people who would bypass his sin, would turn on someone else who made a mistake or sinned with a vengeance. Something is wrong with that equation.
Jude gives us two scenarios in dealing with the noise these false prophets and teachers create:
-The first is to have compassion on them and somehow make a difference in their lives. I have found it to be true that most people are not beyond redemption. If they err and truly repent they will change their ways. Jude says with compassion we have an opportunity to make a difference in their decisions to do it their way or God's way. The Bible shares there are two paths we can take.
One leads to safety and protection and the other leads to destruction. We have the power of God within us to remove noise/distractions from some people's lives and lead them back to the right path.
-The second is to save them with fear, pull them out of the fire, and hating the very garment that is spotted by flesh. What in the world does that mean? It means that we who are built up in the Holy Ghost should respect ourselves and our relationship with God so much that we would not become tainted by the very thing we rescue people from. Several famous evangelists and Christian leaders have admitted while trying to help others out of bad situations, they themselves got caught up in the noise of the ones they were trying to rescue.
Jude wants us to make sure that doesn't happen to us.
How do you overcome that noise?
Jude 24, 25 "Now unto him that is able to keep you from falling, and to present you faultless before the presence of his glory with exceeding joy, To the only wise God our Savior, be glory and majesty, dominion and power, both now and ever. Amen."
Noise (Part 4)
Noise/Distractions take our
eyes off those things that really matter. For a pastor, the health of the
church is greatly at risk when he loses his focus because of it. LifeWay Research recently did a survey on pastors. Over 1,000 were
included in the research.
-Though pastors of all church sizes felt this way, pastors of churches with over 250 in worship attendance were more likely to struggle with the critics.
-48% of them of say conflict among staff and/or key lay leaders is a significant distraction.
-Pastors in the South are more likely to have conflict among staff and/or key lay leaders than pastors in other regions.
One of their major foci
was on the issue of distractions. They asked two questions:
-What specific things distract the
pastor more than others?
-Is their widespread agreement among pastors on these issues?
The SB pastors answered "Yes" to both questions. They told LifeWay in overwhelming numbers that dealing with critics was a huge distraction. To a lesser extent, but still significant, the pastors said conflict among staff and key leaders was a significant distraction as well.
-Is their widespread agreement among pastors on these issues?
The SB pastors answered "Yes" to both questions. They told LifeWay in overwhelming numbers that dealing with critics was a huge distraction. To a lesser extent, but still significant, the pastors said conflict among staff and key leaders was a significant distraction as well.
For every person reading this who think pastors have it made think how you would feel being on call 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. You're enjoying your vacation only to have to cut it short because of a death in the church.
You're always having to deal with people who don't like this or don't like that. The noise can get overwhelming sometimes.
I believe that God despises noise-makers. In fact the Bible says He hates them:
Proverbs 6:16-19 "These six things doth the Lord hate: yea, seven are an abomination unto him: A proud look, a lying tongue, and hands that shed innocent blood, An heart that deviseth wicked imaginations, feet that be swift in running to mischief, A false witness that speaketh lies, and he that soweth discord among brethren."You're always having to deal with people who don't like this or don't like that. The noise can get overwhelming sometimes.
I believe that God despises noise-makers. In fact the Bible says He hates them:
The survey went on to some alarming results among Southern Baptist pastors:
-79% of them say critics distract them from their ministries. Nearly 40% strongly agree that they do.
-79% of them say critics distract them from their ministries. Nearly 40% strongly agree that they do.
-Though pastors of all church sizes felt this way, pastors of churches with over 250 in worship attendance were more likely to struggle with the critics.
-48% of them of say conflict among staff and/or key lay leaders is a significant distraction.
-Pastors in the South are more likely to have conflict among staff and/or key lay leaders than pastors in other regions.
Nearly eight out of ten
pastors struggle with critics to the point that they admit it's a distraction
from their ministries. In comparison, the issue
of staff and/or key lay leader conflict appears small. Still, nearly half of
the pastors pointed to that issue as a distraction in their ministries.
