Category: Spiritual Growth

Kingdom Thought, Praying In Tongues, Spiritual Growth, The Great Commission, THE RAPTURE

WE ARE A PECULIAR PEOPLE

| THOMAS HART CLEMENTS

There is much talk about revival. Some Churches have revival every year. Many of us are on the lookout for the next Revival of Fire. We often talk of past revivals, those of last year, five or ten years ago and even one hundred or two hundred years ago. 

Miracles were seen as people received salvation and were healed and delivered. All these events were short lived with the lookout for the next one being launched.  

I see no consistent evidence of a display of The Great Commission as was commanded in the book of Mark chapter 16 verses 16-20. 

What is worse, though, is that the backward progress of the so-called apostate church (1 Timothy 4:1-3) is taking an “in your face” posture. 

Those of us who profess to be in the Church need to examine ourselves. Is Jesus the Resurrected Son of God? Do I harbor unforgiveness in my heart? Do I love my neighbor as myself? Have I received Jesus Christ as my Lord and Savior? been water baptized and filled with The Holy Spirit of Fire at the Hand of Jesus Christ? This is no light thing. Careful consideration is necessary.  

Lately, I have been giving the Millennial Reign role of the Church a lot of thought. At this point I desire to share broadly some of my thoughts in favor of expanding in more detail later.  

Essentially, We the church are in sort of a bootcamp. We have been amply trained (Hebrews 5), told that we reside in Heavenly Places with Christ (Ephesians 2:5-7), told that we are “a chosen generation, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a peculiar people” (1 Peter 2:9), and told that we are Sons (Children) of God (1 John 3:1-2). 

Additionally, we know that once transitioned into the new world (Millennial Reign) we (The Church) will have glorified bodies (1 Corinthians 15:51-53). We will be unlike the other inhabitants of the earth. Flesh and Bone like the Lord! 

Two last things: Importantly, also we will rule and reign with a rod of iron with Him for one thousand years (Revelation 2:26-28). Secondly, I petitioned the Lord as to what we will be called during the Millennial Reign. Will we be the Church still, the Bride, the Saints the Body of Christ? He will get back to me with the response to that question and when He does, I will let you know. 

So, what am I saying? I am saying let us recognize who we are. Let us be “partakers of the divine nature, having escaped the corruption that is in the world” (2 Peter 1:4). 

Let us grasp this concept! 

AWAKENING, FAITH (THE GOD KIND OF FAITH), Kingdom Business, Praying In Tongues, PROPHECY, Spiritual Growth, UTTERANCE

THE SAIL BOAT DREAM

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On September 22, 2016, I dreamt that I was out in a sailboat sailing on a river. 

There was a great stone (big rock) adjacent to the river and in the mist of some trees. 

We had word that the stone was about to explode. 

We were currently not moving as we had encountered an obstruction. The waters of the river were flowing nicely. 

I recall adjusting the kick-up rudder to clear the obstruction to be able to sail on. 

The Stone did explode as we began to sail and flow freely. 

As I have said before in this work, the interaction with God in the process is regular. This dream is a good example. 

The message (interpretation) to me is clear; the Stone is the Lord Himself. The river is that which flows from Him eternally (Utterance), the trees are the people (the Saints). The explosion is symbolic of the Spirit of the Lord being poured out on all flesh in this end time. 

The obstruction that was overcome by the navigation adjustment is symbolic of the Enemy. The navigation adjustment represents the Church (Ecclesia) adopting proper protocol where walking in (and by) the Spirit (of the living God) is concerned. 

Utterance is spoken forth through the Saints throughout all the World. 

 

 

AWAKENING, Kingdom Business, Kingdom Thought, Sanctification, Spiritual Growth

THE LIGHT MAN

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There once was (and still is) a man. An ordinary man. This man had a glimmer of light in his heart – in the center of his being. Faint it was, hardly noticed by anyone except his parents. It stayed that way for years and years but was obtaining a solid position in there – like a tree as it stretches out its root system to be able to stand even to reach the clouds. 

  

One day this nice gentleman was made aware of an outside source of light. One that was exterior to him but that is very much like the light which he owned. This Light is the greatest of all light. It is the Light of the world. It is the Source of all life in the universe. 

  

He somehow knew that that light was beckoning him to let It come into him. It wanted to join him and grow in him. This most powerful Light would be a co-laborer with the light of our friend whom we mentioned first in this little story. It would be a Helper. The Great Light is a source of Eternal information and Jethro; let us call our friend Jethro, can access this information and increasingly so as he builds his relationship with the Light. 

  

Once choosing to cohabitate with the Light – join his light with that Light – change was swift and exponential. The light that was in him was no longer just a flicker. It had grown, filling his abdominal cavity to an explosive ability. His cranial cavity became alive and radiant with activity because of the Light. He began to know things, to see and hear more clearly. His sense of right and wrong became keener. Key components of the two referenced systems are now more aware of each other and working together. Compassion and love are intrinsic in his personality. 

  

His thoracic cavity is also infiltrated by the Light giving him increased ability to spew out words of encouragement here and there and upon those whom he chooses or when he is petitioned to do so. His message is one of love. That Light shown throughout his whole body. His movement is more graceful and displays positive intent. 

  

The Light is no longer contained inside his body. It emanates from his body and becomes like a force field of love and all that is positive. Those meeting him senses this Power (that is what it is, power) not fully, if at all, understanding what it is. 

  

But that is not all. Remember that I said that that Light is external to that of Jethro. Well, the Great Light while it works within Jethro, it (He) also has a life and agenda all His own. That Light is always everywhere Jethro goes, even if the atmosphere is dark. In fact, there are times when the Light will pick, for example, to intervene in the ordinary course of nature to bring about some change. An example of this might be to open blind eyes or to cause a cripple person to walk. 

  

The Light (you noticed the upper-case L) now that He has opened a line of communication (communion even) with Jethro is able to conduct such work in the natural realm using a natural person. 

Kingdom Business, PROPHECY, Sanctification, Spiritual Growth

“GIVE ME WHAT BELONGS TO ME” A lesson about Tithing

| THOMAS HART CLEMENTS

This is an older dream of mine that I previously posted on the edreamsandvisions.com website.

A few days ago, I dreamt that I was gathering the mail from my now deceased father-in-law’s mailbox. The mailman had just delivered the mail. When I opened the mailbox, along with a few assorted pieces of mail there were two large stacks of money. There were thousands and thousands of dollars.

My first thought was “could this be my money?” Wasn’t my mailbox though. As I gathered up the money, two of Mr. A’s children nicked a few bills from the top of one of the bundles. They said, “daddy won’t mind, going to just get a manicure.”

As I went in to present the bundles to Mr. A, we determined that one of them was his and that he didn’t know who the other one belonged to. I guess this meant the other one was mine or at least my job to haphazardly try to find the true owner.

Meanwhile as I had been slow to slide on over to Mr. A his very large pile of green, he said to me sternly, “give me what belongs to me.”

Now, there were other persons in the room. Some were siting at the table where he and I were sitting. Now as I passed his bundle on over to him, he at once started to disperse the smaller bundles from his larger one to those is the room.

These folks were worker associates of his. They apparently did all the legwork and it was time to be paid. He slid money bundles to those at the table and I recall him tossing one over his left shoulder to a person sitting back in the corner.

I knew that this was a lesson about tithing. He went about remitting to those owed at once and fully. I had been asking the Lord to give me clarity about tithing and this was His answer. It was clear to me that I should go at once to the third chapter of the Book of Malachi. Malachi 3 is the go-to text at tithes and offerings time in the Church.

It is my intent to sort through the referenced scripture and to show you what I see but for now, in a few words, what God showed me is that tithing is a principle and mandate for now as it always has been (vs 4).

We are admonished that we will be thoroughly judge and that faithful giving is a thing of righteousness (vs 3).

In verse 6 He says, “For I am the Lord, I change not; therefore, ye sons of Jacob are not consumed.” “Ye sons of Jacob are not consumed” basically means that the tithes and offerings is not a thing of the past but is ongoing. No change.

Read Malachi chapter 3.

Kingdom Thought, Spiritual Growth, The End Time Church, The Great Commission, Uncategorized

“EVEN WHEN I DON’T SEE IT, YOU’RE WORKING!”

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And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen. (Mark 16:20)

Way back before time started there was Jesus Christ. 1 Peter 1:19-21 says this : 

But with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and without spot:

Who verily was foreordained before the foundation of the world, but was manifest in these last times for you,

Who by him do believe in God, that raised him up from the dead, and gave him glory; that your faith and hope might be in God.

In the THE BOOK OF ENOCH, Enoch records that during his visit to heaven (And Enoch walked with God: and he was not; for God took him. Genesis 5:24) and while being given a tour of the Same by the Angels, that there was a Person in the midst of the host of heaven, present with the Head of Days that had a face that was full of Grace Whom they referred to as the Son of Righteousness. This was none other than Jesus Christ pre-incarnate. 

Even now, the fact that Jesus Christ is Omnipresent must become more than just a cliche term but rather a reality for the believer.

What’s more, the Authority of His Name spoken by the believer enables the Power of Heaven in the earth.

We don’t have to see Jesus to know that He is present. He always has been and always will be.

Here is a story that I like to tell about Healing and Deliverance: About a year ago when I visited a Church for the second time, I was asked by the Pastor to pray for the sick people that were present.

I prayed for several of the people and God healed and ministered within the midst of them. One of the ladies that I prayed for got the Pastor’s attention to tell him (and the congregation) of a vision that she had while I laid my hands on her and prayed.

She said that while I prayed, she had a vision in which she saw the Lord. She described Him as being dressed all in white. She could not see His face clearly. This lady was due to have a surgical procedure within the week and the Lord told her that the procedure would be a success.

So, you see the Lord was working amid us. As far as I know, no one saw the vision except that one lady. I certainly had no indication of what the Lord was doing.  The vision was the sign. Can there be any doubt as to the lady’s testimony?

AWAKENING, DISCERNING OF SPIRITS, DIVERS KINDS OF TONGUES, FAITH (THE GOD KIND OF FAITH), Praying In Tongues, PROPHECY, Spiritual Growth, UTTERANCE

Protocol For Speaking in Tongues

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Questions and answers

 

What is Speaking in Tongues? 

Speaking in Tongues is Supernatural UTTERANCE given by the Holy Spirit in a language that is unknown to the speaker. Speaking in Tongues is God speaking through Believers. 

How do I begin to Speak in Tongues? 

There is a long answer to this question and a short one. The Lord is leading me here to present the short one. Repent of your sins, received Jesus Christ the Resurrected Son of God as your Lord and Savior. Join a Church where Speaking in Tongues is part of the Doctrine. Be Baptized in Water. Have the Elders (Leaders) of the Church pray with you and lay hands on you for Baptism by the Holy Spirit. Praying in Tongues will happen at the time of Baptism by the Spirit as you yield your tongue to the Lord. 

