I had a dream the other day that ended with a song being sung to me. The only line that I'm sure I remember and got right was "Is it time for standing in the David knowing?" The implied answer was "yes". Although I'm sure this makes no sense to you, I understood the question.
David was a student of God. He studied His emotions, the things that bring Him pleasure and the things that grieve Him; what moves Him and what motivates Him. He studied God's character and had insight into God's heart. He looked for Him everywhere and IN every thing and was utterly delighted.
David's legacy of greatness is not rooted in his ability as a leader or his prowess as a worshiper and psalmist, or any of the other really wonderful, transparent, broken yet beautiful things about him. His greatness is found in contemplating the immense heart of God and the understanding that His "gentleness" makes us great. Psalm 18:35. David steered his heart to know the Heart of God in the terrifying depth of naked intimacy. He understood something about God's heart that was radically intense and recklessly abandoned and we're still playing catch up to these revelations.
Now why would it be time for standing in the "David knowing"? I think it's because the times are getting shaky and we MUST cultivate an un-offendable heart. We MUST know Him and lean into the truth of who He is and His character or we will be shaken to our core by what we see around us and experience personally and accusation against God and His people will seem plausible; finding a place to root in our hearts. The results of giving way to lies about our Father will be devastating for not just you, but those who you have influence over. However, the results of knowing the true character of our Dad are life and hope.
Can I encourage you to open up the word with a new prayer in your heart? Ask Holy Spirit to show you the Heart of God. Cultivate an understanding of what truly moves Him and ask that He help you develop a reliance upon His character so that when everything else appears to contradict it, you can secure others and help them stand.
I don't think this is just a good idea. I think it's vital and it is part of the oil of intimacy that the five wise virgins had prepared. Ask God what He thinks about this and feel free to interact with me.
Monday, July 16, 2007
Tuesday, July 10, 2007
Roadposts
Roadposts:
This Gospel Must Be Preached II
~Danny Steyne~
"Danny, did you see all the signs in that meeting?" The question was rather a unique one, after all He was the One that put them there and the One who pointed them out to my dull mind. It was the next thing that threw me. "Signs are meant to be out in the world, not simply to be the focal point of conferences" Signs are simply "road posts" they are what I said they were signs "pointers!" Sometimes the larger signs are simply those intended to capture our attention to move in a direction because something is about to happen!
Over the past several years there have been many "signs" that have occurred in our meetings. We have had the smells, the clouds, the gold, the rain, the lightning, the wind, fire, angelic visitors, and many of the other signs that seem to be occurring in ever increasing waves across our country. I enjoy it when Heaven dwells on earth. It's wonderful to know that God has been where we are to set up the road posts to get us where we need to go! It's almost like following a trail that He left us through the woods!
When Jesus indicated that signs would accompany those who believed in Him, He wasn't indicating that they would focus on the signs. He was indicating that the Authority that was released through them would carry the numinous of God that would work through touch, atmosphere, sound, or event to demonstrate the Sonship we have in Him. The reason Peter's shadow "worked" and healed people wasn't because he focused on turning his shadow on, but rather he walked as a son before the Father and as a result the overshadowing of the Father worked through him.
If our focus becomes the signs we may miss the main thing that God has for us. The Power of the Gospel to save and to heal. The Power to transform not meetings, but nations with Him. Signs are merely intended to capture the minds of unbelievers and cause them to become believers! When we focus on signs, we have conferences of signposts! All the signs are in the building. God wants the signs in the streets pointing people to the Hope of their calling.
Exodus 33:16 shares a powerful understanding of the place of signs and wonders in a Biblical worldview. "How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?" The key to the Gospel is not the signs, but Him!
Having spent my early years in Africa, it was not uncommon to hear or see signs that were being done by those who didn�t know Jesus. As a young boy I watched men walk across fire, I saw demonic miraculous events. That changes the whole nature of everything if we have to compete by signs we will end up like Moses with the Egyptian sorcerers who replicated many of the same signs. The heart of Moses in Exodus was Lord, we want you, not simply signs!
As Westerners we become enamored with the supernatural. Most Easterners are not so easily affected. One precious servant of Jesus from another part of the world shared with me that supernatural events are a common occurrence in their life, on a daily basis, but the focus is not on the supernatural events, but the demonstration of the Love of Jesus. I am grateful that His Shadow overshadows His People and He Releases His Signs everywhere, but I am more grateful to hear His Voice, see His Face, and have His Presence with me.
Signs don't necessarily come with Love, But Love always comes with signs. Signs that transform people in His image, not sign-seekers. I was shocked about a year ago when I saw a picture with thousands of orbs at the sight of a Hindu festival. I asked the Lord what that was about and He responded to me, "If you look for signs you will see them everywhere, but if you look for me the signs will accompany first and foremost My Presence!" Now let me make it very clear I believe that signs SHOULD ALWAYS accompany His Presence, but they never need to be a focal point of the church. They are simply byproducts of His Presence!
The Gospel that we have been called to preach is one that is powerful. It is not in our picketing, demonstrating, legislating, or moral compassing that a nation will change. It is this Gospel that compels us with love! 2 Corinthians 5:14- "For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died." Nothing is more powerful, nothing more pervasive than a tongue loosed with His Words of deliverance, freedom, healing, and salvation!
If we go simply for signs,we can be deceived. Matthew 24:24 "For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect--if that were possible." If we go for Him, we never will be disappointed!
Signs then are "markings" on the trees: "Jesus has been here". This is the way walk in it as You pursue Him with all your heart! Mark 16:17-18 "And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well."
Signs are for unbelievers to turn to Him. Not for saints to have parties over! We are partying around street signs when the King has just simply walked that way down the block! He demonstrates He is on us by these signs, but doesn't leave us to simply hold a sign. . . He wants us to hold Him!
Pursuing yet more of Him!
For Further Study: (Notice that signs are sent to confirm the main thing: HIM!)
(Mark 16:20) Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.
(John 2:23) Now while he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many people saw the miraculous signs he was doing and believed in his name.
(John 3:2-3) He came to Jesus at night and said, "Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the miraculous signs you are doing if God were not with him." 3 In reply Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again."
(John 4:47-50) When this man heard that Jesus had arrived in Galilee from Judea, he went to him and begged him to come and heal his son, who was close to death. 48 "Unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders," Jesus told him, "you will never believe." 49 The royal official said, "Sir, come down before my child dies." 50 Jesus replied, "You may go. Your son will live." The man took Jesus at his word and departed.
(Acts 2:22) "Men of Israel, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know.
(Acts 4:30-31) Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus." 31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.
(Acts 5:12-14) The apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders among the people. And all the believers used to meet together in Solomon's Colonnade. 13 No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people. 14 Nevertheless, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number.
(Acts 8:6-8) When the crowds heard Philip and saw the miraculous signs he did, they all paid close attention to what he said. 7 With shrieks, evil spirits came out of many, and many paralytics and cripples were healed. 8 So there was great joy in that city.
(Acts 14:3) So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to do miraculous signs and wonders.
(Romans 15:18-19) I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obey God by what I have said and done-- 19 by the power of signs and miracles, through the power of the Spirit. So from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ.
(1 Corinthians 1:22-24) Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, 23 but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, 24 but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
(1 Corinthians 14:22) Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers; prophecy, however, is for believers, not for unbelievers.
This Gospel Must Be Preached II
~Danny Steyne~
"Danny, did you see all the signs in that meeting?" The question was rather a unique one, after all He was the One that put them there and the One who pointed them out to my dull mind. It was the next thing that threw me. "Signs are meant to be out in the world, not simply to be the focal point of conferences" Signs are simply "road posts" they are what I said they were signs "pointers!" Sometimes the larger signs are simply those intended to capture our attention to move in a direction because something is about to happen!
Over the past several years there have been many "signs" that have occurred in our meetings. We have had the smells, the clouds, the gold, the rain, the lightning, the wind, fire, angelic visitors, and many of the other signs that seem to be occurring in ever increasing waves across our country. I enjoy it when Heaven dwells on earth. It's wonderful to know that God has been where we are to set up the road posts to get us where we need to go! It's almost like following a trail that He left us through the woods!
When Jesus indicated that signs would accompany those who believed in Him, He wasn't indicating that they would focus on the signs. He was indicating that the Authority that was released through them would carry the numinous of God that would work through touch, atmosphere, sound, or event to demonstrate the Sonship we have in Him. The reason Peter's shadow "worked" and healed people wasn't because he focused on turning his shadow on, but rather he walked as a son before the Father and as a result the overshadowing of the Father worked through him.
If our focus becomes the signs we may miss the main thing that God has for us. The Power of the Gospel to save and to heal. The Power to transform not meetings, but nations with Him. Signs are merely intended to capture the minds of unbelievers and cause them to become believers! When we focus on signs, we have conferences of signposts! All the signs are in the building. God wants the signs in the streets pointing people to the Hope of their calling.
Exodus 33:16 shares a powerful understanding of the place of signs and wonders in a Biblical worldview. "How will anyone know that you are pleased with me and with your people unless you go with us? What else will distinguish me and your people from all the other people on the face of the earth?" The key to the Gospel is not the signs, but Him!
Having spent my early years in Africa, it was not uncommon to hear or see signs that were being done by those who didn�t know Jesus. As a young boy I watched men walk across fire, I saw demonic miraculous events. That changes the whole nature of everything if we have to compete by signs we will end up like Moses with the Egyptian sorcerers who replicated many of the same signs. The heart of Moses in Exodus was Lord, we want you, not simply signs!
As Westerners we become enamored with the supernatural. Most Easterners are not so easily affected. One precious servant of Jesus from another part of the world shared with me that supernatural events are a common occurrence in their life, on a daily basis, but the focus is not on the supernatural events, but the demonstration of the Love of Jesus. I am grateful that His Shadow overshadows His People and He Releases His Signs everywhere, but I am more grateful to hear His Voice, see His Face, and have His Presence with me.
Signs don't necessarily come with Love, But Love always comes with signs. Signs that transform people in His image, not sign-seekers. I was shocked about a year ago when I saw a picture with thousands of orbs at the sight of a Hindu festival. I asked the Lord what that was about and He responded to me, "If you look for signs you will see them everywhere, but if you look for me the signs will accompany first and foremost My Presence!" Now let me make it very clear I believe that signs SHOULD ALWAYS accompany His Presence, but they never need to be a focal point of the church. They are simply byproducts of His Presence!
The Gospel that we have been called to preach is one that is powerful. It is not in our picketing, demonstrating, legislating, or moral compassing that a nation will change. It is this Gospel that compels us with love! 2 Corinthians 5:14- "For Christ's love compels us, because we are convinced that one died for all, and therefore all died." Nothing is more powerful, nothing more pervasive than a tongue loosed with His Words of deliverance, freedom, healing, and salvation!
If we go simply for signs,we can be deceived. Matthew 24:24 "For false Christs and false prophets will appear and perform great signs and miracles to deceive even the elect--if that were possible." If we go for Him, we never will be disappointed!
Signs then are "markings" on the trees: "Jesus has been here". This is the way walk in it as You pursue Him with all your heart! Mark 16:17-18 "And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; 18 they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well."
Signs are for unbelievers to turn to Him. Not for saints to have parties over! We are partying around street signs when the King has just simply walked that way down the block! He demonstrates He is on us by these signs, but doesn't leave us to simply hold a sign. . . He wants us to hold Him!
Pursuing yet more of Him!
For Further Study: (Notice that signs are sent to confirm the main thing: HIM!)
(Mark 16:20) Then the disciples went out and preached everywhere, and the Lord worked with them and confirmed his word by the signs that accompanied it.
(John 2:23) Now while he was in Jerusalem at the Passover Feast, many people saw the miraculous signs he was doing and believed in his name.
(John 3:2-3) He came to Jesus at night and said, "Rabbi, we know you are a teacher who has come from God. For no one could perform the miraculous signs you are doing if God were not with him." 3 In reply Jesus declared, "I tell you the truth, no one can see the kingdom of God unless he is born again."
(John 4:47-50) When this man heard that Jesus had arrived in Galilee from Judea, he went to him and begged him to come and heal his son, who was close to death. 48 "Unless you people see miraculous signs and wonders," Jesus told him, "you will never believe." 49 The royal official said, "Sir, come down before my child dies." 50 Jesus replied, "You may go. Your son will live." The man took Jesus at his word and departed.
(Acts 2:22) "Men of Israel, listen to this: Jesus of Nazareth was a man accredited by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs, which God did among you through him, as you yourselves know.
(Acts 4:30-31) Stretch out your hand to heal and perform miraculous signs and wonders through the name of your holy servant Jesus." 31 After they prayed, the place where they were meeting was shaken. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.
(Acts 5:12-14) The apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders among the people. And all the believers used to meet together in Solomon's Colonnade. 13 No one else dared join them, even though they were highly regarded by the people. 14 Nevertheless, more and more men and women believed in the Lord and were added to their number.
(Acts 8:6-8) When the crowds heard Philip and saw the miraculous signs he did, they all paid close attention to what he said. 7 With shrieks, evil spirits came out of many, and many paralytics and cripples were healed. 8 So there was great joy in that city.
(Acts 14:3) So Paul and Barnabas spent considerable time there, speaking boldly for the Lord, who confirmed the message of his grace by enabling them to do miraculous signs and wonders.
(Romans 15:18-19) I will not venture to speak of anything except what Christ has accomplished through me in leading the Gentiles to obey God by what I have said and done-- 19 by the power of signs and miracles, through the power of the Spirit. So from Jerusalem all the way around to Illyricum, I have fully proclaimed the gospel of Christ.
(1 Corinthians 1:22-24) Jews demand miraculous signs and Greeks look for wisdom, 23 but we preach Christ crucified: a stumbling block to Jews and foolishness to Gentiles, 24 but to those whom God has called, both Jews and Greeks, Christ the power of God and the wisdom of God.
(1 Corinthians 14:22) Tongues, then, are a sign, not for believers but for unbelievers; prophecy, however, is for believers, not for unbelievers.
Monday, July 09, 2007
The Making of a Ministry
July 2, 2007
Francis Frangipane:
"THE MAKING OF A MINISTRY"
"The disciples came to Him, saying, 'The place is desolate, and the time is already past; so send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages and buy food for themselves.' But Jesus said to them, 'They do not need to go away; you give them something to eat!' And they said to Him, 'We have here only five loaves and two fish'" (Matthew 14:15-17).
I want to talk about how the Lord raises up a mature man or woman of God--the drives and attitudes that propel a person into a fully committed walk with Jesus Christ. It is essential to realize from the beginning that, when it comes to doing God's will, both the person and God's provision will always seem inadequate. Oh, you will have been prepared, somewhat. You will have studied and prayed, but not enough. You will have faithfully given of your time and finances, but nothing you do will be something you can confidently rely upon. Indeed, when you've done all you could, you will mutter to the Lord your equivalent of the disciples': "We have here only five loaves and two fish."
Yet, to know that you are inadequate is a tremendous advantage in spiritual growth. It is a milestone en route toward true spirituality, which is born of dependency on God, not human self-sufficiency. Once a person knows he is inadequate, he will not waste years discovering it.
Not a day goes by that I am not aware of my inadequacies. Besides struggling with "feelings" of inadequacy, I know I actually am inadequate. I know the very best of my efforts, in and of themselves, are totally insufficient. The moment I think otherwise, I guarantee failure for myself.
While the Lord has many ways to inspire my spiritual growth, the greatest seasons of increase come almost in spite of myself. The process begins with the Lord revealing some task or need that is both absolutely necessary and totally impossible for me to fulfill. My first reaction is to pray, "Lord, raise up someone who'll do the job." But then, when no one else shows up, I realize He wants me to step forward. As I do, I soon hear Him say the words He spoke to His disciples, "You give them something to eat."
Sometimes, I hide in the "familiar" tasks I know I can accomplish, but a time of reckoning comes. It usually is a time of pressure or stress which, beginning with the rediscovery of my frailties, ends with me broken and waiting upon the Lord. It is right here, as I am contemplating the pitifully small "five loaves and two fish" which I am offering Jesus, that He says to my heart, "Bring them here to Me." And here is where the miracle of grace begins. For as I surrender myself afresh into His hands, a new dimension in my walk with God starts to unfold, one of supernatural multiplication.
"He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up toward Heaven, He blessed the food, and breaking the loaves, He gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave to the multitudes, and they all ate and were satisfied" (vs. 19-20).
Whatever you give to Jesus, He will bless and break. A true disciple always carries these two seeming contradictory characteristics. We know His wonderful, undeserved blessing; and, we are broken of pride, self-sufficiency and boasting. He lets us know assuredly that, as Christians, we have one Source for all of our power. The sooner we realize our effectiveness does not originate in us, but in Christ, the quicker we will experience the miracles that He produces. Indeed, when He reveals to us our weaknesses, it is only because He is preparing us to receive more of His power into our lives.
