spiritual gifts commentary (based on 1 corinthians 14)

Commentary

Commentary

On

1 Corinthians 14

Let us not get to

Pentecostal now!

Fire of God, Come consume our sacrifice of praise!

Fire of the Lord, Come burn away the chaff, in our lives!

By

Jeramiah Giehl

Introduction

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Commentary

Let The Fire Fall

Chapter 1

Chase After Love

Chapter 2

Seek Spiritual Giftedness

Chapter 3

What is Prophecy?

Chapter 4

Tongues Vs. Prophecy

Chapter 5

The Value of having a Prayer Language

Chapter 6

Diverse Tongues

Chapter 7

Prophetic Order

Chapter 8

Should Women Lead?

Conclusion

All Things In Order

Appendix I


Commentary

The Cessation of Cessation Theology

Appendix II

Concerning Manifestations


Introduction

Introduction

Let the Fire Fall

First Corinthians is the first official canonically accepted epistle written by Paul the Apostle to the Corinthian church, which he wrote from Ephesus during his first missionary journey. Paul is dealing with some rather important Christian and cultural issues that we are and must address in today’s church. This letter was written to the Corinthian church specifically dealing with cultural issues and separation of the church from the world, abstaining from all appearances of evil. In this paper, we are dealing especially with some important issues that pertained to worship in the Corinthian church and pertain to the church as a whole (1:2; 4:17; 14:33). Here we see a precedent for all the churches that call on the name of The Lord Jesus Christ to worship God with speaking in other tongues and the prophetic. This is a viable constant in the New Testament Church expected for all churches to experience and seek God for in church services, Home Cell Groups, in private, during the preaching, and public worship. (Mark 16:15-20; Luke 24:49; Act 1:8; 2:4; 4:30,31; 10:44-46,48; 13:1; 19:6; 20:28; Rom 12:4-8; 1 Cor 12:7-11; 28; 14; Eph 4:11; 1 Thes 5:17-21; I Tim 4:14; 2 Tim 1:6). The main goal is the exaltation of Jesus, the proclamation of the gospel to the salvation of the lost, with signs and wonders following to draw the unbelieving to believe by the demonstration of the power of Jesus. (Matt 24:14; 28:18-20; 4:18-25; 9:35-10:1,8,14-16,19-20; 18:18; Mark 3:14-15,27; 6:7,13; 13:32; Luke 9:1,2,6,11,49-50,62; 10:1-3,5-7,9-11,17-20; Acts 4:30-33; 8:14-18, 26-39; 9:36,40-42; 10:9-16,44-48; 12:25-13:4,6-12; 17:16; 18:5; 19:10-11; 20:28; 21:18; 22:17-21; Rom 12:2-8; 1 Cor 12:28, 7-11; 12-14; 2 Cor 10:4; Gal 1:17; 3:3; Eph 1:7-23; 4:11; Phil 4:13; Col 3:10; 1 Thes 5:17-23; 1 Tim 4:14; 2 Tim 1:6; Tit 3:5; James 5:13-16; 1 Pet 1:5). This is meant to be a means of exhorting, building up, training, uniting, equipping, and sending. He ends this section saying let all things be done decently and in order. Note….. This is Gods order not mans Gods order is freedom in the spirit to worship God and follow His leading. In God’s order while Peter was still preaching the people, he was ministering to started to speak in tongues, and magnify God Acts 10:44-48. This disruptive occurrence lead to the baptism of the first heathen gentiles. In Gods order, A crippled man got up, running, leaping and praising God Act 3:1-11. In God’s order, Peters shadow healed the sick; Paul’s sweat rags healed the sick, in the middle of an offering two sinners die, in the middle of an a young boy falls to the ground and dyes, to be raised again, prophets acted out events, Daniel shook, feel, and trembled, and King Saul Prophesied and was changed in the presence of a holy God Acts 14:15,16; 19:11; 21:11, Dan 10; 1 Sam 10. The most important thing is not manifestation but the proclamation of the king, and seeing lives changed. 1 Sam 10:5,6,9,13, The most important thing that happened to Saul was he was changed. Look at the fruit not the outward working. In Gods order at the dedication of the temple, the priests were not able to stand to minister 1 Kings 8:10-13; 2 Chron 5:11-14. Notice in all this that the main point being God’s order is not mans order. God’s ways are higher than are ways. Who can understand His comings in and goings out? Were you there when He created with the world? Learn to discern God’s order and plan not our preconceived, ideas, pet doctrines, or notions.

Let me start this section with a scholarly call to take scripture "Sola Scriptura" and not explain it away to suite our pet doctrines. Scripture is implicit lets, start studying, exhorting, rebuking and upholding all doctrine contextually, exegetically, hermeneutically, culturally, literally, and in light of scriptural revelation. All my love goes out to all whom may read this whether you agree with me or not I love you and accept you as a brother in The Lord. This is not a message of condemnation but of exhortation. I hope to write this in an exhorting was to encourage you, exhort you

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Introduction

and teach you to release you to seek God for more. Scripture is Gods’ fully inspired, inerrant in its original authors. God’s word is immutable, applicable for today, our infallible rule for life, faith, practice, doctrine, settlement of disputes, and source of Gods life giving power. Gods’ inspired word to man, when rightly divided by The Spirit of Truth. It is time to live the whole gospel if we truly believe God’s word we should live it. Allow Jesus take the reigns of the church to reach the lost through His multi-faceted body to the ends and through the means, He prescribes. We have fallen short and must find a solution in love bringing unity. We must return to biblical faith basing all faith and practice upon the word of God and the word of God alone. If we really believe it to be the infallible word for all faith practice, if we really believe this we must live it. Too many lost people see us not living it and want nothing to do with us because they know we are hypocrites. We must return to biblical faith and practice being lead by and utterly depending upon the Holy Spirit, because the original manuscripts are fully inspired of God for teaching, reproving and setting things straight. So that we as the church may reach out into the whole world to preach the whole counsel of God to heal the whole person to o reach out and influence the globe for Jesus. Let us come together in unity looking for solution not picking about the problems. Picking will not solve it let us do something constructive as The Body that we are.

So far in the first thirteen chapters of first Corinthians Paul has dealt with issues such as sin (vs.5; 6:9,10:12-20; 8; 10:14-22), women in ministry (11:1-16; 14:34-35), the optimum of unity/love (12:12-31; 3:1-4; 6:1-11; 13), wisdom (2:6-16; 3:18-23), homosexuality (6:9), Marriage (7), the gifts in the church (1:4-9; 12:1-11), Christian stewardship (4:1-5; 3:5-17), abandonment of self (9:1-18), striving for a crown, setting goals (9:24-10:13), the centrality of the cross (1:18-2:5; 10:23-11:1), and proper behavior around the communion table (11:17-34). Chapter fourteen Paul is dealing with the propriety of tongues, interpretations, prophecy, and women in worship. Paul has already had to deal with some serious issues of sin and avoiding the appearances of evil, because of the worship of Dionysis, the many other false religions, the 1,000 temple prostitutes, etc… Paul was making a spiritual whip of cords and clearing out the house of God to make it a proper house of prayer and worship of God again.

Many consider first Corinthians fourteen to imply the superiority of prophecy to tongues, when in fact Paul himself states that he will do both in church vs. 15. He also says that he speaks in unknown tongues more than all of them do. Paul also admonishes them to do all things decent and in order, Gods order not mans vs. 40. Jesus is the author and finisher of our faith Hebrews 12:2. In 1 Cor 12:1 Paul says, "Now concerning spiritual gifts my brethren, I do not want you to be ignorant...vs. 3 says, "No one can say Jesus is Lord except by The Spirit of God." Paul is here establishing how we are to test the manifestations of the Spirit of God. As 1 Cor 12:4-11 shows us there are a diversity of manifestations of and reactions, to the Spirit of God. Manifestations and reactions to Gods’ spirit should therefore be judge by whether it exalts Jesus. Is Jesus lifted up? (12:3; 1 John 3-5; Mark 9:38-41). Does it bear Jesus’ fruit? Does it produce godly character? Does it produce a greater hunger for God? Does it bring a deeper spiritual depth? Is there a practical biblical and experiential change in the heart when the manifest presence of God comes upon the person? Are they being changed in the presence of a holy God? (Gal 5:22; 1 Cor 13; John 15:11-13) Does it line up with Jesus Words? (1 Tim 3:16; 2 Pet 1:19-21; John 15:11,12; 14:15). Is it causing people to love God more? Does it cause them to love their fellow brothers and the lost more? (Mark 12:29-31; John 14:15; 15:9-17). You must also test the spirits, and the fruit (1 John 3-5; Matt 7:15-20; 1 Cor 12:10). Manifestations do not prove a work of God or deny it. Daniel shook in the presence of an angel, and demons shook people when Jesus cast them out Daniel 10:10-19; Mark 9:20:26. This is were we must learn to discern which is of God and which is not. Pray, read the bible, test the spirits, and then do something beneficial for the advancement of the kingdom of God. Don’t do things to advancement of the kingdom of self, pride, greed, lust, perversion or self


Introduction

exaltation but rather do things for the advancement of the kingdom of Jesus.


Chapter 1

Chapter 1

Chase After Love

● 14:1 Chase after Love, and eagerly seek spiritual gifts, but especially that you might prophesy.

In verse one, here Paul is admonishing the Corinthian church to Pursue love. The word used here for love is Agape Strong’s # 26, God’s love for us John 15:13, Also agapao John 3:16. The word pursue; Strong’s #1377 used here means to chase after, to press toward, to follow with purposeful intent, to suffer. Paul in this first verse starts out saying the most important thing is to chase down, to suffer for and get a hold of Gods love Gal 5:22; 1 Cor 13; John 15:13, Matt 5:38-6:4; 7:1-6. The main ingredient of the spirit of God which you must have before you experience or operate in spiritual gifts is love 1 Cor 13; Gal 5:22; Rom 12:9; 1 John 3:15,16. Next Paul admonishes the Corinthians to seek spirituals (gifts). (Strong’s #2206, Seek: To covet, to envy, to be jealous after, to have warmth of feeling for, to be zealous after, to be diligent after, To go after, To search for, to be hungry for) He is not saying that only some get certain gifts and others do not. Some distort 1 Corinthians 12:29; saying that not all will experience spiritual gifts going against Jesus own teaching that all "Who believe… will speak with new tongues" Mark 16:18. If you are a believer, you are to speak in tongues. Jesus said "If you believe you will speak in new tongues (languages you do not know of by either men or angels)." Paul said this about receiving the gift of the spirit "Repent, and let everyone of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of your sins: and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Ghost. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as The LORD our GOD should call" Acts 2:38-39. Are you called, are you saved the promise is for you. All you have to do is receive it. Paul admonishes us if we think we are spiritual in vs. 39 "not to forbid speaking in tongues." Something too many ministers who believe in the cessation of charismata do in their practice.

We are exhorted by the Apostle Paul, "not to quench The Spirits fire! Do not to despise prophecy! Test all things; hold fast to that which is true," 1 Thes 5:19-21.

According to the New Testament "prophecy" is a gift to all members of the church who want it however the office of a "prophet" is only to those God has called and ordained. All are to earnestly seek and expect God to give them the gift of prophecy and use them in the advancement of His kingdom through the prophetic word. Prophecy was a major part of New Testament life and was relied on for directional guidance of the church and for specific ministries. A prophetic word or the gift of prophecy is for special occasions however the office of a prophet is a constant revelatory enabling of the spirit of God for direction, guidance, insight and forth telling. The office of prophet and the gift of prophecy only come from an intimacy with God you can not be a true prophet without listening and talking to God personally otherwise you are a false prophet and part of the end-time deception. If you do not hear God you are not a prophet.

In the New Testament when a prophetic word was given to a body of believers and it was of the Lord they would say the Holy Spirit said or sent thus and so, Acts 13:1-3. Phillip received a prophetic word for the Ethiopian, Acts 8:30. Peter received a word for Cornelius, Acts 10:20. Prophets traveled Agabus gave a word to the church predicting a famine, Acts 10:27. Agabus also warned of Paul’s arrest, Acts 21:10. Even women were allowed to

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prophesy, Acts 20:9. Prophetic words gave guidance, direction, and revealed callings and ministries, Acts 13:1-3; 1 Tim 1:18; 4:14; 2 Tim 1:6. Paul put a high value on the impartation of spiritual gifts through prophetic presbytery for releasing a persons ministry gifts and calling threw the prayers and laying on of hands with anointing oil, Acts 6:6; 13:1-3; Rom 12:6; 1 Cor 12:8,10,28,29; 14:1,39; 1 Tim 1:18; 4:4:14; 2 Tim 1:6. This is also known as transference of anointing. 1 John tells us to test the spirits to see which is of God. The bible also tells to "suffer not that one teach another Christ" or another gospel. We are also warned not to allow ourselves to receive any other spirit except Holy Spirit.

Prophecy is intended for the edification, exhort, build up, encourage, and commission the church and advance the kingdom of God through direct revelation from God of His purposes and intents, 1 Cor 14:22. Prophetic words given to the whole church must build up the church and draw the lost in, 1 Cor 14:26, 24. We are exhorted not to stop prophecy or tongues but rather we are given guidelines to pastor/shepherd them for the advancement of the kingdom and salvation of the lost, 1 Thes 5: 17-22; 1 Cor 14:12,22,24,26,29,31,39,40. We prophesy only in part, 1 Cor 13:9. How do we test prophecy? Number one by the word of God, 2 Tim 3:15-17; 2 Pet 1:19-21. Test the spirits 1 John 3-5; 1 Cor 13:3. Does it bear witness with your spirit, John 10:2-5. Does it bear good fruit, Luke 6:43-45. Expectancy/faith is the breading ground to receive such a promise. Without faith it is impossible to please God.


Chapter 2

Chapter 2

Seek Spiritual Giftedness

Paul commands us to seek spiritual gifts but what spiritual gifts are we to seek after? Paul lists twelve gifts in, (1 Cor 12:7-12), five in (Eph 4:11), and a few more in, (Rom 12:6-8). As I read scripture, I am convinced there are many more gifts than Paul acknowledges in these few passage. Here is a list of some of the gifts of the spirit that I found in my study of scripture. We are encouraged to earnestly seek after such gifts and it helps us to know what they are. The Spiritual gifts and offices that I am choosing to listing are generally categorized in the following scripture passages, (Rom 12:6-8; 1 Cor 12:7-18,28,29,30; 14:5,6,15,26; Eph 4:11; 1 Tim 3:1-13; 5:16-20; Tit 1:5-16; 2 Pet 4:9,10; 5:1-4).

