Another sad fact is that many are not serious about fulfilling the Great Commission. This lack of perseverance robs many of using spiritual gifts; which are illustrated in examples such as Acts 16:17. This reminds us of Acts 13:8-12 with another person who was seeking to attain Paul's miraculous powers by offering him money. This caused him to become blind much as Paul did for a season.
The first example really hits home because many so called Christians aren't even discerning enough to tell when obvious false Gospel messages are creeping in. This woman was telling the truth; and not just any way was proclaimed but she stated through the spirit in her that it was THE way. The error was the spirit was using her (probably because of her own desire for recognition or money) to draw attention to itself; we must remember that the demons know and shudder ( James 2:19). It seems Paul tolerated this behavior for a time; either he wanted to ignore the distraction or wasn't sure it was from the enemy.
Sadly; from my own experiences and having been granted some spiritual discernment the truth is never very popular. I try not to be jaded myself with so many false prophecies and revelations promulgated today lest there be a few that are genuine. It seems more than cooincidence that there are very few words of knowledge that are critical of actions; and if a rebuke is given it is often more of a show of pride than an honest assessment. Nonetheless; so much can be prevented if such responsibilities would be done quickly by elders as well as responsible laypersons before error is allowed to take root; or sins destroy the life of an individual or family. Jesus didn't mince words with Peter and other would be disciples; try that approach in todays seeker friendly church and see how long it is before you are escorted out the door. Truth be told we cannot love our brethren without exhortation and rebuke balancing encouragement
Another sad fact is that many are not serious about fulfilling the Great Commission. This lack of perseverance robs many of using spiritual gifts; which are illustrated in examples such as Acts 16:17. This reminds us of Acts 13:8-12 with another person who was seeking to attain Paul's miraculous powers by offering him money. This caused him to become blind much as Paul did for a season.
The first example really hits home because many so called Christians aren't even discerning enough to tell when obvious false Gospel messages are creeping in. This woman was telling the truth; and not just any way was proclaimed but she stated through the spirit in her that it was THE way. The error was the spirit was using her (probably because of her own desire for recognition or money) to draw attention to itself; we must remember that the demons know and shudder ( James 2:19). It seems Paul tolerated this behavior for a time; either he wanted to ignore the distraction or wasn't sure it was from the enemy.
Sadly; from my own experiences and having been granted some spiritual discernment the truth is never very popular. I try not to be jaded myself with so many false prophecies and revelations promulgated today lest there be a few that are genuine. It seems more than cooincidence that there are very few words of knowledge that are critical of actions; and if a rebuke is given it is often more of a show of pride than an honest assessment. Nonetheless; so much can be prevented if such responsibilities would be done quickly by elders as well as responsible laypersons before error is allowed to take root; or sins destroy the life of an individual or family. Jesus didn't mince words with Peter and other would be disciples; try that approach in todays seeker friendly church and see how long it is before you are escorted out the door. Truth be told we cannot love our brethren without exhortation and rebuke balancing encouragement
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