Consider: When Jesus performed the miracle of the loaves and fish, He and His disciples were wearied and needed strength. Added to this came the distressing news that John the Baptist had been beheaded. The Lord was seeking to take His disciples to a place where they could "rest awhile" (Mark 6:31). Yet, great multitudes came, perhaps over twelve thousand men, women and children. It was in this very circumstance of weakness that He performed this great miracle of grace.
As it was with Jesus, so it is with us: It is when we sense our weaknesses most vividly that God can use us most mightily! The Lord will continually present to us tasks that we have never done before. He will require each of us to give our all, even as inadequate as we seem. There will be no "knights in shining armor" in God's kingdom; our armor will have many dings and dents. No perfect Hollywood heroes will ride in to save the day; just wearied saints to look to God and, in weakness, find Christ's strength. This, indeed, is the essence of God's Kingdom: Divine greatness manifest in common people.
In these days ahead, the Lord is going to show you a need that will seem absolutely beyond your ability to perform. Your natural response will be, "I'm just an average person with limited resources. I can't do what He's asked me to do." Yet, if you will be still, you shall soon hear your Master's voice quietly, confidently saying, "Bring the need to Me."
Do as He commands. For as you give the insufficiency of your skills and your pitiful provisions to Him, He will begin to bless and break you, and then miraculously multiply what you give Him. In all my years of ministry, I know of no transforming grace greater than that which comes when, in spite of our inadequacies, we obey God in the face of the impossible.
Francis Frangipane
Ministries of Francis Frangipane
Email: francis1@frangipane.org
Permission is granted (and you are also encouraged) to reprint these articles in hard copy form, as well as sending them to your own email lists and posting them on your own websites. We ask only that you keep ElijahList website, email contact info, and author contact information intact.
Francis Frangipane:
"THE MAKING OF A MINISTRY"
"The disciples came to Him, saying, 'The place is desolate, and the time is already past; so send the multitudes away, that they may go into the villages and buy food for themselves.' But Jesus said to them, 'They do not need to go away; you give them something to eat!' And they said to Him, 'We have here only five loaves and two fish'" (Matthew 14:15-17).
I want to talk about how the Lord raises up a mature man or woman of God--the drives and attitudes that propel a person into a fully committed walk with Jesus Christ. It is essential to realize from the beginning that, when it comes to doing God's will, both the person and God's provision will always seem inadequate. Oh, you will have been prepared, somewhat. You will have studied and prayed, but not enough. You will have faithfully given of your time and finances, but nothing you do will be something you can confidently rely upon. Indeed, when you've done all you could, you will mutter to the Lord your equivalent of the disciples': "We have here only five loaves and two fish."
Yet, to know that you are inadequate is a tremendous advantage in spiritual growth. It is a milestone en route toward true spirituality, which is born of dependency on God, not human self-sufficiency. Once a person knows he is inadequate, he will not waste years discovering it.
Not a day goes by that I am not aware of my inadequacies. Besides struggling with "feelings" of inadequacy, I know I actually am inadequate. I know the very best of my efforts, in and of themselves, are totally insufficient. The moment I think otherwise, I guarantee failure for myself.
While the Lord has many ways to inspire my spiritual growth, the greatest seasons of increase come almost in spite of myself. The process begins with the Lord revealing some task or need that is both absolutely necessary and totally impossible for me to fulfill. My first reaction is to pray, "Lord, raise up someone who'll do the job." But then, when no one else shows up, I realize He wants me to step forward. As I do, I soon hear Him say the words He spoke to His disciples, "You give them something to eat."
Sometimes, I hide in the "familiar" tasks I know I can accomplish, but a time of reckoning comes. It usually is a time of pressure or stress which, beginning with the rediscovery of my frailties, ends with me broken and waiting upon the Lord. It is right here, as I am contemplating the pitifully small "five loaves and two fish" which I am offering Jesus, that He says to my heart, "Bring them here to Me." And here is where the miracle of grace begins. For as I surrender myself afresh into His hands, a new dimension in my walk with God starts to unfold, one of supernatural multiplication.
"He took the five loaves and the two fish, and looking up toward Heaven, He blessed the food, and breaking the loaves, He gave them to the disciples, and the disciples gave to the multitudes, and they all ate and were satisfied" (vs. 19-20).
Whatever you give to Jesus, He will bless and break. A true disciple always carries these two seeming contradictory characteristics. We know His wonderful, undeserved blessing; and, we are broken of pride, self-sufficiency and boasting. He lets us know assuredly that, as Christians, we have one Source for all of our power. The sooner we realize our effectiveness does not originate in us, but in Christ, the quicker we will experience the miracles that He produces. Indeed, when He reveals to us our weaknesses, it is only because He is preparing us to receive more of His power into our lives.
Consider: When Jesus performed the miracle of the loaves and fish, He and His disciples were wearied and needed strength. Added to this came the distressing news that John the Baptist had been beheaded. The Lord was seeking to take His disciples to a place where they could "rest awhile" (Mark 6:31). Yet, great multitudes came, perhaps over twelve thousand men, women and children. It was in this very circumstance of weakness that He performed this great miracle of grace.
As it was with Jesus, so it is with us: It is when we sense our weaknesses most vividly that God can use us most mightily! The Lord will continually present to us tasks that we have never done before. He will require each of us to give our all, even as inadequate as we seem. There will be no "knights in shining armor" in God's kingdom; our armor will have many dings and dents. No perfect Hollywood heroes will ride in to save the day; just wearied saints to look to God and, in weakness, find Christ's strength. This, indeed, is the essence of God's Kingdom: Divine greatness manifest in common people.
In these days ahead, the Lord is going to show you a need that will seem absolutely beyond your ability to perform. Your natural response will be, "I'm just an average person with limited resources. I can't do what He's asked me to do." Yet, if you will be still, you shall soon hear your Master's voice quietly, confidently saying, "Bring the need to Me."
Do as He commands. For as you give the insufficiency of your skills and your pitiful provisions to Him, He will begin to bless and break you, and then miraculously multiply what you give Him. In all my years of ministry, I know of no transforming grace greater than that which comes when, in spite of our inadequacies, we obey God in the face of the impossible.
Francis Frangipane
Ministries of Francis Frangipane
Email: francis1@frangipane.org
Permission is granted (and you are also encouraged) to reprint these articles in hard copy form, as well as sending them to your own email lists and posting them on your own websites. We ask only that you keep ElijahList website, email contact info, and author contact information intact.
Saturday, July 07, 2007
Gatekeepers and Cross Polination
Catherine Brown: Cross-Pollination Vision
THE LORD HOLDS THE WORLD IN HIS HANDS
During a time of prayer, I had a vision in which I saw the Lord Jesus holding a small globe in His hands. As the Lord held the world in His hands, the central axis of the earth opened up, forming two equal halves, and swarms of bees emerged from the centre. Fascinated by what I had just witnessed, I continued to watch the activity of the bees. Half the bees worked on the fields on one side of the axis, whilst the other half worked on the fields on the opposite side.
CROSS-POLLINATE
After spending some time observing the bees working, the Lord gave this instruction: "Cross-pollinate!" In response, the bees began to cross over into other fields. They continued their work of pollination, but this time, they were in different fields and on the other side of the axis of the world from which they had originally been working.
IT IS GOOD
Jesus smiled. He surveyed the work and crossed His arms; still smiling, the Lord said, "It is good." I noticed that the blooms, which were produced as a result of the cross-pollination, were extraordinarily beautiful and unusual in their shape, color, and form. Their fragrance was breathtaking. Isn't it lovely when God engages our senses in a spiritual experience with Him?
SPIRITUAL APPLICATION: MULTIPLY!
To cross-pollinate is to bring two elements (pollen and a flower or plant) together, in order to reproduce a new bloom or fruit. The bee is the means through which the Lord creates these new blooms. The vision speaks of increased fruitfulness in the body of Christ, brought about through the formation of new and unusual alliances inspired by the Holy Spirit. The cross-pollination vision indicates multiplication in the body of Christ as Holy Spirit strengthens existing Godly alliances and brings into being, new and unusual gatekeeper relationships. This will result in a powerful, spiritual shift in the nations to the glory of God, as we learn to co-labor together in innovative and exciting ways.
KINGDOM ALIGNMENT
Ultimately, God's intention is to give His ambassadors access to "gates" of nations to change and affect their destiny and bring them into Kingdom alignment. As Holy Spirit directs the cross-pollination of ministries, giftings, and callings, God will bring us together in unity, love, and servant hood so that He can pour out His Kingdom agendas on the earth, producing fruit to the glory of His name. Unity is God's strategy, and dominion is His goal.Spiritual cross-pollination will result in Kingdom deposits of wisdom, revelation, gifting, and authority being produced and distributed (and/or re-distributed) in different places or in a different manner than we may presently be accustomed to. God may ask us to go to a new place or to new people, either temporarily or permanently, as His ambassadors. He may simply ask us to go and serve another who is laboring in the harvest field. The vision and call to cross-pollinate speak of multiplication of blessing and multiplication of our effectiveness as Christians here on the earth. It is time for the Kingdom to come with great power and signs and wonders. It is a time to love in Christ's agape, and in this way, the multitudes will be won for Jesus.
GATEKEEPERS OF GOD'S PRESENCE
As worshippers, we are all gatekeepers of God's presence. We each have a place where we have been assigned to co-labor with Holy Spirit and each other. We have each been gifted in God's grace with His commission, with His commandments, and with Holy Spirit's gifts and callings. Some are called to be servant-leaders within the five-fold ministry. All are called to be lovers of Jesus and to prefer one another in love.
GATEKEEPERS HAVE INDIVIDUAL SPHERES OF INFLUENCE
In order for the fullness of these new Godly alliances to take place, we must be robed in humility and be willing to be servants of love. Without this virtue, the bride will be ineffective in her ability to communicate, collaborate, and cooperate with Holy Spirit and each other in the dynamic of spiritual cross-pollination.
To the church in Corinth, Paul said this:
"We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise. We, however, will not boast beyond our proper limits, but will confine our boasting to the field God has assigned to us, a field that reaches even to you." -- 2 Corinthians 10:12-13
Paul exhorts us not to boast in our works, but to be humble and Christ-like. Paul loved to glorify Jesus and confined his "boasting" to be about our glorious Savior: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord," (2 Corinthians 10:17). Paul explains that we are each assigned a field in which we labor for God's glory, indicating that there are individual spheres of authority within which we operate. As Kingdom gatekeepers, we are each assigned a particular sphere or area within which we may exert a Godly influence and operate in Christ's authority and compassion. One of the first places we operate as gatekeepers is within our family units.
IDENTIFY AND RECOGNIZE OTHER GATEKEEPERS AND THEIR SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
"We are not going too far in our boasting, as would be the case if we had not come to you, for we did get as far as you with the gospel of Christ. Neither do we go beyond our limited by boasting of work done by others." -- 2 Corinthians 10:14-15
Paul recognized that others labored for Jesus, and [he] was happy to commend them for their ministry of the Gospel. We must recognize that there are others who labor and witness effectively for Jesus. Once we understand our calling as gatekeepers, and recognize others in their particular sphere of influence as gatekeepers, we can begin to enter into Kingdom alliances that form a corporate expression in this arena. Gatekeepers have spheres of authority in which they operate; the individual gatekeeper has an appointed sphere of authority. This is greatly enhanced when gatekeepers gather together and form a corporate Kingdom expression of gatekeeper authority, wisdom, and revelation.
EXPONENTIAL INCREASE IN CORPORATE GATEKEEPER ANOINTING
"Our hope is that, as your faith continues to grow, our area of activity among you will greatly expand, so that we can preach the gospel in the regions beyond you." -- 2 Corinthians 10:15b-16
There is the potential for an exponential increase of Jesus' Kingdom when individual gatekeepers form divinely inspired alliances. This may be described as a corporate gatekeeper anointing. We are not called to operate in isolation, since the overall work of the Gospel is enhanced with cooperation, mutuality, and preferring one another in love, which leads to Kingdom increase and multiplication.
WHAT IS A GATEKEEPER?
"But the four principal gatekeepers were entrusted with the responsibility for the rooms and treasuries in the house of God. They would spend the night stationed around the house of God, because they had to guard it; and they had charge of the key for opening it each morning." -- 1 Chronicles 9:26b-27
A Kingdom gatekeeper is simply this: a person whom the Lord has entrusted with keys of revelation, wisdom, and authority and walks in intimacy with Jesus. Gatekeepers have guardianship of the treasuries of the house of God. There are many different types of gatekeepers, and each has a particular "field" of influence (as previously mentioned). These include worshipping gatekeepers, community gatekeepers, market place gatekeepers, and apostolic or prophetic gatekeepers, to name a few. Our first ministry, as gatekeepers, is to minister to the Lord.
GATEKEEPERS ARE THOSE WHOM GOD CAN ENTRUST WITH RESPONSIBILITY
"Altogether, those chosen to be gatekeepers at the thresholds numbered 212. They were registered by genealogy in their villages. The gatekeepers had been assigned to their positions of trust by David and Samuel the seer. They and their descendants were in charge of guarding the gates of the house of the Lord -- the house called the Tent." -- 1 Chronicles 9:22-23
PIONEER GATEKEEPERS
Gatekeepers are often pioneers. Two Old Testament examples of pioneer gatekeepers are Joseph and Daniel. Peter may be considered a New Testatment example of an apostolic gatekeeper as he was given keys of revelation, power, and authority:
"And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." -- Matthew 17:18-19
A gatekeeper has revelatory keys to unlock spiritual gates. In order to more fully understand the function of a gatekeeper, it is helpful to consider the purpose of gates.
JESUS IS THE GATE! HE GIVES ACCESS AND GRANTS DOMINION
"Jesus said, 'I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep.'" -- John 10:7
The result of passing through the Gate that is Christ is salvation!
GATES ARE A POINT OF ACCESS
"While the gatekeepers are still on duty, have them shut the doors and bar them. Also appoint residents of Jerusalem as guards, some at their posts and some near their own houses." -- Nehemiah 7:3
In the days of walled cities, gates were of tremendous significance. A gate was a point of access or a place where access was denied to an unwanted intruder or enemy.
GATES ARE PLACES FOR DECISION MAKING
The gateway was a place where the elders of the city met to make decisions and settle disputes. Decisions made at the gates affected the lives and destiny of those under the authority of the elders. Today, as we consider the corporate effects of gatekeepers, it is noteworthy that these will impact on a community, national, international, and global level.
GATES ARE PLACES OF PUBLIC ASSEMBLY
"When the seventh month came and the Israelites had settled in their towns, all the people assembled as one man in the square before the Water Gate. They told Ezra, the scribe, to bring out the Book of the Law of Moses. . . " -- Esther 8:1
A PLACE OF HOSPITALITY
Any stranger could seek hospitality at the city gates (e.g. Lot at the gate of the city).
A PLACE OF ENEMY ACTIVITY
"During the time Mordecai was sitting at the king's gate, Bighthana and Teresh, two of the king's officers who guarded the doorway, became angry and conspired to assassinate King Xerxes. But Mordecai found out about the plot and told Queen Esther, who in turn reported it to the king, giving credit to Mordecai." -- Esther 2:21-22
Satan recognizes that our homes, communities, cities, and nations are gateways and have the potential for the release of incredible power, either for good or [for] evil. The story of Esther reveals that although the enemy conspired at the gate, God had his man at the gate too, and ultimately, God's Kingdom-agenda prevailed.
A PLACE OF CONVERGENCE/TRANSFORMATION
"When Mordecai learned of all that had been done, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, wailing loudly and bitterly. But he went only as far as the king's gate, because no one clothed in sackcloth was allowed to enter it." -- Esther 4:1-2
Gates were places where lives were touched and changed.
MILITARY AND STRATEGIC SIGNIFICANCE
Gates were the weakest places in the city's defenses. Gates, therefore, had guards to watch over who entered AND who was approaching from far away. If the enemy took the gates, then the rest of the city could easily be taken. God is downloading "military" strategies and forming strategic networks and alliances in order to position the Church to be the soul winner in our cities and nations.
A PLACE OF OBSERVATION
"Then the watchman saw another man running, and he called down to the gatekeeper." -- 2 Samuel 18:26
Gates are places where strategic reconnaissance information is exchanged between the watchmen of a community or nation and the gatekeepers.
A PLACE OF PROTECTION
"The King was shaken. He went up to the room over the gateway and wept." -- 2 Samuel 18:33
Spiritual gates that are won for Christ are strongholds of the Lord where we can be hidden from the enemy and find rest for our souls.
A PLACE OF PRAYER AND PROPHETIC REVELATION
"I will stand at my watch and station myself on the ramparts. I will look to see what he will say to me, and what answer I am to give to this complaint. [Then the Lord replied,] 'Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it. For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.'" -- Habakkuk 2:1-3
A gate is a place of prayer and revelatory impartation. Spiritual gates are where we are given prophetic utterance to proclaim the decrees of the Lord. It is where Holy Spirit brings forth breakthrough, blessing, and victory on the earth.