● Bishop/Overseer - An elder who is over a specific city or region gives oversight shepherds the pastors. A bishop is not in control but exerts leadership through relationship and accountability in servant style leadership by example, he has can give input, correction and guidance, however the shepherd determines how his church is run not the bishop (1 Cor 11:13,16), each church is autonomous, the ministers are accountable to God, the bible, and then a bishop in doctrine and practice. The Bishop can not intervene in any situation without consent from the pastor however advice is a requirement, unless the shepherd, presbyter or any other minister is abusing members of the church and is involved in clearly biblical heresy, not in heresy according to your theology. In all decisions the Bishop or any other leader must pray and hear Gods voice before they make a decision. A Bishop must be a spiritual person who has their family in order, a servant who leads by example, and is in full time ministry. An Archbishop is similar to a superintendent. An Archbishop is a bishop of the bishops. His only function is the same as the Bishop to the local churches to keep them networked and accountable. He is without the ability to impose his will on another bishops, shepherd, presbyter, clergy person, etc... He is equal to all as a servant to the other bishops to keep them accountable. An Archbishop is not anything more that another minister watching over those in charge of the church. 1 Tim 3:1-7; Tit 1:5-16, 1 Pet 5:1-4.

● Shepherd/Pastor - Is one who guides, leads, directs, disciples, trains, equips, sends and protects. A shepherd preaches and he is the head over the plurality of Elders and an autonomous NT church. The ministers however are accountable to those over them in their district, their local city pastors, their presbyters, and the Body of Christ. Shepherds must be a spiritual person who has there family in order, and is in full time ministry, 1 Tim 4:14; 1 Pet 5:2.

● Elders - has nothing to do with age in physical years but in spiritual maturity. The disciples were called Elders and they were only 30-40 years old. The Presbytery of each autonomous local church is a plurality of Eldership which may serve in function as a board having a secretary, a treasurer, and a president so that the church can meet the government standards. Their sole function is to hear from God and obey along with the rest of the church. However in actual function the church will not act as an advisory board except in that they will keep the pastor accountable, inform him of what God has showed them, and to make any decisions without hearing from God first and foremost and all goals will be solely to accomplish our God given task; the equipping of the church and the evangelization of every lost person on the earth. There is a plurality of leadership however the shepherd. The church is a community and must operate as such not as a


Chapter 2

monarchy. An elder can be a overseer, shepherd, presbyter, missionary, a clergy person, or a traveling clergy person, an elder must be a spiritual person who has there family in order, a servant who leads by example, and is in full time ministry, Gods call is irrevocable therefore voting is not a valid means of determining ones position or call only God confirming the call in there heart and the fellow members hearts. Acts 14:26; 15:2,4,6,12,13,22; 20:17,28; 21:8; 1 Pet 5:1-4; 1 Tim 4:14; 5:16-20; 2 Tim 4:5; Tit 1:5-16; Eph 4:11; 2 John 1:1; 3 John 1:1.

● Deacons - Ministry of helps, table waiter, must be a spiritual person who has there family in order, and is in full time ministry, Acts 6:1-7; 1 Tim 3:8-13.

● Apostle – Can be a church planter, minister to ministers, a person who corrects false doctrine, is part of the church founding team, and may help cast vision. Gods call is without repentance so we have no authority to tell a man whether he can be called a prophet however the bible tells us that by our fruit we will know all me. We must test all ministries according to there fruit and test to see if they be in the faith. An apostle can be a overseer, shepherd, presbyter, elder, missionary, a clergy person, or a traveling minister, must be a spiritual person who has there family in order, a servant who leads by example, and is in full time ministry, Matt 10:2; Luke 11:49; Acts 1:13,26; 11:1; 14:14; 15:2,4,6,12,13,22; Rom 16:7; 1 Cor 12:28; 15:5-9; 2 Cor 12:12; Eph 2:20; 3:5; 4:11; Heb 3:1; 1 Pet 5:1-4, Rev 18:20.

● Prophet - Is one who speaks forth the word of God, one who listens to God, gives prophetic direction, and is vital in planting and establishing churches. A Prophet can be a overseer, shepherd, presbyter, elder, missionary, a clergy man, or a traveling minister, must be a spiritual person who has there family in order, a servant who leads by example, and is in full time ministry, Luke 11:49; Acts 15:32; 21:8-11; Eph 2:20; 3:5; 4:13; Rom 12:8; 1 Cor 11:5; 12:10,28; Joel 2:28; Rev 18:20.

● Preacher - A preacher is one who preaches the word of God with authority, knowledge, wisdom, and the power of the Holy Ghost. A preacher can be a overseer, shepherd, presbyter, elder, missionary, a clergy person, or a traveling minister, must be a spiritual person who has there family in order, a servant who leads by example, and is in full time ministry, Eph 4:11.

● Evangelist - a preacher aimed at reviving the church and saving the lost, and/or a preacher involved with street and house to house evangelism or one who is involved with networking churches to evangelize. An evangelist can be a overseer, shepherd, elder, missionary, or a traveling minister, must be a spiritual person who has there family in order, a servant who leads by example, and is in full time ministry, Eph 4:13.

● Teacher - Is one gifted in teaching the scripture, can be a overseer, shepherd, presbyter, elder, missionary, a clergy person, or a traveling minister, must be a spiritual person who has there family in order, a servant who leads by example, and is in full time ministry, Eph 4:11; Acts 6:2-7.

● Worship leader/Musician - Is one who leads us into the presence of God through heart felt, spirit lead worship. A worship leader can be a overseer, shepherd, presbyter, elder, missionary, a clergy person, or a traveling minister, must be a spiritual person who has there family in order, a servant who leads by example, and is in full time ministry, 1 Cor 14:26; Eph 5:19; Mark 12:36; 1 Sam 10:5-13; Psa 149.

● Missionary - Must be a spiritual person who has there family in order, a servant who leads by example, and is in full time ministry, 1 Cor 9:19-23.

● Leadership - Can be a overseer, shepherd, presbyter, elder, missionary, a clergy person, or a traveling minister, must be a spiritual person who has there family in order, a servant who leads by example, and is in full time ministry, Hebrews 13:7; Judges 3:10; Ex 18:13-16.

● Administration - Can be a overseer, shepherd, presbyter in a local church, a missionary, a clergy person, or a traveling minister, must be a spiritual person who has there family in order, a servant who leads by


Chapter 2

example, and is in full time ministry, Acts 12:12-21. ● Discernment Ministry - Must talk to God regularly, must live holy and in the spirit, must be a spiritual person

who has there family in order, a servant who leads by example, and is in full time lay or clerical ministry position, Acts 5:3-6; 16:16-18.

● Exhortation - One who exhorts or lifts up through be the outstretched hand of Christ to a needy person, Rom 12:8.

● Wisdom - is the supernatural know how in any given situation, James 3:13-17; 1:5; Pro 1. ● Serving - Is a divine grace of God in a person to minister to another persons needs Rom 12:7. ● Helps - Is the ministry of ministering to those who need assistance, Acts 6:2-4. ● Giving - Is a grace or a supernatural enablement to give of your time, money, and/or resources to provide

for the needy, Rom 12:8; 2 Cor 8:1-5; 9:11-13. ● Mercy - Is a grace of burden bearing, Rom 12:8 Luke 10:30-37. ● Hospitality - Is a grace to be hospitable to those who are inhospitable, 1 Pet 4:10,11; Gen 18:1-15. ● Craftsmanship - Is a grace to be able to make things with the resources God has given you that you

normally would not be able to do, Ex 28:3,4. ● Healing - Is a grace to apply the healing balm of Jesus blood to a physical, mental or spiritual injury, Mark

16:15-20; 1 Cor 12:9; Luke 9:1-2; James 15:13-16. ● Martyrdom - Is a supernatural grace to die for Jesus, 1 Pet 4:12,13; Acts 7:59,60: 2 Tim 4:6-8. ● Celibacy - Is a grace to never marry or have intimate relations with any women, Matt 19:10; 1 Cor 7:7-9,27;

1 Tim 4:3; Rev 14:4. ● Revelation - Is Gods prophetic enablement allowing you to see things that you normally would not see, 1

Cor 14:6,26,30; Rev 1:1; Ezek 8:1-4. ● Discerning of spirits - Is grace of Gods spirit enabling you to see into the spiritual realm or to sense the

spiritual world and what is of God, the flesh or the devil, it is or can be apart of the gift of discernment. 1 Cor 12:10.

● Love - Is Gods grace to love anyone like Jesus does no matter what there circumstance or what they have done to you, Rom 12:9; 1 Cor 13; Gal 5:22.

● Words of wisdom - Are supernaturally given words spoken into someone’s life bringing Gods wisdom and solutions into a situation, 1 Cor 12:8.

● Words of knowledge - Is Gods supernatural gifting given to bring a word of knowledge concerning a specified situation, 1 Cor 12:8.

● Faith - Is Gods supernatural enablement to conquer the enemy through faith pulling on the miraculous power of God inviting a mighty power encounter with the supernatural, 1 Cor 12:9.

● Working of Miracles - Is a God given grace to work miraculous powers bringing the tangible touch of God into any given situation bringing the salvation and conviction of sinners, 1 Cor 12:10.

● Tongues - Are Gods supernatural enablement to speak in unknown languages, 1 Cor 12:10, 28-31; 13:1-3; 14:2, 4-22,26-32,39; Acts 2:1-17; Mark 16:17; Is 28:11.

● Interpretations of tongues - Are Gods grace to interpret those languages, 1 Cor 12:10; 14:26. ● Visions - Are Gods grace enabling you to see into the supernatural, Joel 2:28; Acts 2:17. ● Dreams - Are a grace from God to bring purpose to a situation, Joel 2:28; Acts 2:17; Gen 37:5-9. ● Interpretations of dreams - The God given ability to interpret God given dreams, Gen 40:8; 41:15,16,28,38. ● Prophetic mime - Is Gods supernatural enablement to prophetically act out an actual word of direction, Acts

21:10; Ezek 4:4-7; Amos 3:8; Micah 1:8; Isa 40:31.


Chapter 2

There are more gifts than I have noted here; in the word of God, that are not limited to the word of God. All gifts and offices must line up with word of God and the commission of the church. Paul wants us to first chase down love, and then seek after all the gifts of the spirit, especially the prophetic gifts 12:31; 14:38,39. Paul wants us to seek to prophesy more than we operate in any other gift. Let us look at what the prophetic gift is.


Chapter 3

Chapter 3

What is Prophecy?

What is Prophesy? Paul exhorts us to seek spiritual gift however in all you seeking gifts seek prophecy above all the other gifts. So, let us take a deeper looker into how the bible describes Prophecy. To do this we must look at the different biblical words used to describe prophecy. One of the main words used in the Old Testament is "naba' which means "to prophesy." This word appears in all periods of the Hebrew language. It could be related to the ancient Akkadian word nabu, which in its passive form means "to be called," which I find interesting. If you look at the word apostle in the New Testament is means "called, or chosen." The first time this word is used is in 1 Sam. 10:6. This passage is were God puts a special anointing upon King Saul were numbered among the prophets practicing Prophetic Warfare Worship. Samuel told King Saul that when he meets a certain band of prophets, that he will "prophesy with them, and be turned into another person." It is interesting to note that Saul did not give a prophetic word rather he sung songs with a worship band. They had instruments and they were singing maybe they were singing prophetic songs but none the less they were singing. Many who are anti-charismatic or anti-Pentecostal say that this and all other passages that refer to prophesy is an ecstatic experience in which they had no control. However this can not be the case for God has given man a free will and you have a choice to obey or disobey. As in the case of Jonah who fled from the call of God. I must note however that there were some ecstatic encounters with the power of God were a person who submitted themselves to God no longer had no control over His bodily actions. If you take a look Daniel Chapter 10 were you will see that Daniel had a personal encounter with and angel could not stop himself from shaking even when the angel told him to stop shaking. This uncontrollable shaking was a manifestation of the supernatural presence of God coming in contact with the natural man. It is imperative that when natural finite man comes in contact with the divine that there be a physical reaction to the power and majesty of God. It is not a judge of ones spirituality rather it is simply a reaction to the presence of God. Not everybody responds to God in the same manner. Some people experience outward signs of God presence. However everybody that encounters God will have an inner change if they truly experience Gods power. If there is not lasting fruit the experience must be thrown out. God is a personal God your encounter with God will not be the same as mine. However most times God showed up the person was in control and it was not an ecstatic experience. It is your choice and The Holy Spirit is a gentleman in most cases except in the few cases that He has sovereignly overridden peoples senses and done a sovereign work in their lives. Let us look at 1 Sam 19:20-24. Here we see Saul sending some messengers to get David from Samuel and the power of God hit the messengers and they started prophesy. Saul sent two more groups and the same thing happened each time and then Saul went and ended up on the ground naked prophesying. He wanted David’s life I do not think that his actions were to voluntary. There is a certain amount of ambiguity in the bible in the use of the words "to prophesy" and "prophet." Thus, there is a wide range of meanings reflected in the term in the Old Testament and in the New Testament. Saul and King David were not prophets but they prophesied. Also in the New Testament there is the gift of prophecy which is for all and the office of Prophet which is a leadership position ordained by God. See (1 Cor 12:6-9; 14:1; Eph 4:1).

The word ‘Naba' is used to describe the function of a "true prophet of God" as he speaks God's message to the people, under the influence and guidance of the Holy Spirit (1 Kings 22:8; Jer 29:27; Ezek 37:10; Amos 3:7,8).


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In the Old Testament prophesying is a supernatural ability that the prophet could not avoid when God came upon Him because that was that persons calling. The Old Testament Prophet was given a choice and if they choose to follow God the enabling of the spirit of God would take control. Jeremiah the prophet said He was drawn and forced to prophesy. He said it was like a fire shut up in his bones. There is a supernatural enabling that makes prophesying attractive it draws you to it. It is powerful, motivation and contagious. "The Lord God has spoken, who can but prophesy?" Amos 2:8.