If your desire to be filled by the Holy Spirit with the evidence of Speaking in Tongues does not happen immediately, just stay in Faith for God to fill you with His Spirit with the evidence of Speaking in Tongues and He will lead you on to Higher Spiritual Levels forthwith as you earnestly desire. 

How do I Interpret Tongues? 

Interpretation of Tongues is a Supernatural operation done by God manifesting through a Believer interpreting Divers Kinds of Tongues previously presented either through another Believer or the Believer revealing the interpretation. So, you do not. He does. 

What are the benefits of Speaking in Tongues? 

Speaking in Tongues serves to strengthen the believer Spiritually. Speaking in Tongues is the Gateway to operating in the Spiritual Gifts. “He that speaks in an unknown tongue edifies himself” (1 Corinthians 14:4). 

Is Speaking in Tongues a Spiritual Gift? 

No, speaking in tongues is not a Spiritual Gift in the sense normally thought of.  

The twelve Spiritual gifts of 1 Corinthians chapter 12 are: The Word of Wisdom, The Word of Knowledge, Prophecy, Decerning of Spirits, Diverse Kinds of Tongues, Working of Miracles, Gifts of Healing, and Interpretation of Tongues. Divers Kinds of Tongues and Interpretation of Tongues are Spiritual Gifts. 

Speaking in Tongues is the sign or evidence of having received the Holy Spirit. 

How are Speaking in Tongues, Divers Kinds of Tongues, and Interpretation of Tongues different? 

Divers Kinds of Tongues and The Interpretation of Tongues are Spiritual Gifts or more accurately, Supernatural Manifestations of The Holy Spirit (actions taken by the Holy Spirit) and is for Ministry. Speaking in Tongues is a prayer language for Exalting God and edifying the Believer. 

Is Speaking in Tongues of the devil? 

No. The devil does, as with most things of God, offer a counterfeit operation. 

Does Speaking in Tongues make me more spiritually powerful? 

Yes. Speaking in Tongues edifies the Believer. UTTERANCE renders Revelation. “And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel” (Ephesians 6:19). But ye, beloved, building up yourselves on your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Ghost (Jude 1:20). 

 Is it okay for me to Speak in Tongues in Church? 

This is the $64,000 question. The answer is mostly no. Speaking in Tongues is for private prayer and the Exalting of and Communing with God. Divers Kinds of Tongues with the Interpretation of Tongues are for Ministry in the Church Open Assembly. 

Should there be an Interpretation of Tongues every time I hear them? 

Yes, when in the Church Open Assembly. This process must be effectively managed by the Leader in the Pulpit to assure that there is no confusion. “If any man speaks in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. But if there be no interpreter, let him keep silence in the church; and let him speak to himself, and to God” (1 Corinthians 14:27-28). 

Is there absolutely no time when Speaking in Tongues other than Divers Kinds of Tongues is permissible in the Local Assembly? 

The Bible does not speak to this, but I have observed in Church Assemblies where there had been obvious solid instructions pertaining to Speaking in Tongues and Spiritual Manifestations thus: sometimes during the Altar Call the Congregants would all pray softly in the Spirit to undergird the Prayer that was coming from the pulpit. This is done with the hope that those unsaved persons would be convicted in their hearts to come forward for Salvation. I have also observed that during Healing and Deliverance Ministry the quiet orderly Praying in The Spirit from the pews to be quite aggravating to the demons. Yep, said it, demons! 

Such prayer was always done within the space of the individual member and without any disturbance whatsoever. In other words, decently and in order. These are immensely powerful times of prayer. 

When should I Speak in Tongues? 

Pray always, day and night. Common sense applies. “But his delight is in the law of the Lord; and in his law doth he meditates day and night” (Psalms 1:2). “Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints” (Ephesians 6:18). 

What is the best place for me to Speak in Tongues? 

Anywhere where you are not intruding into the privacy of someone else. 

 What is the difference between Talking in Tongues, Praying in Tongues, and Speaking in Tongues? 

These terms are interchangeable. 

Should all Christians Speak in Tongues? 

Yes. “And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues” (Mark 16:17). 

Did Speaking in Tongues cease? 

No. “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” (Acts 2:39). Here Peter Utters Revelation regarding The Infilling of the Holy Ghost and Speaking in Tongues. 

 Tongues of Men and Angels, what does that mean? 

“Though I speak with the tongues of men and of angels, and have not charity, I am become as sounding brass, or a tinkling cymbal. And though I have the gift of prophecy, and understand all mysteries, and all knowledge; and though I have all faith, so that I could remove mountains, and have not charity, I am nothing” (1 Corinthians 13:1). The word charity is translated from the Greek word agape which is also translated as love. 

This scriptural passage is used by some to make a case against the validity of the use of Tongues by the Church today. 

If we more closely examine the meaning of the word “though” as used in this passage, we see that it is translated from the Greek word “ean” which means if. So, does not indicate that Paul speaks with the tongues of men or angels, but means if that were the case, that absent love, it would be of no effect. 

I found no other reference to “Tongues of Angels” in the Bible. 

Was there speaking in Tongues before Pentecost? 

No. There is no evidence of Speaking in Tongues prior to the time of the Church or the Dispensation of Grace. 

Does praying in the Spirit mean Praying in Tongues? 

Yes, generally when a Saint speaks of praying in the Spirit he is referring to Praying in tongues. 

What Should I do if Speaking in Tongues is not Taught in my Church? 

Pray to the Lord for instructions. This matter must be Prayed through. 

Is it scriptural for my Pastor, Praise Team Leader, or other Leader in the Church, to pray in Tongues during an Open Assembly where no Interpretation is offered? 

No. Nowhere in scripture can such a demonstration be found. We are told in 1 Corinthians Chapter 14 that Interpretation of Tongues should accompany the Speaking of Tongues (Divers Kinds of Tongues) in the Assembly and absent such Interpretation that the Saints should remain quiet. We are told that all things should be done decently and in order. No exceptions are made for the Leaders in the Church. Disobedience of this rule is the greatest cause of confusion regarding Speaking in Tongues. Speaking in Tongues in the Assembly is not supposed to be soulish utterances from someone in the Pulpit but an UTTERANCE from God through the Spirit Filled Saint for the Exhortation, Edification and Comfort of the Church. 

Must I be water baptized to Speak (Pray) in Tongues? 

Yes. The scriptural pattern indicates the necessity for Water Baptism. 

“And he said unto them, go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned” (Mark 16:15-16). “Now when they heard this, they were pricked in their heart, and said unto Peter and to the rest of the apostles, Men, and brethren, what shall we do? 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” (Acts 2:37-38). Here Peter, after preaching the apparent first post Pentecost sermon admonishes new converts to Repent, be Baptized and be Filled with the Holy Ghost (which would have been evidenced by their Speaking in Tongues). There are several occasions cited in the Book of Acts where the writer made it a point to point out that there was Water Baptism prior to the Baptism with the Holy Spirit. 

Paul was Baptized immediately after having Received the Holy Ghost. “And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and putting his hands on him said, Brother Saul, the Lord, even Jesus, that appeared unto thee in the way as thou came, hath sent me, that thou might receive thy sight, and be filled with the Holy Ghost. And immediately there fell from his eyes as it had been scales: and he received sight forthwith, and arose, and was baptized” (Acts 9: 17-18). 

Here is what happened to the Gentiles at Cornelius’ house when Peter preached the Gospel to them – “While Peter yet spoke these words, the Holy Ghost fell on all of them which heard the word. And they of the circumcision which believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because that on the Gentiles also was poured out the gift of the Holy Ghost. For they heard them speak with tongues and magnify God. Then answered Peter, can any man forbid water, that these should not be baptized, which have received the Holy Ghost as well as we? And he commanded them to be baptized in the name of the Lord. Then prayed they him to tarry certain days” (Acts 10:44-48). 

And while there was no apparent reason for Jesus to Speak in Tongues, we see that even He was Baptized (by John in the Jordan) before receiving the Anointing of the Holy Spirit. “And it happened in those days, that Jesus came from Nazareth of Galilee, and was baptized of John in Jordan. And straightway coming up out of the water, he saw the heavens opened, and the Spirit like a dove descending upon him: And there came a voice from heaven, saying, Thou art my beloved Son, in whom I am well pleased” (Mark 1:9-11). 

What spiritual attributes should I exhibit to know that I am ready to be Filled with the Holy Spirit to Speak with Tongues? 

Having a fervent desire for the things of God; to know Him and to obey His Statutes is required. “But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and His righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you” (Matthew 6:33). 

Love and Faith are necessary. The Fruit of the Spirit that are imparted to new Believers are foundational for those who wish to learn to live in the spirit before God. “But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, longsuffering, gentleness, goodness, faith, Meekness, temperance: against such there is no law (Galatians 5:22-23). 

At what age is it ok for a child to Speak with Tongues? 

I do not know. Urgent prayer petitioning the Lord for clarity is in order where you are disturbed in your spirit about the youthful age of someone who is Praying in Tongues. 

What are the dynamics of Speaking in Tongues? 

“He that believeth on me, as the scripture hath said, out of his belly shall flow rivers of living water. (But this spoke 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.)” This passage from the book of John 7:38-39 speaks of rivers of living water flowing out of the belly of Believers. This is no more than a description of a Believer Speaking in Tongues. The river (UTTERANCES) is flowing being poured out by the Lord. “Exalted to the right hand of God, he has received from the Father the promised Holy Spirit and has poured out what you now see and hear” (Acts 2:33 NIV). 

Believers may immerse themselves into this flow at will. When to start and stop the Speaking in Tongues is controlled by the Believer. Believers may sometime feel a burden to Pray in Tongues because of a dream, intuition, or a word of knowledge. The Believer will co-labor with the Lord Praying in the Spirit until the burden is lifted. This exercise of Praying in The Spirit (Speaking in Tongues) is to be done in private. 

As mentioned before, Divers Kinds of Tongues is a so-called Spiritual Gift. This UTTERANCE is by the Manifestation (Anointing) of God as the Holy Spirit comes upon the Believer. Authority and Power upon the Words will be in evidence. Interpretation of Tongues must follow with the same level of intensity as Ministry for Exhortation, Edification and Comfort of the Church and usually during the Church Assembly. 

What should I do if I find myself in a situation where there is much speaking in tongues and no interpretation? 

You should leave. 

How can I be sure that when I am Speaking in Tongues that it is of God? 

These two scriptures verses should help you with that. If you proclaim Jesus Christ as Lord, it will be Him that Speaks through your spirit. “Wherefore I give you to understand, that no man speaking by the Spirit of God calleth Jesus accursed: and that no man can say that Jesus is the Lord, but by the Holy Ghost” (1 Corinthians 12:3). “Hereby know ye the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is of God: And every spirit that confesses not that Jesus Christ is come in the flesh is not of God” (1 John 4:2-3). 

“Or what man is there of you, whom if his son ask bread, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks a fish, will he give him a serpent? If ye then, being evil, know how to give good gifts unto your children, how much more shall your Father which is in heaven give good things to them that ask him?” (Matthew 7:9-11). 

