Ps 106:12-15 “Then they believed his promises and sang his praise. 13 But they soon forgot what he had done and did not wait for his counsel. 14 In the desert they gave in to their craving; in the wasteland they put God to the test. 15 So he gave them what they asked for, but sent a wasting disease upon them." NIV
This psalm portrays the classic process for missing God’s will. So many people find initial faith in the Lord. They have a powerful introductory experience with the Holy Spirit and they become passionate for the things of the Lord. They get a hold of the word and begin to exercise faith, boldly exalting the Lord in their testimonies and their songs of praise. But then life happens. They lose sight of the good things that have done. They do not steward the memory of God’s works in their hearts and in times of trial their faith goes dim.
It is far too common that God’s children forget the works of the Lord and lose sight of the ways of God. Having tasted of His goodness a few times their expectation begins to expect that the Lord will lead them in a constant flow of excitement and activity. However, they miss the fact that in God there are often seasons of waiting that stretch our faith in between the seasons of grace and favor. Moses prayed a prayer that would be beneficial to all believers during the days of his earthly ministry. In Ex 33:12-13 Moses prays “If you are pleased with me, teach me your ways so I may know you and continue to find favor with you. Remember that this nation is your people." NIV Moses recognizes the need to understand God’s ways so that He may walk in God’s blessing.
When we lose sight of God’s ways we often err in our life choices because of our confusion, unbelief, fear or ignorance. Paul rebuked the Galatians who seemed to follow a similar path as the one the psalmist describes. In Gal 3:2-4 Paul corrects them for losing sight of God’s ways and turning to human effort: “Are you so foolish? After beginning with the Spirit, are you now trying to attain your goal by human effort? 4 Have you suffered so much for nothing-if it really was for nothing?” NIV It is such a tragedy when God’s people waist previous victories in God by losing sight of the way that God works over the course of a life.
In this passage the psalmist reflects on the tragedy that takes place when we forget: we don’t wait for the Lord! The primary source of mistakes and self-created crisis is that absence of patience before the Lord. People start a new business or buy a new house or many other costly courses of action out of the passion of their hearts. But they do not recognize the impatience and fear in them that is often driving the process. David was a strategic warrior. He didn’t just rush into battle. He did not only seek for the knowledge of God’s will. He sought for the knowledge of God’s way! What should I do and how and when should I do it? Because of this David was supremely successful. God directed even his strategies in warfare on many occasions. And God wants to direct our steps as well. Wait for God’s counsel and let Him lead you to victory in the decisions that you must make. There is one last key for this process that cannot be overlooked. We must seek Him earnestly! Do not sit by passively expecting that the Lord will direct a heart that is not seeking after Him with true abandonment. Give yourself to God in prayer today and let Him direct your paths.
Friday
Psalm 105:12-15 - October 16, 2009
Ps 105:12-15 "When they were but few in number, few indeed, and strangers in it, 13 they wandered from nation to nation, from one kingdom to another. 14 He allowed no one to oppress them; for their sake he rebuked kings: 15 "Do not touch my anointed ones; do my prophets no harm." NIV
God loves small beginnings! Do you? This passage in Psalm 105:12-15 is hope for every spiritual dreamer; every person who is chasing the vision that God has put in their heart that has not yet blossomed into fullness. It is important that we understand the heart of the Lord and His patience towards the things that He has promised us. The Living Bible translation states this principle very well in Zech 4:10 where the prophet declares “Do not despise this small beginning, for the eyes of the Lord rejoice to see the work begin, to see the plumbline in the hand of Zerubbabel.” God rejoices in the process of faith far more than we do. Our tendency is to focus on the completion or the goal but God celebrates every step of faith taken in His name and when we begin a work we bring Him as much joy as when we finish a work if it is done through faith.
It is so important that we not become discouraged along the journey of faith. Abraham spent his entire life searching for a city that he never found and yet he was considered a great man of faith. God evaluated his life based on the pursuit of the dream not on the completion of the journey. It is powerful in this passage to see the stewardship of God watching over the dream that He had placed in the hearts of His servants as they walked out the calling. As the covenant people wandered from nation to nation, very few in numbers the Lord was watching over them like a mother hen her chicks. He allowed no stranger to oppress them, He changed the hearts of government leader to place favor upon His servants. He even rebuked Kings in the visions of the night for their sake, telling these leaders to do no harm to His prophets.
There is great news in this passage as we understand its implications. God cares about the vision He has placed in your heart. He loves it more than you do. He is watching over you and it and delights even in the prolonged seasons of weakness. He allowed His people to wonder as pilgrims for decades in Canaan, be enslaved for centuries in Egypt, be refined and purified for forty years in the wilderness all as a part of fulfilling a plan that was much larger than anyone but He Himself could grasp in the midst of those long hard years. This passage assures us with hope that we can rest in the comforting knowledge that if the dream came from God He will not let it return to Him without accomplishing what He sent it forth to do. Though the season may seem long and hard know today that God is working in the unseen places to perfect the conditions and timing of the dream and also to prepare you for its fulfillment. Make the most of the seasons of waiting by preparing the soil of your heart and of your circumstances to receive the fullest measure of all that God wants to do in and through you.