Hundreds of times in the Old Testament the bible says "The word of the Lord came" to a particular prophet or person with a prophetic word without any real indication as to the manner in which it came. This is an essential point. One cannot know, and therefore must avoid presumption of how prophetic words were delivered and how they will be delivered. There is no indication most times whether it came through the thought-processes, an audible voice, through a vision, ecstatically, through prayer, a dream or in some other way that we can not comprehend, relate to or understand. Some believe that, especially in the earlier prophets, it was an ecstatic subjective experience i.e. (1 Sam. 10:6,11; 19:20). Music is sometimes spoken of as a means of prophesying, 1 Chron 25:1-3… Today this is commonly called Prophetic Worship in many Charismatic circles, (Exo 15:20-21; 1 Chron 25:1-3; 2 Chron 20:14-22; 2 Kings 3:15; 1 Sam 10:5-6; 18:6; 21:11; Hab 2:12; Psa 22:22; 149:6-9; Zeph 3:17; Rom 8:27; Eph 5:19; 6:12; Col 3:16; 2 Cor 10:4-6; Heb 2:12; Rev 19:10).

As there are true prophets of God there are also false prophets. The bible says in the end time there will be many false prophets. False prophets are prophets, who are not empowered by the Holy Spirit. They speak either according to mans will or by demonic inspiration. Anyone can prophesy of there own knowledge, their flesh, to fill a felt need, to feel important. While other false prophets are more dangerous and may be speaking through a demonic spirit. Having the ability to prophesy does not make one a man or women of God however there character, prayer life, personal habits, commitment level and level of holiness do determine where their walk with God is. The bible tells us to test the fruit to see if it be of God or not. The bible says "I have not spoken to them, yet they prophesied. prophesy against the prophets of Israel that prophesy, and say thou unto them that prophesy out of their own hearts, Hear the word of the Lord. Woe unto the foolish prophets, that follow there own spirit, and have seen nothing!" (1 Kings 22:10). In biblical context "to prophesy" can refer to anything from the frenzied ecstatic prophecy of King Saul, to the fiery proclamation of God's judgment from the Prophet Jeremiah. Jeremiahs Crying out of judgment in the street was not "cold and sober" rather is was gut wrenching and powerful. Jeremiah the prophet did his prophesying with weeping and agony of soul in much tribulation and torment. Jeremiah said he had fire shut up in his bones, that he was like a drunken man and all of his bones shook because of the word of the Lord this is hardly a soft of somber moment. It appears to be rather hot and startling, (Jer 23:9; 5:22; 20:9). The Office of "Prophet" is not always one to look up to. The prophets of old were looked down upon with much contempt and most of them ended up being killed. Similar to what happened to Jesus and the New Testament church.

Prophesying is much more than just predicting the future events of judgment and redemption. The first concern of any prophet is to hear God, to speak God’s word to the people of his time, according to Gods timing and purpose, calling them to repentance and a covenant of faithfulness. Prophetic declaration maybe dependant upon the previous and prior response as lead by the spirit of God to proclaim in some times in other cases God simply wants to give a fresh Rhema word of direction. Prophecy maybe conditional, sometimes it is dependant upon the response of the people. Some times it is a cold sober declaration of judgment or redemption without any chance of possibilities of change. People choices in most cases determine what their future holds, as is well illustrated by the


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response of the Ninevites to Jonah’s preaching. (Nah 2:13; Isa 9:1-6; 11:1-9; 52:13-53:12).

1 Chron 29:29 three words are used for prophet: "Now the acts of David the king, first and last, behold they are written in the Book of Samuel the Seer [ro’eh] and in the Book of Nathan the Prophet [nabi’], and in the book of Gad the Seer [hozeh]." The Hebrew word that translates "seer" illustrates the need for the prophet to communicate directly with God. In the New Testament he is to be one who speaks as though he has the very Oracles, the words of God directly from His mouth. This direct communication with God does not make the prophet or prophets anything different from you or I, but it does put a burden upon them to keep and maintain a deep and pure relationship before God, (1 Sam 9:9; James 5:17). The first occurrence of nabi shows the intimacy and authority one has from obedience and closeness to God. "Now therefore restore the man (Abraham) his wife; for he is a prophet, and he shall pray for thee, and you shall live." Old Testament Prophets were held accountable for the prophetic revelation that God gave them and their was a high price on disobedience, (Duet 18:19). Their relationship with God was based upon their obedience and reverence for God. They could not be considered Prophets of God if they lived there lives as they wish. If the prophetic proved to be wrong, he was to be killed (Duet 18:20) even though this did not always happen.

As Aaron speaks for Moses, a Prophet speaks for God as an intercessor, Gods mouth piece; "And the Lord said to Moses, see I have made thee a god to Pharaoh: and Aaron your brother shall be your prophet," (Exo 7:1; Exo 4:10-16). In Duet 18:14-22, God promised to raise up another "prophet" like Moses who would be a spokes person for God. Ultimately prophecy was the promise and fulfillment of the Great Prophet, Jesus Christ; who came and is to come again (Acts 3:22-23). A prophet is one who sees visions, dreams dreams, declares Gods word and performs miracles to demonstrate the the word He gave was of God. The proper attitude should be "lets look to the message rather than to the miracle that proves the message is of God," (Duet 13:1-5). Lets look to God not His blessing.

In the time of Samuel there was a prophetic company, a group of men who were studying under Samuels tutelage. They went about praising God with song and trying to stir the people to return to God, renewing their commitment to God and His covenant. When the people did this a revival would occur among the people according to their obedience to God, (1 Sam 10:5; 10; 19:20). Revival is not a promise for a time period but for an obedient family of God. Revival is rooted in obedience, prayer and faith filled action. The followers of Elijah and Elisha formed groups of prophets, called prophetic companies. Their purpose was to assist the prophets and to learned from the prophets. These companies of prophets were mentored and eventually released into ministry prophesying to peoples and nations. (1 Kings 18:19

Nabi is also used in the feminine form "Prophetess" as nebiah, which appears 6 times. In Exo 15:20 Miriam is called a "prophetess." Isaiahs wife, too, is called a "prophetess" (Isa 8:3). A woman could have been as much a prophet as a man. There was a tremendous cultural bias at that time that hindered most women prophetesses. We forget there is neither male nor female in the body of Christ.

In the New Testament a Prophet, or Prophetess, is One who speaks forth or openly, a proclaimer of a divine message, an interpreter of the Oracles of the God, male or female. In the Greek Septuagint translation they used the word ro'eh "a seer"; 1 Sam 9:9, indicating that the "prophet" was one upon who had deep and intamate


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communication with God. It also translates the word nabhi, meaning either "one in whom the message of God springs forth," "one whom the word of God bubbles forth," or "one to whom anything is secretly communicated." In the Old Testament prophet was one upon whom the spirit of God rested and was released, Num 11:17-29, and to and/or through whom God spoke, Num 12:2; Amos 3:7,8. In the cases of the Old Covenant prophets their messages were very largely the proclamation of the divine purposes of salvation and glory to be accomplished in the future. The "prophesying" of New Covenant "prophets" is declaring the divine counsels of grace already accomplished and the foretelling of purposes of God yet to come. New Testament prophecy also reveals calls, ministries, releases Gods gifts and enables ministers with special anointings and reveals Gods purpose for the church. (Acts 4:30; 13:1-3; 1 Tim 1:8: 4:14; 2 Tim 1:6}

A New Testament prophet is one who spends time in prayer to get to know the mind and will of God. He or she is an anointed person, a foreteller, a forth teller, a seer, one who speaks, bubbles forth, or springs forth a prophetic message or declaration from the heart of God. A prophet is one who has intercourse with God, known for their intercession, who speaks forth as though they have the very oracles of God, the actual words of God, or is an interpreter of Gods words. All prophetic declarations come through the fleshly filter of errant man. So to a certain extent, minute errors are expected as we grow in our new wine skins putting of those youthful passions. All prophesy even directly from the heart of God is poured through the fleshly filter of each persons traditions, personality and experience. We understand in part and we prophesy in part. We are commanded to discern the prophetic word, to test all prophecies and spirits and diligently hold fast to that which is true not forbidding prophecy, tongues or the manifestation of spiritual fruitfulness.


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Chapter 4

Tongues Vs. Prophecy

● 14:2 For the one speaking in tongues does not speak to men, but to GOD; for no one understands him, however, in the spirit he speaks mysteries.

Here Paul is informing the Corinthian reader that tongues are not understood by the natural mind. No one understands the person speaking in tongues because the person speaking languages of God, men and of angels not previously know to him 1 Cor 13:1; 14:2. "No one knows all 17,000 earthly language" let alone any heavenly ones, quote taken from John Wimber’s book "Power Religion." Whether the person is speaking in the native tongues of listeners that the person has not previously learned or his own he is speaking in a language he or she has not already learned Acts 2:1-17,18-19. A person speaking in tongues is speaking by God’s supernatural power in a foreign language to his natural language or any learned by the manifold grace of God? He may be speaking in a human language Acts 2:1-13, tongues of angels 13:1, or the language of God 14:2. The person is however speaking a mystery to himself and others who may not have heard this language before. It is a mystery Strong's # 3466 meaning veiled, hidden, cloaked, silent, secret, something, unknown to this point, unable to be seen or understood. Tongues is a divinely given language that the person must speak out in faith. "They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and they began to speak in other tongues, as the spirit gave them the ability to speak" Acts 2:4, Hendrickson’s Interlinear Hebrew-Greek-English bible; words inside the parenthesis added by myself. Therefore, we see that it is not a language that is understood by the natural mind. We are given a language to speak and we must do so in faith Rom 12:6. Prophecy and tongues are spoken out in proportion to the faith God has given each on of us.

● 14:3 But the one who prophesying to men speaks for building up and encouragement and comfort.

Prophecy is meant to encourage, exhort, comfort, and build up. It encourages and informs the believer. Prophesy is Gods word being brought alive and made real applying it to today’s situations inspired by the spirit of God proclaimed by a prophet of the Lord. No prophecy will ever contradict God’s written word, 2 Pet 1:19-21; 2 Tim 3:16. All prophecy must line up with scripture and God’s main and plain purpose. Prophecy is intended to draw a response, a choice, an action, or a reaction from the children of God. In most cases it is a call to action waiting on God, trusting on God, responding to God, living for God, returning to God, etc…

● 14:4 The one speaking in tongues builds himself up; but the one prophesying builds up the church.

Tongues are for personal edification. Jude 20 says "But you, beloved build up your inner man by your most holy faith, praying in the Holy Spirit." You need to pray in the Holy Ghost according to your own faith, building up your inner man, To be built up, or encouraged in your faith and walk with God. Tongues are a sign to the unbeliever


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signifying that something supernatural is present, namely God. Prophesying exhorts the church, gives direction, convicts the sinner, and can bring healing, restoration and deliverance. Prophecy can and will convince new converts that Christianity is real; it will cause them to say God is truly among you and draw them to the knees pleading the mercies of Christ. No were in scripture in New Testament prophecy does scripture ever say that God has completely done away with, harsh prophecy, or judgmental prophecy. The New Testament does say that prophecy is to edify Paul wrote a harsh letter, and then he wrote in 2 Cor How he was glad it brought them Godly sorrow. I believe all New and Old Testament prophecy is to bring about a response, a call to action, and/or godly sorrow which leads to repentance. Judgmental prophecy is something no new convert should be allowed to give only the seasoned prophetic minister who knows how to operate in love and obey the Lord. The reason for this is Judgmental prophesy is not the norm and should not be allowed to be unless it is truly God speaking, but that would contradict scripture. Judgmental prophecy can be a prophetic word or utterance to a nation, or the leaders of a nation that if a nation does not turn from its sin it will fall because they have not obeyed God. Prophetic judgment can also be the same type of a message to a person who is in sin rebelling against God or enticing sedition against Gods people, basically this would be another you will reap what you sow but if you turn God will pour out His mercy upon you and give you peace. In essence if you do not turn you will reap what you sow. There is no other context for Judgmental Prophesy. There must be scripture to back it up. This kind of prophecy is not the norm and should not be expected to be. This is an occasional type of prophecy only when lead by the spirit of God in the fruits of the spirit and in love. God would prefer us cold or hot, if we are Luke-warm He will vomit us out of His mouth Rev 3:15. If a harsh word comes it must be in love, and exhortation, it must have a goal, a chief aim to save, heal, deliver, etc… If it does not line up with the word of God, if it does not call one to action, and if it does not bear biblical fruit. That type of prophecy should come under scrutiny and is in need of correction.

● 14:5 And I wish all of you spoke in other languages, but rather that you may prophesy – for greater is the one prophesying than the one speaking in tongues, unless he interprets that the church may receive a building up (or edification)."

Here we see the importance of the prophetic in church worship compared to tongues, and the need for the church to receive edification. Leon Morris in his commentary on 1 Cor 14 by Tyndale says here that prophesying is superior to tongues, when in fact tongues builds the person individually up. Personally tongues has more value to ones self, but in church there is the need for all to be built up. That is the importance of your personal devotion time alone with God. In church, the church needs to receive building up or edification. It is important to prophesy in church, speak in other tongues and interpret that the church members may grow in The LORD and in witnessing, prophesying to the lost. Tongues is not of less value in teaching, it is cumbersome if not interpreted in worship, it can cause confusion, and doubts coming from unbelievers. Tongues is not of less importance, it does not have less value. Tongues do not have building up properties or abilities in a worship service without interpretation. Notice Paul never says, "Do not speak in tongues in Church." Paul does say, "Do not forbid tongues vs. 39." Many seem to take this passage as a license to stop all use of tongues in church. Paul never says do not allow speaking in tongues, He is just asking for order. He also says, "If anyone is ignorant let him be ignorant. vs. 38." This is not a matter of control but shepherding those that may be a little too exuberant or fleshy; people who are not concerned about the benefit to others or salvation of the lost. They just want to bless God with their new heavenly language and be blessed. It is time we stopped condemning and started exhorting, encouraging, building up, correcting in love and teaching the whole truth. Scripture tells us not defaming a person’s character, but to disciple them, exhort, and


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encourage them. 1 Corinthians 12:19-26; Romans 14; and Ephesians 4:1-6,13 make it clear that we are one body and not to discriminate because of the different aspects of our separate ministries in the body of Christ. We are called to unity, building up, and saving the lost. It is time to fulfill the great commission instead of talking about it Matt 28:19. Tongues are therefore to be interpreted unless the tongue is an actual human language, as on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2:4-17,38,39).

