I've known the Lord for over 31.5 years, and I've been in ministry nearly as long. I've studied His Word extensively. I've been exposed to many varied moves of God over those years ... some good, some questionable as to if it truly was a move of God ... some long term moves, some short term, and some as quick as one service only. I've also been exposed to many varied doctrines, with the same conclusions as the moves of God ... some good, some questionable.
I've made several observations over the years concerning the kingdom of God, the church, ministries, authority in the kingdom, authority in the church, the world, scripture, interpretation of scripture, and much more. As you read this, you may think that authority in the kingdom and authority in the church would be the same. Now, although it should be the same, upon research and study, you'll conclude that it is NOT ... well, it hasn't been ... but ... the times, they are a changing.
It's hard to explain, but in the last few months I've gained a clearer understanding of things that in years past have been "cloudy." I truly believe we are in the midsts of the most radical change in the way of "doing church" since the Protestant Reformation.
Isn't it interesting that most people who call themselves Christians, have very little understanding of what they should truly believe? What do you think about the fact that most "believers" have no, or very little, understanding of what happened in the Protestant Reformation? How many today know where the various denominations came from, and who knows the differences between them? Now most would say all that is not important. To which I'd say, it is important if one wants a true understanding of the ways of God.
How does the time of the Protestant Reformation compare with today? If we think we are so much "better off" than they were, we should do some more study. In the time of the Protestant Reformation, people were misled because most could not read the Bible, due to the language barrier. Today, many are misled because they don't find it important enough to read and study the Bible.
When one takes a close look at the church today, there is much to be excited about, with also some things that sound an alarm. There are changes that can be seen when one looks with an observant eye. Changes in style, appearance, methods, training, and authority, to name just a few.
Is it possible, as a few scholars and theologians have stated, that there has been a period of 1800 years when the biblical government of the Church was not explicitly in its proper place? Think of the time between Malachi and the New Testament. Over 400 years of silence, where we know of no record of any visitation of God ... no prophets, no miracles, no word from God. Then comes John the Baptist, the forerunner of Jesus. One representing the old covenant, the other being the manifestation of the new covenant ... old wineskin and new wineskin. So, why would it be said that the biblical government of the Church has not been explicitly in its proper place?
While there has been a "government of the Church" in place, when one understands the truth of God's word, and the ways of God, one would have to admit that it has not been a "biblical government." Why would some disagree with that statement? Let me ask another question ... why was there such controversy over the Protestant Reformation? People get accustomed to the "status quo." Most never study to show themselves approved unto God, rightly dividing the word of truth. (2Timothy 2:15)
Radical change is upon us. Look at the signs of the times. Look at the number of nations that are having demonstrations and upheavals. It is necessary to gain a better understanding of the truth of God's word. It is vital that we understand that we, as christians, may be in the world, but we are not of it. We have a King, and His name is Jesus! We are to be about the advancement of the kingdom of God.
The world needs solutions, and we as the children of God, should be the ones with the solutions. In their day, Daniel, Nehemiah, and Joseph (to name only a few) were given the solutions to their generations. Who are the ones in this day and age who will come forth with the solutions?
Again, radical change is upon us. Stand up, step out, and make a difference. Seek the Lord, like you've never sought Him before. Allow Him to lead you, as you've never allowed Him before. You will fall into one of the following categories.
1) Those who make things happen.
2) Those who watch what's happening.
3) Those who don't know what's happening.
Decide to be in group number one.
To God be all glory, honor, and praise!
May God bless you abundantly, and make you a blessing to others,
Presiding Apostle/Prophet of CFI