God loves small beginnings! Do you? This passage in Psalm 105:12-15 is hope for every spiritual dreamer; every person who is chasing the vision that God has put in their heart that has not yet blossomed into fullness. It is important that we understand the heart of the Lord and His patience towards the things that He has promised us. The Living Bible translation states this principle very well in Zech 4:10 where the prophet declares “Do not despise this small beginning, for the eyes of the Lord rejoice to see the work begin, to see the plumbline in the hand of Zerubbabel.” God rejoices in the process of faith far more than we do. Our tendency is to focus on the completion or the goal but God celebrates every step of faith taken in His name and when we begin a work we bring Him as much joy as when we finish a work if it is done through faith.
It is so important that we not become discouraged along the journey of faith. Abraham spent his entire life searching for a city that he never found and yet he was considered a great man of faith. God evaluated his life based on the pursuit of the dream not on the completion of the journey. It is powerful in this passage to see the stewardship of God watching over the dream that He had placed in the hearts of His servants as they walked out the calling. As the covenant people wandered from nation to nation, very few in numbers the Lord was watching over them like a mother hen her chicks. He allowed no stranger to oppress them, He changed the hearts of government leader to place favor upon His servants. He even rebuked Kings in the visions of the night for their sake, telling these leaders to do no harm to His prophets.
There is great news in this passage as we understand its implications. God cares about the vision He has placed in your heart. He loves it more than you do. He is watching over you and it and delights even in the prolonged seasons of weakness. He allowed His people to wonder as pilgrims for decades in Canaan, be enslaved for centuries in Egypt, be refined and purified for forty years in the wilderness all as a part of fulfilling a plan that was much larger than anyone but He Himself could grasp in the midst of those long hard years. This passage assures us with hope that we can rest in the comforting knowledge that if the dream came from God He will not let it return to Him without accomplishing what He sent it forth to do. Though the season may seem long and hard know today that God is working in the unseen places to perfect the conditions and timing of the dream and also to prepare you for its fulfillment. Make the most of the seasons of waiting by preparing the soil of your heart and of your circumstances to receive the fullest measure of all that God wants to do in and through you.
Thursday
Psalm 105:8-9 - October 15, 2009
Ps 105:8-9 "He remembers his covenant forever, the word he commanded, for a thousand generations, 9 the covenant he made with Abraham, the oath he swore to Isaac." NIV
When God makes a promise, He keeps that promise! Isn’t it comforting to know that God is faithful, that He honors the commitments that He has made towards us? That is the joy and power of this passage. It is a testimony of God’s character and of the reliability of His word. When we read the scriptures they are more than just an encouraging story or some valuable philosophies. The scriptures record the legal contract that the living God has ordained between Himself and mankind. Imagine the creator making a commitment that He binds Himself too. The Lord does not make statements as if to say that “there is a good possibility that I will act this way.” “Perhaps if I am feeling well and conditions are right I will choose to fulfill these promises.” No, the word of the Lord stands sure. It is the record of God confining Himself by legal contract to fulfill these principles on behalf of those who will fear Him and serve Him with a whole heart.
Psalm 105:8-9 speaks to us of the eternal surety of the Word of the Lord. He does not forget His covenant with His servants Abraham and Isaac. But the good news does not stop there. In the book of Galatians the story continues. The apostle Paul is writing the church of Galatia and under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit he states in Gal 3:14 “He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus,” NIV We too are recipients of the covenant promise of God because of Jesus Christ our Lord. Every believer has an inheritance in God. Therefore every believer in Christ is blessed with an eternal covenant from God. We have a hope that will never fade away. We have received the promise of an eternal inheritance that does not rust nor corrupt and therefore our hope is secure. This is the good news of Psalm 105:8-9. We can rest in the assurance of God’s unchanging character that we will be blessed in the same way that Abraham was blessed and that in due time we will receive the fullness of what was promised us through our relationship with Jesus Christ.
When God makes a promise, He keeps that promise! Isn’t it comforting to know that God is faithful, that He honors the commitments that He has made towards us? That is the joy and power of this passage. It is a testimony of God’s character and of the reliability of His word. When we read the scriptures they are more than just an encouraging story or some valuable philosophies. The scriptures record the legal contract that the living God has ordained between Himself and mankind. Imagine the creator making a commitment that He binds Himself too. The Lord does not make statements as if to say that “there is a good possibility that I will act this way.” “Perhaps if I am feeling well and conditions are right I will choose to fulfill these promises.” No, the word of the Lord stands sure. It is the record of God confining Himself by legal contract to fulfill these principles on behalf of those who will fear Him and serve Him with a whole heart.