A PLACE TO MAKE APOSTOLIC OR PROPHETIC PROCLAMATION
"The people of the Lord went down to the city gates. 'Wake up, wake up, Deborah! Wake up, wake up, break out in song! Arise, O Barak! Take your captives, son of Abinoam.'" -- Judges 5:12
Gates are places where spiritual battles can be won or lost. Deborah and Barak, along with all the people, rose up to worship at the city gates.
A PLACE OF WORSHIP
"Those who were musicians, heads of Levite families, stayed in the rooms of the temple and were exempt from other duties because they were responsible for the work day and night." -- 1 Chronicles 9:33
As gatekeepers of God's presence, we are all worshipping gatekeepers. As we praise and worship the Holy One, we change the spiritual atmosphere in our homes, our cities, and our nations.
A PLACE FOR PARTICULAR ACTIVITIES
In Biblical times, gates also had names that described the nature of the part of the city they gave access to.
"By night I went out through the Valley Gate toward the Jackal Well and the Dung Gate, examining the walls of Jerusalem, which had been broken down, and its gates, which had been destroyed by fire. Then I moved on toward the Fountain Gate and the King's Pool. . . " -- Nehemiah 2:13-14
GATES HAVE ETERNAL SIGNIFICANCE
Gates are places of spiritual breakthrough! In Hebrews 13:11-4, we read how Jesus suffered outside the city gates in order that we might be forgiven of our sins and have eternal life.
GATEWAYS
Gateways are portals of glory and places of Kingdom convergence. Gateways are places of power encounters.
DEVELOPING A GLOBAL MINDSET
Daniel was the Lord's ambassador; Joseph [was] a pioneer gatekeeper and administrator over Egypt. God wants us to develop a global mindset, particularly as we consider:
THE CORPORATE MARKET PLACE • Business• Government• Technology• Media• Communications
GOD'S AGENDA -- UNITY IS THE STRATEGY; DOMINION IS THE GOAL
As existing Kingdom alliances are strengthened and new gatekeepers alliances are formed, Holy Spirit will enable the Church to identify enemy and world gateway systems and empower us to infiltrate these systems by releasing bypass strategies. Bypass strategies are the means through which God will bypass the agenda of hell and bring to pass His divine will.
STRATEGIC ALLIANCES -- AUTHORITY AND DOMINION
God will enable the Church to identify modern-day Cyrus (Isaiah 45) and Pharaoh type figures. Cyrus was a king (person) in authority in the world system. He was a gatekeeper into the world's resources and seats of authority. God used him to bring restoration and empowerment to his people.
GATES ARE SEATS OF POWER AND HAVE POTENTIAL TO RELEASE KINGDOM RESOURCE
God's intention at the gates is to release: • Worship• Warfare• Wisdom• Warnings• Wonders• Witness
Consider some of the world gateways, as we consider the geopolitical landscape:• United Nations• World Economic Forum -- global gateway organization of Trans National Corporations (TNC's)• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO's)• World Trade Organization (WTO)• World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF)• International Court of Justice (ICJ)• International Criminal Court (ICC)
KINGDOM ALIGNMENT
God's intention is to give His ambassadors access to gates of nations, to change and affect the destiny of nations and bring them into Kingdom alignment.Be blessed this day as a Gatekeeper of God's presence!
Catherine Brown
One Million Hours of Praise
THE LORD HOLDS THE WORLD IN HIS HANDS
During a time of prayer, I had a vision in which I saw the Lord Jesus holding a small globe in His hands. As the Lord held the world in His hands, the central axis of the earth opened up, forming two equal halves, and swarms of bees emerged from the centre. Fascinated by what I had just witnessed, I continued to watch the activity of the bees. Half the bees worked on the fields on one side of the axis, whilst the other half worked on the fields on the opposite side.
CROSS-POLLINATE
After spending some time observing the bees working, the Lord gave this instruction: "Cross-pollinate!" In response, the bees began to cross over into other fields. They continued their work of pollination, but this time, they were in different fields and on the other side of the axis of the world from which they had originally been working.
IT IS GOOD
Jesus smiled. He surveyed the work and crossed His arms; still smiling, the Lord said, "It is good." I noticed that the blooms, which were produced as a result of the cross-pollination, were extraordinarily beautiful and unusual in their shape, color, and form. Their fragrance was breathtaking. Isn't it lovely when God engages our senses in a spiritual experience with Him?
SPIRITUAL APPLICATION: MULTIPLY!
To cross-pollinate is to bring two elements (pollen and a flower or plant) together, in order to reproduce a new bloom or fruit. The bee is the means through which the Lord creates these new blooms. The vision speaks of increased fruitfulness in the body of Christ, brought about through the formation of new and unusual alliances inspired by the Holy Spirit. The cross-pollination vision indicates multiplication in the body of Christ as Holy Spirit strengthens existing Godly alliances and brings into being, new and unusual gatekeeper relationships. This will result in a powerful, spiritual shift in the nations to the glory of God, as we learn to co-labor together in innovative and exciting ways.
KINGDOM ALIGNMENT
Ultimately, God's intention is to give His ambassadors access to "gates" of nations to change and affect their destiny and bring them into Kingdom alignment. As Holy Spirit directs the cross-pollination of ministries, giftings, and callings, God will bring us together in unity, love, and servant hood so that He can pour out His Kingdom agendas on the earth, producing fruit to the glory of His name. Unity is God's strategy, and dominion is His goal.Spiritual cross-pollination will result in Kingdom deposits of wisdom, revelation, gifting, and authority being produced and distributed (and/or re-distributed) in different places or in a different manner than we may presently be accustomed to. God may ask us to go to a new place or to new people, either temporarily or permanently, as His ambassadors. He may simply ask us to go and serve another who is laboring in the harvest field. The vision and call to cross-pollinate speak of multiplication of blessing and multiplication of our effectiveness as Christians here on the earth. It is time for the Kingdom to come with great power and signs and wonders. It is a time to love in Christ's agape, and in this way, the multitudes will be won for Jesus.
GATEKEEPERS OF GOD'S PRESENCE
As worshippers, we are all gatekeepers of God's presence. We each have a place where we have been assigned to co-labor with Holy Spirit and each other. We have each been gifted in God's grace with His commission, with His commandments, and with Holy Spirit's gifts and callings. Some are called to be servant-leaders within the five-fold ministry. All are called to be lovers of Jesus and to prefer one another in love.
GATEKEEPERS HAVE INDIVIDUAL SPHERES OF INFLUENCE
In order for the fullness of these new Godly alliances to take place, we must be robed in humility and be willing to be servants of love. Without this virtue, the bride will be ineffective in her ability to communicate, collaborate, and cooperate with Holy Spirit and each other in the dynamic of spiritual cross-pollination.
To the church in Corinth, Paul said this:
"We do not dare to classify or compare ourselves with some who commend themselves. When they measure themselves by themselves and compare themselves with themselves, they are not wise. We, however, will not boast beyond our proper limits, but will confine our boasting to the field God has assigned to us, a field that reaches even to you." -- 2 Corinthians 10:12-13
Paul exhorts us not to boast in our works, but to be humble and Christ-like. Paul loved to glorify Jesus and confined his "boasting" to be about our glorious Savior: "Let him who boasts boast in the Lord," (2 Corinthians 10:17). Paul explains that we are each assigned a field in which we labor for God's glory, indicating that there are individual spheres of authority within which we operate. As Kingdom gatekeepers, we are each assigned a particular sphere or area within which we may exert a Godly influence and operate in Christ's authority and compassion. One of the first places we operate as gatekeepers is within our family units.
IDENTIFY AND RECOGNIZE OTHER GATEKEEPERS AND THEIR SPHERE OF INFLUENCE
"We are not going too far in our boasting, as would be the case if we had not come to you, for we did get as far as you with the gospel of Christ. Neither do we go beyond our limited by boasting of work done by others." -- 2 Corinthians 10:14-15
Paul recognized that others labored for Jesus, and [he] was happy to commend them for their ministry of the Gospel. We must recognize that there are others who labor and witness effectively for Jesus. Once we understand our calling as gatekeepers, and recognize others in their particular sphere of influence as gatekeepers, we can begin to enter into Kingdom alliances that form a corporate expression in this arena. Gatekeepers have spheres of authority in which they operate; the individual gatekeeper has an appointed sphere of authority. This is greatly enhanced when gatekeepers gather together and form a corporate Kingdom expression of gatekeeper authority, wisdom, and revelation.
EXPONENTIAL INCREASE IN CORPORATE GATEKEEPER ANOINTING
"Our hope is that, as your faith continues to grow, our area of activity among you will greatly expand, so that we can preach the gospel in the regions beyond you." -- 2 Corinthians 10:15b-16
There is the potential for an exponential increase of Jesus' Kingdom when individual gatekeepers form divinely inspired alliances. This may be described as a corporate gatekeeper anointing. We are not called to operate in isolation, since the overall work of the Gospel is enhanced with cooperation, mutuality, and preferring one another in love, which leads to Kingdom increase and multiplication.
WHAT IS A GATEKEEPER?
"But the four principal gatekeepers were entrusted with the responsibility for the rooms and treasuries in the house of God. They would spend the night stationed around the house of God, because they had to guard it; and they had charge of the key for opening it each morning." -- 1 Chronicles 9:26b-27
A Kingdom gatekeeper is simply this: a person whom the Lord has entrusted with keys of revelation, wisdom, and authority and walks in intimacy with Jesus. Gatekeepers have guardianship of the treasuries of the house of God. There are many different types of gatekeepers, and each has a particular "field" of influence (as previously mentioned). These include worshipping gatekeepers, community gatekeepers, market place gatekeepers, and apostolic or prophetic gatekeepers, to name a few. Our first ministry, as gatekeepers, is to minister to the Lord.
GATEKEEPERS ARE THOSE WHOM GOD CAN ENTRUST WITH RESPONSIBILITY
"Altogether, those chosen to be gatekeepers at the thresholds numbered 212. They were registered by genealogy in their villages. The gatekeepers had been assigned to their positions of trust by David and Samuel the seer. They and their descendants were in charge of guarding the gates of the house of the Lord -- the house called the Tent." -- 1 Chronicles 9:22-23
PIONEER GATEKEEPERS
Gatekeepers are often pioneers. Two Old Testament examples of pioneer gatekeepers are Joseph and Daniel. Peter may be considered a New Testatment example of an apostolic gatekeeper as he was given keys of revelation, power, and authority:
"And I tell you that you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my Church, and the gates of Hades will not overcome it. I will give you the keys of the kingdom of heaven; whatever you bind on earth will be bound in heaven, and whatever you loose on earth will be loosed in heaven." -- Matthew 17:18-19
A gatekeeper has revelatory keys to unlock spiritual gates. In order to more fully understand the function of a gatekeeper, it is helpful to consider the purpose of gates.
JESUS IS THE GATE! HE GIVES ACCESS AND GRANTS DOMINION
"Jesus said, 'I tell you the truth, I am the gate for the sheep.'" -- John 10:7
The result of passing through the Gate that is Christ is salvation!
GATES ARE A POINT OF ACCESS
"While the gatekeepers are still on duty, have them shut the doors and bar them. Also appoint residents of Jerusalem as guards, some at their posts and some near their own houses." -- Nehemiah 7:3
In the days of walled cities, gates were of tremendous significance. A gate was a point of access or a place where access was denied to an unwanted intruder or enemy.
GATES ARE PLACES FOR DECISION MAKING
The gateway was a place where the elders of the city met to make decisions and settle disputes. Decisions made at the gates affected the lives and destiny of those under the authority of the elders. Today, as we consider the corporate effects of gatekeepers, it is noteworthy that these will impact on a community, national, international, and global level.
GATES ARE PLACES OF PUBLIC ASSEMBLY
"When the seventh month came and the Israelites had settled in their towns, all the people assembled as one man in the square before the Water Gate. They told Ezra, the scribe, to bring out the Book of the Law of Moses. . . " -- Esther 8:1
A PLACE OF HOSPITALITY
Any stranger could seek hospitality at the city gates (e.g. Lot at the gate of the city).
A PLACE OF ENEMY ACTIVITY
"During the time Mordecai was sitting at the king's gate, Bighthana and Teresh, two of the king's officers who guarded the doorway, became angry and conspired to assassinate King Xerxes. But Mordecai found out about the plot and told Queen Esther, who in turn reported it to the king, giving credit to Mordecai." -- Esther 2:21-22
Satan recognizes that our homes, communities, cities, and nations are gateways and have the potential for the release of incredible power, either for good or [for] evil. The story of Esther reveals that although the enemy conspired at the gate, God had his man at the gate too, and ultimately, God's Kingdom-agenda prevailed.
A PLACE OF CONVERGENCE/TRANSFORMATION
"When Mordecai learned of all that had been done, he tore his clothes, put on sackcloth and ashes, and went out into the city, wailing loudly and bitterly. But he went only as far as the king's gate, because no one clothed in sackcloth was allowed to enter it." -- Esther 4:1-2
Gates were places where lives were touched and changed.
MILITARY AND STRATEGIC SIGNIFICANCE
Gates were the weakest places in the city's defenses. Gates, therefore, had guards to watch over who entered AND who was approaching from far away. If the enemy took the gates, then the rest of the city could easily be taken. God is downloading "military" strategies and forming strategic networks and alliances in order to position the Church to be the soul winner in our cities and nations.
A PLACE OF OBSERVATION
"Then the watchman saw another man running, and he called down to the gatekeeper." -- 2 Samuel 18:26
Gates are places where strategic reconnaissance information is exchanged between the watchmen of a community or nation and the gatekeepers.
A PLACE OF PROTECTION
"The King was shaken. He went up to the room over the gateway and wept." -- 2 Samuel 18:33
Spiritual gates that are won for Christ are strongholds of the Lord where we can be hidden from the enemy and find rest for our souls.
A PLACE OF PRAYER AND PROPHETIC REVELATION
"I will stand at my watch and station myself on the ramparts. I will look to see what he will say to me, and what answer I am to give to this complaint. [Then the Lord replied,] 'Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it. For the revelation awaits an appointed time; it speaks of the end and will not prove false. Though it linger wait for it; it will certainly come and will not delay.'" -- Habakkuk 2:1-3
A gate is a place of prayer and revelatory impartation. Spiritual gates are where we are given prophetic utterance to proclaim the decrees of the Lord. It is where Holy Spirit brings forth breakthrough, blessing, and victory on the earth.
A PLACE TO MAKE APOSTOLIC OR PROPHETIC PROCLAMATION
"The people of the Lord went down to the city gates. 'Wake up, wake up, Deborah! Wake up, wake up, break out in song! Arise, O Barak! Take your captives, son of Abinoam.'" -- Judges 5:12
Gates are places where spiritual battles can be won or lost. Deborah and Barak, along with all the people, rose up to worship at the city gates.
A PLACE OF WORSHIP
"Those who were musicians, heads of Levite families, stayed in the rooms of the temple and were exempt from other duties because they were responsible for the work day and night." -- 1 Chronicles 9:33
As gatekeepers of God's presence, we are all worshipping gatekeepers. As we praise and worship the Holy One, we change the spiritual atmosphere in our homes, our cities, and our nations.
A PLACE FOR PARTICULAR ACTIVITIES
In Biblical times, gates also had names that described the nature of the part of the city they gave access to.
"By night I went out through the Valley Gate toward the Jackal Well and the Dung Gate, examining the walls of Jerusalem, which had been broken down, and its gates, which had been destroyed by fire. Then I moved on toward the Fountain Gate and the King's Pool. . . " -- Nehemiah 2:13-14
GATES HAVE ETERNAL SIGNIFICANCE
Gates are places of spiritual breakthrough! In Hebrews 13:11-4, we read how Jesus suffered outside the city gates in order that we might be forgiven of our sins and have eternal life.
GATEWAYS
Gateways are portals of glory and places of Kingdom convergence. Gateways are places of power encounters.
DEVELOPING A GLOBAL MINDSET
Daniel was the Lord's ambassador; Joseph [was] a pioneer gatekeeper and administrator over Egypt. God wants us to develop a global mindset, particularly as we consider:
THE CORPORATE MARKET PLACE • Business• Government• Technology• Media• Communications
GOD'S AGENDA -- UNITY IS THE STRATEGY; DOMINION IS THE GOAL
As existing Kingdom alliances are strengthened and new gatekeepers alliances are formed, Holy Spirit will enable the Church to identify enemy and world gateway systems and empower us to infiltrate these systems by releasing bypass strategies. Bypass strategies are the means through which God will bypass the agenda of hell and bring to pass His divine will.
STRATEGIC ALLIANCES -- AUTHORITY AND DOMINION
God will enable the Church to identify modern-day Cyrus (Isaiah 45) and Pharaoh type figures. Cyrus was a king (person) in authority in the world system. He was a gatekeeper into the world's resources and seats of authority. God used him to bring restoration and empowerment to his people.