 

 

DISCERNING OF SPIRITS, DIVERS KINDS OF TONGUES, FAITH (THE GOD KIND OF FAITH), INTERPRETATION OF TONGUES, Spiritual Growth, THE WORD OF KNOWLEDGE, THE WORD OF WISDOM, WORKING OF MIRACLES

THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS

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THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS                                                         

(The manifestations of the Spirit)

The Spiritual Gifts or “manifestation of the Spirit” is still an enigmatic concept or phenomenon in the Church. The simplest way that I know to describe it is that it is God doing what He wants to do when He wants to do it; “as He will”.

The activities are not controlled by the believer nor is the time or place of the manifestation. They are not gifting that are vested to any individual human. When God wants to move or interact in with created man, He does so.

Now there are diversities of gifts, but the same Spirit.

And there are differences of administrations, but the same Lord.

And there are diversities of operations, but it is the same God which worketh all in all.

But the manifestation of the Spirit is given to every man to profit withal.

For to one is given by the Spirit the word of wisdom; to another the word of knowledge by the same Spirit;

To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits;

to another Divers Kinds of Tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:

But all these worketh that one and the selfsame Spirit, dividing to every man severally as he will. (1 Corinthians 12:4–10)

First Corinthians 12 presents The Spiritual Gifts. The Lord controls them working together with the believer. Philippians 2:13 comes to mind, reading “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure.”

The above text uses several terms to describe the manifestations of the Holy Spirit i.e., diversities, administrations and operations. The Spiritual Gifts in operation are presented in many ways as God (“the same Spirit, the same Lord and the same God”) works through His Body the Church.

It is through the Spiritual Gifts that the Body of believers, i. e. the Church is edified, exhorted and comforted (1 Corinthians 14:3) and the work assigned to Her by Christ is completed.

The Nine Spiritual Gifts may be divided into sets of three. The Revelation Gifts reveal something, the Power Gifts do something, and the Inspiration Gifts say something.

The Word of Wisdom is the first of the Revelation Gifts. The Word of Wisdom is not that wisdom derived from knowledge or experience or perhaps age. A future event that God reveals to man prophetically is A Word of Wisdom.

This is a Word of Wisdom:

For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.

For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so, shall we ever be with the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 4:15-17)

“By the word of the Lord”. The coming event that he is speaking of is the rapture of the Church.

A Word of Wisdom may be given in a dream, vision or spoken directly into the spirit of an individual.

The Word of Knowledge is the second of the Revelation Gifts. It is revelation given by Holy Spirit of an existing fact where there is no natural way for it to be known to the believer.

 There was a certain man in Caesarea called Cornelius, a centurion of the band called the Italian band,

A devout man, and one that feared God with all his house, which gave much alms to the people, and prayed to God always.

He saw in a vision evidently about the ninth hour of the day an angel of God coming into him, and saying unto him, Cornelius.

And when he looked on him, he was afraid, and said, what is it, Lord? And he said unto him, thy prayers and thine alms are come up for a memorial before God.

And now send men to Joppa, and call for one Simon, whose surname is Peter:

He lodges with one Simon a tanner; whose house is by the seaside: he shall tell thee what thou should to do. (Acts 10:1-6)

Here, by The Word of Knowledge the Lord reveals to Cornelius the name and location of the Apostle Peter who would be summoned to come to his home to pray for his household.

Once I had a dream about one of the ladies in our church. In the dream the lady’s name was called three times. I knew in my heart that there was some distress involved and we contacted the lady the next day.

When we reached her, we discovered that she was out of cash and had no way to get food for herself and her children. We took her shopping and gave her some cash for her pocket.

The Lord didn’t give us details, but by A Word of Knowledge, we knew that there was something wrong and that we were to help. Reflecting further about the dream and considering the symbols used by God, I today have an even greater appreciation of the love that God had at the time for His daughter and has now for His servants.

The third Revelation Gift is The Discerning of Spirits. This operation of the Holy Spirit opens a window to the invisible world for the believer to look through. Supernaturally and miraculously, the believer is availed of transactions of another dimension. A revelation about Discerning of Spirits could appear as a vision, a trance, or in a dream.

This example of the gift of Discerning of Spirits is found in the book of Acts:

And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying:

The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, these men are the servants of the Most-High God, which shew unto us the way of salvation.

And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour. (Acts 16:16–18)

The invisible person behind the actions of the damsel had been revealed to Paul by Holy Spirit. Ephesians chapter six tells us that “we wrestle not against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this world, against spiritual wickedness in high places” (Ephesians 6:12). The Holy Spirit could name one or more of these unseen bad guys if you were to meet them. The Discerning the Spirits.

The first of the Power Gifts of the Spirit is The Gift of Faith. The Gift of Faith is to be distinguished from “The Measure of Faith” (Romans 12:3) and “Saving Faith” of Romans 10:17 (“So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God”).

The Gift of Faith transcends the faith referenced in Mark 11:22–26 which is the faith to remove mountains. The Gift of Faith is sometimes referred to as Special Faith or “The God Kind of Faith”. Like all the Gifts of the Spirit, the Gift of Faith is a supernatural manifestation of the Holy Spirit. It is an operation of the Holy Spirit administered by The Holy Spirit. The believer need only co-labor with God to the extent of being yielding and willing.

The Gift of Faith brings an individual’s level of faith to that of the Divine by the operation of God. The fulfillment of blessings and curses, alterations, creations, destructions, removals, and even the raising of the dead are manifested by this Gift. There is no limitation where the Gift of Faith is present just as “In God all things are possible” (Mark 10:27).

 Here is an example of the Spiritual Gift of Faith, Paul raising Eutychus form the dead:

And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell from the third loft, and was taken up dead.

And Paul went down, and fell on him, and embracing him said, Trouble not yourselves; for his life is in him.

When he therefore was come up again, and had broken bread, and eaten, and talked a long while, even till break of day, so he left.

And they brought the young man alive and were not a little comforted. (Acts 20:9-12)

The second of the Power Gifts is The Working of Miracles. It can be defined as the supernatural manifestation of the power of God that alters, suspends, or in some other way controls the laws of nature.

Paul restores Eutychus to life and shakes off a deadly viper from this hand with no ill effect in Acts 20 and Acts 28 respectively. These are just two of the miracles documented in the Book of Acts.

The third Power Gift is The Gift of Healings.

In the Acts of the Apostles there is Peter’s healing of the lame man at the gate Beautiful (Acts 3:1–11) and Eneas of a palsy, recorded in Acts 9. as well as other miracles which he worked.

Paul healed a cripple in Lystra (Acts 14:8–10). “And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them” (Acts 19:11–12).

The Inspiration Gifts are for ministry. They are for the exhortation, edification, and comfort of the Church. The first of the Gifts of Inspiration is the Gift of Prophecy. Strong’s Concordance describes prophecy as “a discourse emanating from divine inspiration and declaring the purposes of God, whether by reproving and admonishing the wicked, or comforting the afflicted, or revealing things hidden; esp. by foretelling future events.”

The first of the Inspiration Gifts is The Gift of Prophecy. The Gift of Prophecy is a direct communication of edification, exhortation, and comfort by the manifestation of God co-laboring with a believer. “But he that prophesies speak unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort” (1 Corinthians 14:3). It is the simplest form of inspired utterance in a known language.

In the book Ever Increasing Faith, Smith Wigglesworth says this:

We see also that he that prophesies speak unto man to edification and exhortation and comfort. How important it is then that we should have this gift in manifestation in the Church in order that the saints might be built up and made strong and filled with the comfort of God. But with this as all other gifts we should see that it is operated by the Spirit’s power and brought forth in the unction of the Spirit; so that everyone who shall hear prophecy, as it is brought forth by the Spirit of God, shall know that it is GOD who is bringing forth that which for the edification of those who hear. It is the Spirit of God who takes of the deep things of God and reveals them, and unctionizes the prophet to give forth, that which is a revelation of the things of God.

Utterance in prophecy has a real lifting power and gives real light on the truth to those who hear. Prophecy is never a mind reflection; it is something far deeper than this. By prophecy we receive that which is the mind of the Lord; and as we receive these blessed, fresh utterances through the Spirit of the Lord the whole assembly is lifted into the realm of the spiritual. Our hearts and minds and whole bodies receive a quickening through the Spirit-given word. As the Spirit brings forth prophecy, we find there is healing and salvation and power in every line. For this reason, it is one of the gifts that we ought to covet.

An example of the Gift of Prophecy from the Book of Acts is found inserted below. Paul is warned against going to Jerusalem:

And as we tarried there many days, there came down from Judaea a certain prophet, named Agabus.

And when he was come unto us, he took Paul’s girdle, and bound his own hands and feet, and said, Thus saith the Holy Ghost, So shall the Jews at Jerusalem bind the man that owns this girdle, and shall deliver him into the hands of the Gentiles.

And when we heard these things, both we, and they of that place, besought him not to go up to Jerusalem. (Acts 21:10-12)

The second of The Inspirational Gifts is Divers Kinds of Tongues. “To another, Divers Kinds of Tongues”. The original Greek text did not include the word “divers.” The translators added it. “Kinds of tongues” is how it reads with the distinct connotation of diversity meaning of different nations.

The word “Divers” is italicized in the KJV indicating that it was not in the original text but was added by the translator for clarity and emphasis. The connotation in Strong’s Concordance points to its meaning “varying ethnics or languages”.

Divers kinds of tongues are supernatural utterances of God through the spirit of a believer in a language that is unlearned by and unknown to the believing speaker.

The tongues that were spoken at Pentecost were Divers Kinds of Tongues. The Pentecost outpouring of Tongues was dual purposed; it was ministry to unbelievers and power for ministry to the believers.

Divers kinds of tongues are for public ministry. Acts 2 offers a demonstration of believers speaking a language that they didn’t understand but that was understood by some of those who were standing by. “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance” (Acts 2: 4).

Following shortly the above passage:

And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.

Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.

And they were all amazed and marveled, saying one to another, “Behold, are not all these which speak Galileans? (Acts 2:5-7)

The Interpretation of Tongues is the companion gift to Divers Kinds of Tongues. Generally, when Tongues are uttered in the Assembly the Interpretation of Tongues should go with them. Paul says this:

If any man speaks in an unknown tongue, let it be by two, or at the most by three, and that by course; and let one interpret. (1 Corinthians 4:27)

Interpretation of Tongues is a manifestation of the Holy Spirit. What was said in Tongues is not only the utterance of the Holy Spirit, but the interpretation is also given by the Holy Spirit. Whenever there is a recitation of Tongues in the open Assembly there should be either interpretation or judging by the presiding leader.

The operation of the Spiritual Gifts represents a crucial step in the Spiritual Growth of The Church (The Local Assembly). Fulfilling The Great Commission absent the Spiritual Gifts is substantially severely hampered.