I'm sure that every pastor in every denomination faces noise/distraction from critics and staff members that cause division. I remember seeing a friend of mine struggling through false accusations from a staff member which cost him his position and standing in ministry. Sadly, it was that same pastor who had helped restore that staff member in a time of great noise in his own life and ministry. All it takes is one noise to distract from all the good that a man of God does.
Before you become a noisemaker or distraction walk a mile in your brother's shoes. That might help you silence the noise in the long run.
I'm sure that every pastor in every denomination faces noise/distraction from critics and staff members that cause division. I remember seeing a friend of mine struggling through false accusations from a staff member which cost him his position and standing in ministry. Sadly, it was that same pastor who had helped restore that staff member in a time of great noise in his own life and ministry. All it takes is one noise to distract from all the good that a man of God does.
Before you become a noisemaker or distraction walk a mile in your brother's shoes. That might help you silence the noise in the long run.
Monday, July 10, 2017
Noise (Part 3)
Acts 6 tells us that the early church was experiencing phenomenal growth. Luke says in Verse 1, "And in those days, when the number of the disciples was multiplied, there arose a murmuring of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily ministration." The Hellenistic Jews complained that their
widows were not being included in the daily distribution of food. Murmuring is a noise/distraction that most pastor have to deal with daily. In fact, most believers face it more than once in their Christian walk.
While murmuring is often unnecessary because it causes so much trouble, this need was real. However, these complaints had the potential to move the leadership from their primary
tasks and thus hinder the momentum of the church. The leaders realized the
danger of this noise/distraction and declared to the entire body in Verses 2-4:
"Then the twelve called the multitude of the disciples unto them, and said, It is not reason that we should leave the word of God, and serve tables. Wherefore, brethren, look ye out among you seven men of honest report, full of the Holy Ghost and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business. But we will give ourselves continually to prayer, and to the ministry of the word."
Their solution was brilliant in its simplicity.
They selected seven wise men of good reputation to handle this matter so that they might continue in prayer and the ministry of the Word. I would that every church member would read that verse and understand the priorities of a pastor or minister of the Word.
The loudest noise in the church is less often based on interpretation of scripture and more on human expectation. So many things that we do today in the church create human expectation rather than spiritual sacrifice.
Let's face it-we do some things because we enjoy them more than because they are expected in the Bible. Here are a few things I'm talking about:
(1) People make a lot of noise about money. Either the preacher expects too much of us or is pleading for finances all the time.
So many say they can't afford to tithe, but will spend $20 on a cake or pie at a church bake sale that same precious saint who is a faithful tither has baked. Those same people will buy a hot dog or chicken dinner, but complain when it's too hot or cold and the a/c or furnace needs repair. No where in the Bible does it say, "Thou shalt have a bake sale" or "thou shalt buy a hot dog." Yet it does say to "Give and it shall be given." Usually the loudest noisemakers/detractors don't support with regular giving, but want to tell the church what to do with the Lord's money.
(2) People make a lot of noise about the music or the atmosphere of worship.
It either too loud or too quiet, too hot or too cold, too new or too old, etc. Most complaints about these two items have created places of contention rather than worship. The Lord told us to "praise Him with all kinds of instruments and with spiritual songs and hymns". He said to "Clap your hands" and to "Enter His gates with singing." He's not looking for some on to make just a bunch of noise unless it's joyful unto Him. He didn't create worship for a distraction, but to attract us to honor Him. Somehow we think that the "traditions of men" make us guardians of the past, but God said that in everything we do we should give Him praise. Fussing out loud about the music or worship atmosphere only causes a bunch of noise that hinders the Spirit more than helps.
(3) People want what they want and not what God wants.
There was a real need in the early church for a group of leaders to take care of physical needs. In many churches today, we have committees or boards, but just a few end up doing the implementation of what is needed. Then those who have input in a decision make a bunch of noise after the final decision is made and put into action distrust and discord. The Psalmist said in Psalm one that those are the kind of people we need to stay clear of. The one who talk a good game (make a bunch of noise, but then want to complain when their plan is implemented.
God is not searching for noisemakers, critics, or complainers, but for servants who are willing to do and be what He desires them to be.
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