GATES ARE SEATS OF POWER AND HAVE POTENTIAL TO RELEASE KINGDOM RESOURCE
God's intention at the gates is to release: • Worship• Warfare• Wisdom• Warnings• Wonders• Witness
Consider some of the world gateways, as we consider the geopolitical landscape:• United Nations• World Economic Forum -- global gateway organization of Trans National Corporations (TNC's)• Non-Governmental Organizations (NGO's)• World Trade Organization (WTO)• World Bank and International Monetary Fund (IMF)• International Court of Justice (ICJ)• International Criminal Court (ICC)
KINGDOM ALIGNMENT
God's intention is to give His ambassadors access to gates of nations, to change and affect the destiny of nations and bring them into Kingdom alignment.Be blessed this day as a Gatekeeper of God's presence!
Catherine Brown
One Million Hours of Praise
Friday, July 06, 2007
The Gatekeeper Anointing
The Gatekeeper Anointing
Billy Humphrey
November 2nd, 2003
In the year 2000, my wife and I were in our 9th year of ministry as youth pastors at our local church in Norcross, Ga. During this season we decided to rename and revamp our youth ministry. The previous name was tired and no longer reflected the values and vision of the ministry. The driving force of our ministry was an intense yearning to see revival break out in Gwinnett County to sweep 100,000 souls into the kingdom of God. Most of our preaching, teaching and discipleship were anchored around this cause and we wanted a name that reflected this. After many discussions and brain-storming sessions with our key staff we believed "we" had found a name that accurately portrayed our passion. In reality the Lord had directed us to a name that had far greater significance than we could have realized. The new name was 212. 212 was derived from the Fahrenheit temperature for the boiling point of water. The idea was that everything that we were about was to be boiling, on fire for God. 212 really seemed to fit.
I searched the scriptures diligently through every chapter 2 verse 12 to find a reference that supported our vision and values. Unfortunately, there was no chapter 2 verse 12 that seemed to work. I then turned to one of our theme scriptures Isaiah 64:1 and read it more thoroughly. To my surprise, it was right there before me:
Isa 64:1-2 Oh, that You would rend the heavens! That You would come down! That the mountains might shake at Your presence; 2 As fire burns brushwood, As fire causes water to boil; To make Your name known to Your adversaries, That the nations may tremble at Your presence!
The boiling point was compared to the visitation of God that Isaiah prayed would shake the nations. Isaiah's prayer in vs.1 had already become a theme scripture for us and now it was clearer than ever.
About a year later a good friend showed me an obscure scripture that caught my attention.
1Ch 9:22 All those chosen as gatekeepers were two hundred and twelve. They were recorded by their genealogy, in their villages. David and Samuel the seer had appointed them to their trusted office.
It was stunning to see 212 right there in the middle of the scripture. I thought that it was interesting, but honestly, I had no clue what a gatekeeper was. I had heard of gatekeepers, but I thought that it was one of those ethereal, prophetic teachings that did not really relate to everyday life (I have since learned differently). Further, I thought that if Gatekeepers were an important part of seeing revival come that I would have already known about it because I had spent, what I thought was, a lot of time studying revival. How little I really knew and how little I still know. Isn't it wonderful that God doesn't base his calling and anointing on our lives upon our lack of understanding or our barrenness but upon His plan and endowment of grace?
Throughout that year the Lord would periodically bring back that scripture to my mind, but I did not doing anything about it. Finally, I decided to study and find out what exactly a Gatekeeper was. As I began to look at the whole passage in I Chronicles 9 I recognized that there were powerful truths hidden in the symbolism of the duties of the Gatekeepers of old. Further, it became clear to me that there were modern day Gatekeepers who were commissioned in similar ways as the ancient Gatekeepers in the Tabernacle of David. The revelations that were within this once obscure scripture staggered me.
In this article I want to unfold the powerful symbolism that the Lord showed me regarding modern day Gatekeepers and their role as it relates to the great revival to come. Let's look at some of the key points of the whole passage together.
1Ch 9:22-33 22 All those chosen as gatekeepers were two hundred and twelve. They were recorded by their genealogy, in their villages. David and Samuel the seer had appointed them to their trusted office. 23 So they and their children were in charge of the gates of the house of the LORD, the house of the tabernacle, by assignment. 24 The gatekeepers were assigned to the four directions: the east, west, north, and south. 25 And their brethren in their villages had to come with them from time to time for seven days. 26 For in this trusted office were four chief gatekeepers; they were Levites. And they had charge over the chambers and treasuries of the house of God. 27 And they lodged all around the house of God because they had the responsibility, and they were in charge of opening it every morning. 28 Now some of them were in charge of the serving vessels, for they brought them in and took them out by count. 29 Some of them were appointed over the furnishings and over all the implements of the sanctuary, and over the fine flour and the wine and the oil and the incense and the spices. 30 And some of the sons of the priests made the ointment of the spices. 31 Mattithiah of the Levites, the firstborn of Shallum the Korahite, had the trusted office over the things that were baked in the pans. 32 And some of their brethren of the sons of the Kohathites were in charge of preparing the showbread for every Sabbath. 33 These are the singers, heads of the fathers' houses of the Levites, who lodged in the chambers, and were free from other duties; for they were employed in that work day and night.
In Charge of the Gates
The first thing that I noticed was that the Gatekeepers were in charge of the Gates of the Tabernacle of the Lord. They were the ones who opened and closed the Gates to the presence of God. This was amazing to me because I knew that God had deeply wounded my heart with the desire for revival. I literally sensed a personal responsibility to "open the heavens" so that the Lord would come down in power. Now the Lord was defining my role as one who was "in charge of opening" the gates for the presence of God to come into the county and into the region. God had confirmed to me in the renaming of our ministry the very DNA that was already alive in my heart. We had been commissioned to open the gates to see the presence of God invade the region. In the same way modern day Gatekeepers are prophetic intercessors, another name is watchmen, who are commissioned by the Lord to open the gates over a region to see the King of Glory come in (Psalm 24:7)
This Trusted Office
The next point that struck me was that it was a "trusted office". In other words, there were literally people whom God was entrusting with the responsibility to fervently pray and intercede for the heavenly gates to open in geographical regions. The urgency of this responsibility gripped my heart with an even greater desire to see God come and break in with power in the region. The truth that He would entrust people in partnership with Him in regard to the manifestation of His Glory caused me to passionately set my heart towards the reality of His visitation and subsequent habitation. Modern Gatekeepers have been given a responsibility as forerunners to prepare places and people for the invasion of the glory of God.
They Lodge Around the House of God
The Gatekeepers literally lived in chambers around the House of God. The reason that they stayed there, so close to the Tabernacle, was because they had a revelation that it was their responsibility to open the gates (v. 27). I believe that as they began to serve in their ministry that they became captivated with the beauty of the Lord. Once their hearts were captivated by His beauty their natural commitment to serve became total surrender from a heart of voluntary love. This spoke so strongly to my heart of the difference in commitment that the Lord desires of His people compared to the way many believers seem to live today. Much of the church in the West has settled into complacency and casual Christianity. Yet God desires to see His bride alive with a heart that is smitten with the knowledge of His love, living lives of radical commitment to Him and His purposes. This truth needs to set in upon us. Once we get a true revelation of the reality of his love and His beauty, commitment to night and day intimacy with Him is natural.
Appointed over the furnishings
The furnishings of the Tabernacle included serving vessels, flour, wine, oil, incense, spices, anointing ointment and showbread. Each of these is full of revelation in its symbolism. Yet, for our purposes here we will focus on the flour, wine and oil. Throughout the Old Testament these three are used together. Flour or grain, new wine and oil are symbols of specific Kingdom realities. Jesus said look unto the fields for they are white unto harvest (John 4:35). The reason that the field where white was because it was covered with grain. So grain or flour is a symbol of souls. We are familiar with the symbol of wine as a symbol of the new move of the Holy Spirit which is to be held in a new wineskin (Mat 9:17). We are also familiar with oil as a type of the anointing and power of the Holy Spirit. (Isa 10:27) As we unveil the symbolism of the flour, wine and oil we see that Gatekeepers are directly involved with not only preparing for the new move of the Spirit of God which will see massive signs and wonders and salvations, but also furnishing these things or bringing them forth. The ministry of Gatekeepers is directly tied to entering into revival in a region.
These are the Singers
Finally, the scripture declares that some of the gatekeepers were singers who were free from other duties and they were employed in intercession and worship to the Lord day and night. God provided that the Gatekeepers could live lifestyles of prayer, worship and service night and day before Him. Comparable to this today is the prayer movement that God is raising up across the nations where people are supported as full-time prayer missionaries to pray in the great revival that is to come. God is recoiling in power at the prayers of these modern day Gatekeepers in order to explode in a blast of His power so stunning that the entire world will experience it (Acts 2:17). His Glory will visit and engulf the entire planet just as waters cover the sea. (Hab 2:14)
In my first contacts with these scriptures many of the truths did not strike me. God had not unlocked the power of their revelation to me. As the Lord began to deal with me about resigning our youth ministry and transitioning into the ministry of IHOP-ATL, the power of this scripture captured me in a brand new way. I had been stirred to understand that the revival to come and the prayer movement were one reality in God's economy. They were not exclusive of each other but simply complimentary facets of the same purpose. I also realized that God had deposited a hunger and passion for revival in me that would not subside. It is still an itch that I cannot scratch. However, I had not realized when we renamed the youth ministry 212 that it directly related to Gatekeepers in the Tabernacle of David. When we finally studied the Tabernacle of David and realized that it was a ministry of 24/7 worship and intercession it was after God had begun to deal with us about transitioning our ministry to start IHOP-ATL. Honestly, we never put it together that the Gatekeepers were in a 24/7 prayer ministry until after God had begun to transition us into the same type of ministry. Two things are for sure: 1) His ways are perfect 2) We are much more dim than we think. When we finally got the revelation that God had given us the name 212 to point to a reality that He was calling us into in the days ahead we were shocked and radically blessed at the same time.
Now, every time that I see the number 212, it is a reminder to me that God has called me to be a Gatekeeper. And not only a Gatekeeper but a Gatekeeper in the modern day Tabernacle of David, living a life of 24/7 worship and intercession to see the gates open and the King of Glory come in.
I pray that this revelation will grip your heart as it has gripped mine. Perhaps you too, are a Gatekeeper, called to open the presence of God in your region. I believe that the Lord is raising up an army of Gatekeepers to open the Gates in these last days for the revival to come. It is overwhelming to consider that the Lord has given us the dignity of having intimate relationship and even further, partnership with Him. As people in partnership with the Un-Created God we need to leave the entrapments of this world and give ourselves in passion and recklessness to His purposes. It is those who live lives of lovesick abandonment who will enter in to the reality of complete commitment to Him and His purposes.
If you believe it's possible that God has called you to be a Gatekeeper pray this prayer:
Heavenly Father, I pray that you would give me the spirit of wisdom and revelation that I may understand the truths and the calling of being a Gatekeeper. Tenderize my heart to serve you in night and day intercession to see your glory invade the land. Increase my faith to believe that my prayers and service will affect the spiritual climate of my region. I speak to the every Gate and say be open. King of Glory come in and have your way in this region, in Jesus' Name, Amen.
Billy Humphrey
November 2nd, 2003
In the year 2000, my wife and I were in our 9th year of ministry as youth pastors at our local church in Norcross, Ga. During this season we decided to rename and revamp our youth ministry. The previous name was tired and no longer reflected the values and vision of the ministry. The driving force of our ministry was an intense yearning to see revival break out in Gwinnett County to sweep 100,000 souls into the kingdom of God. Most of our preaching, teaching and discipleship were anchored around this cause and we wanted a name that reflected this. After many discussions and brain-storming sessions with our key staff we believed "we" had found a name that accurately portrayed our passion. In reality the Lord had directed us to a name that had far greater significance than we could have realized. The new name was 212. 212 was derived from the Fahrenheit temperature for the boiling point of water. The idea was that everything that we were about was to be boiling, on fire for God. 212 really seemed to fit.
I searched the scriptures diligently through every chapter 2 verse 12 to find a reference that supported our vision and values. Unfortunately, there was no chapter 2 verse 12 that seemed to work. I then turned to one of our theme scriptures Isaiah 64:1 and read it more thoroughly. To my surprise, it was right there before me:
Isa 64:1-2 Oh, that You would rend the heavens! That You would come down! That the mountains might shake at Your presence; 2 As fire burns brushwood, As fire causes water to boil; To make Your name known to Your adversaries, That the nations may tremble at Your presence!
The boiling point was compared to the visitation of God that Isaiah prayed would shake the nations. Isaiah's prayer in vs.1 had already become a theme scripture for us and now it was clearer than ever.
About a year later a good friend showed me an obscure scripture that caught my attention.
1Ch 9:22 All those chosen as gatekeepers were two hundred and twelve. They were recorded by their genealogy, in their villages. David and Samuel the seer had appointed them to their trusted office.
It was stunning to see 212 right there in the middle of the scripture. I thought that it was interesting, but honestly, I had no clue what a gatekeeper was. I had heard of gatekeepers, but I thought that it was one of those ethereal, prophetic teachings that did not really relate to everyday life (I have since learned differently). Further, I thought that if Gatekeepers were an important part of seeing revival come that I would have already known about it because I had spent, what I thought was, a lot of time studying revival. How little I really knew and how little I still know. Isn't it wonderful that God doesn't base his calling and anointing on our lives upon our lack of understanding or our barrenness but upon His plan and endowment of grace?
Throughout that year the Lord would periodically bring back that scripture to my mind, but I did not doing anything about it. Finally, I decided to study and find out what exactly a Gatekeeper was. As I began to look at the whole passage in I Chronicles 9 I recognized that there were powerful truths hidden in the symbolism of the duties of the Gatekeepers of old. Further, it became clear to me that there were modern day Gatekeepers who were commissioned in similar ways as the ancient Gatekeepers in the Tabernacle of David. The revelations that were within this once obscure scripture staggered me.
In this article I want to unfold the powerful symbolism that the Lord showed me regarding modern day Gatekeepers and their role as it relates to the great revival to come. Let's look at some of the key points of the whole passage together.
1Ch 9:22-33 22 All those chosen as gatekeepers were two hundred and twelve. They were recorded by their genealogy, in their villages. David and Samuel the seer had appointed them to their trusted office. 23 So they and their children were in charge of the gates of the house of the LORD, the house of the tabernacle, by assignment. 24 The gatekeepers were assigned to the four directions: the east, west, north, and south. 25 And their brethren in their villages had to come with them from time to time for seven days. 26 For in this trusted office were four chief gatekeepers; they were Levites. And they had charge over the chambers and treasuries of the house of God. 27 And they lodged all around the house of God because they had the responsibility, and they were in charge of opening it every morning. 28 Now some of them were in charge of the serving vessels, for they brought them in and took them out by count. 29 Some of them were appointed over the furnishings and over all the implements of the sanctuary, and over the fine flour and the wine and the oil and the incense and the spices. 30 And some of the sons of the priests made the ointment of the spices. 31 Mattithiah of the Levites, the firstborn of Shallum the Korahite, had the trusted office over the things that were baked in the pans. 32 And some of their brethren of the sons of the Kohathites were in charge of preparing the showbread for every Sabbath. 33 These are the singers, heads of the fathers' houses of the Levites, who lodged in the chambers, and were free from other duties; for they were employed in that work day and night.
In Charge of the Gates
The first thing that I noticed was that the Gatekeepers were in charge of the Gates of the Tabernacle of the Lord. They were the ones who opened and closed the Gates to the presence of God. This was amazing to me because I knew that God had deeply wounded my heart with the desire for revival. I literally sensed a personal responsibility to "open the heavens" so that the Lord would come down in power. Now the Lord was defining my role as one who was "in charge of opening" the gates for the presence of God to come into the county and into the region. God had confirmed to me in the renaming of our ministry the very DNA that was already alive in my heart. We had been commissioned to open the gates to see the presence of God invade the region. In the same way modern day Gatekeepers are prophetic intercessors, another name is watchmen, who are commissioned by the Lord to open the gates over a region to see the King of Glory come in (Psalm 24:7)
This Trusted Office
The next point that struck me was that it was a "trusted office". In other words, there were literally people whom God was entrusting with the responsibility to fervently pray and intercede for the heavenly gates to open in geographical regions. The urgency of this responsibility gripped my heart with an even greater desire to see God come and break in with power in the region. The truth that He would entrust people in partnership with Him in regard to the manifestation of His Glory caused me to passionately set my heart towards the reality of His visitation and subsequent habitation. Modern Gatekeepers have been given a responsibility as forerunners to prepare places and people for the invasion of the glory of God.