SPEAKING IN TONGUES IS THE DOORWAY TO THE SPIRITUAL GIFTS!

 

 

 

DISCERNING OF SPIRITS, DIVERS KINDS OF TONGUES, FAITH (THE GOD KIND OF FAITH), INTERPRETATION OF TONGUES, Kingdom Business, PROPHECY, Spiritual Growth, The End Time Church, THE WORD OF KNOWLEDGE, THE WORD OF WISDOM, Uncategorized, WORKING OF MIRACLES

THE FRAGRANCE OF THE HOLY SPIRIT

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I have noticed lately that there is a fair amount of discussion about a fragrance, a very pleasant fragrance, being experience by folks usually of the Christian variety. The stories range from false alarm accounts where what the person was smelling a timed released deodorizer in the bathroom to clear bona fide occasions where intense worship, prayer, fasting or otherwise seeking the Face of the Lord had taken place.

A few months ago, I met with a friend to share with him some things that the Lord had shown me about ten years ago having to do with God’s purpose for him. The dynamics of the meeting were very powerful as it was led by the Holy Spirit. The interesting thing is that I kept sensing this fragrance. This Fragrance is not natural but is Supernatural.

The Fragrance was very strong, (though not unpleasant) and because I didn’t know at the time what (Who) it was I thought that it was the deodorant that I had recently began to use. I hadn’t had a deodorant before that carried such a strong scent and didn’t want to walk around smelling like that. It seemed pretty strong!

I added deodorant to my Costco shopping list and I thought that that would be that. But “that wasn’t that” and I still experienced the Fragrance. Then, as now, about two or three times a day He reminds me of His presence with a gentle spray of a sweet and for me unidentifiable and undeniable scent. It is as if I am surrounded with It as It falls upon me afresh. I know it is His way of reminding me of His promise of when he said, “I will never leave you or forsake you.”

I wish that I could say to you that the Fragrance of the Holy Spirit is like this or like that, but I just don’t have a frame of reference that I can point to. I am comfortable saying that if you know yourself to be called of The Most High and are earnestly willing and obedient, it may be that His Enabling Power has come close to you and is even as “The Spirit Upon“ for Kingdom Service (such as The Spiritual Gifts) whenever and wherever needed.

Just last week, I enjoyed this lovely Fragrance while in Sunday’s service. It was delightful and plentiful as it filled the Sanctuary. So much so that I asked one of the Saints that was sitting near me if she could smell it. She looked at me as if to say, “what planet did you just drop in from?”

I now sense the Fragrance often when just walking by people or just walking down the street when no one is in sight. Even when a car goes by. The other day I went to the Food Lion to get a loaf of Rye bread for sandwiches. As I headed to the checkout stand I sense the Fragrance as I walked by a nice lady. I walked down a little ways, and decided to go back to for a quick encounter of the Holy Ghost sort.

I told her that I was aware of a new phenomenon and asked her if she had heard of the “Fragrance of the Holy Ghost”. She gave the kind of response that spoke “well maybe or maybe not”. “Tell me more.”

I was pretty sure that she was in the Church and that she was filled with the Holy Spirit (Word of Knowledge) and she nodded yes when I verified this with her. I shared a little bit about my experience with the Fragrance and even shared a theory.

I told her that I was thinking that perhaps the Fragrance is upon the Angels, gathered on them as they come and go into the presence of God to minister to the Saints or those who shall be heirs of salvation.

We saluted each other with a “Praise the Lord” and I noticed a cheerful look on her face as I headed for the checkout.

The following is from The Book of Enoch:

And there I saw Trees of Judgment, especially vessels of the fragrance of incense and myrrh, and the trees were not alike.

And above it, above these, above the mountains of the east, and not far away, I saw another place, valleys of water, like that which does not fail.

And I saw a beautiful tree, and its fragrance was like that of the mastic.

And by the banks of these valleys I saw fragrant cinnamon. And beyond those valleys I came towards the east.

And I saw another mountain on which there were trees, and there flowed out water, and there flowed out from it, as it were, a nectar whose name is styrax and galbanum.

And beyond this mountain I saw another mountain, and on it there were aloe trees, and those trees were full of a fruit, which is like an almond, and is hard.

And when they take this fruit it is better than any fragrance.

And after these fragrances, to the north, as I looked over the mountains, I saw seven mountains full of fine nard, and fragrant trees of cinnamon and pepper.

And from there, I went over the summits of those mountains, far away to the east, and I went over the Red Sea, and I was far from it, and I went over the Angel Zotiel.

And I came to the Garden of Righteousness, and I saw beyond those trees many large trees growing there, sweet smelling, large, very beautiful and glorious, the Trees of Wisdom, from which they eat and know great wisdom.

And it is like the carob tree, and its fruit is like bunches of grapes on a vine, very beautiful, and the smell of this tree spreads and penetrates afar.

And I said: “This tree is beautiful! How beautiful and pleasing is its appearance!”

The following scriptural passage is beneficial:

And the Lord said unto Moses, Take unto thee sweet spices, stacte, and onycha, and galbanum; these sweet spices with pure frankincense: of each shall there be a like weight:
And thou shalt make it a perfume, a confection after the art of the apothecary, tempered together, pure and holy:
And thou shalt beat some of it very small, and put of it before the testimony in the tabernacle of the congregation, where I will meet with thee: it shall be unto you most holy. (Exodus 30:34-36)

 

 

 

AWAKENING, Kingdom Business, Praying In Tongues, Spiritual Growth, Uncategorized, UTTERANCE

Serpents and Drinking Deadly Things

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After Jesus Christ sacrificed His Body on the Cross He Visited the disciples in his resurrected body and gave them the following instructions:

And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned.
And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues;
They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. (Mark 16: 15-18 KJV).

The preceding scriptural passage constitutes what is known as The Great Commission. It is a commandment (not a suggestion) for The Body Of Christ (The Church) — as to what He expects Her to do.

There is some serious confusion regarding part of verse 18 (in bold above). Many seem to just leave it out or fly past when teaching the Great Commission from the Book of Mark. The Great Commission is rendered to some extent in all four Gospels.

It is my desire to learn and share all that I can in favor of accomplishing the mandate of The Great Commission. For this reason, I think it beneficial to take a look with you at possible and likely meanings of the original text specifically pertaining to the words/phrases they shall take up, serpents, drink and deadly thing. Do keep in mind that oftentimes in the Bible distinguishing between the metaphor and literal is important. So is it when doing this study.

One of the meanings from the Greek for “they shall take up” is “to take and apply to any use”. It is from the word airō. The word serpent (which literally means serpent) is from the Greek word ophis and likely refers metaphorically to wisdom. In Matthew 10:16 the Lord refers to serpents as being wise. So, taking up serpents is “laying hold of wisdom”. Not withstanding the likely metaphorical meaning of taking up a serpent and not being harmed, we see in Acts 28: 3-6 how that Paul was bitten by a deadly serpent with no harmful affect.

Lastly, drinking any deadly thing without being harmed. The word translated drink is pinō  in Strong’s Concordance. It is defined: figuratively, to receive into the soul what serves to refresh strengthen, nourish it unto life eternal. Basically, deadly is deadly as defined by Strong’s. The Greek word is thanasimos. It is likely that the message here is that if a Saint were to inadvertently ingest some poison that they would be protected from danger by Holy Spirit.

 

 

 

 

Praying In Tongues, Spiritual Growth, The End Time Church, UTTERANCE

Ten Reasons Why You Must Speak in Tongues

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1. Speaking in Tongues is a command.

And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover. (Mark 16: 17-18).

 2. Speaking in Tongues is necessary for Spiritual strength.

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. (Jude 19-21).

3. Speaking in Tongues is the precursor for the power needed to effectively accomplish the Great Commandment.

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. (Acts 1:8).

4. Speaking in Tongues is the initial sign of having been Filled With or Baptized In the Holy Spirit.

And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance. (Acts 2:4)

5. Speaking in Tongues is the gateway or bridge over into operating (co-laboring) with the Holy Spirit in the Supernatural Gifts of the Spirit.

And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen. (Mark 16:20).

6. Speaking in Tongues is speaking directly to the Lord.

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. (1 Corinthians 14:2)

7. Revelation is revealed to the spirit when one speaks in the Spirit. In the following scriptural passage Paul is asking the Saints of Ephesus to pray in the Spirit for him that he might receive Utterance (tongues) relating to the revelation of the mystery of the Gospel.

Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; And for me, that utterance may be given unto me, that I may open my mouth boldly, to make known the mystery of the gospel, For which I am an ambassador in bonds: that therein I may speak boldly, as I ought to speak. (Ephesians 6:18-20).

8. Saints often are able to share words of edification, exhortation and comfort to someone whose language they don’t speak nor does that person speak the Saint’s language — doing so by the Holy Spirit in Tongues.

And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. (Acts 2:5-6).

9. Praying in Tongues is essential when we don’t know what to pray for. This is likely the single most important reason to pray in the Spirit.

Likewise the Spirit also helpeth our infirmities: for we know not what we should pray for as we ought: but the Spirit itself maketh intercession for us with groanings which cannot be uttered. (Romans 8:26).

10. Praying in the Spirit is an essential weapon of spiritual warfare. The following scriptural passage calls the Sword of the Spirit the Rhema Word of God which carries all the Power and Might of the Godhead. This Power flows from Heaven and through our mouths when we Pray in Tongues.

And take the helmet of salvation, and the sword of the Spirit, which is the word of God: Praying always with all prayer and supplication in the Spirit, and watching thereunto with all perseverance and supplication for all saints; (Ephesians 6: 17-18).

 

 

 

 

 

AWAKENING, Kingdom Business, Kingdom Thought, Praying In Tongues, Spiritual Growth, The End Time Church, UTTERANCE

DON’T MESS THIS UP

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I will get right to the point with this one. I screen shot the inserted image from Google Earth on  about 8 a.m. this past Sunday morning. Some of you will find this to be as fascinating as I did and some of you won’t. This is the actual satellite image. I will tell you what I see and what I think and I will also give some scripture and background to support my thoughts.

Remember, this was live when I viewed it and that the weather is fluid (always moving). In the middle of the image there is a Man’s head. See His eyes, ear, nose mouth and chin. I will come back to some of those in a moment.

At the top of the image next to Iceland are two angels. This reminds me of the story of Sodom and Gomorrah in Genesis chapter 18 and how that the Lord traveled with two angels when He met with Abraham and judged Sodom and Gomorrah.

Across the image from the snout of what I have discovered to be an antelope (or of the antelope species) are two fishes. These are the same as those which are sometimes referred to as Pisces. They are actually representative of The Church and the Jewish Nation (The Elect of Messiah or The King of Kings) — yes, Jesus Christ.

They are depicted as being tethered together in astrology which as you know is a corruption of God’s true intent to show the Gospel in The Stars. There is at least one other person in that group but I don’t know who that is (or they are).