● 14:6 But now, brothers, if I come to you speaking in tongues what do I profit you, except if I speak to you either in revelation, or in knowledge, or in prophecy, or in teaching?

Paul is saying here that there is no profit in speaking in tongues unless the tongue is a revelation, knowledge, prophecy or teaching. I believe he is showing us that tongues will not profit in worship unless it is a tongue of revelation, a tongue of knowledge, a tongue of prophecy, and a tongue of teaching. I believe that the tongues God may give us in worship should, and will probably come as a revelation, knowledge, prophecy, or teaching, and that the tongue is to be interpreted as such according to the grace God gives you.


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Chapter 5

The Value of having a Prayer Language

● 14:7 Yet if lifeless things giving a sound, whether flute or harp, if they do not give a

distinction in the sound, how will it be known what is being flute or harped?

● 14:8 For also if a trumpet gives an uncertain sound, who will get himself prepared

for war?

● 14:9 So also you. If you do not give a clear word through the language, how will it

be known what is being said? For you will be speaking to the air.

Here we see Paul expressing the importance of understanding what is being said. He uses the illustration that if people listening to an instrument who do not know or understand the sound will be confused by it unless they are informed of the meaning. Paul says you will be speaking to the air if you do not interpret the sound or noises you make. It is interesting to note though that even though a trumpet, flute or harp are not always understood or interpreted they do get an enthusiastic response for the joyous sounds they do bring. I like this passage because it does away with the view that the New Testament does not talk about instruments, or instrumental worship. Jesus Himself and many of the New Testament writing’s quote much of the Old Testament Psalms which instills instrumental worship. There are those who try to say that instrumental worship is wrong however that is not biblical, it is maybe a personal conviction however there is no scriptural proof of that. There is biblical reasons to believe that God ordained the type of worship that the Psalms describes. Even the apostles in the book of Acts said that God was going to rebuild the tabernacle of David. The Tabernacle of David was built upon and around night and day instrumental and expressive worship before God. Here Paul is talking about tongues in the context of a worship service and he brings up instruments, interesting point to note! The New Testament never does away with instrumental worship, nor allows it. It is neither for or against it is neuter or neutral. Since the New Covenant is restoring the tabernacle of David, we are to instill worship with instruments, dance, psalms, hymns, spiritual songs, lifting holy hands Acts 15:15-21. Psalms and hymns have always been instrumental praise songs with clapping, and dancing in traditional Jewish synagogues.


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● 14:10 There are, it may be, So many languages in the Earth, and not one is without

a distinct significance.

● 14:11 If then, I do not know the power (or meaning) of that language, I will be a

foreigner to the one speaking, and the one speaking a foreigner to me.

Paul starts out acknowledging that there are many languages in the world, and all have a meaning, but if there is no interpreter, I will not understand you. John Wimber says there are atleast 17,000 languages on the earth. The scripture talks of the tongues of men, of angels and of God. There are many languages so who are we to determine what is of the spirit and what is not. We must learn to discern and obey the voice of God. There is therefore a need to edify the church in Gods order for the advancement of the kingdom of God. There is a need to understand what the spirit is saying to the churches Rev 3:3,13,22.

● 14:12 So also you, since you are zealous for spiritual things, seek to build up the

church that you may abound.

● 14:13 so then, the one speaking in an unknown language, let him pray that he may

interpret.

● 14:14 For If I pray in a tongue, my spirit is prays, but my mind is unfruitful.

Since you are zealous for spiritual things seek that you may edify the church, and pray that we may interpret. I

want to emphasis that Paul says pray that we may interpret. This is significant to note when the writers of scripture wanted to make a point the would write "Shall," to make there point. All that God has said shall come to pass. On the other hand may is not a definite answer. Suggests that sometimes it may go un-interpreted, but that we are to pray that we may interpret. We may not interpret our own tongue; someone else may or may not. I think Paul is leaving a place here for error and expectance of those who might fail God because of fear failure, and man. I believe we need to learn how to pastor revival not kill the servants. We must be obedient to God and not quench the spirit with undue rules and regulation. There needs to be a free flow of the Holy Ghost.


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● 14:15 What then is the conclusion? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray

with my understanding; I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with my

understanding.

This passage is Paul's main point of this whole passage. Paul says, "What then is the conclusion? I will pray in the spirit, and I will pray with understanding; I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with my understanding." I believe we are to allow all the gifts of the spirit to move in power. We are just to be careful of what the sinners see when the come into the church. The most important thing is to obey the Holy Spirit. It does not matter what revival looks like. We need to see salvation’s in the church again it is time for revival again. We have to take our hands of Holy Spirit and let Him do His work in the church. Let go and let God take over.

● 14:16 Otherwise, if you bless in the spirit, how will he who occupies the place of

the unlearned say "Amen" at your giving of thanks, since he does not know what

you say?

● 14:17 For you truly give thanks well, but the other is not built up (or edified).

Here we see Paul informing us that if we bless with the spirit, how will the uninformed understand, and say amen (so be it). The church body is not built up if you bless in tongues without interpretation. I believe this shows that we can bless and pray for others in the spirit and not know what we are praying for specifically. We are able to pray for a specific need as God wills without our mind being fruitful. Paul also says we give thanks well. Paul is saying that it is important give thanks in the spirit. In church, we are to bless in the spirit and pray that you may interpret that the church might be built up. This passage of scripture illustrates the point that tongues is an actual language that carries all the benefits of a language, blessing, praying, singing, prophesying, revelation and teaching. People can not understand or know what is being said unless someone interprets. If you go to a foreign land that doesn't speak English and try to speak English to them the will not understand and your work will be fruitless. It is important that you pray that you may interpret and if no interpretation comes you must inform the audience what the purpose of tongues is so that unbelievers will not think you are mad.

● 14:18 I thank my God that I speak with tongues more than you all do.


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● 14:19 But in church I would much desire to speak five words with understanding,

that I may also instruct, than thousands of words in unknown tongues.

● 14:20 Brothers, do not be children in your knowledge, but in malice be like infants,

and in your understanding be mature.

Here we see Paul informing us that if we bless with the spirit, how will the uninformed understand, and say amen (so be it). The church body is not built up if you bless in tongues without interpretation. Then Paul turns around and says, "I speak in tongues more than all of you." How can he say this when he is talking about the necessity of interpretations of tongues in church and prophecy? This is not a contradiction of terms. Paul is showing the importance of tongues in private devotion, as he also latter says not to forbid tongues. Paul also says pray that you may interpret, not that you will always interpret. There is freedom in worship when true worshipers worship in spirit and truth John 4:23; 3:34. Paul understands the importance of tongues in private devotions. He also understands the importance of exhortation in church. Paul goes on to admonish them to grow up in knowledge and be innocent toward sin. We must get the sin out if we want God to move.

● 14:21 It has been written in the law "By men of other tongues and by other lips I

will speak to this people; and yet, even for all that they will not hear me," say The

LORD. Isaiah 28:11-12

● 14:22 So that therefore tongues are not a sign for those who believe but for those

who do not believe, but prophesying is not for the unbelievers but for those who

believe.

Here we see that Paul is showing that speaking in unknown or previously unlearned tongues are a sign for those who do not believe, it shows them that the supernatural present. It show them that the supernatural presence of The Holy Spirit is present in Worship, and should draw them to investigate more, get hungry for more of God, or call you mad. The Instance that Paul is quoting from the Old Testament here when he says it is written in the law is Isaiah 28:10. The passage in Isaiah 28 Yahweh is chastening Israel by putting them in a land of exile as punishment for their sin and rebellion. They had to suffer punishment and imprisonment, but God provided a way out through those with stammering lips who speak in other tongues, the weary will rest and there will times of


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refreshing, but many will not receive it. I believe this is a prophetic passage pointing to the Messiah and His resurrection power bringing refreshing, and rest, but we must receive it. Jesus died on the cross. On the same day that the Passover lambs blood was applied to the doorpost of the Jews in Egypt, so the death angel would pass over that house in prophetic fulfillment of us passing form death to life. That He rose on the third day. The day when Egypt were drowned in the Dead Sea after Israel passed through. Symbolic that death no longer has a hold on us. Jesus was then seen by man and caught up in glory. About the same time, Moses and those down bellow saw the glory of God like a consuming fire on Mount Moriah. Then on the day of the feast of Pentecost fifty days latter when God gave the Ten Commandments on the Mountain, the Holy Spirit distributed cloven tongues of fire and filled with them all with the Spirit of God and spoke in foreign languages as the Holy Spirit gave utterance writing the new covenant upon our hearts. The same day Moses was given the Ten Commandments for Israel, the same day we received the New Covenant written upon our hearts. On this day many had spoken in a foreign language, and probably had stammering lips. They probably did not understand this experience until a crowd of Jewish proselytes from sixteen different regions who spoke a supposed thirteen to seventeen foreign languages came to see what was going on and found them speaking the mysteries of God in the native language. This was an awkward phenomenon the disciples were apparently outwardly physically affected by this phenomenon, Because they said these men must be full of new wine. Know normally when someone speaks in your language the mysteries of God you usually would want to repent of you own sins, and usually you would not want to call them a drunk, right? In most instances, that would be the case. There had to be an outward discernable physical manifestation that caused the onlookers to say that they look like drunks. When is the last time you saw a group of people praise God in your own language and called them a drunk? Ephesians 5:18-19 says "Do not be drunk with wine, in which there is a dissipation; but on the contrary be filled with The Holy Ghost, building one another up singing psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to The LORD." Notice it say "Do not be drunk with wine." This is a direct correlation to Acts 2:13,17. The passage say "Do not be drunk with wine were there is a dissipation." Dissipation means that it effects run of, whereas the Holy Ghost has eternal fruit, effect, gifts and significance. Paul is saying do not be drunk with wine were it dissipates or tears down but be continually filled with The Spirit of God. The word used for fill here is in the continual sense, imperative and present tense. Right now if you are not full of the Holy Ghost you need to pray and get full of the Holy Ghost and continually pray and stay filled with the Holy Ghost. Ehp 5:18 is saying I got filled, I am in the process of being filled and need to continually be filled. Acts 2 they got Baptized in The Holy Ghost, then again in Acts 4 verse 31 the same group of disciples plus the 3,000 that were added on the day of the feast weeks or Pentecost prayed and they all were filled with The Holy Ghost again. They then went out with a boldness to proclaim the good news of God.

Traditional Pentecostal and Charismatic theologians hold the belief that there is one initial filling, sealing or


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immersion of the spirit at conversion, a subsequent baptism in the Holy Spirit for power, witness, sanctification and anointing for service. (1 Cor 12:13; Act 2:4; 4:31). We are saved, filled with/sealed with the spirit. We are also baptized with the spirit and commanded continually be filled with the spirit of God. It is part of the process of daily sanctification/holiness we must crucify our flesh daily. Which is done only by relying 100% percent upon Gods ability because man cannot do it all alone. We must pray for a renewal of our minds daily, and receive God's fresh mercy everyday. We are saved by grace through the Law of Faith to establish God's law (Eph 2:8-10; Rom 3:27,31: Gal 3:24; 2:18; Acts 26:20; Heb 3:12,13; 1 John 3:4; James 1:6; 2:14-22). We are not free from the law but are to fulfill the law knowing that the works of the law will save no one, but that we are saved by faith (Matt 5:17-20; Rom 3:19-20; Gal 2:16; Eph 2:8,9). Do we build again sin and void the law, no we must obey God and live by grace through faith (Rom 3:31; Gal 2:16).

In accordance to the effective fervent righteous persons prayer of faith for the reception of the Holy Spirit there should be an outward discernable physical manifestation of the change done by the spirit of God instituting a real and eternal change that takes place in the heart and life of the believer 1 Cor 12:3-13, 28; Rom 12:4-8; Acts 1:8; 2:4; 4:30-31; 19:6; Luke 24:49; Mark 16:15-18. The Baptism in the Holy Ghost with the initial physical evidence of speaking in unknown tongues as the spirit leads is an evidence to the believer that God has baptized that person with the power of God to witness. The anointing, the baptism in the Holy Ghost is not only for our personal edification but that we might have the power of the Holy Ghost to demonstrate New Covenant Christianity through the preaching of the gospel and through many sins and wonders. The Anointing of the spirit of God, which all Christians have is intended for the lost, the hurt, and the destitute. God does not give us to soak but rather to give. I believe Mark 16:15-18 shows us the pattern we are to expect: number one we are to preach the gospel to everyone, then we are to baptize those who repent and except Jesus as Lord, that we will receive gifts and graces of God that will allow us to demonstrate the gospel of the kingdom in power, and that we are to preach of Jesus imminent return.

The experience of the baptism of the Holy Spirit with the initial physical evidence of speaking in tongues was instituted with speaking to the lost in their own personal languages as a sign to them that God is real. Tongue's in an essence is saying "This is God, get some." Personal freedom and edification come when we receive the gift of the spirit of God and continually pray in the spirit. Some of the initial outward signs of a filling with the spirit of God are; speaking in tongues, prophecy, speaking the word of God in boldness, the fruits of the spirit, holiness, and a physical outward discernable reaction i.e. shaking, falling, laughing, crying, weeping, boldness, etc… (1 Sam 10:6; 19:20-24; Jer 20:9; 23:9; Dan 10:5-19; Mic 1:8; Acts 2:4; 4:31; 10:46; 19:6; Rom 5:22; 8:23,26-27; 1 Cor 12:3-12,13; 14:39; Gal 5:22; Eph 5:18; 1 Thes 5:20-21; Jude 20). On the day of Pentecost Peter by the inspiration of the spirit of


Chapter 5

God said "this is that," the prophet Joel prophesied. Joel did not talk about tongues being a part of the baptism of The Holy Ghost. If today's critic's of modern moves of God lived back then would have said that is not in scripture and they would have been right. Just because the reaction to the presence of God wasn't laid out for all to see and know before hand the biblical fruit expected after a real touch of God was. So, it is important to look at the fruit of changed lives, souls saved, marriages healed, family members restored and brotherly love. There would not have been any expansion of the first century church. There probably would be no church today, if this had not happened.