They Lodge Around the House of God
The Gatekeepers literally lived in chambers around the House of God. The reason that they stayed there, so close to the Tabernacle, was because they had a revelation that it was their responsibility to open the gates (v. 27). I believe that as they began to serve in their ministry that they became captivated with the beauty of the Lord. Once their hearts were captivated by His beauty their natural commitment to serve became total surrender from a heart of voluntary love. This spoke so strongly to my heart of the difference in commitment that the Lord desires of His people compared to the way many believers seem to live today. Much of the church in the West has settled into complacency and casual Christianity. Yet God desires to see His bride alive with a heart that is smitten with the knowledge of His love, living lives of radical commitment to Him and His purposes. This truth needs to set in upon us. Once we get a true revelation of the reality of his love and His beauty, commitment to night and day intimacy with Him is natural.
Appointed over the furnishings
The furnishings of the Tabernacle included serving vessels, flour, wine, oil, incense, spices, anointing ointment and showbread. Each of these is full of revelation in its symbolism. Yet, for our purposes here we will focus on the flour, wine and oil. Throughout the Old Testament these three are used together. Flour or grain, new wine and oil are symbols of specific Kingdom realities. Jesus said look unto the fields for they are white unto harvest (John 4:35). The reason that the field where white was because it was covered with grain. So grain or flour is a symbol of souls. We are familiar with the symbol of wine as a symbol of the new move of the Holy Spirit which is to be held in a new wineskin (Mat 9:17). We are also familiar with oil as a type of the anointing and power of the Holy Spirit. (Isa 10:27) As we unveil the symbolism of the flour, wine and oil we see that Gatekeepers are directly involved with not only preparing for the new move of the Spirit of God which will see massive signs and wonders and salvations, but also furnishing these things or bringing them forth. The ministry of Gatekeepers is directly tied to entering into revival in a region.
These are the Singers
Finally, the scripture declares that some of the gatekeepers were singers who were free from other duties and they were employed in intercession and worship to the Lord day and night. God provided that the Gatekeepers could live lifestyles of prayer, worship and service night and day before Him. Comparable to this today is the prayer movement that God is raising up across the nations where people are supported as full-time prayer missionaries to pray in the great revival that is to come. God is recoiling in power at the prayers of these modern day Gatekeepers in order to explode in a blast of His power so stunning that the entire world will experience it (Acts 2:17). His Glory will visit and engulf the entire planet just as waters cover the sea. (Hab 2:14)
In my first contacts with these scriptures many of the truths did not strike me. God had not unlocked the power of their revelation to me. As the Lord began to deal with me about resigning our youth ministry and transitioning into the ministry of IHOP-ATL, the power of this scripture captured me in a brand new way. I had been stirred to understand that the revival to come and the prayer movement were one reality in God's economy. They were not exclusive of each other but simply complimentary facets of the same purpose. I also realized that God had deposited a hunger and passion for revival in me that would not subside. It is still an itch that I cannot scratch. However, I had not realized when we renamed the youth ministry 212 that it directly related to Gatekeepers in the Tabernacle of David. When we finally studied the Tabernacle of David and realized that it was a ministry of 24/7 worship and intercession it was after God had begun to deal with us about transitioning our ministry to start IHOP-ATL. Honestly, we never put it together that the Gatekeepers were in a 24/7 prayer ministry until after God had begun to transition us into the same type of ministry. Two things are for sure: 1) His ways are perfect 2) We are much more dim than we think. When we finally got the revelation that God had given us the name 212 to point to a reality that He was calling us into in the days ahead we were shocked and radically blessed at the same time.
Now, every time that I see the number 212, it is a reminder to me that God has called me to be a Gatekeeper. And not only a Gatekeeper but a Gatekeeper in the modern day Tabernacle of David, living a life of 24/7 worship and intercession to see the gates open and the King of Glory come in.
I pray that this revelation will grip your heart as it has gripped mine. Perhaps you too, are a Gatekeeper, called to open the presence of God in your region. I believe that the Lord is raising up an army of Gatekeepers to open the Gates in these last days for the revival to come. It is overwhelming to consider that the Lord has given us the dignity of having intimate relationship and even further, partnership with Him. As people in partnership with the Un-Created God we need to leave the entrapments of this world and give ourselves in passion and recklessness to His purposes. It is those who live lives of lovesick abandonment who will enter in to the reality of complete commitment to Him and His purposes.
If you believe it's possible that God has called you to be a Gatekeeper pray this prayer:
Heavenly Father, I pray that you would give me the spirit of wisdom and revelation that I may understand the truths and the calling of being a Gatekeeper. Tenderize my heart to serve you in night and day intercession to see your glory invade the land. Increase my faith to believe that my prayers and service will affect the spiritual climate of my region. I speak to the every Gate and say be open. King of Glory come in and have your way in this region, in Jesus' Name, Amen.
By Faith Walls Fall Down
BY FAITH WALLS FALL DOWN
By Dr. Michael A. Halleen"By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days." (Hebrews 11:30)
Prince Henry the Navigator of Portugal (1394-1460) never captained a ship or sailed on a voyage of exploration. He stayed home and read accounts of others who had. He thought about what they said and let his mind march around new theories about what the world must be like. He wondered and imagined, calculated and drew maps. Prince Henry died thirty years before Portuguese explorers were able to test his theories, but when they did, they brought back proof that he had been incredibly accurate. As a result, Portugal took the lead in world exploration for fully a hundred years. Other nations held back, making excuses about internal problems. Other explorers did not see the possibilities or worried about lack of money. They lacked faith to move past what seemed to be insurmountable obstacles.
To feel bound by perceived limits is so human, so common. A century ago there were predictions that no one could ever drive a car 60 miles per hour because the wind would suck one's breath away. In 1934 the track coach at the University of California laid out what he believed were the absolute limits of achievement in track and field events. All of them, of course, have long since been exceeded. High school athletes today are out-performing Olympic champions of a few decades ago. There appears to be no limit to how fast we can run, how far we can go, how high we can leap.
So we do well not to set limits on what we can do and become as children of God if we believe in the power of Christ within us. We do well not to minimize the potential of the people of God when we act in faith. Walls fall down. Families are transformed, communities changed.
When my two grandchildren blow out the candles on their birthday cakes each year and make their wishes, I make one of my own for them. My birthday wish for each is faith, the single quality that will guarantee him a successful life. Faith is simply trust that God is stronger than all the limitations, hurts, fears and problems they may face. I do not pray that they will have superior intellects or well-coordinated bodies. I am not concerned that they be popular or clever, blessed with talent or wealth. I care only that they will persist in faith toward the goals and dreams that God may give them — the Prince Henrys of their time.By faith walls fall down.
By Dr. Michael A. Halleen"By faith the walls of Jericho fell, after the people had marched around them for seven days." (Hebrews 11:30)
Prince Henry the Navigator of Portugal (1394-1460) never captained a ship or sailed on a voyage of exploration. He stayed home and read accounts of others who had. He thought about what they said and let his mind march around new theories about what the world must be like. He wondered and imagined, calculated and drew maps. Prince Henry died thirty years before Portuguese explorers were able to test his theories, but when they did, they brought back proof that he had been incredibly accurate. As a result, Portugal took the lead in world exploration for fully a hundred years. Other nations held back, making excuses about internal problems. Other explorers did not see the possibilities or worried about lack of money. They lacked faith to move past what seemed to be insurmountable obstacles.
To feel bound by perceived limits is so human, so common. A century ago there were predictions that no one could ever drive a car 60 miles per hour because the wind would suck one's breath away. In 1934 the track coach at the University of California laid out what he believed were the absolute limits of achievement in track and field events. All of them, of course, have long since been exceeded. High school athletes today are out-performing Olympic champions of a few decades ago. There appears to be no limit to how fast we can run, how far we can go, how high we can leap.
So we do well not to set limits on what we can do and become as children of God if we believe in the power of Christ within us. We do well not to minimize the potential of the people of God when we act in faith. Walls fall down. Families are transformed, communities changed.
When my two grandchildren blow out the candles on their birthday cakes each year and make their wishes, I make one of my own for them. My birthday wish for each is faith, the single quality that will guarantee him a successful life. Faith is simply trust that God is stronger than all the limitations, hurts, fears and problems they may face. I do not pray that they will have superior intellects or well-coordinated bodies. I am not concerned that they be popular or clever, blessed with talent or wealth. I care only that they will persist in faith toward the goals and dreams that God may give them — the Prince Henrys of their time.By faith walls fall down.
Wednesday, May 23, 2007
Paul, Silas, Timothy and the Call
Hi gang - you know I have an immature/not quite ripe thought I want to pass your way regarding the prayer & fasting that will precede the Call in Nashville. Ordinarily I’d let it ripen, but I’m feeling a little reckless and immature today – so anyway, here goes . . .
I had a dream the other day about a group of young people who were being separated into two teams. Neither group was good or bad. Actually, it seemed like I loved both groups. However, there was a group of little boys in front of me that I suddenly cared for. Something about them reminded me of Timothy, Paul’s adopted son in Christ.
They were expressing concern about the way the teams had ended up because they were intimidated. The other team seemed too strong, i.e., the odds were stacked against them.
Corey Russell (a teacher on intercession at IHOP-KC ) was sitting on the floor with them in order to identify with them, coach them and communicate at their level. I said to the kids, "Don't worry, you have Paul and Silas on your team and they are pray-ers." Corey took my hand to let me know that he agreed with me and his hand lingered there and although it was awkward, I was aware that he really wanted to communicate encouragement that what I said was right - and as I let go, I suddenly felt the Holy Spirit lingering over us.
When I woke up, I was puzzled because it seemed to me it would have been more likely for me to think “Paul and Barnabus”. But the dream was clear, so – I waited for God to make sense of it. It turns out that He was quick to do so because I ended up in a seminar last night and my friend was talking about Paul and Silas. She recounted the story of Paul and Silas in prison. They were imprisoned for a couple of reasons that are too lengthy to go into right now, but the passage of focus was Acts 16: 25ff
25About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. 26Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose. 27The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. 28But Paul shouted, "Don't harm yourself! We are all here!" 29The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. 30He then brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"
Now, here’s the deal - Paul and Silas most likely were not praying and singing hymns just to get God to release them. It seems to me that they were just loving Him because they loved Him. The reason I say that is if you look at the passage, they never sought to escape when the earthquake broke their chains. As a matter of fact, at the end of the chapter, when they are set free, Paul is quite cranky and says that they were jailed without cause, so he insists that the dudes who locked them up ought to come and escort them out – justifying them completely. In the meantime, their prayer and worship preceded an earthquake that not only broke their chains but broke off the chains of all of the prisoners and one result was that the jailer and his family sought salvation.
All righty then, one more thought and I’ll try and tie all of the pieces together . . .
At the beginning of this chapter, Paul has just been aggravated by John Mark not sticking things out and he runs into Timothy. He’s quite soft hearted toward Timothy and he wants to take him with him on his missionary trip. Timothy’s mom is Jewish, but his dad is Greek and apparently did not allow him to be circumcised when he was a baby. Paul does something bizarre considering that he advocates so staunchly for the Gentiles to not have to be circumcised. He tells Timothy that he’d like him to be circumcised. It appears that something is different here - he’s looking for young Timothy to have a voice to the Jews. He knows that the Jews will not listen to young Timothy unless he fully identifies with them. So Paul, in essence, steps in as a father and circumcises Timothy himself.
So what’s the connection to the dream? This 40 day prayer/fast and The Call are in essence a time of separation for our young people; Timothys perhaps? I believe we are called to get down on the ground with them and intercede (Corey) and encourage them by identifying with them; communicating that they have fathers and mothers in the faith that will link hands with them in prayer and worship.
The gift that we have to offer them is our prayer and worship and an offering of love for love’s sake. It’s the kind of kiss that really moves God’s heart because it’s not a manipulative act of affection to bring about the change of our circumstances. At its heart, it’s truly and simply because we really love and trust our Father’s intentions . . . while also caring for the next Generation; helping them to develop the same/better in their own lives.
Now, I know that some of us feel imprisoned right now as well and God cares about that – He’s on it. But this act of love expressed in prayer and worship, like Paul and Silas offered in their prison, inadvertently yields a result that is not really just about us, it’s about all of the other prisoners and the jailers that God wants to set free and He’s willing to move both heaven and earth in order to do so.
Additionally, if I were to walk out the analogy, perhaps our young Timothys will have an opportunity to identify with and speak into the Jewish people about Jesus as we take up our roles as Moms and Dads and identify ourselves with them; bringing the youth alongside us and helping them to circumcise their hearts to the Lord.
If you are going to engage in this solemn assembly, can I encourage you to grab a young person and pray with them during this time? Teach them about their role and their invitation. Identify with some young soul that needs to be loved and encouraged to step into their rightful identity. If you don’t have some young dude or dudette that will pray with you, ask God if there is someone He would put on your heart to simply pray FOR. But in the midst of it all, let’s look at God and just love Him BIG, simply because He’s just so good, so wonderful and we are falling deeply in love with Him in all of His beauty. Let’s thank Him for this opportunity and watch for the earthquake that set prisoners and jailers free.
Hosea 6:1-3 "Come, let us return to the LORD. He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; he has injured us but he will bind up our wounds. 2 After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will restore us that we may live in his presence. 3 Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth."
Much love, t
I had a dream the other day about a group of young people who were being separated into two teams. Neither group was good or bad. Actually, it seemed like I loved both groups. However, there was a group of little boys in front of me that I suddenly cared for. Something about them reminded me of Timothy, Paul’s adopted son in Christ.
They were expressing concern about the way the teams had ended up because they were intimidated. The other team seemed too strong, i.e., the odds were stacked against them.
Corey Russell (a teacher on intercession at IHOP-KC ) was sitting on the floor with them in order to identify with them, coach them and communicate at their level. I said to the kids, "Don't worry, you have Paul and Silas on your team and they are pray-ers." Corey took my hand to let me know that he agreed with me and his hand lingered there and although it was awkward, I was aware that he really wanted to communicate encouragement that what I said was right - and as I let go, I suddenly felt the Holy Spirit lingering over us.
When I woke up, I was puzzled because it seemed to me it would have been more likely for me to think “Paul and Barnabus”. But the dream was clear, so – I waited for God to make sense of it. It turns out that He was quick to do so because I ended up in a seminar last night and my friend was talking about Paul and Silas. She recounted the story of Paul and Silas in prison. They were imprisoned for a couple of reasons that are too lengthy to go into right now, but the passage of focus was Acts 16: 25ff
25About midnight Paul and Silas were praying and singing hymns to God, and the other prisoners were listening to them. 26Suddenly there was such a violent earthquake that the foundations of the prison were shaken. At once all the prison doors flew open, and everybody's chains came loose. 27The jailer woke up, and when he saw the prison doors open, he drew his sword and was about to kill himself because he thought the prisoners had escaped. 28But Paul shouted, "Don't harm yourself! We are all here!" 29The jailer called for lights, rushed in and fell trembling before Paul and Silas. 30He then brought them out and asked, "Sirs, what must I do to be saved?"
Now, here’s the deal - Paul and Silas most likely were not praying and singing hymns just to get God to release them. It seems to me that they were just loving Him because they loved Him. The reason I say that is if you look at the passage, they never sought to escape when the earthquake broke their chains. As a matter of fact, at the end of the chapter, when they are set free, Paul is quite cranky and says that they were jailed without cause, so he insists that the dudes who locked them up ought to come and escort them out – justifying them completely. In the meantime, their prayer and worship preceded an earthquake that not only broke their chains but broke off the chains of all of the prisoners and one result was that the jailer and his family sought salvation.
All righty then, one more thought and I’ll try and tie all of the pieces together . . .
At the beginning of this chapter, Paul has just been aggravated by John Mark not sticking things out and he runs into Timothy. He’s quite soft hearted toward Timothy and he wants to take him with him on his missionary trip. Timothy’s mom is Jewish, but his dad is Greek and apparently did not allow him to be circumcised when he was a baby. Paul does something bizarre considering that he advocates so staunchly for the Gentiles to not have to be circumcised. He tells Timothy that he’d like him to be circumcised. It appears that something is different here - he’s looking for young Timothy to have a voice to the Jews. He knows that the Jews will not listen to young Timothy unless he fully identifies with them. So Paul, in essence, steps in as a father and circumcises Timothy himself.
So what’s the connection to the dream? This 40 day prayer/fast and The Call are in essence a time of separation for our young people; Timothys perhaps? I believe we are called to get down on the ground with them and intercede (Corey) and encourage them by identifying with them; communicating that they have fathers and mothers in the faith that will link hands with them in prayer and worship.
The gift that we have to offer them is our prayer and worship and an offering of love for love’s sake. It’s the kind of kiss that really moves God’s heart because it’s not a manipulative act of affection to bring about the change of our circumstances. At its heart, it’s truly and simply because we really love and trust our Father’s intentions . . . while also caring for the next Generation; helping them to develop the same/better in their own lives.
Now, I know that some of us feel imprisoned right now as well and God cares about that – He’s on it. But this act of love expressed in prayer and worship, like Paul and Silas offered in their prison, inadvertently yields a result that is not really just about us, it’s about all of the other prisoners and the jailers that God wants to set free and He’s willing to move both heaven and earth in order to do so.