Additionally, looking again at the Man in the center of the image and to the right side of His mouth (to your left as you view it) there is a man like image extending out from it.

My first thought was to suggest that the major image depicts The Father God. I step away from that conclusion, though, as He would probably have white hair.

I believe the Primary Person in the image is the Lord Himself. Again, Jesus Christ. That Which is proceeding from His Mouth, I believe to be Utterance (The Holy Spirit).

Now, to the elephant in the room. What’s up with the snouted creature that appears to be resting its head upon the head of the Lord?

There are apparently four essential considerations regarding this. One is the actual animal itself. It is an antelope — I will not speculate at this time as to which one. Secondarily, is that which is derived from the antelope; namely, the Shofar, which is made from the horns of the antelope. Please note that the Shofar is not exclusively taken from the antelope, but the ram as well as others.

The Shofar is a very important instrument in Judaism and Hebrew customs, past and present of which I am apologetically not well informed. See this though.

I believe that the reason the creature is  resting upon the Head of the Lord is an indication from the Lord that there is something on His mind and that He is getting the Word out.

But of that day and hour knoweth no man, no, not the angels of heaven, but my Father only. (Matthew 24:36)

Fourthly, as a Christian, this scriptural passage says it all for me:

For this we say unto you by the word of the Lord, that we which are alive and remain unto the coming of the Lord shall not prevent them which are asleep.

For the Lord himself shall descend from heaven with a shout, with the voice of the archangel, and with the trump of God: and the dead in Christ shall rise first:

Then we which are alive and remain shall be caught up together with them in the clouds, to meet the Lord in the air: and so shall we ever be with the Lord. (1 Thessalonians 4:15-17 KJV)

I see Him in everything.

 

Kingdom Business, Praying In Tongues, Revival Forthwith, Revival is At Hand, Spiritual Growth, The End Time Church, Uncategorized

FIRE IN THE HOLY

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Strong’s Concordance defines FIRE as “supernatural fire (accompanying theophany)”. Theophany is defined on Dictionary.com as “manifestation or appearance of God or a god to a person”. 

Last night’s dream went like this. A group returning from an outing included a young boy who was about eight years old. The report about the child was that he had been unruly during the trip. 

When a senior lady of the organization pulled the young man aside to discuss his behavior with him, he pulled out a cigarette lighter and began to flick it to light it. Somehow this action dramatically scared the lady, and she ran off hysterically. 

A second counselor of the organization had no success in getting the kid under control. Upon seeing this and as the boy continued to try and ignite the lighter, one of the male counselors of the organization shouted, “call the cops”. The counselor reconsidered though. The dream was over. 

This dream comes on the heels of a revival meeting that I attended last night at a local church. The denomination was not apparent but there was a Baptist flavor present. As I believe it to be custom at revival meetings, the speaker was a visiting one. His scriptural reference was 2 Corinthians 12 — Paul’s thorn in the flesh. 

Ministers of Churches such as this one is prone to flow into a method of preaching that is referred to as “hooping”. This service was no exception. Preaching of this type is soulical arousing the emotions of the folks. The “feel good” is short lived. Lots of flicking takes place but no Fire happens. 

Given the title of this post, let me just say that I have come to know that there are two ways to preach the Gospel of Jesus Christ. These are expository or expositional and Spiritual. Expository preaching in done in the strength of man and his knowledge of the Bible. The logos word (letter) is present but the Rhema Word (Spirit) is not. Lots of flicking but no fire. 

Spiritual preaching in done in the Strength of or by the Anointing of Jesus Christ through and co-laboring with the believer. Essentially It is God speaking, being tempered by an earthen vessel. 

The Eternal Fire Himself is manifest empowering them that hear. 

 

Kingdom Business, Kingdom Thought, Praying In Tongues, Spiritual Growth, The End Time Church

A Talking Ass and a Bucket of Water

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As you know, my work emanates from my mandate from God to propagate Utterance as the life force of Speaking in Tongues and the manifestation of the Gifts of the Spirit.

Utterance for our purposes to this end most nearly means the incessant pouring forth from Heaven of the Voice, Mind, Spirit, Creative Power, Resurrection Power, Revelation, Wisdom, Sanctification, Anointing and More, from God.

The same is that promise often spoken of and sought after by those of us who love God and who are earnestly seeking to have his essence present in our lives. The apostle Peter says this by the Spirit just as well an anyone in Acts 2:38-40.

You all know the story of the prophet Balaam, right? Balaam was very busy in the the book of Numbers. He was also mentioned in several other books of the Bible. He sold out to a fellow by the name of Balak, the king of Moab. Balak wished that Balaam would prophesy a curse upon Israel for which he would be paid money.

Each time Balaam attempted to curse Israel, the Lord would change his words to blessing rather than cursing Israel. Balak was not pleased. We find that God also was not please with Balaam as Balaam attempted to circumvent God’s command not to deal with the Moabites. Balaam was eventually slain by Israel.

There was an occasion that while Balaam rode his ass (donkey) toward Moab that the donkey saw an angel with his sword drawn sent by God to thwart the trip. The donkey refused to go further and fell to the ground injuring Balaam.

Balaam smote the donkey and the donkey asked him why he had done such as she had always been reliable. Additionally, the Lord opened Balaam’s eyes so that he too could see the angel.

Now I said all of that to get to the following verse of scripture that was spoken by Balaam while he was in a trance. I believe it to be a prophecy relating to what is currently my favorite subject,  namely Utterance:

He shall pour the water out of his buckets, and his seed shall be in many waters, and his king shall be higher than Agag, and his kingdom shall be exalted. (Numbers 24:7)

Here, Balaam is speaking of none other than the Holy Spirit that is being poured out (shed forth) by Jesus Christ Himself. I find that the Bible is laden with this prophecy.

Here is what Peter said on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2) as he it expounded upon Joel Chapter 2: But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:

Look closely at this passage and tell me what you see. Pray first:

 A garden inclosed is my sister, my spouse; a spring shut up, a fountain sealed. Thy plants are an orchard of pomegranates, with pleasant fruits; camphire, with spikenard, Spikenard and saffron; calamus and cinnamon, with all trees of frankincense; myrrh and aloes, with all the chief spices: A fountain of gardens, a well of living waters, and streams from Lebanon. Awake, O north wind; and come, thou south; blow upon my garden, that the spices thereof may flow out. Let my beloved come into his garden, and eat his pleasant fruits. (Song of Solomon 4: 12-16)

Try and picture Christ standing at the Right Hand of the Father pouring out (shedding forth) His Spirit from a large urn (buckets). The same being the referenced Power mentioned in paragraph #2 above.

Raise your hands toward Heaven because that is where your help is coming from!

AWAKENING, Commentary, Kingdom Thought, Spiritual Growth, UTTERANCE

Dealing With and Being Dealt With by God

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I know that the subject line piqued your interest and possibly occurs to you as being sacrilegious. Please indulge me in this though and see the Light in it.

Practically the best context for the given subject is within the vein of prayer. After all I believe that it is that many of us only consider God when we need something; when finances are low or someone is sick. We need something and we know that He has it and ours is to petition that He gives it to us.

Here is what I am going to do. I am going to show you a couple of stories from the bible in which the characters were trying to accomplish something–something that required movement or the approval of God. This should be interesting! I will talk a little bit about positioning oneself for establishing a dialogue with the Omnipotent, Omnibenevolent, Omnipresent and Omniscient Sovereign Potentate?

I will give brief summaries of these stories because I want you to go and read them for yourselves. Story number one has to do with Abraham. It is found in chapters 18 and 19 of Genesis. What happens here is Abraham is visited by three men (the Lord and two angels).

The Lord was handling two very important matters. Matter number one was to advise Abraham that he and Sarah were about to have a child. Abraham was 100 years old and Sarah was 90. And even as God was prophesying the birth of Isaac (and the Jewish Nation) they both found this amusing.

More to the point of this post though, as they departed from Abraham the Lord wondered out loud as to whether they should make him privy to their next order of business which was to investigate for judgement goings on down in Sodom. For the cry of the folks of Sodom had come before His Throne and a grievous cry it was.

Knowing the pending destruction of Sodom, Abraham requested of the Lord if He would spare Sodom if there were righteous folks there– fifty perhaps. The Lord agreed to his proposition. The dealing or negotiating had started. Abraham apparently thinking this thing through suggested that perhaps forty-five righteous people was a more likely number. The Lord agreed to that number.

To make a long story short and to emphasize the humility and reverence in which Abraham petitioned the Lord his case they finally agreed that if the Lord found ten righteous persons in Sodom that He would spare her. We see here dealings between the Lord and his servant.

Sodom did not fare well though!

Gideon a character in the book of Judges probably pushed all of God’s buttons, if that were possible. In an initial meeting with God in chapter six he acknowledged His miraculous works in previous generation of the Jews and required of Him as to why He had apparently forsaken them.

The Lord advised Gideon that He was about to deliver the Jews through him. He assured Gideon that He would be with him. The dealing began in earnest. God set the tone for the coming  events by supernaturally consuming a meal that Gideon had prepared for Him by fire out of a rock.

Gideon who was later in the story referred to as Jerubbaal because he had thrown down an altar of Baal (an idol) still was not convinced that the Lord surely had his back. He required more evidence from the Lord that He would be with him as he completed his task of defeating the Midianites and the Amalekites. He wanted a sign.

Gideon proposed to the Lord that he would place a fleece of wool on the earthen floor over night and if the next morning the fleece alone was wet and not the floor that he would know that the Lord was with him. And so it was that the next morning the fleece was wet to the point of yielding a full bowl of water and the floor was dry.

Just to be doubly sure, Gideon requested  the Lord that if he left the fleece of wool once again on the floor if God would indulge him by having the floor be wet with the fleece being dry the following morning. The Lord obliged him.

There are a few stories in the bible where we see dialogue (dealings) between the Lord and a servant (believer). God, not being a respecter of person, will also deal with you and me.

Here are a few pointers to consider when approaching the Lord to deal:

  1. What do I have to deal with? Am I clear that He has everything and I have nothing?
  2. Do I Know Him or what do I know about Him?
  3. How am I qualified to even be in His presence?
  4. Will God be merciful to hear my case?
  5. Will I have to petition the Lord in stages or are transactions cut and dried?
  6. How long will it take to make a deal?
  7. What does it mean to be “dealt with by God”?

Many years ago, I requested of the Lord that He would bring me into a more dynamic life and relationship with Him. Shortly thereafter the Lord responded to me by way of a dream in which He showed me some steps that I was to take and that much study was involved. He said “I will teach you.”

I have just finished my first print book and this results from that which the Holy Spirit has taught and is teaching me. The is ongoing and dialogue/dealings and sanctification/breaking in my life at the Right Hand of the Lord.

Here is what I have found. God is a person. He is in fact High and Mighty but He is not arrogant. I believe that God greatly desires to be in fellowship with His friends–us. He is however Holy and so the unclean and sinful are unable to enter into His presence. He has made a way for those whom He loves to supersede sin. Here is how.