Chapter 6

Chapter 6

Diverse Tongues

The Pentecostal experience of the Holy Ghost Baptism is separate from and subsequent to conversion. The initial evidence of this Baptism to be the historical and experiential distinctive of true inward holiness, Boldness, the nine spiritual gifts, initially speaking with other tongues as the Spirit gives utterance and prophecy which is a promise to all believers. The fruit of a genuine Pentecost is the writing of the law of God upon one's heart. The Spirit filled life is not a one time experience it is a continual experience being filled and continually getting filled with the spirit of God. You must continually dip yourself in the river of God do not let yourself become dry, you must be renewed in your mind daily. If the Spirit of God truly does dwell in us and we have be baptized or immersed into the spirit filled life by the Holy Spirit of God we will look like, act like and think like Jesus. The gifts or manifestations of the Holy Spirit are the supernatural ministry of the Lord Jesus Christ in and through us. God wills that every member of the Body of Christ should flow in several of them. New Testament ministry is the out-flowing of the indwelling Christ, this is called the incarnational ministry, God reaching the world through people who love to serve Him. We are to be Jesus to this lost and dying world b the power and anointing of His Spirit and His Blood not of ourselves lest we boast. You must have the person, power and presence of Jesus dwelling in you and moving through you. The Church is called to a spiritual ministry of speaking, knowing, and doing. These manifestations enable us to talk like God, think like God, and do the works of God. Scripture talks about diverse tongues and today many do not know what these diverse tongues are. Taking a look at scripture there are about eleven diverse types of tongues with specific functions and purposes.

● The Initial Tongue of the Baptism of the Holy Spirit, (Acts 2:4; 10:45-47; 19:6; 1 Cor 14:4; Jude 20). This tongue is one of the initial physical evidences that you have been baptized with the Holy Spirit, (Acts 2:1-17,38-39; 4:30-33; 8:14-20; 9:17; 10:45-47; 19:1-6; Mark 16:17). It is the first tongue that you receive. This may be a stammering lip, (Isa 28:11), an actual language, (Acts 2:4-6), an angelic language, (1 Cor 13:1), or your own special language between you and God, (1 Cor 14:2). This tongue is a promise to all who believe in Jesus, (Mark 16:17; Acts 2:39; 1 Cor 14:1). You must speak it out according to your faith, "And They Spoke," (Acts 2:4; Rom 12:6). The Spirit will give you and utterance you must speak is out. If you ask God, He will give it to you, God wants to give it to you, God will not hold back, it is a gift, (Luke 11:9-11). Gifts are free all you have to do is open up and receive it. You must have faith and receive it, (Heb 1:1,6; James 1:6-9). Ask God for the baptism in the Holy Ghost in faith believing you have already received and then start worshiping God and allow God to move in you, Acts 10:46. However when you go to speak in tongues you have to stop speaking in your native language and start speaking out the utterance God has given you. Pray and believe God for your personal prayer language do not let anyone tell you to repeat there words that is not tongues that is flesh this is supposed to be the baptism in the Holy Ghost not a baptism in the flesh. The Holy Spirit must do it. The spirit of God might just come over you while you are driving, praying for someone else and you might just find yourself speaking in tongues. Do not limit God let Him do what He wants and you do you part; pray, have faith, obey, believe, expect, and receive. Let God speak through you as He wills not as you will. The initial tongue is God initiated however you must respond and speak after that it is your prayer language and you can pray in tongues whenever you want to be built


Chapter 6

up and when you want to confuse the devil, 1 Cor 14:18. This initial tongue is your personal prayer language it may develop over time but now when you pray you must use this gift which is for your edification. This free gift is intended for personal edification. It is usually not interpreted, or prophetic in nature however it can be, Acts 2:1-17)

● The Gift of Tongues, (1 Cor. 12:10; 14:6,13-21, 26-27; Isa 28:11-12). This tongue is a message prophetic, revelatory, teaching, or instruction message from God in an unknown language which we are to pray that we may interpret. It is to be intended to be in operation along with prophecy anytime a group of believers are gathered together in corporate worship of God. This tongue is to interpreted and should be used with the gift of interpretation. The gift is always to be used with love and wisdom and never condemns. Prophecy and Prophetic Tongues and Interpretations of Tongues are to edify, encourage and build up. The Holy Spirit is to be in full charge of a meeting and He never interrupts Himself. No apology is offered of The Holy Spirits operations. If he wants to move we allow him. Who should I fear God or man? you choose for yourself. As for me I will fear God rather than man. (Dan 10:8-16; Acts 10:44; 1 Cor 14:39-40; 1 Thes 19-21).

● The Unknown Tongue, (1 Cor 13:1; 14:2). This tongue is the language of divine communication between man and God, "Praying in the Spirit." No man can understand or interpret this tongue. When there are no words left to express your love to God the unknown tongue can speak for you. "Howbeit in the Spirit he speaketh mysteries."

● The Tongue for Personal Edification, (I Cor. 14:4; Jude 20). This is the believers personal prayer language. This tongue edifies the inner person and builds up the faith of the believer. It restores, encourages, strengthens, builds up the inner man emotionally, restores faith and hope.

● The Tongue of Intercession, (Rom 8:26-28; 1 Cor 14:14). This tongue is when the Holy Spirit prays through us and intercedes on behalf of someone or something without out our understanding. Our understanding of this prayer is unfruitful.

● The Tongue of Blessing, (1 Cor 14:16,17). This is a personal blessing to God from you in and unknown tongue. If you use this tongue in Church you are to interpret so that you neighbor know is edified. Otherwise you mighty as well be having your personal devotionals with God because you can be distracting your fellow brother or sister from worshiping God.

● Singing in Tongues, (I Cor. 14:15,26; Eph 5:19). "I will sing with the Spirit and I will sing with the understanding also." If we desire, we can sing in tongues and we can sing with the understanding also.

● Speaking in Tongue a Sign to unbelievers, (1 Cor 14:22-23; Isa 28:11,12). All Tongues shows the sinner that God is in the house and that there is the supernatural presence of God is present. If the person is not informed as to what speaking in tongues is or if the tongues goes without being interpreted we are told to pray to ourselves and to God because the bible says that they think you are mad. Tongues are a sign to the unbeliever and one of the main purposes of the manifestation of tongues is that sinners might see the supernatural in operation and bring them to a place of repentance.

● Speaking in the languages of God and Angels, (I Cor. 13:1; 14:2). These are languages that only God and the angels understand. It is a direct communication to God so that the devil and his demons cannot understand. There are some 17,000 human languages. How many more heavenly languages are there.

● Diverse Tongues, (1 Cor 12:10). Diverse tongues simply means there are many kinds of tongues for many purposes. 1 Cor 12:11 says the spirit distributes them as He will we must ask, obey, pursue, desire spiritual gifts and allow the Holy Spirit to give us what He wills us to have for the edification of the body and


Chapter 6

the edification of ourselves, 1 Cor 12:12-31; 14:1,4,39. ● The Mysterious Tongue, (1 Cor 14:2). This is an unknown tongue that is not interpreted. As

there are a diversity of tongues there is but one Lord, Jesus, but one, God Yahweh and One Spirit, Holy Spirit that distributes all. The mysterious tongue is a tongue in which you speak directly to God however it is mysterious to the enemy he can not understand or interpret it is your personal line straight to God without hindrance that is why the devil doesn't want you to speak in tongues. This is similar to armies using Morris code in war. This is our Morris code straight to God and the devil can not do anything about it because it is a mystery it baffles him.

The full manifestation and operation of the gifts of the spirit are an essential part of New Testament church ministry and practice. The gifts are an essential sign that the Church is alive not a dead organism but a powerful agent in the earth. The Church must show forth the Glory of the lord. Without out such a witness the Church is just another dead and stale religious institution.


Chapter 7

Chapter 7

Prophetic Order

● 14:23 Therefore if the whole church comes together in one place, and all speak in tongues, and their come in those who are uniformed and unbelieving, will they not say you are mad?

● 14:24 But if all prophesy, and an unbeliever or and uniformed person comes in, he is convinced by all, he is convicted by all.

● 14:25 And thus the secrets of his heart are revealed; and so, falling down on his face, he will worship God and report that God is truly among you.

Here we see Paul showing us how tongues will cause someone who is uniformed to say that you are mad because it a language or a sound they have never heard before, unless it is interpreted, or they are informed of the purpose and meaning of Tongues. This is a mandate Paul is reminding us to make disciples not converts. Jesus said go and make disciples. It is time that we start mentoring the lost making them effective soldiers in the army of God instead of making and preserving pew potatoes. We must inform them of what is going on because Paul said he would speak in tongues, and we are supposed to speak in tongues. We need to pray that we might interpret. Prophecy will reveal the secrets of you heart, reveal sin, show you God’s plan for you life. Prophecy will convince and convict of the truth.

● 14:26 Then, brother, what is it? When you come together, to worship, and each one has a psalm, he has a teaching, he has a tongue, He has a revelation, he has and interpretations. Let all things be done for building up.

Here we see the proper order of tongues and prophecy in church. Paul starts of this section talking about if we all come together with a psalm, a teaching, a tongue, a revelation, an interpretation. This is similar to His exhortation to the church at Ephesus. Paul exhorts them "not to be drunk with wine, in which there is a dissipation; but on the contrary be filled to the full with The Holy Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your hearts to The Lord." Eph 5:18-19. He mentions in the passage to the church in Ephesus to sing psalms and hymns and melodies in our hearts to The LORD. This appears to be a Trans-cultural principle Paul is using to instill the gifts of God in all the churches. Paul also talks about the operation of the gifts in Ephesus in chapter three verses seven through sixteen. Paul also talked about the gifts in the Roman church. The gifts were definitely a Trans-church phenomenon, not just limited to the first church or the first century, as is the testimony of many people in the past claiming a Pentecostal heritage verse 33 emphasizes this point. Tertullian was known as the Pentecostal of Carthage a third century theologian to whom we attribute so of our mainline Trinitarian theology. Many devote sixteenth century believed the baptism in the Holy Spirit was in answer to the prayer of faith, and that it was a second work of grace. Many of the Loller’s door to door evangelist, followers of Martin Luther proclaimed to have received and believed in the


Chapter 7

baptism of the Holy Spirit, even though Luther himself never professed to have received or believe in tongues, etc… Paul ends this verse saying "Let all things be for edification or building up." How can we edify and build up unless we teach, instruct inform or build up.

● 14:27 If anyone speaks in an unknown tongue, let there be by two or three people at the most (who speak in unknown languages), and each (must do so) in turn, also let one person interpret.

● 14:28 But if there is no interpreter let him keep silent in church, and let himself speak to himself in God.

● 14:29 And if there are two or three prophets, let them speak, and let the others discern (or judge).

● 14:30 But if any revelation is revealed to another siting by let the first keep silent.

● 14:31 For you can all prophesy one by one that all may learn, and all may be encouraged.

● 14:32 And the spirits of prophets are subject to the prophets.

● 14:33 For God is not a God of confusion, but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.

Paul says that if anyone is to speak in unknown tongues in a worship service it is to be down by one, maybe two, but no more than three, and that one person is to interpret the tongues, as The Lord directs. He goes on to say keep you peace if there is no interpreter. This is apparently something you have to learn through trial and error who is gifted with interpretation and who is not. God may give you a tongue for latter times. Ask God if He wants you to give it now. If He says now, He will have and interpreter if no one interprets pray that you will interpret. If there is not interpreter, Paul says to keep from speaking out publicly to speak to yourself and GOD. If God does not give you a public tongue of prophecy, revelation, etc… Keep quite and praying to yourself, to edify yourself. Do not make a public disturbance with God’s inner work in your personal life. Do not always project what God is doing in your life on others. Paul then goes on to talk about proper propriety of the operation of prophets in the home church setting. Paul say let two or three prophet speak and let the others discern Strong’s # 1252 to discern, decide, judge, separate thoroughly, discriminate, test, try, make an opinion of, withdraw from. 1 Thes 5:20,21 Similarly, Paul is encouraging the church in Thessalonica not to despise prophecy, rather, On the contrary He told the to test all things and to hold fast to that which is true. Too many crush and destroy what God wants to do by quenching or killing the spirits fire in people lives, instead of allowing Him to move. If you notice the whole structure of the passage is that of shepherding, teaching, restoring order, disciplining in love and instructing. Paul is not saying do away with that which is God moving in the midst. He is really saying pastor out all the flesh, teach the body to group up in The Lord,


Chapter 7

to become a well oiled and effective war machine impacting the darkness with the light of the gospel. Don’t be a stumbling block, Romans chapter 14. As people mess up, encourage them to be used, in love show them how scripture says we are to operate in God’s gifts and in His order. It is interesting to note that even though Paul only mentions two or three prophets giving their message as though they have the oracles of God 1 Pet 4:11 that Paul does not limit the prophetic gift like he does tongues. Concerning tongues he says do not let anymore than three speak in unknown tongues, but in no way does he say that prophecy is limited to two or three. I assume that many would say that because Paul limits the operation of tongues to three, and the he only mentions to or three prophets speaking, that is eisogesis. I am convinced that Paul only mentioned the previous number out of example as to being organized not just talking over others in church. Paul them goes on to say that if one is prophesying and God gives you a word to sit still until the first person is finished, so that the prophetic exhortation will be given decently and in order. Paul ends this section by saying the spirit of the prophet is subject to the prophet, and that God is not the author of confusion but peace. One thing to note is that in this passage when it is saying that the spirit of the prophet is subject to the prophet it is talking about prophecy and tongues not an ecstatic experience like the prophet Daniel in the book of Daniel chapter 10. If you read Acts 10:44,46 you see that while Peter was preaching some as of yet unconverted Greek proselytes spoke in tongues and praised God. These were unbelievers and this was the first time the Greeks spoke in tongues. We see here that Paul in his ending statement that we are given the word and the control over it so that there may be order, for God wants peace not disorder. It is apparent that God’s order is a lot different than ours. During J. Edwards’s revival meetings "The lost would start running to the altar crying out to God, moaning, laughing, intermingled with tears and crying all at the same time," quote from Melinda Fish’s book "The River is here". C. Finney in his book "Lecture’s on revival" wrote about how some would be under the power of God for days having impressions that they saw heaven, hell, etc… During the Great Cambridge revival as many a thousand were slain to the ground by the mighty axe of God like many men slain in battle, all at once, while as many as four preachers were trying to preach the word to all of them. J. Edwards’s wife was drunk in the Holy Ghost for 17 days straight, quote from Guy Chevraeu. Guy also stated that The Wesley brothers once got so filled with "Holy Laughter" that they laid in a field laughing for at least an hour.


