Paul states in 2 Cor 10:4 that the power we have can cast down strongholds. In the next verse, he elaborates on the nature of these strongholds. The Amplified Bibles says: "[Inasmuch as we] refute arguments and theories and reasonings and every proud and lofty thing that sets itself up against the [true] knowledge of God; and we lead every thought and purpose away captive into the obedience of Christ (the Messiah, the Anointed one)" (2 Cor 10:5 emphasis add). Paul is telling us that strongholds are arguments, reasonings, thoughts and purposes that are contrary to the purpose of God.
This is why many in the modern church do not accept the illumination of the word of God. It goes against thier arguments, theories or reasoning. Comments like: "This is the way we have always done it" or "If it was good enough for my granddaddy, it is good enough for me" or even, "This is they way our denomination does it." Are all indications of strongholds. They are reasoning or arguing why they will not accept the illumination of truth.
In regards to church leadership and strongholds: How many times do we attempt to place new illumination of the word, into our standard form or procedures of doing church? We need to be willing to allow the Spirit to discern our thoughts that it can show us what is truly the the word of God in our structure/procedures and what is man-made that can be changed if necessary.
till next time
martin
martin
Posts
1 comment:
Martin,
These are very good observations.
You stated, "In regards to church leadership and strongholds: How many times do we attempt to place new illumination of the word, into our standard form or procedures of doing church?" This is indeed what the Lord Jesus was referring to when He mentioned putting new wine into old wineskins. They will burst every time. I believe therefore, many who are receiving divine illumination by the Word regarding God's ways and His structure are deciding not to act.
Perhaps in the past they have tried to implement something that came through divine illumination yet it failed because of their current structure. The old wineskin couldn't hold the new wine. They then conclude it really wasn't of God and abandon the "new wine" and embrace the "old wineskin" or old form of doing things.
It is my opinion, we must totally abandon man's ways and embrace God's ways and structure even if we are labeled a radical. Many may say, "He's gone off the deep end." However, I'm not here to please man but God!
I've taken a look at the courage of Gideon (even if his acts were done under the cover of darkness :)). He was willing to destroy the gods of his father and fore-fathers in order to obey the One and True Living God. What do we have to fear? I say we only have to fear the Lord who is our only Judge!
God bless your efforts. I sincerely appreciate what you are doing.
Keith Wood
Post a Comment