Additionally, if I were to walk out the analogy, perhaps our young Timothys will have an opportunity to identify with and speak into the Jewish people about Jesus as we take up our roles as Moms and Dads and identify ourselves with them; bringing the youth alongside us and helping them to circumcise their hearts to the Lord.
If you are going to engage in this solemn assembly, can I encourage you to grab a young person and pray with them during this time? Teach them about their role and their invitation. Identify with some young soul that needs to be loved and encouraged to step into their rightful identity. If you don’t have some young dude or dudette that will pray with you, ask God if there is someone He would put on your heart to simply pray FOR. But in the midst of it all, let’s look at God and just love Him BIG, simply because He’s just so good, so wonderful and we are falling deeply in love with Him in all of His beauty. Let’s thank Him for this opportunity and watch for the earthquake that set prisoners and jailers free.
Hosea 6:1-3 "Come, let us return to the LORD. He has torn us to pieces but he will heal us; he has injured us but he will bind up our wounds. 2 After two days he will revive us; on the third day he will restore us that we may live in his presence. 3 Let us acknowledge the LORD; let us press on to acknowledge him. As surely as the sun rises, he will appear; he will come to us like the winter rains, like the spring rains that water the earth."
Much love, t
Friday, April 27, 2007
A Prayer Primer
A Prayer Primer
What follows are some basic biblical foundations that, when understood in succession, ought to release faith for this partnered intercessory prayer; birthed through the power of love. We will begin to believe in this partnership as we know and believe in our partner and in His love.
Indeed, I tell you truly, the one believing into Me, the works which I do, that one shall do also, and greater than these he will do, because I go to My Father. And whatever you may ask in My Name, this I will do, that the Father may be glorified in the Son. John 14:12-13
In that day you will ask in My name, and I do not tell you that I will petition the Father about you; for the Father Himself loves you, because you have loved Me, and have believed that I came out from God. John 16:26-27
- Our God; Father, Son and Holy Spirit is love. 1John 4:16
- He fully knows us and loves us Psalm 139, John 1 & 3:16
- We didn’t start out broken and we don’t end up that way either. We were made for Love. Genesis 1 & 2, Revelation 21
- As much as we hate the idea that we could be responsible, we, as a race, are responsible for bringing sin and suffering into our world. Therefore, just as sin entered the world through one man, and death through sin, so death spread to everyone, because all have sinned. Romans 5:12
- The result of sin is death and injustice and it affects all of Creation.There was no way we could fix the problem, and no way to stop it. So God, who is Love, came to our rescue. For He made the One who knew no sin to be sin for us, that we might become the righteousness of God in Him. 2 Corinthians 5:21
- Our Father endured the painful tearing of separation; a broken heart if you will; in order to inflict the full wrath of holiness judging/conquering sin upon His deeply loved Son instead of us. In that act, He made us sons. That gave Him great pleasure. Isaiah 53:10
Take a close look now at Isaiah 53 before we go on.
Who has believed our report? And to whom is the arm of Jehovah revealed? For He comes up before Him as a tender plant, and as a root out of dry ground. He has no form nor magnificence that we should see Him; nor form that we should desire Him. He is despised and abandoned of men, a Man of pains, and acquainted with sickness. And as it were hiding our faces from Him, He being despised, and we did not value Him. Surely He has borne our sicknesses, and He carried our pain; yet we esteemed Him plagued, smitten by God, and afflicted. But He was wounded for our transgressions; He was bruised for our iniquities; the chastisement of our peace was upon Him; and with His wounds we ourselves are healed. All we like sheep have gone astray; we have each one turned to his own way; and Jehovah made meet in Him the iniquity of all of us. He was oppressed, and He was afflicted, but He did not open His mouth. He was led as a lamb to the slaughter; and as a ewe before her shearers is dumb, so He opened not His mouth. He was taken from prison and from justice; and who shall consider His generation? For He was cut off out of the land of the living; from the transgression of My people, the stroke was to Him. And He appointed Him His grave with the wicked, but He was with a rich man in His death; though He had done no violence, and deceit was not in His mouth. But Jehovah pleased to crush Him, to make Him sick, so that If He should put His soul as a guilt offering, He shall see His seed; He shall prolong His days; and the will of Jehovah shall prosper in His hand. He shall see the fruit of the travail of His soul; He shall be fully satisfied. By His knowledge the righteous One, My Servant, shall justify for many, and He shall bear their iniquities. Because of this I will divide to Him with the great, and with the strong He shall divide the spoil; because He poured out His soul to death; and He was counted with those transgressing; and He bore the sin of many, and made intercession for those transgressing.
Take the time to hang out with Isaiah 53 and look into Ephesians 1-3. They are crucial passages for us to consider because they reveal this foundational truth: Jesus took on all of our iniquities, transgressions and sins. “Iniquities” refer to our nature of perversity; i.e., our downward bent away from God and toward sin. “Transgressions” refer to our willful rebellion; our choices that say “we will not obey” to God. In Isaiah 53:10 we are told that the “stroke was to Him”. In the King James Version, the word is translated “stricken” for our transgressions. The word “stricken” is the same word used to describe leprosy. In essence, He became a leper for our sakes as He took our sins upon Himself. We’re also told that He took upon Himself the iniquities of us all. He endured crucifixion and took the full blow of judgment; conquering all of our enemies, including sin and death. He demonstrated that Love is not just as strong as death, but stronger than death and because of that, He is worthy and the only One strong enough to break the seals of Revelation and bring about the redemption of creation. God is to us a God of deliverances (salvation) and to God belongs escape from death. Psalm 68:20, Song of Songs 8:6-7 - This Beautiful One; this Bridegroom-Redeemer loves us so much He always makes intercession for us, even now. And the Holy Spirit; the comforter, teacher and power of God in action, reveals the truth to us, lives in us and makes intercession with us so we can be in union with God. Isaiah 52:10, 53:5, Zechariah 12:10, John 3:16, John 1:29 John 14:16, Hebrews 10, Romans 8:26, Revelation 5
- When Jesus, our forever High Priest, paid fully for our sins, iniquities and transgressions, He completely clothed us in His righteousness and He has taken away our shame. He didn’t just pay for those sins we committed before our born again encounter, He also paid for the sins we still struggle with as we work out our salvation. We can boldly approach the Throne of Grace to find mercy and grace because we are IN Him and Christ is in us (plural, corporately) the Hope of Glory. John 1:29, Colossians 1, Hebrews 10
- Our destiny as the Body and Bride is to operate from the same identity as our Bridegroom-Redeemer, Jesus. Our original DNA (both inherited and perpetuated) carries a sin bent nature and a destiny of death. In the grace of God, through faith in Jesus, we get the opportunity of a lifetime so to speak. We are identified with Him in faith and that original identity is crucified with Him in an event that transcends time and space. We emerge from that death into His love bent nature and a destiny of eternal life. We are born anew into/with a new identity. We are a brand new creation. We are clothed with Him and given His DNA. We are in essence and in truth, completely immersed in His name/character/identity. (As a matter of meditation, we are actually baptized in the name/ character/ identity of the Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit. Chew on that one for awhile.) To be baptized in a name means we are fully immersed in; wet with; clothed with; covered in . . . in this case God. Therefore, we are called to live and love from this identity.
But faith coming, we are no longer under a trainer; for you are all sons of God through faith in Christ Jesus. For as many as were baptized into Christ, you put on Christ. There cannot be Jew nor Greek, there is no slave nor freeman, there is no male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus. And if you are of Christ, then you are a seed of Abraham, even heirs according to promise. Galatians 3:25-29
That the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of…revelation…that you may know…what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe…which He worked in Christ when He raised Him…and seated Him at His right hand in the heavenly places… He put all things under His (Jesus as a Man) feet, and gave Him to be head over all things to the church, which is His body, the fullness of Him… Ephesians 1:17-23
Raised us up together, and made us sit together in the heavenly places in Christ... Ephesians 2:6
For we are members of His body, of His flesh, and of His bones. "For this, a man shall leave his father and mother, and shall be joined to his wife, and the two shall be one flesh." Gen. 2:24 The mystery is great, but I speak as to Christ and as to the assembly. However, you also, everyone, let each one love his wife as himself, and the wife, that she give deference to the husband. Ephesians 5:30-33
But about the Son he says, "Your throne, O God, is forever and ever, and the scepter of your kingdom is a righteous scepter. Hebrews 1:8
Son though he was, he learned obedience through his sufferings and, once made perfect, he became the source of eternal salvation for all who obey him, having been designated by God to be a high priest according to the order of Melchizedek. Hebrews 5:9-10
They sang a new song: "You are worthy to take the scroll and open its seals, because you were slaughtered. With your blood you purchased people for God from every tribe, language, people, and nation. You made them a kingdom and priests for our God, and they will reign on the earth." Revelation 5:9-10 - God is good. The Hebrew word “good”, when describing God’s goodness, isn’t a small word or concept. It doesn’t mean “nice”. It means “wildly good”; tremendously, extravagantly good. His goodness and lovingkindness is completely full and bent toward His own. We can rest in that always. . . . The Lord is good; His loving-kindness endures for ever, and his faithfulness unto all generations. Psalm 100:5
For as the heavens are high above the earth, so great is his loving-kindness toward them that fear him. Psalm 103:11 - He is unfathomably rich in grace and mercy. We may draw upon the riches of His grace and mercy every time we turn to Him, even as we struggle with the remnants of our pre-Christ nature; i.e., our sins, again and again. When we confess our sins and repent, He is incredibly faithful and quick to forgive us; He is our victory. We overcome by the blood of the Lamb and the word; the kiss if you will, of our testimony. As a result, we can ascend the hill of the Lord with clean hands and a pure heart. Ephesians 1-3, 1John 1:9, Psalm 24:4, Revelation 12:11
- The Father loves us and loves us and loves us . . . . and hears us because of the gift of righteousness we receive in Jesus. 1Kings 8, 2Chronicles 7:12, Psalm 5:2, John 3:16, John 11:41-42,1John 3:1
- We are seated at the right hand of God with Christ Jesus and we can and ought to pray from that position (Heaven to earth) Ephesians 2:6
- We are given governmental responsibility for the earth. Genesis 1:27-31, Psalm 115:16 That responsibility is rightly released through love/justice/humility and prayer.
- We engage in that responsibility with authority by agreement with God and each other in prayer Matthew 17:21,18:20, John 17, James 5:17, Revelation 8:3
- We are made from the fabric of Creation. It has been subjected to futility because of us until the sons of God are revealed. Creation’s destiny is entirely tied into us. Genesis 1- 3, Romans 8:18-23 Walking in our true identity and agreeing with God in prayer makes all the difference.
- The sons of God are identified as “the peace makers”. Matthew 5:9 We become “peace makers” as we embrace our identity in “the Prince of Peace” Isaiah 9:6 and are conformed to His image as the image bearers. Genesis 1:27,Romans 8:29
- Jesus taught us that as “peace makers” we could choose to love our enemies, and pray for those that persecute us; so that we may be sons of our Father who is in heaven: for he makes his sun to rise on the evil and the good, and sends rain on the just and the unjust. Matthew 5:44-45. That means, through the gift of prayer in love, we don’t have to expend useless energy maintaining our anger, our bitter wounds and the chains of un-forgiveness. What a relief! And, as we forgive, we are forgiven. As we are merciful, we receive mercy. It’s the sowing/reaping model of Kingdom living.
- Love and prayer are intimately connected. Prayer is our love language. It is how we engage with God throughout our day; how God helps us with our choices; and how we release love/justice; transforming the scenarios we face. More than that . . . love can be prayed into people and situations. And this is my prayer that your love will keep on growing more and more in full knowledge and perfect insight. Philippians 1:9
- Our hearts are softened in prayer. (That is at least one reason that we are called to pray for our enemies – so that they won’t be our enemies anymore. One less thing to worry about.)
- God likes prayer. Prayers are incense (a pleasing smell) before the Lord. The elders around God’s Throne have harps and gold bowls filled with the prayers of the saints. Our prayers are mixed with the fire on the altar and hurled toward the earth with the purposes of God directing them. Psalm 18, Revelation 5:8, 8:1-5
- God receives thanksgiving and praise because of answered prayer and through that our joy is made complete. Until now you asked nothing in My name; ask, and you will receive, so that your joy may be full. John 16:24, also see Philippians 4:6
- Our Father’s House is to be a House of Prayer and in the House of Prayer we will find joy. Isaiah 56:7, Matthew 21:13
Monday, July 31, 2006
House of Prayer Weblog
I've been filing articles that I thought would one day be useful on this site for a few years but it has been dormant for awhile. Now that I'm in Kansas City and unable to communicate at the IHOP meetings, perhaps this venue will serve my need to make resources available and keep people informed of what is happening out here. Hope this helps! t
Thursday, February 02, 2006
I'm in a particularly mushy place this morning and was reading this "devotion" on Jesus. There's tremendous wisdom in the excerpt. Hope it makes you tender and restful. love, t
By S.M. Lockridge
“He is the one who made you; it is He who made us and not we ourselves. The heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament shows His handiwork No means or measure can define His limitless love and no farseeing telescope can bring into visibility the coastline of His shoreless supply. “No barrier can hinder Him from pouring out His blessing. He’s enduringly strong and He’s entirely sincere. He’s eternally steadfast and He’s immortally graceful. He’s imperially powerful and He’s impartially merciful. He’s the greatest phenomenon that has ever crossed the horizon of this world. He’s God’s Son, He’s the sinner’s Savior, and He’s the centerpiece of civilization.
“He does not have to call for help and you can’t confuse Him. He doesn’t need you and He doesn’t need me. He stands alone in the solitude of Himself. He’s august and He’s unique. He’s unparalleled, He’s unprecedented, He’s supreme, He’s preeminent, He’s the loftiest idea in literature, He’s the highest personality in philosophy, He’s the supreme problem of higher criticism, He’s the fundamental doctrine of true theology, He’s the cardinal necessity of spiritual religion, He’s the miracle of the age He’s the superlative of everything good you can call Him.“He can satisfy all your needs, and He can do it simultaneously. He supplies strength for the weak and He’s available for the tempted and the tried. He sympathizes and He sees. He guards and He guides, He heals the sick, He cleansed the Leper, He forgives sinners, He discharges debtors, He delivers the captives, He defends the feeble, He blesses the young, He regards the aged, He rewards the diligent, He beautifies the meek.“He’s the key to knowledge, He’s the well spring of wisdom, He’s the doorway of deliverance,
He’s the pathway of peace, He’s the roadway of righteousness, He’s the highway of holiness, and He’s the gateway to glory.“He’s the master of the mighty, He’s the captain of the conquers, He’s the head of heroes, He’s the leader of legislators, He’s the overseer of the over comers, He’s the governor of the governors, He’s the prince of princes, He’s the King of kings, He’s the Lord of lords.
“His office is manifold, His promise is sure, His life is matchless, His goodness is limitless, His mercy is everlasting, His love never changes, His word is enough, His grace is sufficient, His reign is righteous, His yoke is easy, His burden is light, I wish I could describe Him too you, He’s indescribable because He’s incomprehensible, He’s irresistible because He’s invincible. You can’t get Him off your hands, you can’t get Him off your mind, you can’t outlive Him and you can’t live without Him. Pilate couldn’t stand it when he found he couldn’t stop Him, and Pilate couldn’t find any fault in Him. And the witness couldn’t get their testimonies to agree and Herod couldn’t kill Him, and death couldn’t handle Him and thank God the grave couldn’t hold Him.
“There was nobody before Him and there will be nobody after Him. He has no predecessor, He’ll have no successor, you can’t impeach Him and He’s not going to resign.”
(Reference) http://www.rbcdothan.org/Outlines/you_can_trust_him.htm
• if you would like to listen to the excerpt of this please go to http://
www.cs.unc.edu/~taylorr/lockridge_sermon.html
By S.M. Lockridge
“He is the one who made you; it is He who made us and not we ourselves. The heavens declare the glory of God and the firmament shows His handiwork No means or measure can define His limitless love and no farseeing telescope can bring into visibility the coastline of His shoreless supply. “No barrier can hinder Him from pouring out His blessing. He’s enduringly strong and He’s entirely sincere. He’s eternally steadfast and He’s immortally graceful. He’s imperially powerful and He’s impartially merciful. He’s the greatest phenomenon that has ever crossed the horizon of this world. He’s God’s Son, He’s the sinner’s Savior, and He’s the centerpiece of civilization.