Chapter 8

Chapter 8

Should Women Lead?

● 14:34 Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive as the law also says.

● 14:35 And if they want to learn something let them question their husbands in their homes; for women to speak in church is shameful.

● 14:36 Or did the word of God come originally from you? Or was it you only that it reached?

Here Paul is dealing with the propriety of women speaking in church. This is believed to be because of a cultural bias, and the fact that the temple prostitutes who worship Dionysus, and the other so called God’s we rather unruly and outspoken. According to Leon Morris, for women to teach at that time it would discredit the newly formed way of Christianity in the eyes of the Greeks and the Jews. To become all to all they were admonished to follow the trend in abstaining from all appearances of evil. Paul is not saying that women are not to pray and prophesy because in 1 Cor 11:5. In Chapter eleven verse five Paul said "Everyone women praying and prophesying." This is not an admonition not-to preach or prophesy. In the "Hebrew-Greek key study bible" the footnote says it is possibly because the women were acting unruly not too much unlike the temple prostitutes. Women were used and involved in high places of ministry in Paul’s ministry, in the early church, even in Greek culture. In the Old Testament there were women used mightily by God to lead and teach. Joel 2:28,29 says "In the last days… your daughters shall prophesy… and upon the handmaids in those days I shall pour out my spirit." Miriam was a prophetess of The Lord Ex 15:20. Deborah the prophetess was used of God to lead Israel and to win physical battles Judges 4-5. Huldah was a prophetess of The Lord who authenticated the scroll of the law 2 King 22; 2 Chron 34. In the New Testament Tabitha (Dorcas) was a disciple with the ministry of helps Acts 9:36. Phillip had four daughters that were prophets Acts 21:8,9. Euodia and Syntyche were co-workers with Paul in his struggle to spread the gospel. Priscilla a fellow worker with Paul who was mentioned as being higher in authority than her husband Rom 16:3,4. Usually in scripture the first name designates authority. Phoebe a leader at the church Cenchrea, actually the leader of the church Rom 16:1,2. The word to describe Diakonos which means deacon or minister. This designation was the designation for an official leadership position in the New Testament Church. Junias was identified as an Apostle of The Lord Rom 16:7. Many have changed it from the original Greek Junias to Junia, trying to suite their male oriented societies bias. Mary was the completion of women’s redemption. Both Mary and Joseph were of the line of David. God chose the female lineage to bring the Messiah rather than the male, this was contrary to Jewish culture the Messiah should have come through the males blood but Jesus reversed the curse. Through women was the redeemer born. Only God who is perfect and holy could save the world and women was the only way Jesus could come to earth and still be fully God and fully man. Women was created mans equal complete, women had all that she needed, man needed more. Eve was made to be his helper to come alongside, being an equal she degraded herself by starting the dissention. In the redemption Jesus redeemed women Gal 3:28. We are all part of one body, God has called us all and women need to be able to the ministry God has called


Chapter 8

them to also. The first message Jesus gave His church He gave to Mary Magdalene to tell the disciples He was alive Matt 9:8-10. God is no respecter of persons Rom 2:11; 2 Sam 14:14; 2 Chron 19:7; Acts 10:34; Eph 6:9.

Women in leadership roles has been a divisive issue since Adam and Eve got kicked out of the garden. Women in Ministry is a historical, contextual and biblically proven issue. We must no longer suppress women otherwise we will offend them and they will leave the church for one of the neo-pagan women’s liberation movements, Deborah Arise! Women can be leaders, Joel 2:28,29 says "In the last days… your daughters shall prophesy… and upon the handmaids." Paul says in 1 Cor 11:12 "If anyone seems to be contentious, we have no such custom, nor do the churches of God," also in vs. 13 he again says to "Judge among yourselves, is it proper…? Vs. 15 says that the women's hair is her covering. Basically Paul is saying that it is a cultural thing i.e. avoiding the appearance of evil because of the bald temple prostitutes of the goddess Aphrodite and Dionysis.

Who is Junias the Apostle mentioned in Romans 16:6-8? Junias was a women apostle not just some nice little house wife. She was not just among the Apostles; She was of note among the Apostles. Tertulein wrote a letter talking of Junias saying that she was an outstanding woman Apostle. John Chrysostom a bishop circa. 337-407 said of Junia, "oh how great is the devotion of this women that she should be counted the appellation of Apostle." Origen of Alexandria said the name Junia is a variation of the name Julia as dose Thayer’s lexicon. Leonard Swidler cited Jerome -340-419- calling Junia a Female Apostle. Hatto of Vercelli, Theophylack and Peter Abelard all note Junias as a chief women apostle

In the case of Priscilla and Aquila both the husband and wife were the leaders of the church not just one, Rom 10: 2-6. Both are called fellow workers. Priscilla is a female name, and both Priscilla and Aquila were fellow workers and had a church in their house. Author David Canistraci in his book on Apostles refers to Priscilla a Female Leader.

Don't let us forget Deborah a Women leader, recorded in the bible and blessed by God and no scripture says she was used because no man would stand up, if so show me! Romans 16:6 Mary worked hard among the Romans. Rufus's mother mothered Paul, apostolic men father so apostolic women would mother. Paul talks of the apostolic anointing in feminine terms, 1 Thes 2:6-8. Nympha is a women who had a church in her house Colossians 4:15. Chloe was a female in leadership and her people reported to Paul, 1 Corinthians 1:11. Women were redeemed on the Cross and are not second rate, slave citizens of heaven. Men and women are equal in relationship in the home God has put the man over the women as to headship and spiritual authority. Men and women are both admonished to submit one to another. The home does not relate to church structural authority. Galatians 3:28 says, "There is no Jew nor Greek, Slave nor Free, MALE nor FEMALE in the body of Christ." If women can not be a viable part of church leadership we are a four cylinder car running on two cylinders and the word of God says that we can not tell our other parts that they are not of us or can't function among us because we do not like them - 1 Cor 12:12-18.

Paul when discussing the issues of whether or not a women should lead in churches and how they should act said, "if anyone seems continuous, WE HAVE NO SUCH COSTUME nor do the CHURCHES OF GOD," 1 Corinthian 11:16. This text shows that it was a cultural COSTUME not a biblical mandate, i.e. note use of the "costume." Paul’s notes that there are two things here that he did in the churches he planted and ministered in that was different than what the other Apostles did. He even made a note that there is no such costume in the


Chapter 8

churches but it was his costume being he was a devote Jew and not wanting to offend them. He held to his lifelong personal opinion and ministry style. The only reason He ordered his churches in this way was because of culture issues. If you look at 1 Cor 14:34-35 and 1 Timothy 2:11-15 you will see that in both contexts he was warning them to not look or act like the temple prostitutes/priestesses of the goddess of Dionysus, Aphrodite and Astoreth who had shaved heads and would chant and prophesy in demonic ritualistic practices along with eating blood sacrificed to idols. We are admonished to shun from evil practices hating even the appearance of evil. The first sermon preached after his resurrection was by Mary and Martha not peter and Paul. Jesus sent Mary and Martha to tell the others the good news.

The Greek word in 1 Cor 11 translated by some as "head" literally means "source" denoting source of derivation not authority. Now Christ is God the Son and Father God is His 'source' of authority and power. Jesus is still fully God. The same word is used twice in first Corinthians so in the manner that you use the word to describe the Christ you must use in the same manner towards women. Does Christ have all power and authority or not, does God the Father? They are equal Phil 2:6, the same with male and female. God made the male and female not subjugator and subject. Jesus is the redeemer of women. A woman carried and raised Jesus. Women were called bone of bone and flesh of flesh terms of equality not of subjugation and how does 1 Cor 11:8-9 fit into that. 16. Do we live in a patriarchal society? Jesus did we don't, this issue is a cultural and contextual issue not a theological issue. Should we force a historical culture on a present culture, NO! We must be true to who we are not who we were. The Gospel never changes but the context it is set in and the culture always change try planting a church in Afghanistan playing Christian Rock to some local Aborigines. That wont work unless you find a pack of heavy metal head bangers in the forest. Have the attitude of Christ one of Humility not Subjugation Phil 2:5-6. In His Presence are liberty and freedom not bondage and subjugation.

1 Cor 14:34-36 says "Let your women keep silent in the churches, for they are not permitted to speak; but they are to be submissive as the law also says. And if they want to learn something let them question their husbands in their homes; for women to speak in church is shameful. Or did the word of God come originally from you? Or was it you only that it reached?" Here Paul is dealing with the propriety of women speaking in church. This is believed to be because of a cultural bias, and the fact that the temple prostitutes who worship Dionysus, and the other so called god's were rather unruly and outspoken they would shave there heads and prophesy in chants. According to Leon Morris, for women to teach at that time it would discredit the newly formed way of Christianity in the eyes of the Greeks and the Jews. To become all to all they were admonished to follow the trend in abstaining from all appearances of evil. Even in the Old Testament when it was culturally unacceptable women were used mightily of God to lead and teach. However Miriam, Deborah and Huldah were prophetesses who were used mightily for God. Joel 2:28,29 goes on to say, "In the last days… your daughters shall prophesy… and upon the handmaids in those days I shall pour out my spirit." So you see that scripturally women can be ministers of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We must no longer oppress or suppress those called of God.


Appendix

Appendix I

The Cessation of Cessation Theology

Many wonder if God still moves today, whether He speaks to His people or not. Does God still heal people, are the gifts of the spirit still in operation? I would like to take a clear and concise look at the arguments for and against the modern manifestation of the gifts of the spirit. Going with the general cessations argument cessation of charismata is not feasible according to scripture to say that Spiritual gifts, Prophecy and Tongues are not for today. The argument generally used is 1 Cor 13: 10,8 "When that which is perfect has come that which is partial will be done away with. Love never fails but whether there are prophecies, they will fail; whether there are tongues, they will cease; whether there is knowledge they will pass away." In many cessation commentaries on this passage note that which is perfect is in fact Christ's' second coming (The New Geneva study bible 1 Cor 13:8,10 foot notes, see also Eph 4:13). These questionable theologians who base there theories on experience rather than scripture however fail to mention that when that which is perfect has come, that knowledge will be done away with note vs.8. They are still thinking and reasoning right, well tongues must still be in existence, because God has not done away with knowledge as of yet. By virtue of the fact that they are still increasing in knowledge and that the book Daniel says that a sign of the end times is that knowledge will increase, tongues could not have ceased and therefore they are still in effect and available for you and me. Cessation Theologians state vs. 8,13 merely to support an experience-based dogmatic theology, which they half-heartedly try to support their errant doctrine Eisogetically and existentially, not exegetically. They try putting their false errant doctrine into scripture instead of pulling out truth. This experience-based theology could be the downfall of biblical based Christianity as we know it 1 Tim 3:16-17; 2 Pet 1:19-21. This experience based theology is an outward shell of religion denying the power of GOD Matt 22:29; Mark 12:24. These theologians have it all figured out in their heads they need to experience the power of God, to be set free Mark 16:15-20; Luke 24:49; Acts 1:8; 2:4; 10:38. Jesus can and will fill them with His spirit if they let their religious walls down and allow the power of God to come in Luke 5:17; Acts 2:38; 3:19; 4:31; Rom 1:17; 10:17,15; Heb 11:1,6; Rev 3:15-21. Another apparent error is that they prophesy and do not know it. Prophecy is God making His word alive, real, and directed to a know situation. No prophecy will ever contradict scripture. Every Sunday they pray that God will give them the word for the congregation for that week, that is prophecy. Prophecy is God bringing His word alive and directed for today's audience They sometimes tell people in their congregation that the felt The Lord told them to tell that person something, that is also a form of prophecy. Joel 2:28 says "In the last days God is going to pour His spirit on all flesh; and your sons and daughters will prophecy, your old men will dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Now when this dispensation of The Holy Spirit began tongues was the initial physical evidences or signs of the Holy Spirits descent to the believers were: "A sound from heaven, a rushing mighty wind…. It filled the house… Tongues of Fire… They were speaking so loud as to draw a crowd, speaking in the people's languages the mystery of God. There also appeared to be an intense outward manifestation that scripture choose not to record so we would not get hung up on manifestations but rather seek The LORD Verse 13, and 17. Acts 2. Now Paul said by the inspiration of the Holy Ghost said, "this is that, that was prophesied by the prophet Joel." Joel said in the last days (or end times) God would pour our His spirit on all flesh that they would prophesy, dream dreams, and see visions. Joel said nothing about tongues, in foreign languages, cloven fire, wind, spiritual drunkenness, or something filling a room. Now we can look at this and say that is not biblical you have no proof text for tongues, spiritual drunkenness, fire, wind, etc… These were all manifestations of God in the Old

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Appendix

Testament except, speaking in unknown languages the mysteries of God. Know maybe if you take Jesus literal in Mark 16:16-20, Were He says, "They that believe… shall speak with new tongues." Now this passage is not in all manuscripts. It however important to consider that it was authoritative enough by modern day biblical scholars for it they have added it into all modern day accepted versions of the bible. Cessation theology came from a deception in the 1 Corinthian Church and the scripture tells us cessation theology is part the end time deception and false prophets whom Paul said was already in the church. In 1 Corinthians He talks of the rapture. Note. to remember this is all around the time of the destruction of the temple 70 C.E. The heresy that Paul was preaching in 2 Corinthians saying the rapture had not happened was talking of the cessation theology at its original roots. 1 Cor. has a prophecy of the rapture the false prophets and apostles in the Corinthian Church then say that since the temple has been destroyed that the rapture, tribulation, and the judgment of the world had happened in 70 C.E. at the destruction of the temple using Matthew 24 that talks of this Generation shall not pass away before they see the coming of the son of man and that the temple will be destroyed. They took those two precepts out of context and tried to add them together saying that that literal generation would not pass away without Jesus coming again. So when the temple was destroyed using those scriptures and the ones in Daniel talking of the abomination and desolation and the anti-Christ setting himself up in the temple of God in the place of God to say that Jesus had returned then and that was the end of the Christian era. and that we were living in the millennium and now we did not need the bible, the devil was in the abyss, and we did not need the Holy Spirit. However Paul said that was heresy and called them false prophets and false apostles. Paul proved this wrong however some still held to this belief using the same passage in Matthew 24 to prove that some generation will not pass away seeing Jesus return. Some still clung unto this theology, that is why at the turn of 1,000 C.E. the catholic church believed that Christ would come to take us to heaven for eternity however this did not come to pass so they trashed that idea and still held to cessation theology having no real biblical source for this doctrine. Many have used the passage in Matthew to say that there generation was the last one to live before Jesus return so let me prove to you that this theology is faulty and extra biblical. The word Generation can me a time period in which people live, a nation, a race, a people. Jesus was in fact saying this people, this nation of Israel, This race shall not pass away until Jesus come again. The Jews will remain the Greco and Roman empires are gone and their people non existent however the Jewish people are still on this earth and now have their nation back. The Jews will see Jesus return and the bible says the nation of Israel will be saved in a day probably during the millennium. So we see cessation theology to be part of the end time spirit of the Christ in the Church that all these end times prophecies are ALL false no guessing is possible Jesus said we are to never know the day nor the hour. We can not know when Jesus will return and their is no way to know as God intended it.

