“Long ago, at many times and in many ways, God spoke to our fathers by the prophets, but in these last days he has spoken to us by his Son, whom he appointed the heir of all things, through whom also he created the world.” Hebrews 1:2
“Thus says the Lord” is a phrase you will come across many times throughout the Old Testament. The prophets and judges of the nation of Israel spoke to the people as God instructed them. They were careful to speak only what God instructed them. For a prophet was recognized by their words coming true. When Moses spoke, people listen. When Samual spoke, people listen. But when prophets spoke without fulfillment, they were to kill such false leaders. This is the seriousness God places on people representing HIM.
So, when Jesus came along, the religious zealots at times wanted to kill him for blaspheming God. Yet they failed. His life and teachings were constantly being tested. But the Holy Spirit always produced results for Jesus to highlight HIS ministry. Father God was always with HIM and HE supported HIS Father in heaven with the work given for HIM to fulfill.
There are ministers today who prophesize falsely in HIS name. What they say are their personal dreams, not God’s word. They are exploiting their hearers. They are using God’s name in vain. What they say and preach fails to come about. Their charismatic ministry is built on a lie for self-aggrandizement. In the Old Law they were to be stoned. Today, their seems to be an acceptance of false rhetoric among their congregants. But God is not fooled. HIS name is being abused. How much longer they survive and continue down this path only God knows.
HE has the last word. HE gives us all a rope to either hang ourselves or lasso HIM in repentance. The Bible states that those of us who teach are held in a higher standard by God. What standard does God give those who prophesize in HIS name? I would not want to stand before Jesus and give an account of leading HIS siblings a strayed. So be careful and wise. If a so-called prophet gives a prediction that fails to come about, put them in the ignore pile. If what they say comes about, proceed with caution. Pray, verify, and confirm with our Lord that they are the real McCoy. Let the fruit in their lives confirm they are who they say they are as 2 Peter instructs us.
Yes, God speaks through people. But we need to confirm what they say agrees with HIS Word and Spirit with concrete results.
Rooting For You in Christ!
Dr. Mike
Faith-Integrator, Encourager, Scribbler
“We continually ask God to fill you with the knowledge of his will through all the wisdom and understanding that the Spirit gives,” (Colossians 1:9)
Aspirations and Writings Neatly Bound in Book Formats:
* indicates audio version available at Apple Books
- Power Up With Jesus Book Series- Aspirations for a Grace-Paced Life *
- The Adventurous Journey of Transformation in Christ *
- Overflowing Prayers Rooted in Jesus Christ v1 & v2
- Dancing With God: A Life-Giving Worldview *
- Great Business Emulates a Good God
- Stay Free…Avoid Worldly Traps
- Simply The Messenger
- Unequally Married
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Radical In Christ 