“He does not have to call for help and you can’t confuse Him. He doesn’t need you and He doesn’t need me. He stands alone in the solitude of Himself. He’s august and He’s unique. He’s unparalleled, He’s unprecedented, He’s supreme, He’s preeminent, He’s the loftiest idea in literature, He’s the highest personality in philosophy, He’s the supreme problem of higher criticism, He’s the fundamental doctrine of true theology, He’s the cardinal necessity of spiritual religion, He’s the miracle of the age He’s the superlative of everything good you can call Him.“He can satisfy all your needs, and He can do it simultaneously. He supplies strength for the weak and He’s available for the tempted and the tried. He sympathizes and He sees. He guards and He guides, He heals the sick, He cleansed the Leper, He forgives sinners, He discharges debtors, He delivers the captives, He defends the feeble, He blesses the young, He regards the aged, He rewards the diligent, He beautifies the meek.“He’s the key to knowledge, He’s the well spring of wisdom, He’s the doorway of deliverance,
He’s the pathway of peace, He’s the roadway of righteousness, He’s the highway of holiness, and He’s the gateway to glory.“He’s the master of the mighty, He’s the captain of the conquers, He’s the head of heroes, He’s the leader of legislators, He’s the overseer of the over comers, He’s the governor of the governors, He’s the prince of princes, He’s the King of kings, He’s the Lord of lords.
“His office is manifold, His promise is sure, His life is matchless, His goodness is limitless, His mercy is everlasting, His love never changes, His word is enough, His grace is sufficient, His reign is righteous, His yoke is easy, His burden is light, I wish I could describe Him too you, He’s indescribable because He’s incomprehensible, He’s irresistible because He’s invincible. You can’t get Him off your hands, you can’t get Him off your mind, you can’t outlive Him and you can’t live without Him. Pilate couldn’t stand it when he found he couldn’t stop Him, and Pilate couldn’t find any fault in Him. And the witness couldn’t get their testimonies to agree and Herod couldn’t kill Him, and death couldn’t handle Him and thank God the grave couldn’t hold Him.
“There was nobody before Him and there will be nobody after Him. He has no predecessor, He’ll have no successor, you can’t impeach Him and He’s not going to resign.”
(Reference) http://www.rbcdothan.org/Outlines/you_can_trust_him.htm
• if you would like to listen to the excerpt of this please go to http://
www.cs.unc.edu/~taylorr/lockridge_sermon.html
Friday, August 19, 2005
Prepare the Way
"PREPARE THE WAY" by Rick JoynerMorningStar Ministrieswww.morningstarministries.org
The greatest sign of the return of the Lord is recorded in Matthew 24:14: "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world for a witness to all the nations, and then the end shall come." An acceleration of transformation is now going on in the Church in order to prepare the way for this gospel to be preached and this prophecy fulfilled. The greatest force for truth is now being assembled for this purpose.There are true, last-day prophets and apostles already living among us. Most are still immature, but they are here, they are maturing, and they will soon be released in power. Their commission will be foretold by the earth itself suffering spiritual contractions, so that all who dwell on the earth will tremble. God is coming to shake things up.
The Revolution
This "gospel of the kingdom" is not the same as the gospel of salvation, commonly referred to as "the gospel" which has been the primary message of the Protestant and the Evangelical churches for the past five hundred years. It is now time to understand the gospel of the kingdom, how it is distinguished from the gospel that has been preached, and howthe message of the church is about to change so that it is preached throughout the whole world.
We also need to examine the way that the gospel of salvation has been perverted in recent times, changing it from Him coming to save His people from their sins, to Him coming to save His people from their troubles. This is why so few remain in the faith after their "conversion." The only true salvation comes from the conviction of our sins and our profound and desperate need for the atonement of the cross of Jesus Christ. Anything other than this is a wrong foundation that cannot stand. He did not come to deliver us from troubles, but rather the opposite. When someone comes to Christ, he or she needs to immediately be prepared for troubles, as the whole fallen world will be against them.
Redemption, reconciliation, and restoration are all part of the gospel of the kingdom, and these are reasons for which the kingdom is coming.
Without question, the Christian life is the most fulfilling, wonderful adventure that anyone can experience in this world, but it is also the most difficult life that can be lived on this earth. When people come to Christ, they need to be prepared for battle from the first day. If they are not prepared for this, they are very unlikely to remain in the faith, as the glaring statistics of those who "come to Christ" that are lost again to theworld should boldly teach us.When we are born, it is not the goal of our lives, but only the beginning. Likewise, to be born again is not the ultimate goal of the gospel; it is the beginning of the greatest quest and journey toward the full maturity of what we are called to be. It is now time for the Church to go on to maturity, and this must begin with our message. It is the greatest message of hope, but also a call to battle.
To preach the gospel of the kingdom does not in any way negate or denigrate the gospel of salvation. In fact, it is the gospel of the kingdom that leads to true salvation, which is why the Lord Jesus Himself preached this gospel, as well as the first century apostles. Redemption, reconciliation, and restoration are all part of the gospel of the kingdom, and these are reasons for which the kingdom is coming. However, the gospel of the kingdom does include more than the salvation of believers -- it is the message that the rightful King is coming to take over.Those who are born again with the hope of salvation may be changed, but those who are born again in order to see the kingdom will be so changed that they are a "new creation" (see Galatians 6:15) -- which stands out in great contrast to those of the old creation. Just as the first century Christians stood out in stunning contrast to all who lived in their time, the radical faith that is about to be revealed through such radical Christians will cause the whole world to stand in shock and awe.Recent studies have revealed that modern, Evangelical Christians are really no different from non-Christians in basic moral and integrity issues such as honesty, cheating, and immorality. That is about to change. As the Lord warned in John 15, every branch that does not bear fruit will be cut off. If you receive anything from this bulletin, heed the following clear warning from Galatians 5:16-25:
"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh."For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please."But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law."Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you just as I have forewarned you that those who practice such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God."But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires."If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit."
Again, we can know for sure that those who practice such things as are listed under the works of the flesh "shall not inherit the kingdom of God." The scariest thing in the world should be if we are doing these things and getting away with them. As we are told in Hebrews 12, the Lord disciplines His children, and if we are without discipline, then we are not His.The Gospel of the KingdomThe gospel of the kingdom is not just the gospel of our atonement, but it is the good news of the kingdom of God and the declaration that the King is coming to establish it here on the earth, beginning with us. To be saved with a vision of our salvation is good, but it is man-centered. To be saved by a vision of the kingdom is an enlistment into the army of the coming King. This is not a matter of "majoring on minors"; each has very different consequences and different fruit. When the gospel of salvation is preached, we are compelled to "accept the Lord" and, often, it is done as if we are doing Him a favor. When the gospel of the kingdom is preached so that His kingdom is seen, we will bow the knee begging His acceptance.
As the Lord instructed His people to pray for nearly 2,000 years, His kingdom is going to come, and His will is going to be done right here on the earth just as it is in Heaven (see Matthew 6:9-13). This prayer of so many millions for so many years -- the prayer that the King Himself gave us to pray -- is going to be answered. He wants to start with us. That He came to be our Savior is something we will marvel at for eternity; however, He did not just come to be our Savior, but our King . . . There is a difference.
The coming of His kingdom is the greatest hope that has ever been preached on the earth. There is no hope found in any other religion or any philosophy of utopia that is as great as what we have been given to proclaim. As the troubles of the end of this age increase, the light of the hope of His kingdom will shine brighter and brighter. Now is the time to fill our lamps with this oil.
The earth will be restored to its former paradise so that there is no more war, sickness, dying, hunger, or even pain. The lion will lie down with the lamb, children will be able to play with cobras, and no one will hurt anyone else. This is the greatest message of hope that the world has ever heard. The gospel is not just "good news," but it is the greatest news -- the greatest message OF A FUTURE -- that the world has ever heard. Our message must change from proclaiming that the end is coming to proclaiming that the beginning is coming.
He Comes to His Temple First
This is a sure promise, and the time is near for its fulfillment. The kingdom of God is surely coming to this earth, and soon. However, it can come to us today! We can live in the kingdom now, and those who begin to proclaim it will do this as true citizens of this kingdom. As we read in Revelation 3:20, the Lord has been standing at the door of His Church, patiently knocking to see who would open to Him, but the time is near when He will suddenly burst into His temple and take over. His Church is then going to be His body who does His will, speaks His words, and does the works that He did.
Soon we will know the difference between what was truly born in the heart of God, and that which was born in the hearts of men.
We may think this is what we have been doing -- following His leading in everything -- but, in truth, few have followed Him in much at all. Many wonderful things have been done in His name, which the Lord has blessed, but He will bless many things that He will not inhabit. There have also been many terrible -- even diabolical -- things done in His name.
Soon we will know the difference between what was truly born in the heart of God, and that which was born in the hearts of men. He is going to cleanse His temple, destroy the idols that have been set up there, and drive out the money-changers. He is then going to rebuild it so His church is, in fact, His church -- His body of which He alone is the Head.
Great changes have been happening deep in the heart of the church for years. These are about to accelerate, resulting in such a great transformation that it will be viewed as the greatest move of God in His people since the Day of Pentecost when He first poured out His Spirit on the Church. Like the Day of Pentecost in the book of Acts, it will begin with a remnant that has been very close to Him, but it will quickly get the attention of the rest of His people in every nation. These will also begin repenting of their ways that have in fact caused them to reject Him and live contrary to His will. Just as John had to preach repentance before Jesus came the first time, a great repentance is going to precede His second coming.
The sword of the Lord will sweep over the whole earth and remove from among His people all who are not bowing before Him. He will remove the arrogant and the stumbling blocks. When we see this deep repentance even touching the most highly visible and influential leaders of the Church, we can begin to expect a radical transformation of the Church so that true, New Testament Church life as the Lord intended can be re-established on the earth. Then the Church will not be known so much for its organization, facilities, or even its message, but it will be known as the place where the living God dwells. His people will be continually in awe of Him, and the rest will be in awe of His people.
Many of the things that have been high and lofty in the Church will be brought down, and things that have been kept in low esteem will be exalted.
Another sign that His kingdom is near will be the mountains being brought low, and the valleys and low places being raised up. Many of the things that have been high and lofty in the Church will be brought down, and things that have been kept in low esteem will be exalted. The message of the cross and the crucified life will be the first to be lifted up. The messages that have promoted presumption, self-seeking, and selfishness will be brought low. The messengers who promote them will likewise follow them.
Through the coming repentance, a great and profound maturity will come to the Church. It will be such a radical change that Christians will claim that they have begun to see the kingdom of God and even the King for the first time. To a large degree, this will simply be the result of getting our eyes off of ourselves and turning to Him. Instead of the Church being so focused on building itself, it will begin to focus on preparing the way for His kingdom. This reorientation from self-focus to that which is greater will, in fact, do more to build the Church than all of our self-focus was ever able to do.
Even so, this great repentance will result in a great pruning of the Church. Many will not be willing to make these changes. The recent split of many denominations around basic issues is but a small foretaste of what is coming. Those who are more devoted to institutions or organizations than to the Lord will have a hard time, and many will not make it. Even so, those who do must press on.
In a relatively short period of time, the Church will become more brilliant and powerful than it has ever been. The branches that are cut off from it will wither and die very fast. Do not die with them. Our allegiance must be to the Lord and His kingdom, which is bigger than any denomination or movement. When denominations turn from the Lord and His Word, it is time to turn from them.From Control to AuthorityThere have been many messages that have come proposing to be the gospel of the kingdom, but, as Robin McMillan observed, most of these messages have somehow been about how to control people. Indeed, a control spirit has not only entered into many of these teachings, but has sat in the seat of authority in much of the Church since the first century. There is still a great deal of confusion in the Church on the issues of authority, but that will soon change as a true authority is raised up.Obeying the Lord and His delegated authority is important. The Lord Himself explained that if we call Him "Lord," but do not do what He says, we are building on a foundation that will surely collapse (see Luke 6:46-49). Therefore, obedience to Him as the King is crucial for being a true messenger of His kingdom.
However, the way in which the Lord preached the gospel of the kingdom actually said very little about authority and obedience, but rather He demonstrated their power over the conditions on earth.
For example, when the Lord saw a cripple it was as if He said (I am paraphrasing), "You know, there are no cripples in Heaven, so watch what happens when the kingdom of Heaven touches this cripple on the earth." Then the cripple would be made whole.
When He saw a multitude hungry with no food, it was as if He said, "You know, there is no lack in Heaven, so watch what happens when Heaven touches these few loaves and fishes . . . "
The condition of Heaven would touch the circumstances on earth and prevail over them. In this way, the authority of the kingdom of Heaven was demonstrated to be greater than any authority or condition on the earth. He told His disciples to go and live the same way so that they could preach the same message.
He promises those who are faithful to bring the whole tithe into His storehouse that He will pour out a blessing which they cannot contain . . .
It is noteworthy that when the Lord turned the water into wine or multiplied the fish and loaves, He always made too much! Of course, He did this purposely to demonstrate the abundance of His kingdom. He did come to give abundant life! He promises those who are faithful to bring the whole tithe into His storehouse that He will pour out a blessing which they cannot contain (see Malachi 3:8-12). Likewise, the apostle Paul affirms the same in II Corinthians 9:6-8:
"Now this I say, he who sows sparingly shall also reap sparingly; and he who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully.
"Let each one do just as he has purposed in his heart; not grudgingly or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver.
"And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed."
Life in the kingdom is one of abundance, having "all grace" abounding to us, "all sufficiency in everything," and "an abundance for every good deed." However, this is not just for our consumption, but for service. It is also in Spirit and power, which is why the apostle Paul wrote:
"And my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God" (I Corinthians 2:4-5).
"For the kingdom of God does not consist in words, but in power" (I Corinthians 4:20).
The message of the kingdom is about the King. The office of king is obviously about authority, but the authority of the kingdom of God is not about beating people into submission. In John 18:36 the Lord said, "My kingdom is not of this world." His kingdom is from above and, in many profound ways, not like the kingdoms of this world. Most of the doctrines concerning the kingdom, and even those which have been declared to be the gospel of the kingdom, are very hard to distinguish from the kingdoms of this world; they have very little evidence or demonstration of being from the realm of Heaven. What is coming will be different.
The foundational purpose of the coming gospel of the kingdom will not be about getting people to line up and obey. It will be about healing them, feeding them, and transforming their minds by such demonstrations of the goodness of God that people begin to love Him, His truth, His righteousness, and His justice . . .
To continue reading this "PREPARE THE WAY" Prophetic Bulletin by Rick Joyner, go to:http://www.morningstarministries.org/pages/bulletins/2005/PB47.pdf
The greatest sign of the return of the Lord is recorded in Matthew 24:14: "And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in the whole world for a witness to all the nations, and then the end shall come." An acceleration of transformation is now going on in the Church in order to prepare the way for this gospel to be preached and this prophecy fulfilled. The greatest force for truth is now being assembled for this purpose.There are true, last-day prophets and apostles already living among us. Most are still immature, but they are here, they are maturing, and they will soon be released in power. Their commission will be foretold by the earth itself suffering spiritual contractions, so that all who dwell on the earth will tremble. God is coming to shake things up.
The Revolution
This "gospel of the kingdom" is not the same as the gospel of salvation, commonly referred to as "the gospel" which has been the primary message of the Protestant and the Evangelical churches for the past five hundred years. It is now time to understand the gospel of the kingdom, how it is distinguished from the gospel that has been preached, and howthe message of the church is about to change so that it is preached throughout the whole world.
We also need to examine the way that the gospel of salvation has been perverted in recent times, changing it from Him coming to save His people from their sins, to Him coming to save His people from their troubles. This is why so few remain in the faith after their "conversion." The only true salvation comes from the conviction of our sins and our profound and desperate need for the atonement of the cross of Jesus Christ. Anything other than this is a wrong foundation that cannot stand. He did not come to deliver us from troubles, but rather the opposite. When someone comes to Christ, he or she needs to immediately be prepared for troubles, as the whole fallen world will be against them.
Redemption, reconciliation, and restoration are all part of the gospel of the kingdom, and these are reasons for which the kingdom is coming.
Without question, the Christian life is the most fulfilling, wonderful adventure that anyone can experience in this world, but it is also the most difficult life that can be lived on this earth. When people come to Christ, they need to be prepared for battle from the first day. If they are not prepared for this, they are very unlikely to remain in the faith, as the glaring statistics of those who "come to Christ" that are lost again to theworld should boldly teach us.When we are born, it is not the goal of our lives, but only the beginning. Likewise, to be born again is not the ultimate goal of the gospel; it is the beginning of the greatest quest and journey toward the full maturity of what we are called to be. It is now time for the Church to go on to maturity, and this must begin with our message. It is the greatest message of hope, but also a call to battle.