Laying on of hands to release on in their gifts, in healing, and releasing one to speak in tongues is biblical precedent Read 1 Tim 1:9; 4:14; 2 Tim 1:6; James 5:13-16. 1 Cor 13:8 for cessation theology says when that which is perfect has come knowledge will cease have you stopped thinking then knowledge has not ceased and tongues is still for today. Eph 4:10-16 says that Christ gave the church Apostles, Prophets, Evangelist, Preachers, and Teachers for the equipping of the saints for the work of the ministry. Saints still need to be equipped and are still called to the ministry. This was what Christ gave to the church and He has not taken it back so anything else is heresy and backbiting. Speaking in tongues is for all believers, can be human languages, or the languages of the God and the angels, (Mark 16:15-20; Acts 2:4-17; 1 Cor 12:7-11,28-31;13:1;14:2). 1 Corinthians 13:8 says when that which is perfect has come that God will do away with tongues, prophecies, and knowledge will be done away with. Well Daniel says in the end times prophecy will increase and we are living in the end times so if you take scripture precept upon precept this tells me that the gifts of the spirit will increase in the end time. We are living in


Appendix

the end time so that seems right. If you look at Joel 2:28 it says that in the last days which we are living in and have been living in since Jesus died God will pour His spirit out upon all flesh and the people will prophesy. Well prophecy is an end time thing we are in the end times so prophecy is for today. Ephesians 4:11 says God gave the gifts for the equipping of the church until He comes agian the gifts of the spirit are for us today until Jesus returns.

Are we still in the end times? We should still be experiencing the former and latter rains Joel 2. If we are truly living in the end times we should still experience what Joel prophesied, Peter proclaimed to be the fulfillment, and the New Testament church experienced. Are we a New Living Testament Church or an Old Testament Church that brings spiritual death? We are still living in the end times and God has not yet atleast to my knowledge poured out His spirit on all flesh. When He all flesh has had, God's spirit poured out upon them the end shall come. If the end has not come and Gods spirit has not been poured out on all flesh, that means we should still be experiencing what Joel prophesied about and Peter proclaimed to be the fulfillment of that. The fulfillment being speaking in unknown tongues, prophecy, visions, and dreams. According to scripture, tongues are for today and they are for you. According to extra-biblical experientialy fearful doctrine, they ceased, either with the apostles, or with the completion of the bible. God is not a man that He should lie Romans 3:4. If we ask God for The Holy Spirit will He give us a serpent, I think not. If man being evil knows how to give good gifts how much more will our heavenly father give The Holy Spirit to them that ask Luke 11:13. "For God has not given us a spirit of fear and timidity, but of power and of love and of a sound mind," 2 Tim 1:7.

Let your inhibitions against God's Spirit moving in your own personal life go and ask God to fill you with His Spirit. He can not deny Himself. Do not check you head at the door, test the spirits, line it up with the word of God, and receive. This is Gods Spirit, and Gods promise He cannot deny Himself, do not be unbelieving Heb 3:12-13. I think some major error's that have caused or attributes to these errant doctrines are: The acceptance and use of anti-biblical, and extra-biblical church organizational and political structures, The formation of denominations in the one true body of Christ. Do not get me wrong we need leadership, accountability, networking, and unity, but not against one another. What importance do these have do you ask? Well, number one we aren't being used of God to bring in the lost like scripture tells us to we haven't fulfilled the great commission to preach to the whole world before Jesus comes again. We must repent and return to the original blue print of the church the whole counsel of God. I also believe that the acceptance of non-Christian extra-biblical, and secular humanistic teachings, practices and doctrines into the church have been a part of the churches outreaching downfall. We have begun to and are used to human planned outreaches, and ministries instead of Christ lead. We have taken the place o Christ with our programs. Allow Jesus take the reigns of the church to reach the lost through His multi-faceted body to the ends and through the means, He prescribes. We have fallen short and must find a solution in love bringing unity. We must return to biblical faith basing all faith and practice upon the word of God and the word of God alone. If we really believe it to be the infallible word for all faith practice, if we really believe this we must live it. Too many lost people see us not living it and want nothing to do with us because they know we are hypocrites. We must return to biblical faith and practice being lead by and utterly depending upon the Holy Spirit, because the original manuscripts are fully inspired of God for teaching, reproving and setting things straight. So that we as the church may reach out into the whole world to preach the whole counsel of God to heal the whole person to o reach out and influence the globe for Jesus. Let us come together in unity looking for solution not picking about the problems. Picking will not solve it let us do something constructive as The Body that we are.


Discerning Manifestations

Appendix II

Concerning Manifestations

There are many biblical accounts of God's Spirit manifesting itself in a way contrary to human reasoning. Jesus told his disciple they had to drink his flesh and eat his blood. He new it would offend many and almost all left except the twelve. God has a way of offending us to see if we truly want to be or choose to be real with him. I do not believe in endorsing, or preaching manifestations. Were there is confusion there must be correction and discipleship. So in an attitude of love I approach this with caution. This is a Jonathan Edwards said there No doctrine in scripture implicitly teaching or instructing about any manifestations as a sign of a move of God, or explicitly saying that it is to be restricted. So I don't use these scripture to start a new doctrine but to show that God does something when we ask him to move. Howbeit that he moves is up to him and to His own glory. It is not for me to now why or judge only God knows. The signs do not prove a work of God, or deny it. Manifestations happen in response to sincere fervent prayer. Scripture clearly tells us that if we ask God for the Holy Spirit we will not get a devil, a snake, or a scorpion. God is sovereign we can not receive a false spirit if we ask for God's Spirit. Is he sovereign of not. Satan cannot lift up Jesus like he is being lifted up in these revival, and renewals continuing all over the earth. Most importantly Satan cannot save that many souls. 125,000 at Brownsville, 25,000 at Toronto, 20,000 at Grand Rapids Michigan First AOG. In the second Great Awakening, Finney's Revivals and the ensuing revivals that followed over those ten-fifteen years or so 150,000 souls were saved. At this point a minimum of almost 170,000 souls have been saved this will go down in the history books as an awakening. You need to hope on the train if you are doubting. Taste the fruit. Check the fruit. Test the fruit. It is good.

1 Corinthians 12:4-11 shows us there are a diversity of manifestations of and reactions, to the Spirit of God. 1 Corinthians is not a full list of scriptural manifestations or reactions to the spirit of God it is however an over view of the ones used most powerfully for the advancement of Gods kingdom. Manifestations and reactions to Gods' spirit should therefore be judge by whether it exalts Jesus. Is Jesus lifted up? (12:3; 1 John 3-5; Mark 9:38-41). Does it bear Jesus' fruit? Does it produce godly character? Does it produce a greater hunger for God? Does it bring a deeper spiritual depth? Is there a practical biblical and experiential change in the heart when the manifest presence of God comes upon the person? Are they being changed in the presence of a holy God? (Gal 5:22; 1 Cor 13; John 15:11-13) Does it line up with Jesus Words? (1 Tim 3:16; 2 Pet 1:19-21; John 15:11,12; 14:15). Is it causing people to love God more? Does it cause them to love their fellow brothers and the lost more? (Mark 12:29-31; John 14:15; 15:9-17). You must also test the spirits, and the fruit (1 John 3-5; Matt 7:15-20; 1 Cor 12:10). How do you discern spirits you may ask? First point I would like to make is Testing the spirits is a command not a suggestion 1 John 4:1. Discernment is the ability to see into the supernatural realm by the power of God, with His supernaturally enabled wisdom and direction to judge whether a prophetic word is true or false. Why judge or test the spirits because there are many false prophets, deceivers, and anti-christs' on the earth that Jesus prophesied would come. 1 John 4:1 "By this, you know the Spirit of God: Every spirit that confesses that Jesus is the Christ has come in the flesh is of God, and every spirit that does not confess that Jesus is the Christ is not of God, and this is the spirit of the antichrist, which you have heard is coming and is already now in the world." (1 John 4:2,3; 1 Cor 13:1). You must know Jesus and the Spirit of God Matt 7:21-23. Knowing Holy Spirit, who teaches, guides, directs, reveals, is a constant imperative necessity in the discerning of spirits John 16:8-13; 1 John 2:20,27; 3:24-4:7; 5:4.

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Discerning of Spirits is not a fleshly thing that we say it not God because it looks weird, discerning our opinion or whether if it does or does not fit into out doctrine, it asking God through His holy writ and by the anointing of His spirit to reveal what is of God, the flesh, the world, or the devil. No it is a supernatural insight given by the Holy Spirit through His word, by His spirit with a supernatural enabling to enact complete deliverance. The Holy Spirit will not give you discernment to discuss, write negative books on, attack; rather on the contrary He will give you His supernatural enabling to set the captives free, guidance, words of wisdom, words of knowledge, prophecy, counsel, insight, helps, working of miracles, etc….. to destroy the works of darkness. It may not be in the context of your traditional theology. Learn to hear Gods still small voice. There are four major areas to discern what spirit is at work: the spirit of God, the spirit of man, the spirit of the world and/or the spirit of the devil. Who is at work is the question which one of the above. Elisha saw the spirit world, and prayed that his servant might see also 2 Kings 6:15-17. Paul the Apostle discerned the spirit of the enemy, and commanded it to leave Acts 16:16-19. Acts 12:21-41 shows us mans spirit exalting himself. 1 Cor 3:1-3 shows us the human spirit, the carnal nature, the flesh at work in the church. The spirit of God is what we want to move. The flesh is what we strive to purge out everyday Rom 3,6-8; Gal 2,3; Heb 3:12,13. The spirit of the world is satan but not all worldly things are of the devil some are carnal in nature, some are cultural. The demonic is what Jesus was sent into the world to destroy Acts 10:38. As His ambassadors with His Spirit we are to set the oppressed free in His name. The signs of demonic activity that we need to pray for deliverance, or expel the demons in these instances if this becomes the case are laid out in their proceeding stages are listed here..

Demonic attacks begin with and progress to: regression (drawing back; backsliding), suppression (Unable to express emotion, isolated, lacking joy), anxiety (anxiety attacks, frantic, panic), depression (Spirit becomes broken, gives up), oppression (A person becomes oppressed weighed down, smothered, bound by past guilt, sins, failures, inadequacies, etc…), obsession (impulsive behavior; person becomes preoccupied with an idea, emotion, hurt, anger, order, control, etc…..), and finally possession (this is a total lose of control to the enemy). Regression, suppression, anxiety, depression, oppression, and obsession are mental, but possession is spiritual. If the first stages are not dealt with the demon will and can seize control of their spirit. The good news the power of the cross, and Jesus blood applied at any point can and will effect total deliverance if we call on His name and put faith in His completely free and atoning blood. Eph 6:12; 2 Cor 10:4-6, We do not battle against flesh and blood. Rather the weapons of our warfare are mighty in God for pulling down spiritual strongholds. Discernment allows us to see into the spiritual world and see what is happening receiving God's guidance and direction for deliverance. Prayer, knowing Jesus, bible study, being grounded, rooted in the word of God, and knowing who you are in Jesus are some very important keys to discernment and deliverance. The word gives discernment Ezekiel 44:23. Prayer reveals thing you do not know John 16:12-14. Understanding who you are in Jesus gives you the open door to receive the authority Jesus has already given you Mark 16:15-20. Prayer moves you from the flesh to the spiritual. Praise is a powerful method to open the heavens thus effecting a deliverance Psa 22:4; 149:6-9; Ex 15:10-11. Our confession of faith, affects our spiritual attitude, and changes the spiritual climate we live in Rev 12:10.

Too many people judge a manifestation of God's spirit on whether it embarrasses your flesh or not. If God tells them to roar like a lion they usually would argue that is not of GOD. When God Himself roared like a lion Amos 1:2; 3:7-8. Are we greater than GOD that we can say that we are to good to roar like a lion? NO, far be it for me to say I am greater than GOD, that is pride that stops us from receiving Gods will for out lives James 4:6-10. We forget that if we ask for The Holy Spirit God loves us to much to deceive us, He cannot deny Himself Luke 11:13. Who is



stronger God or satan, so if you ask God to move, who is stronger, and who is going to respond to your prayer? I think our problem is not in God but in our view of Him. We think of Him as too wimpy to beat up the little ole' devil. God is Omni-potent, Omniscient, Omni-present, and Immutable. He can not and will not change Himself. Too many people are worried about what a work of God looks like and not the fruit. Jesus told us not to Judge lest we be judge, but that we would know all men by their fruit Matt 7:1,15-20; Gal 5:22; 6:7. Note. Manifestations do not prove a work of God or deny it. Daniel shook in the presence of an angel, and demons shook people when Jesus cast them out Daniel 10:10-19; Mark 9:20:26. This is were we must learn to discern which is of God and which is not. Pray, read the bible, test the spirits, and then do something beneficial for the advancement of the kingdom of God. Don't do things to advancement of the kingdom of your mouth, pride, or ministry but rather do things for the advancement of the kingdom of Jesus.