 

 

 

AWAKENING, Kingdom Business, Kingdom Thought, Praying In Tongues, Revival Forthwith, Revival is At Hand, Spiritual Growth, The End Time Church, UTTERANCE

THE LIGHT MAN

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There once was (and still is) a man. An ordinary man. This man had a glimmer of light in his heart – in the center of his being. Faint it was, hardly noticed by anyone except his parents. It stayed that way for years and years but was obtaining a solid position in there – kind of like a tree as it stretches out its root system to be able to stand even to reach the clouds.

One day this nice gentleman was made aware of an outside source of light. One that was exterior to him but that is very much like the light which he had. This Light is the greatest of all light. It is the Light of the world. It is the Source of all life in the universe.

He somehow knew that that light was beckoning him to let It come into him. It wanted to join him and grow in him. This most powerful Light would be largely subservient to the light of our friend whom we mentioned first in this little story. It would be a Helper. The Great Light is a source of Eternal information and Jethro; let’s call our friend Jethro, can access this information and increasingly so as he builds his relationship with the Light.

Once electing to cohabitate with the Light – join his light with that Light – change was swift and exponential. The light that was in him was no longer just a flicker. It had grown, filling his abdominal cavity to an explosive ability. His cranial cavity became alive and radiant with activity because of the Light. He began to know things, to see and hear more clearly. His sense of right and wrong became keener. Key components of the two referenced systems are now more aware of each other and working together. Compassion and love are intrinsic in his personality.

His thoracic cavity is also infiltrated by the Light giving him increased ability to spew out words of encouragement here and there and upon those whom he chooses or when he is petitioned to do so. His message is one of love. That Light shown throughout his whole body. His movement is more graceful and displays positive intent.

The Light is no longer contained inside his body. It emanates from his body and becomes somewhat like a force field of love and all that is positive. Those meeting him senses this Power (that’s what it is, power) not fully, if at all, understanding what it is.

But, that’s not all. Remember that I said that that Light is external to that of Jethro. Well the Great Light while it works within Jethro, It (He) also has a life and agenda all His own. That Light is always everywhere Jethro goes; even if the atmosphere appears to be dark. In fact, there are times when the Light will choose, for example, to intervene in the ordinary course of nature to bring about some change. An example of this might be to open blind eyes or to cause a cripple person to walk.

The Light (you probably noticed the upper-case L) now that He has opened a line of communication (communion even) with Jethro is able to conduct such work in the natural realm using a natural person.

AWAKENING, Kingdom Business, Kingdom Thought, Praying In Tongues, Revival Forthwith, Revival is At Hand, Spiritual Growth, The End Time Church, Uncategorized, UTTERANCE

What Are You Waiting For?

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“And now why tarriest thou? arise, and be baptized, and wash away thy sins, calling on the name of the Lord.”

When Ananias communicated to Paul his commission from Jesus it was clear that time was of the essence. Let the Church agree that the same Spirit of urgency should apply to us now.

See Acts chapter 22.

AWAKENING, Kingdom Thought, Spiritual Growth

Me, Myself and I

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The heart, according to the Biblical concept, is the conscience of man’s spirit plus the mind in man’s soul. The spirit communes with God and is the organ for knowing His will, whereas the heart is the steward of the spirit, working towards the expression of all which is in the spirit. Whatever is in the spirit is expressed through the heart. The heart is therefore the link or the place of exchange for the workings of the spirit and of the soul. It is like the operating center of a telephone system where all the lines will converge and be connected. All that enters the spirit enters from the heart. Hence the heart is the connecting point of all communications. The spirit reaches the soul via the heart; and through the heart the soul conveys to the spirit what it has gathered from outside. The heart is where our personality is located. It is our real self. Since it is the link between the spirit and the soul, the heart may be considered as the real “I”. Watchman Nee, Spiritual Knowledge.

AWAKENING, Kingdom Thought, Praying In Tongues, Revival Forthwith, Revival is At Hand, Spiritual Growth, The End Time Church, UTTERANCE

A Higher Plane

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A few days ago I heard a preacher proclaim his hope and belief that believers are approaching a time of a higher level of Spiritual existence. While many believers are anticipating another (final perhaps) revival or awakening before the rapture; the speaker called it a higher plane. The essence of what I am currently writing about, Utterance and Spiritual Gifts, concern the path to Spiritual growth. I capitalize the S in the word Spiritual to distinguish the Divine Spirit from the human spirit.

I greatly pondered the idea of a “higher plane” to an extent that was somewhat grandiose. My thinking was that somehow the Lord would graduate us to a level of independence where we could operate with great, great power from Heaven without having to wait for the “Spirit upon”, that supernatural Power of the Holy Spirit that comes upon the believer as God determines.

This morning though, I am back down to earth as I read “For it is God which worketh in you both to will and to do of his good pleasure” (Philippians 2:13 KJV).

The key to Spiritual growth is the sanctification that results from dying to self and being resurrected with Christ. “But if the Spirit of him that raised up Jesus from the dead dwell in you, he that raised up Christ from the dead shall also quicken your mortal bodies by his Spirit that dwelleth in you” (Romans 8:11 KJV).

Kingdom Thought, Spiritual Growth

PREACH THE WORD

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“How absurd that many so-called spokesmen of God do not even expect to speak God’s word nor anticipate His revealing Himself while they preach on the Bible. Their whole interest is to display the doctrine they formulate. They are primarily if not entirely interested in their own doctrine, in their own good thoughts. As long as their doctrine or thoughts are released, they feel content. But let us not forget that the word of God is the coming forth of God. If He does not come out, people hear only your words. When He comes forth, men begin to obtain revelation. Without God, whatever is said merely passes from one person to another, from one mouth to another, and from one brain to another” (Watchman Nee, THE MINISTRY OF GOD’S WORD).

Kingdom Business, Kingdom Thought, Praying In Tongues, Revival Forthwith, Revival is At Hand, Spiritual Growth, UTTERANCE

I BEG YOU BROTHERS

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Praying in Tongues Renews Your Mind. “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” (Romans 12:1-2).

“If so be that ye have heard him, and have been taught by him, as the truth is in Jesus: That ye put off concerning the former conversation the old man, which is corrupt according to the deceitful lusts; And be renewed in the spirit of your mind; And that ye put on the new man, which after God is created in righteousness and true holiness” (Ephesians 4:21-24).

For as he thinketh in his heart (or mind), so is he (Proverbs 23:7).

“Let this mind be in you, which was also in Christ Jesus: Who, being in the form of God, thought it not robbery to be equal with God: But made himself of no reputation, and took upon him the form of a servant, and was made in the likeness of men And being found in fashion as a man, he humbled himself, and became obedient unto death, even the death of the cross” (Philippians 2:5-8).

Simply stated, renewing you mind is changing your “Mindset” from the natural disposition of that of the fallen man to that of the Supernaturally, Holy Spirit-taught individual. It could be said that Paul is pleading with believers to yield to the Holy Spirit, turn away from the world and be renewed in the spirit of the mind in the similitude of God.

The spirit of man just like the Spirit of God does not work on its own accord but processes instructions or information that it is charged with from the soul, be it worldly or Godly. Serving up the Word of God to the human spirit produces the “mind which is also in Christ Jesus.” Praying in Tongues (as it is the language of the spirit) additionally aids in the renewal of the mind. “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come” (John 16:13).

Kingdom Business, Praying In Tongues, Revival Forthwith, Revival is At Hand, Spiritual Growth, The End Time Church, UTTERANCE

THE INNER MAN

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The inner man is the spirit of man. It is said that “man is a spirit, he has a soul and he lives in a body.” “That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man;” (Ephesians 3:16).
Man is a tripartite creation. Man is spirit, soul and body. “And the very God of peace sanctify you wholly; and I pray God your whole spirit and soul and body be preserved blameless unto the coming of our Lord Jesus Christ” (1 Thessalonians 5:23). “For the word of God is quick, and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the dividing asunder of soul and spirit, and of the joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart” (Hebrews 4:12). The two above scriptural passages show that spirit and soul are distinct one from the other.

The foundation of our relationship with God, the spirit is called the element (member) of God-consciousness. God dwells in the spirit, self dwells in the soul and senses dwell in the body.

Hierarchically, “the order which God presents to us is unmistakable: “your spirit and soul and body” (1 Thessalonians 5:23). It is not “soul and spirit and body,” nor is it “body and soul and spirit. The spirit is the pre-eminent part (member), hence it is mentioned first; the body is the lowest and therefore is last mentioned; the soul stands between, so is mentioned between” (Nee).

Spirit, Soul and Body are presented in reverse order here since our topic is Speaking in Tongues (UTTERANCE) which is a function of the spirit and the Holy Spirit (so we deal with the spirit last).

1. The body is sometimes referred to as the Outermost Man. It is the sheath of the soul. It is the corporeal aspect of man. It is through the corporal body that man contacts the material world. It is that part of us that gives us world-consciousness.

2. The soul; “And the Lord God formed man of the dust of the ground, and breathed into his nostrils the breath of life; and man became a living soul” (Genesis 2:7).

• The soul of man consists of his mind, will, intellect, emotions and self-consciousness. The soul is sometimes referred to as the outer man. It is the sheath of the spirit. It is the organ of our personality.
• The soul is the meeting-point of spirit and body. The soul makes it possible for the spirit and the body to communicate and to cooperate.
• Man’s prime factor is the soul.
• We are told to present our bodies unto God and to renew our minds. This renewal of the mind comes through our spirit from the Holy Spirit as we read the Bible, hear the Word and Pray. Instructions, guidelines, Light and Revelation are deposited into our spirits whereby we are transformed as our minds (souls) are renewed by the perfect will of God. “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” (Romans 12:1-2).

3. Spirit, Soul and Body; “Of these three elements the spirit is the noblest for it joins with God. The body is the lowest for it contacts with matter. The soul lying between them joins the two together and also takes their character to be its own. The soul makes it possible for the spirit and the body to communicate and to cooperate. The work of the soul is to keep these two in their proper order so that they may not lose their right relationship—namely, that the lowest, the body, may be subjected to the spirit, and that the highest, the spirit, may govern the body through the soul. Man’s prime factor is definitely the soul. It looks to the spirit to give what the latter has received from the Holy Spirit in order that the soul, after it has been perfected, may transmit what it has obtained to the body; then the body too may share in the perfection of the Holy Spirit and so become a spiritual body” (The Spiritual Man).