To preach the gospel of the kingdom does not in any way negate or denigrate the gospel of salvation. In fact, it is the gospel of the kingdom that leads to true salvation, which is why the Lord Jesus Himself preached this gospel, as well as the first century apostles. Redemption, reconciliation, and restoration are all part of the gospel of the kingdom, and these are reasons for which the kingdom is coming. However, the gospel of the kingdom does include more than the salvation of believers -- it is the message that the rightful King is coming to take over.Those who are born again with the hope of salvation may be changed, but those who are born again in order to see the kingdom will be so changed that they are a "new creation" (see Galatians 6:15) -- which stands out in great contrast to those of the old creation. Just as the first century Christians stood out in stunning contrast to all who lived in their time, the radical faith that is about to be revealed through such radical Christians will cause the whole world to stand in shock and awe.Recent studies have revealed that modern, Evangelical Christians are really no different from non-Christians in basic moral and integrity issues such as honesty, cheating, and immorality. That is about to change. As the Lord warned in John 15, every branch that does not bear fruit will be cut off. If you receive anything from this bulletin, heed the following clear warning from Galatians 5:16-25:
"But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not carry out the desire of the flesh."For the flesh sets its desire against the Spirit, and the Spirit against the flesh; for these are in opposition to one another, so that you may not do the things that you please."But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the Law."Now the deeds of the flesh are evident, which are: immorality, impurity, sensuality, idolatry, sorcery, enmities, strife, jealousy, outbursts of anger, disputes, dissensions, factions, envying, drunkenness, carousing, and things like these, of which I forewarn you just as I have forewarned you that those who practice such things shall not inherit the kingdom of God."But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control; against such things there is no law."Now those who belong to Christ Jesus have crucified the flesh with its passions and desires."If we live by the Spirit, let us also walk by the Spirit."
Again, we can know for sure that those who practice such things as are listed under the works of the flesh "shall not inherit the kingdom of God." The scariest thing in the world should be if we are doing these things and getting away with them. As we are told in Hebrews 12, the Lord disciplines His children, and if we are without discipline, then we are not His.The Gospel of the KingdomThe gospel of the kingdom is not just the gospel of our atonement, but it is the good news of the kingdom of God and the declaration that the King is coming to establish it here on the earth, beginning with us. To be saved with a vision of our salvation is good, but it is man-centered. To be saved by a vision of the kingdom is an enlistment into the army of the coming King. This is not a matter of "majoring on minors"; each has very different consequences and different fruit. When the gospel of salvation is preached, we are compelled to "accept the Lord" and, often, it is done as if we are doing Him a favor. When the gospel of the kingdom is preached so that His kingdom is seen, we will bow the knee begging His acceptance.
As the Lord instructed His people to pray for nearly 2,000 years, His kingdom is going to come, and His will is going to be done right here on the earth just as it is in Heaven (see Matthew 6:9-13). This prayer of so many millions for so many years -- the prayer that the King Himself gave us to pray -- is going to be answered. He wants to start with us. That He came to be our Savior is something we will marvel at for eternity; however, He did not just come to be our Savior, but our King . . . There is a difference.
The coming of His kingdom is the greatest hope that has ever been preached on the earth. There is no hope found in any other religion or any philosophy of utopia that is as great as what we have been given to proclaim. As the troubles of the end of this age increase, the light of the hope of His kingdom will shine brighter and brighter. Now is the time to fill our lamps with this oil.
The earth will be restored to its former paradise so that there is no more war, sickness, dying, hunger, or even pain. The lion will lie down with the lamb, children will be able to play with cobras, and no one will hurt anyone else. This is the greatest message of hope that the world has ever heard. The gospel is not just "good news," but it is the greatest news -- the greatest message OF A FUTURE -- that the world has ever heard. Our message must change from proclaiming that the end is coming to proclaiming that the beginning is coming.
He Comes to His Temple First
This is a sure promise, and the time is near for its fulfillment. The kingdom of God is surely coming to this earth, and soon. However, it can come to us today! We can live in the kingdom now, and those who begin to proclaim it will do this as true citizens of this kingdom. As we read in Revelation 3:20, the Lord has been standing at the door of His Church, patiently knocking to see who would open to Him, but the time is near when He will suddenly burst into His temple and take over. His Church is then going to be His body who does His will, speaks His words, and does the works that He did.
Soon we will know the difference between what was truly born in the heart of God, and that which was born in the hearts of men.
We may think this is what we have been doing -- following His leading in everything -- but, in truth, few have followed Him in much at all. Many wonderful things have been done in His name, which the Lord has blessed, but He will bless many things that He will not inhabit. There have also been many terrible -- even diabolical -- things done in His name.
Soon we will know the difference between what was truly born in the heart of God, and that which was born in the hearts of men. He is going to cleanse His temple, destroy the idols that have been set up there, and drive out the money-changers. He is then going to rebuild it so His church is, in fact, His church -- His body of which He alone is the Head.
Great changes have been happening deep in the heart of the church for years. These are about to accelerate, resulting in such a great transformation that it will be viewed as the greatest move of God in His people since the Day of Pentecost when He first poured out His Spirit on the Church. Like the Day of Pentecost in the book of Acts, it will begin with a remnant that has been very close to Him, but it will quickly get the attention of the rest of His people in every nation. These will also begin repenting of their ways that have in fact caused them to reject Him and live contrary to His will. Just as John had to preach repentance before Jesus came the first time, a great repentance is going to precede His second coming.
The sword of the Lord will sweep over the whole earth and remove from among His people all who are not bowing before Him. He will remove the arrogant and the stumbling blocks. When we see this deep repentance even touching the most highly visible and influential leaders of the Church, we can begin to expect a radical transformation of the Church so that true, New Testament Church life as the Lord intended can be re-established on the earth. Then the Church will not be known so much for its organization, facilities, or even its message, but it will be known as the place where the living God dwells. His people will be continually in awe of Him, and the rest will be in awe of His people.
Many of the things that have been high and lofty in the Church will be brought down, and things that have been kept in low esteem will be exalted.
Another sign that His kingdom is near will be the mountains being brought low, and the valleys and low places being raised up. Many of the things that have been high and lofty in the Church will be brought down, and things that have been kept in low esteem will be exalted. The message of the cross and the crucified life will be the first to be lifted up. The messages that have promoted presumption, self-seeking, and selfishness will be brought low. The messengers who promote them will likewise follow them.
Through the coming repentance, a great and profound maturity will come to the Church. It will be such a radical change that Christians will claim that they have begun to see the kingdom of God and even the King for the first time. To a large degree, this will simply be the result of getting our eyes off of ourselves and turning to Him. Instead of the Church being so focused on building itself, it will begin to focus on preparing the way for His kingdom. This reorientation from self-focus to that which is greater will, in fact, do more to build the Church than all of our self-focus was ever able to do.
Even so, this great repentance will result in a great pruning of the Church. Many will not be willing to make these changes. The recent split of many denominations around basic issues is but a small foretaste of what is coming. Those who are more devoted to institutions or organizations than to the Lord will have a hard time, and many will not make it. Even so, those who do must press on.
In a relatively short period of time, the Church will become more brilliant and powerful than it has ever been. The branches that are cut off from it will wither and die very fast. Do not die with them. Our allegiance must be to the Lord and His kingdom, which is bigger than any denomination or movement. When denominations turn from the Lord and His Word, it is time to turn from them.From Control to AuthorityThere have been many messages that have come proposing to be the gospel of the kingdom, but, as Robin McMillan observed, most of these messages have somehow been about how to control people. Indeed, a control spirit has not only entered into many of these teachings, but has sat in the seat of authority in much of the Church since the first century. There is still a great deal of confusion in the Church on the issues of authority, but that will soon change as a true authority is raised up.Obeying the Lord and His delegated authority is important. The Lord Himself explained that if we call Him "Lord," but do not do what He says, we are building on a foundation that will surely collapse (see Luke 6:46-49). Therefore, obedience to Him as the King is crucial for being a true messenger of His kingdom.
However, the way in which the Lord preached the gospel of the kingdom actually said very little about authority and obedience, but rather He demonstrated their power over the conditions on earth.
For example, when the Lord saw a cripple it was as if He said (I am paraphrasing), "You know, there are no cripples in Heaven, so watch what happens when the kingdom of Heaven touches this cripple on the earth." Then the cripple would be made whole.
When He saw a multitude hungry with no food, it was as if He said, "You know, there is no lack in Heaven, so watch what happens when Heaven touches these few loaves and fishes . . . "
The condition of Heaven would touch the circumstances on earth and prevail over them. In this way, the authority of the kingdom of Heaven was demonstrated to be greater than any authority or condition on the earth. He told His disciples to go and live the same way so that they could preach the same message.
He promises those who are faithful to bring the whole tithe into His storehouse that He will pour out a blessing which they cannot contain . . .
It is noteworthy that when the Lord turned the water into wine or multiplied the fish and loaves, He always made too much! Of course, He did this purposely to demonstrate the abundance of His kingdom. He did come to give abundant life! He promises those who are faithful to bring the whole tithe into His storehouse that He will pour out a blessing which they cannot contain (see Malachi 3:8-12). Likewise, the apostle Paul affirms the same in II Corinthians 9:6-8:
"Now this I say, he who sows sparingly shall also reap sparingly; and he who sows bountifully shall also reap bountifully.
"Let each one do just as he has purposed in his heart; not grudgingly or under compulsion; for God loves a cheerful giver.
"And God is able to make all grace abound to you, that always having all sufficiency in everything, you may have an abundance for every good deed."
Life in the kingdom is one of abundance, having "all grace" abounding to us, "all sufficiency in everything," and "an abundance for every good deed." However, this is not just for our consumption, but for service. It is also in Spirit and power, which is why the apostle Paul wrote:
"And my message and my preaching were not in persuasive words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, that your faith should not rest on the wisdom of men, but on the power of God" (I Corinthians 2:4-5).
"For the kingdom of God does not consist in words, but in power" (I Corinthians 4:20).
The message of the kingdom is about the King. The office of king is obviously about authority, but the authority of the kingdom of God is not about beating people into submission. In John 18:36 the Lord said, "My kingdom is not of this world." His kingdom is from above and, in many profound ways, not like the kingdoms of this world. Most of the doctrines concerning the kingdom, and even those which have been declared to be the gospel of the kingdom, are very hard to distinguish from the kingdoms of this world; they have very little evidence or demonstration of being from the realm of Heaven. What is coming will be different.
The foundational purpose of the coming gospel of the kingdom will not be about getting people to line up and obey. It will be about healing them, feeding them, and transforming their minds by such demonstrations of the goodness of God that people begin to love Him, His truth, His righteousness, and His justice . . .
To continue reading this "PREPARE THE WAY" Prophetic Bulletin by Rick Joyner, go to:http://www.morningstarministries.org/pages/bulletins/2005/PB47.pdf
The Key to Prayer
"The Key to Prayer is the Rock-Solid Belief That it is Personal"
by John Paul Jackson
Streams Ministries International
www.streamsministries.com
Very few good events that happen in this world occur without prayer being the moving force. True prayer is the union of the eternal and the temporal. God knows what will bring about His purpose in the earth; He then asks us to pray that it takes place. Thus, daily prayer consistently puts the enemy on the move. When we pray, the enemy must respond to God's movements instigated by our prayers. So, in effect, the enemy must respond to us instead of our responding to his attacks.
Unfortunately, we tend to think prayer is difficult. We think prayer is a human action that demands our time, effort, and energy; however, this isn't God's idea of prayer. He designed prayer to be an open, transparent relationship, brought through a spiritual atmosphere in which He can enjoy intimate communion with us. In other words, to not be able to pray would be the greatest disaster that could come upon us. It is only through God's touch that we can pray; it proves He is close to us.
The key to prayer is the rock-solid belief that it is personal. If we don't understand this simple concept, then we won't ever be able to truly know God, let alone enjoy His presence. All the things mentioned in the Lord's Prayer He wants to do for you -- personally. He desires to laugh with you, to cry with you, to touch you, to have intimate moments with you. Prayer times allow God to show you that He has plans, desires, and a destiny for you. Prayer is His moment as much as it is yours.
Unlocking the Mysteries of the Lord's Prayer
The Lord's Prayer begins with, "Our Father" (Matthew 6:9). Many people, when they teach on this topic, stop at "Father," but I want to stop at "our" -- the very first word. The way Jesus opens the most famous prayer in history is rudimentary to understanding prayer's true purpose. We have been brought into the household of faith. This means that God is our Father. It is a family relationship issue -- not a foster parent type of concept. When we are born again, something actually happens in the spiritual realm and literally fulfills this statement. All of us who are children of God have God as our Father. He is our Father -- the Father of every one of us. But He is also my Father, and He is also your Father. Your relationship with your Heavenly Father is personal. Subsequently, it is then accurate to pray, "My Father . . . "
My mother and father have recently moved to New Hampshire to be nearer this ministry. I introduce them as "my" father and mother. Yet, they are also father and mother of my brother and two sisters. When we are all together we introduce them as "our" parents. Thus, our father and mother are, in truth, also my father and mother. One does not negate the other. And so it is in the Lord's Prayer.
If we don't grasp the personal intimacy of this, we will continually think of God as a God who is far away. Deists believe there is a God, but after creating the universe, He stepped back and is letting it run its course all by itself. They believe Him to be like a disinterested stepfather, who makes only periodic visits to see how His creation is doing. But the Lord's Prayer immediately disqualifies this belief because the first thing Jesus does is reveal the personal nature of the Father's heart. The truth is that God is completely, intricately involved in our daily lives and sends His Spirit to touch and transform us as often as we allow.
The Three Stages of Prayer
If we do not personalize prayer, we will never be able to go very far. We will end up drying out and becoming apathetic in our quiet time with God because we won't have a passion for Him. The three stages of prayer are desire, discipline, and delight. Each leads into the others. If prayer is not personal for us, if we do not understand the depth of God's passion for us on a familiar, individual level, we will never build true desire for Him, and our prayers will become stale.
So, when you pray as Jesus taught, let His first word, "our/my," resonate deep into your spirit. Let it speak volumes about your personal, one-to-one connection with your loving Creator.
Don't be afraid to take God personally, because that is how He takes you.
by John Paul Jackson
by John Paul Jackson
Streams Ministries International
www.streamsministries.com
Very few good events that happen in this world occur without prayer being the moving force. True prayer is the union of the eternal and the temporal. God knows what will bring about His purpose in the earth; He then asks us to pray that it takes place. Thus, daily prayer consistently puts the enemy on the move. When we pray, the enemy must respond to God's movements instigated by our prayers. So, in effect, the enemy must respond to us instead of our responding to his attacks.
Unfortunately, we tend to think prayer is difficult. We think prayer is a human action that demands our time, effort, and energy; however, this isn't God's idea of prayer. He designed prayer to be an open, transparent relationship, brought through a spiritual atmosphere in which He can enjoy intimate communion with us. In other words, to not be able to pray would be the greatest disaster that could come upon us. It is only through God's touch that we can pray; it proves He is close to us.
The key to prayer is the rock-solid belief that it is personal. If we don't understand this simple concept, then we won't ever be able to truly know God, let alone enjoy His presence. All the things mentioned in the Lord's Prayer He wants to do for you -- personally. He desires to laugh with you, to cry with you, to touch you, to have intimate moments with you. Prayer times allow God to show you that He has plans, desires, and a destiny for you. Prayer is His moment as much as it is yours.
Unlocking the Mysteries of the Lord's Prayer
The Lord's Prayer begins with, "Our Father" (Matthew 6:9). Many people, when they teach on this topic, stop at "Father," but I want to stop at "our" -- the very first word. The way Jesus opens the most famous prayer in history is rudimentary to understanding prayer's true purpose. We have been brought into the household of faith. This means that God is our Father. It is a family relationship issue -- not a foster parent type of concept. When we are born again, something actually happens in the spiritual realm and literally fulfills this statement. All of us who are children of God have God as our Father. He is our Father -- the Father of every one of us. But He is also my Father, and He is also your Father. Your relationship with your Heavenly Father is personal. Subsequently, it is then accurate to pray, "My Father . . . "
My mother and father have recently moved to New Hampshire to be nearer this ministry. I introduce them as "my" father and mother. Yet, they are also father and mother of my brother and two sisters. When we are all together we introduce them as "our" parents. Thus, our father and mother are, in truth, also my father and mother. One does not negate the other. And so it is in the Lord's Prayer.
If we don't grasp the personal intimacy of this, we will continually think of God as a God who is far away. Deists believe there is a God, but after creating the universe, He stepped back and is letting it run its course all by itself. They believe Him to be like a disinterested stepfather, who makes only periodic visits to see how His creation is doing. But the Lord's Prayer immediately disqualifies this belief because the first thing Jesus does is reveal the personal nature of the Father's heart. The truth is that God is completely, intricately involved in our daily lives and sends His Spirit to touch and transform us as often as we allow.
The Three Stages of Prayer
If we do not personalize prayer, we will never be able to go very far. We will end up drying out and becoming apathetic in our quiet time with God because we won't have a passion for Him. The three stages of prayer are desire, discipline, and delight. Each leads into the others. If prayer is not personal for us, if we do not understand the depth of God's passion for us on a familiar, individual level, we will never build true desire for Him, and our prayers will become stale.
So, when you pray as Jesus taught, let His first word, "our/my," resonate deep into your spirit. Let it speak volumes about your personal, one-to-one connection with your loving Creator.
Don't be afraid to take God personally, because that is how He takes you.
by John Paul Jackson
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