Do not judge a move of God by a manifestation do what Christ said judge it by the fruit of the spirit Matt 7:15-23; Gal 5:22. I cannot stop God. If this is of God you can't stop it, if it is not of God it will come to not. I can resist him in my own life but that brings separation and sin. God will use another vessel if I deny him the chance to use me. First, Lets start talking about manifestations with Falling out according to scripture Acts 9:34, Acts 26:14, Revelation 1:10-17, John 18:4-6, Matthew 17:6, Ezekiel 1:28; 3:23; 43:3; 44:4, Daniel 8:17-18; 10:7-9, Judges 13:20, Leviticus 9:23-24; Numbers 22:31; 24:4,16; Deuteronomy 9:25; II Chronicles 5:12-13; 20:18; John 4:1, Acts 17:11, and I Thessalonians 5:21. In some of these verses the persons involved fell to there face before God. It doesn't say how they feel. If it was on there own or by the spirit of God. Scriptures say none can come unto the father unless the spirit draws them. So, the Spirit of God was involved and they feel on there faces before God. In Acts 9:34 Aeneas was Healed without falling, Acts 26:14 it says only they fell to the earth not how they fell. Falling is not a prerequisite it is just one manifestation God uses in changing and moving people in his sovereign will. Not everyone fall's. So why focus on the manifestation? Instead do what Christ said test the fruit Does it bear fruit Matt 7:15-23; Gal 5:22; John 15:1-8, does it exalt Jesus as lord and savior 1 Cor 12:3: 1 John 4:1-6: Mark 9:38-41, does it line up with God's word 1 Pet 1:19-21: 2 Tim 3:16-17. Revelation 1:17 says that John fell. He might of fell backwards or forward. scripture does not denote either way. It is certain though John wasn't in control because it says he fell as though dead. Numbers 24:4, 24:16 they fell into a trance. Deuteronomy 9:25 it does not say which way they fell, but it says they fell. II Chronicles 5:12-13 again it does not say which way they fell. It also says they could not move but it also says that the cloud of God was there and could be seen. Falling is scriptural which direction you fall is not always noted in scripture because it wasn't meant to be a doctrine. Let God move don't despise prophecy 1 Thes 5:18. The simple fact is when God gets a hold of you, you will either want to fall on you face and plead his grace and mercies or you fall on your back or he will put you on you back and he will administer his grace and mercies. Falling can be you just giving God a courtesy dip or allowing him taking you down, or you choosing to fall on you face and call on the name of The Lord.

Historically, Manifestation have occurred with regularity throughout the history of revivals; i.e. Azusa Street (shaking, rolling, laughing, falling), Wales in 1904 (shaking, falling, rolling, barking), Wesley and Whitfield Revivals (shaking, falling, laughing, barking, grunts), Cane Ridge (shaking, falling, barking), Kentucky, etc.

Secondly lets look at being drunk in the Spirit. This again is a term, not in the Bible, used to describe a spiritual phenomenon. In Jeremiah it describe him as being drunk Jer. 23:9. In Daniel verse 10 Daniel looked drunk. In Ezekiel 6;8 Ezekiel acted drunk. 1 Sam 10:6-11; 19:18-24 Saul acted drunk. Act 2 they looked drunk to the onlookers. Scripture tells us not to be drunk with wine but be filled with The Spirit, and to sing hymn, songs, and



spiritual hymns to encourage one another. When people are drunk they usually sing songs to one another. The bible admonishes us not to be drunk with wine but to be filled with God. It is apparent when God show up our spirit may feel overwhelmed, inebriated for lack of a better word to use. In these instance if we are not changed in the presence of a Holy God we need to examine ourselves. O.T prophets acted abnormally when God came on them. God is the same yesterday today and forever. The O.T is the example of what should happen in the N.T. If that is the case. Every Christian being a priest, a king, and a prophet should experience some form of this manifestation. Manifestations aren't a requirement I am speaking figuratively in the above priest, king and prophet example to make a case and point.

Thirdly, uncontrollable shaking is in the bible. The following Scriptures for consideration: Daniel 10:7, Ezekiel 12:18; 38:19-20; Hebrews 12:21; Habakkuk 3:16; Jeremiah 23:9; 33:9, Psalm 99:1; 114:7; Isaiah 66:5; Hosea 11:10-11; Mark 16:8; Acts 7:32; Acts 9:6. The manifestations are the least important things that occur in any Revival. They always cause the biggest stir. Repentance, salvation, change, a living and growing personal relationship with Jesus, Passion for the lost, a renewed intimacy with God, Inner healing, and holy living are the focus of this revival. Someone falling down, shaking, or staggering mean absolutely nothing except a physical response to a work God may be doing in a person’s life. There is always falling away with a little falling out in the spirit of God. You always have people with critical spirits they just seem to come out more when God moves because it is not in their order of things. Though It seems to be in God's order of things. If the individual’s life is not changed by a manifestation, then all that has occurred is a person fell down, or shook, or staggered. Sometimes people shake and act like a fool to get attention, or to acct spiritual. In those situations you disciple in love. We as christians should not major on manifestations, we shouldn't promote or demote them, we shouldn't prohibit them: what don't prohibit. If it is God bless what God is doing. If it is not God instruct and disciple in love if it is the flesh. If it is the satan cast him out. Use your authority in Jesus name for something other than being a pew warmer and a slanderer.

If it is God you can't stop it. 1 Cor 14:39-40. If they happen, they happen. We, too, exercise real Scriptural concerns in that when and if something violates Scripture, it shall and should be stopped. In conclusion, let me encourage you to visit a church experiencing biblically based revival. Usually these manifestations happen in response to a prayer of faith that God while come by his spirit and do his work. following the biblical pattern of praying and laying hands on Mark 16:16-18; James 5:16. During this prayer time asking God to show up he does so according to scripture. Then something extraordinary happens their flesh responds to the spirit of God in a way we are not used to. If it does not line up with the full gospel from cover to cover it is not of God. God is not going to bring in a new revelation. He will not change what is already established. He will remind us of what is main in plain, and already clearly laid out in scripture. There is nothing new under the sun. You can judge a tree by the fruit it bears and the fruit is in this revival. Brownsville AOG for example has had decision cards on more than 300,000 souls who have committed their lives to the lordship of Jesus Christ, many more could have made decision without filling out the cards. Drug addicts, alcoholics, prostitutes, etc. have been saved and delivered. Satan does not do these kinds of things and can't. May I remind you a kingdom divided against itself cannot stand. Only God can.

1 Thessalonians 5:17-22 "Pray without ceasing, In every thing give thanks: for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus concerning you. Quench not the Spirit. Despise not prophesying. Test all things; hold fast that which is good.

Abstain from all appearance of evil."

1 Cor 14:39 "Therefore my brothers, be eager to prophecy, and do not forbid to speak in tongues."



1 Cor 14:1 "Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy."

1 Cor 12:31 "Eagerly desire the greater gifts."

1 Cor 12:1 "Concerning spirituals I do not want you to be ignorant."

seek the truth and the truth will set you free.

Fourthly, Biblical expressions of animal manifestations prophetic mime in worship and intercession, judgment, and intercession. I don't endorse them. I don't know if they all are of God but there are some biblical accounts that prove them to a viable expression of God in our lives. Micah 1:8 "Therefore I will wail and howl, I will go stripped and naked: I will make a wailing like the Jackals (dogs), and mourning as the owls." Scripture Indicates Micah's willingness to utter animal sounds such as "howling", "wailing like dogs" and bird sounds (owls) in intercession for lost people. Jesus is the lion of the tribe of Judah. Angelic creature likened to lions Eze 1:11; 10:14; Dan 7:4; Rev 4:7. We are a little lower than angels if we are a little lower than angels and they are referred to majestic animals such as lions. How much less of a problem should it be for us. Dog sound usually seem to denote and indignation at the lost backslidden state of the church as a whole. Lions are a sign of victory according to scripture. Lions that praise God constantly. God caused a king in the O.T to roam around on his hands and knees and eat grass for years to humble him. Animal manifestations make you humble your flesh to obey God. It is not something easy to do you don't want to be made a fool of. If you have pride God may have to do it to humble you. Remember God resist's the proud. God is not happy with proud people James 4:6-8. God needs to humble our flesh when we are to proud to humble ourselves. Scripture also says that our strength is to be renewed like majestic eagles PS 103:5; Isa 40:31. Angels again are likened to eagles Eze 1:10; Rev 4:7; 12:14. They too are in heaven praising God. It is biblical for the spirit of God to cause you to mount up like an eagle, to cause a man to act like a lion, for animal like angels to praise God, for a prophet to howl and hoot, and for God to roar like a lion. If God roars like a lion from heaven are we some how better than God that if he causes us to roar like a lion that we should disobey God I think not. Pray, read the word, and seek God's advice. Let God be true and every man be a liar. I have not experienced all of these manifestations, I have been drunk in the spirit but my mind was clean and sober. My senses were overwhelmed but my mind was always cognizant. I could reason and ask God questions. I do not believe in casting your cares to the wind. God says let us reason together. Just because you body is under the influence of God's spirit doesn't mean you are out of control. God is a gentleman you can stop the experience at anytime. You can't always have an experience when you want one but when God show's, however you have a choice, to receive or reject it. To let him move or to resist. I have spoke in tongues, prophesies, fallen, shook, laughed, hooted, howled, groaned, interceded, cried, bent at the waste, felt burning inn my body, felt like my whole body was covered in anointing oil, moaned, pleaded, I've been in trances, I've seen visions on different level's and many other manifestation's. I do not say this to brag because if I did I would loose my reward in heaven. I say this so you know that I am talking from experience, and that I know it is God. I was raised Jehovah's Witness and God has saved me from that by the power of his spirit. I have heard a few encouraging testimonies of other J.W's feeling the power of God and becoming Christians. When confronted by critics respond as briefly as possible and be direct and to the point. Ask them if you can pray for them and ask God for his guidance.


conclusion

Conclusion

All Things In Order

● 14:39 So therefore, brothers, seek with eagerly to prophesy, and do not stop anyone from speaking in unknown languages.

● 14:40 Let all things be done decently and in order.

Paul understood the importance of prophecy as being important in church. As is in most revivals were men of God get a hold of the main and plain things of scripture and decide to obey God, then God tends to show up in power. As this modern day outpouring which from my studies is a continuation of what was started at Pentecost and has continued down through the ages. I believe this to have started with God moving on many hearts corresponding to the ending of the Charismatic revival in the late seventies and the early eighties. This continuing stream of God’s Miraculous power kept moving, ebbing, and flowing until the outbreak of revival on Mothers day, 1994 in Toronto, Canada, at a little church of 120 believers called "Toronto Airport Vineyard Fellowship." Were God soveriegnly broke out one of the greatest outpourings to date, which is continuing to flow non stop, with a mass total of salvation’s since the out break of this revival in North America at aprox. 250,000 or more in just major four churches alone. Brownsville, FL, Marysville, WA, Grand Rapids, MA, Toronto Canada, Holy Trinity Brampton, England. Some 10,000 are getting saved a day in Argentina which sparked "The Toronto Blessing. Benny Hinns and Rodney Howard Browne’s ministries also had a major impact on this ensuing revival. Many people judge what it looks like, I choose to judge it by the fruit. When is the last time any of us in the church Got even 1,000 saved a day continually with rapid growth and increase? When is the last time we have successfully by the leading of Gods spirit pastored a church of one hundred thousand? This is not counting all the churches and outreaches that have broke out in The Holy Ghost power in the US, Canada, England, Europe, China, Russia, and other countries around the world. To sum up what I believe to be important I will quote Wesley Campbell an ex-Baptist minister. Who got a hold of the power of God through the Vineyard movement checked the fruit, found it to be viable and effective for today. Quoting His book "Welcoming a Visitation of the Holy Spirit." He said, "The release of the prophetic is one of the primary aspect’s of an outpouring of the Holy Spirit." He also said, "It is important to facilitate and release the prophetic along with all the other gifts to make a move of God effective." Revival is usually men and women of God obeying the call of God, returning to our first love: Jesus, the lost, and the main and plain things of scripture Rev 3:15-22. Once we get a hold of the truths of God’s word and obey them revival will come. Returning to the main and plain things should be out number one goal. Paul ends this passage saying that all things must be done decently and in order let us remember that, this is Gods order and not mans. In Gods order will Peter was still speaking the group he was ministering to started speaking in tongues, and praising God (Acts 10:44). If that happened today Peter would be called a heretic but that is the word of God. Gods order is not mans. In Gods order a crippled man went jumping, shouting, and praising God through the temple during the hour of prayer (Act 3:1-10). In Gods order church should be in the streets and homes not and church building.

I believe it is vitally important to realize that Jesus never took the true Apostles or gifts from the church. I

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believe we need to realize these ministries are alive and feasible for today. We need to allow them back into the church. The Catholic church still believes in Apostolic succession, Apostles were never taken from the church. Mans traditions killed the power of God in the church. It is time to return to biblical Christianity not experiential dead Christianity. Biblical Christianity is vibrant and alive with the power of God. Revival is usually men and women of God obeying the call of God, returning to our first love: Jesus, the lost, and the main and plain things of scripture Rev 3:15-22. Once we get a hold of the truths of God’s word and obey them revival will come. Returning to the main and plain things should be out number one goal. We must go out and start and continue to reach the lost, until they are all saved, Matt 24:14; 28:19; Mark 16:15-20; Luke 14:23; 24:49; Acts 1:8; 2:4. We must become and stay humble, Matt 5:43-6:4,33; 19:30 James 4:6, hungry, Matt 5:8, holy, Matt 5:3,21-6:23; 7:15-23; Heb 12:14. We must have vision for Gods great harvest, Matt 9:35-10:1,8,14-16; Pro 29:18, we must be a people of faith, Rom 1:17; Heb 11:1,6; James 1:5-8, and we must continue to be a people of prayer, Eph 6:10-18; 1 Thes 5:17."

● 14:15 What then is the conclusion? I will pray with the spirit, and I will also pray

with my understanding; I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with my

understanding.

Paul says, "What then is the conclusion? I will pray in the spirit, and I will pray with understanding; I will sing with the spirit, and I will also sing with my understanding." Paul is saying that God desires to move in power let us not restrict His hand, let us invite his power and shepherd the move of God. Let us not quench nor grieve the spirit rather let us stir up the fire of God while keeping discipline and order. God desires to pour out His prophetic power that His majesty may be seen so that the lost will run to Him through the power of His glory released in our praises drawing the lost to Himself. He said if we would lift up Jesus, live in His power and demonstrate the characteristics of His personality that He would draw the lost to Himself. In conclusion we must obey God rather than man, invite Him to come and make Himself known, walk in His spirit and give away His love to the lost.

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