“Despise not prophesyings.”
(1 Thessalonians 5:20)
I firmly believe that more churches today are quenching the Spirit of God than we would like to acknowledge. Unfortunately, it is rare to find a church that preaches and teaches the whole counsel of God’s word today.
In regards to the church, two events are occurring at the same time today. In several aspects, the Church is growing larger than it has ever been, yet its impact is also decreasing. Whether we quench the Spirit in our own lives and in our churches will depend on how we handle and respond to God’s word.
The Spirit leads preachers and teachers to proclaim the Word of God. The Spirit also guides us in hearing what is preached. We must put everything we hear to the test. Unfortunately, some of the preaching I see on the internet today, along with the affirming comments from those who view it, is truly upsetting. God’s word should test everything that is taught and preached. It is imperative that the teachings emerging from all platforms are consistent with the Bible’s truths. God’s word always serves as the final authority. We also have to put what we hear to the test through the Son of God. We should disregard anything that contradicts Jesus’ claims about His identity and capabilities. The gospel of God is the final standard. Reject any teaching that suggests you can earn God’s favor or that being a decent person is all it takes to gain His acceptance. Never diminish the grace and faith of the gospel.
Do we really know what a “dead church” looks like? A church that no longer feels the presence of the Holy Spirit is considered dead. It’s a church, but the flames have died out. Most of us have probably visited churches that felt chilly from the moment we entered until we left. The absence of a fire to provide “warmth” and “light” is often the cause. Looking back on the churches I have visited of this type (lifeless), I find three things in common with them. There was no manifestation of God’s will, no celebration of God’s worship, and no exaltation of God’s word.
We need to elevate God’s Word both individually and collectively. The word will be immensely exalted in our joint worship as brothers and sisters in Christ as each of us elevates it in our own personal lives.
Prayer: Dear Heavenly Father, we want to be a people who hold high God’s word. Help us to live lives that honor You. May our living testimony always be evidence of God’s written word.