The three primary attributes of the human spirit are:

• Conscience; the conscience is the discerning organ which distinguishes right and wrong. “And they which heard it, being convicted by their own conscience, went out one by one, beginning at the eldest, even unto the last: and Jesus was left alone, and the woman standing in the midst” (John 8:9).
• Intuition; is the sensing organ of the human spirit. The intuition of the spirit differs from that of the soul and body. Believers must heed the voice of conscience and the teaching of intuition. “And said unto them, Sirs, I perceive that this voyage will be with hurt and much damage, not only of the lading and ship, but also of our lives” (Acts 27:10).
• Communion; worshiping God. “The organs of the soul are incompetent to worship God. God is not apprehended by our thoughts, feelings or intentions, for He can only be known directly in our spirits. Our worship of God and God’s communications with us are directly in the spirit. They take place in “the inner man,” not in the soul or outward man.”
“The grace of the Lord Jesus Christ, and the love of God, and the communion of the Holy Ghost, be with you all. Amen” (2 Corinthians 13:14).
The human spirit is said to be regenerated when one receives salvation. The Holy Spirit resides within this regenerated human spirit. “That he would grant you, according to the riches of his glory, to be strengthened with might by His Spirit in the inner man;” (Ephesians 3:16).

The spirit is subject to many conditions i.e. fervent, contrite, joyful, poor, afflicted, broken, quiet and broken are a few examples. Beyond being aware that we have a spirit, being conscious of our spirit and its condition is essential for spiritual growth. Tempering our spirits (renewing our minds) are can be intentionally accomplished.

The inner man (human spirit) is often referred to in the secular world as the subconscious mind as it is not understood secularly. The supposed functions of the same are those of the inner man.

The spirit of man is akin to the Spirit of God in that he does not speak of himself but that which he hears, he speaks (John 16:13). He conducts that which he (the inner man) discerns to be his instructions from the soul. It is extremely important that what the spirit receives from the mind (soul) is tempered by the Word of God as indicated in Romans chapter 12 verse 2 (renewing the mind). Hearing and reading the word (Faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God; Romans 10:17) are also pertinent to edifying the human spirit.

UTTERANCE flows through our spirit.

Kingdom Business, Praying In Tongues, Revival Forthwith, Spiritual Growth, The End Time Church, UTTERANCE

SPIRITUAL GIFTS

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Spiritual Gifts ride the heels of UTTERANCE (Speaking in Tongues) when it comes to controversial Church Doctrine. Speaking in Tongues and operating in the Spiritual Gifts are Supernatural actions. Just as being Born Again at the time of Salvation is a Miracle, so too are Speaking in Tongues and the Spiritual Gifts.

Chapter 12 of First Corinthians is where Paul presents us information regarding The Spiritual Gifts. Calling these Spiritual Manifestations gifts is a little ambiguous as they can’t for example, be put into a box or one’s pocket and taken home. The Lord maintains control of them as He works together with the believer. The manifestation of Speaking in Tongues and of the Spiritual Gifts is administered by God co-laboring with the believer.

“That if thou shalt confess with thy mouth the Lord Jesus, and shalt believe in thine heart that God hath raised Him from the dead, thou shalt be saved. For with the heart man believeth unto righteousness; and with the mouth confession is made unto salvation” (Romans 10:9-10).

The operation of the Holy Spirit is two-fold. Salvation, referred to as the Baptism of Christ happens first. His dwelling in men is for sanctification. In dwelling in us, the Holy Spirit supplies Christ to us to be our life and to enable us to bear the Fruit of Holiness. Baptism with the Spirit or being filled with the Spirit is a secondary working. Speaking in Tongues as the Spirit gives the UTTERANCE is the initial evidence of being Filled with the Holy Spirit. This is synonymous with having The Spirit Upon. It is the gateway to Supernatural Miracle Prayer and for co-laboring with God in the Spiritual Gifts. His coming upon (being poured out upon) men is for power, for doing miracles and for witnessing.

Speaking in Tongues is frowned upon in most pulpits and a demonstration of the operation of The Spiritual Gifts is not commonly found in local Churches.

There are nine Spiritual Gifts; nine ways in which the Holy Spirit manifests Himself Supernaturally when co-laboring with Believers. The Gifts are placed within three categories. Three of them are classified as Revelation Gifts (they reveal something), Three are the Power Gifts (they do something) and three are the Inspiration Gifts (they say something).

The Word of Wisdom is the 1st of the Revelation Gifts. One should distinguish The Word of Wisdom from natural wisdom. They are two different things and one has nothing to do with the other. The Word of Wisdom is a Supernatural Manifestation of the Holy Spirit. It is a Wisdom that comes down from Heaven. It is a Divine Wisdom. Limited purposes, directives and plans of God are revealed as Words of Wisdom. Old Testament Prophets Uttered Prophetically Words of Wisdom When the Holy Ghost would Come Upon them. God revealed fragments of his plan for mankind and the earth to the likes of Enoch, Noah, Joseph, Moses and Jesus Christ as well as the Minor and Major Prophets. The Word of Wisdom reveals a short-term or long-term plan of God.

“And the Lord God said unto the serpent, because thou hast done this, thou art cursed above all cattle, and above every beast of the field; upon thy belly shalt thou go, and dust shalt thou eat all the days of thy life: And I will put enmity between thee and the woman, and between thy seed and her seed; it shall bruise thy head, and thou shalt bruise his heel. Unto the woman he said, I will greatly multiply thy sorrow and thy conception; in sorrow thou shalt bring forth children; and thy desire shall be to thy husband, and he shall rule over thee” (Genesis 3:13-16). This is an excerpt from an early reprimand by God in the Garden of Eden. This prophetic
UTTERANCE is a word of wisdom.

“Therefore, the Lord himself shall give you a sign; Behold, a virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall call his name Immanuel” (Isaiah 7:14). This prophecy of the coming Savior is an example of The Word of Wisdom.

(2) The Word of Knowledge is the second of the Revelation Gifts. The Word of Knowledge has nothing to do with human knowledge or intellect. It is the Supernatural communication of the Holy Spirit of a fact in existence where there is no natural way for it to be known to the believer. It occurs directly from the Omniscience of God.

In 2nd Kings Chapter 5 we find an example of this gift. The prophet Elisha had the occasion to cure Naaman, an army commander from Syria, of leprosy. Naaman was very grateful and offered Elisha gifts which Elisha refused. Elisha’s servant Gehazi who was standing buy at the time, ran after Naaman to retrieve the gifts privily. He later denied receiving them. The prophet, however, knew by the Word of Knowledge of this evil deed and so the servant was cursed with that leprosy, he and his seed forever.

The (3rd) Revelation Gift is Discerning of Spirits. This operation of the Holy Spirit is to open a window to the invisible world for the believer to look through. Supernaturally and miraculously the believer is availed of transactions of another dimension. A revelation regarding Discerning of Spirits could appear as a vision, a trance or in a dream. The Lord could communicate the presence or devices of a spirit (or spirits) in other ways. Here is one example in 2nd Kings:

“And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, a host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. And Elisha prayed, and said, Lord, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the Lord opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha” (2 Kings 15-17).

Yet another example of the Gift of Discerning of Spirits is found in the book of Acts as thus: “And it came to pass, as we went to prayer, a certain damsel possessed with a spirit of divination met us, which brought her masters much gain by soothsaying: The same followed Paul and us, and cried, saying, these men are the servants of the Most High God, which shew unto us the way of salvation. And this did she many days. But Paul, being grieved, turned and said to the spirit, I command thee in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her. And he came out the same hour” (Acts 16: 16-18). Clearly, Paul discerned the invisible person behind the damsel.

The Gifts of The Word of Knowledge and or Faith are likely present with the gift of The Discerning of Spirits.

The 1st of the Power Gifts of the Spirit is the gift of Faith. The Gift of Faith is to be distinguished from “The Measure of Faith” (Romans 12:3) and Saving Faith of Romans 10:17 (So then faith cometh by hearing, and hearing by the word of God).

The Gift of Faith transcends the Mark 11:22-26 faith to remove mountains. The Gift of Faith is sometimes referred to as Special Faith. Like all the Gifts of the Spirit, the Gift of Faith is a Supernatural Manifestation of the Holy Spirit. It is an operation of the Holy Spirit. It is administered by The Holy Spirit. The believer need only co-labor with God to the extent of being yielded and willing.

The fulfillment of UTTERANCES, of blessing and curses, alterations, creations, destructions, removals, and even the raising of the dead are manifested by this Gift. There is no limitation where the Gift of Faith is present.

The 2nd of the Power Gifts of The Spirit is The Working of Miracles. The Supernatural manifestation of the power of God that intervenes in the ordinary course of nature is the Working of a Miracle. The manifestation of any of the Spiritual gifts is a miracle in a general though not specific sense.

There are many examples of miracles cited in the Bible. In the Old Testament, in the book of Exodus; in Egypt, there was the waters being made into blood, frogs produced, locusts and there was darkness so thick that it could be felt. There was the dividing of the Red Sea by Moses’s rod and water given from the rock at Rephidim. There was the Mana from Heaven. Additionally, in the Old Testament there was Balaam’s ass speaking, the Sun and The Moon standing still, the widow’s son being raised, the iron swimming and many other exciting exhibits of God’s wonders.

Our Lord also work many miracles during his brief sojourn on the earth. He healed the sick, the blind, the deaf and dumb and those many infirmities and diseased conditions. He raised Lazarus from the dead. He cast out devils, stilled storms, fed four thousand folks with two loaves and five fishes. He walked on water.

In the Book of Acts, we see Ananias and Sapphira struck dead for lying to the Holy Spirit. Peter raises Tabitha (Dorcas). Peter is also delivered out of prison by an angel. Paul’s conversion was truly a miracle; as when every time a person is saved. Paul restores Eutychus to life and shakes off a deadly viper from this hand with no ill effect in chapters 20 and 28 respectively. These are a few of the miracles that were documented in the book of Acts.

The 3rd Power Gift is The Gifts of Healings. It is thought by theologians that the fact that both words (Gifts and Healings) are plural indicates diversity in their application. As an example, one minister will have success when praying for deaf people and, yet another is likely to see the cripple walk.

While the healings that are brought about by the Doctors and hospitals are either directly or indirectly blessings from God, they are not the Supernatural Gifts being discussed here.

There were approximately twelve occurrences of individual healings recorded in the old testament. Notable from that list are Hanna receiving healing from barrenness in response to personal prayers and Eli the Priest’s declaration (1 Samuel 1:9-20) and Hezekiah’s 15-year life extension by the prophet Izaiah after Hezekiah prayed to God (2 Kings 20: 1-7).

There were numerous healings at the hand of Jesus Christ recorded in the Gospels.

In the Acts of the Apostles there was the healing by Peter of the lame man at the gate Beautiful (Acts 3: 1-11) and Eneas of a palsy, recorded in chapter 9 as well as other miracles in which he worked. Paul healed a cripple in Lystra (Acts 14: 8-10). “And God wrought special miracles by the hands of Paul: So that from his body were brought unto the sick handkerchiefs or aprons, and the diseases departed from them, and the evil spirits went out of them” (Acts 19: 11-12).

The first of the Gifts of Inspiration is The Gift of Prophecy. Strong’s Concordance describes prophecy as “a discourse emanating from divine inspiration and declaring the purposes of God, whether by reproving and admonishing the wicked, or comforting the afflicted, or revealing things hidden; esp. by foretelling future events.”

“But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort” (1 Corinthians 14: 3) Prophecy is Inspired UTTERANCE and should be distinguished from Revelation. Revelation by The Word or Wisdom may sometimes function together with Prophecy.

Smith Wigglesworth said this: “We see also that he that prophesieth speaketh unto man to edification and exhortation and comfort. How important it is then that we should have this gift in manifestation in the church in order that the saints might be built up and made strong and filled with the comfort of God. But with this as all other gifts we should see that it is operated by the Spirit’s power and brought forth in the unction of the Spirit; so that everyone who shall hear prophecy, as it is brought forth by the Spirit of God, shall know that it is GOD who is bringing forth that which for the edification of those who hear. It is the Spirit of God who takes of the deep things of God and reveals them, and unctionizes the prophet to give forth, that which is a revelation of the the things of God.

Utterance in prophecy has a real lifting power and gives real light on the truth to those who hear. Prophecy is never a mind reflection; it is something far deeper than this. By means of prophecy we receive that which is the mind of the Lord; and as we receive these blessed, fresh utterances through the Spirit of the Lord the whole assembly is lifted into the realm of the spiritual. Our hearts and minds and whole bodies receive a quickening through the Spirit-given word. As the Spirit brings forth prophecy we find there is healing and salvation and power in every line. For this reason, it is one of the gifts that we ought to covet.”

The final two Inspiration Gifts are Divers Kinds of Tongues and the Interpretation of Tongues. Here is an example of what they might look like when manifested in a Church near you:

A minister tells the story about how he was interrupted early during one of his sermons by a young lady who was obviously overpowered by the Holy Ghost. He says that she came up on the platform with him, which he yielded as he recognized that God was present.

He said that she chanted some language that he did not know and made gestures sometimes made by religious priest of another religion. He said that near the back of the Church he observed a young East Indian man, whom he knew, begin to walk down the aisle toward the platform. The young man looked at the girl with intense amazement. It turns out that she had spoken the young man’s language.

She tells him that salvation comes from God: that to save men, Jesus Christ, who was God, became a man; that one man cannot save another; one man has no power to same another from his sins. But Jesus was God and He had power to impart His Spirit to men.

Here, the young lady was obedient to the prompting of the Holy Spirit and spoke with Divers Kinds of Tongues (other Tongues). The Elder in the pulpit was sensitive to the Holy Spirit and yielded to His Manifestation. The young gentleman, while somewhat dumbfounded, was able to give the Interpretation of Tongues. The Protocol for Speaking Tongues in the Church was known and had been well taught in this Church as should be the case in every Church.

The Inspiration Gifts are for Ministry. They are for the Exhortation, Edification and Comfort of the Church.

AWAKENING, Kingdom Business, Praying In Tongues, Revival Forthwith, Spiritual Growth, UTTERANCE

GOD’S WORK

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“And God said, let there be lights in the firmament of the heaven to divide the day from the night; and let them be for signs, and for seasons, and for days, and years: And let them be for lights in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth: and it was so. And God made two great lights; the greater light to rule the day, and the lesser light to rule the night: he made the stars also. And God set them in the firmament of the heaven to give light upon the earth, and to rule over the day and over the night, and to divide the light from the darkness: and God saw that it was good. And the evening and the morning were the fourth day” (Genesis 1: 14-19). 

The above scriptural passage describes the solar system in which the earth that we live on is located and is fundamentally anchored by the sun. Everything else in the system revolves around the sun except the referenced stars. The sun is a star and there are no other stars in our solar system. 

“Our sun is one of at least 100 billion stars in the Milky Way, a spiral galaxy about 100,000 light years across. The Milky Way is part of the Local Group, a neighborhood of about 10 million light years across, consisting of more than 30 galaxies that are gravitationally bound to each other. Scientists calculate that there are at least 100 billion galaxies in the observable universe, each one brimming with stars. On a large scale, they form a bubbly structure, in which vast sheets and filaments of galaxies surround gargantuan voids” (NASA). 

“Edwin Hubble discovered that the Universe is expanding and that at one point in time (14 billion years ago) the Universe was all collected in just one point of space” (NASA). 

God resides in the Highest Heaven which is constantly expanding. Simultaneously He is managing all that He has previously created including our day to day lives. “Is not God in the height of heaven? and behold the height of the stars, how high they are!” (Job 22:12). 

He is working through His Body (The Church) to redeem that which is, “The Earth and the fullness there of” (Psalms 24:1). All unrighteousness and those party to it will be expelled from the surface of the earth. The earth will be made new (restored), and the righteous will reside hereon forever. “And he that sat upon the throne said, Behold, I make all things new” (Revelation 21:5). “But unto the Son he saith, Thy Throne, O God, is for ever and ever: a scepter of righteousness is the scepter of thy kingdom” (Hebrews 1:8). 

“From the Old Testament time to the New, God always is found speaking. He spoke in the Old Testament days by the prophets; He spoke through the Lord Jesus; and He continues to speak through the New Testament church. We learn from the Bible that God has a prime work to perform on earth, which is, to utter His own Word. If the word of God is taken away, then almost nothing is left of God’s work. No Word, no work. When the Word is eliminated, the work is reduced to near zero. We must therefore recognize the place of God’s Word in His work. Once the word is removed the work of God ceases immediately. God operates through His word; He treats His Word as His work. 

This morning I heard a preacher say on the television that the “prayer language” (Tongues) is not for everyone (every believer). The bible does not say that. The Lord does say in Mark Chapter 16 that one of the signs that would follow them that believe is that they would “speak with New Tongues”. God gives the UTTERANCE when we speak in Tongues. 

There were two Ministers having a conversation on the radio yesterday and one of them commented on how he was so excited about a recent event in his life that he would Speak in Tongues if they did that in his church’s denomination. Here is what the Lord told me this morning as I Prayed in Tongues. He said that “Utterance is life to His Body the Church just as blood is to the natural human body.”  

There is no part of the human body that functions properly without blood and the Church (The Body of Christ) does not and will not function properly until UTTERANCE (Speaking in Tongues) becomes accepted doctrine. 

There is one body, and one Spirit, even as ye are called in one hope of your calling; One Lord, one faith, one baptism, One God, and Father of all, who is above all, and through all, and in you all (Ephesians 4:4-6). That there should be no schism in the body; but that the members should have the same care one for another (1 Corinthians 12:25). 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 (Ephesians 4:13). We are to be unified and co-laboring with Him as He works through us. 

UTTERANCE is Outpoured from the Throne of God continuously (Acts 2:33). We are to be a continuation or (conduits of) this same power that is maintaining the earth and expanding the Universe, not to mention the Giver of Salvation. 

We, (The Church) are God’s Mouthpiece on the Earth. UTTERANCE is the means. Obedience is the mandate. 

Kingdom Business, Kingdom Thought, Praying In Tongues, Revival Forthwith, Revival is At Hand, Spiritual Growth, The End Time Church

DIVERS KINDS OF TONGUES

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“To another Divers Kinds of Tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues” is an excerpt from 1 Corinthians chapter 12. The original Greek text did not include the word “divers”. The translators added it. “Kinds of Tongues” is how it read with the distinct connotation of diversity (different nations). Diverse Kinds of Tongues is one of the Spiritual Gifts. It is a ministry gift and is prophecy when coupled with The Interpretation of Tongues.

Tongues the Spiritual Gift (Diverse Kinds of Tongues) is distinguished from Tongues the sign. Tongues the sign is for communing with God and not for presentation in public. Tongues the sign is also for the edifying or building up one’s self spiritually. He that speaketh in an unknown tongue edifieth himself  (1 Corinthians 14:4).  “For he that speaks in an unknown tongue speaks not unto men, but unto God: for no man understands him; howbeit in the spirit he speaks mysteries” (1 Corinthians: 14:2). Speaking in Unknown Tongues is the only manifestation of the Spirit that has the direct aspect of worship; said to be “not unto man, but unto God.”

“To another the working of miracles; to another prophecy; to another discerning of spirits; to another Divers Kinds of Tongues; to another the interpretation of tongues:” (1 Corinthians 12:28).

The tongues that were spoken at Pentecost were Divers Kinds of Tongues. The Pentecost outpouring of Tongues were dual purposed; they also were the initial indications that the Pentecost believers were filled with the Holy Spirit.

We know, too, that they were referred to as Other Tongues as well. A demonstration of believers speaking a language that they didn’t know that was understood by others that were standing by as occasioned in Acts chapter 2. “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.

And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven. Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language. And they were all amazed and marveled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galileans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?”

Divers Kinds of Tongues is a Supernatural Spiritual Gift manifested by God through a yielded believer. He (God) confirms as much by offering the accompanying gift of The Interpretation of Tongues.

Tongues with interpretation is prophecy and is given for the exhortation, edification and comfort of the Church.

Kingdom Thought, Spiritual Growth

The Subconscious Mind

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The concept of The Subconscious Mind is largely if not totally a myth. The term was coined about 160 years ago or so and is thought to be a layer or layers of consciousness underneath the layers of critical-thought functions of the so-called conscious mind.  

Now of course if the concept is a myth, then everything that you have been taught about it needs to be re-thought. While there is, nor can be any documented scientific support for this concept, there is a lot of valid documented historical information related to this subject; though putting a different spin on it and taking it in an entirely different direction.  

I am going to present here an initial outline of what (who) is really at work here and if you follow along, you will be eternally empowered and rewarded. 

Folks such as Napoleon Hill “Think and Grow Rich” Psychologists Gavin De Becker and Pierre Janet as well as Sigmund Freud and Carl Jung also reference the subconscious mind. A contemporary, Brian Tracy teaches extensively on this topic. 

Okay, here is the truth. What is often referred to as The Subconscious Mind is the spirit of man (man is spirit, soul and body) Gen 2:7, 1 Thessalonians 5:23. It (he) is the depository of everything that we have ever been exposed to and is the essence of who we are relative to how this information was voluntarily or involuntarily (degree to which it is “checked at the door”) allowed to influence our spirit; 2 Corinthians 10:5. Memory resides within the spirit and is provided when called up by the brain. The spirit works on its (his) own in an automatic fashion based on what he has been commanded to do either voluntarily or involuntarily. Interestingly voluntary control of the spirit results in involuntary control of the mind (will) by the spirit. 

Our desire should be to be Spirit led in our actions. This would make for a purer and more profitable life. Just as the Spirit of God created (re-created) the world; Gen 1:2-3, it is our spirit who brings things into manifestation for us. Our thoughts and imagination have much weight in this regard. 

I have plenty more to say about this but need to add these three substantial attributes (functions) of the spirit:  

Communion, our direct interaction with God, conscience a built-in mechanism that warns us corrects and reprimands us to do the right thing and intuition the somehow knowing things (because they are revealed by the spirit) such as “don’t go that way”, or “be weary of that person”, or “take your umbrella”. 

As Arnie would say;  

“I’ll be back“.