Psalm 105:8-9 speaks to us of the eternal surety of the Word of the Lord. He does not forget His covenant with His servants Abraham and Isaac. But the good news does not stop there. In the book of Galatians the story continues. The apostle Paul is writing the church of Galatia and under the inspiration of the Holy Spirit he states in Gal 3:14 “He redeemed us in order that the blessing given to Abraham might come to the Gentiles through Christ Jesus,” NIV We too are recipients of the covenant promise of God because of Jesus Christ our Lord. Every believer has an inheritance in God. Therefore every believer in Christ is blessed with an eternal covenant from God. We have a hope that will never fade away. We have received the promise of an eternal inheritance that does not rust nor corrupt and therefore our hope is secure. This is the good news of Psalm 105:8-9. We can rest in the assurance of God’s unchanging character that we will be blessed in the same way that Abraham was blessed and that in due time we will receive the fullness of what was promised us through our relationship with Jesus Christ.
Wednesday
Psalm 104:24-30 - October 14, 2009
Ps 104:24-30 "How many are your works, O LORD! In wisdom you made them all; the earth is full of your creatures. 25 There is the sea, vast and spacious, teeming with creatures beyond number — living things both large and small. 26 There the ships go to and fro, and the leviathan, which you formed to frolic there. 27 These all look to you to give them their food at the proper time. 28 When you give it to them, they gather it up; when you open your hand, they are satisfied with good things. 29 When you hide your face, they are terrified; when you take away their breath, they die and return to the dust. 30 When you send your Spirit, they are created, and you renew the face of the earth." NIV
In these verses the psalmist is extolling the creative power of God. Like an artist with a gift for painting diversity of styles and forms God has painted the canvas of our worlds with astonishing mastership. “How many are your works…” the psalmist cries. Who can count the vast measure of detail included in the creation of God. Scientists have unveiled great depths of amazing detail in the creation of God, explaining such things as neurons, protons and electrons present inside of the smallest particles they have discovered and yet they are beginning to discover that there are smaller particles yet misunderstood. They peer into the heavens and see vast universes and try to understand them and yet they must confess that the expanse of it is still beyond true comprehension. How many are the works of the Lord?
It is in this atmosphere of wonder that the psalmist lifts up the song of praise and declares; “in wisdom you created them all.” Thousands of years of science performed by the best efforts of all of man-kinds most brilliant scientific minds have only gotten him to this limited place of understanding of creation and yet one thing has become clear, all that exists is controlled by an amazing sense of order. Many scientists will not confess that this implies the existence of a creator but those of us with eyes of faith can look clearly at this empirical evidence and say with the Psalmist: “in wisdom you created them all.”
The creation stands before all man as God’s single greatest testimony of existence and power. David states in Ps 19:1-4 “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. 2 Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. 3 There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. 4 Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.” NIV All of God’s creation is a demonstration of God’s glory and majesty. Everywhere the eyes of man turn there is a stunning testimony of the wisdom and power of God speaking forth in front of him.
These verses in Psalm 104 are a celebration of the glory of God’s creation as they describe the expanse of the seas as creatures great and small playfully move about within its depths. The Psalmist speaks of the creator as if He were a loving Father watching over His family to make sure that there needs are met. He speaks of the creation as if they were submissive children looking to God the Father, thankful for His kindness but careful not to violate the boundaries that He has placed lest He punish their disobedience. These verses portray powerfully the reality that all things, all men, every facet of creation looks to God for its very existence. Let no one diminish the glory that is due to the Lord for His matchless creation. Let nothing keep u s from giving Him praise!
In these verses the psalmist is extolling the creative power of God. Like an artist with a gift for painting diversity of styles and forms God has painted the canvas of our worlds with astonishing mastership. “How many are your works…” the psalmist cries. Who can count the vast measure of detail included in the creation of God. Scientists have unveiled great depths of amazing detail in the creation of God, explaining such things as neurons, protons and electrons present inside of the smallest particles they have discovered and yet they are beginning to discover that there are smaller particles yet misunderstood. They peer into the heavens and see vast universes and try to understand them and yet they must confess that the expanse of it is still beyond true comprehension. How many are the works of the Lord?
It is in this atmosphere of wonder that the psalmist lifts up the song of praise and declares; “in wisdom you created them all.” Thousands of years of science performed by the best efforts of all of man-kinds most brilliant scientific minds have only gotten him to this limited place of understanding of creation and yet one thing has become clear, all that exists is controlled by an amazing sense of order. Many scientists will not confess that this implies the existence of a creator but those of us with eyes of faith can look clearly at this empirical evidence and say with the Psalmist: “in wisdom you created them all.”
The creation stands before all man as God’s single greatest testimony of existence and power. David states in Ps 19:1-4 “The heavens declare the glory of God; the skies proclaim the work of his hands. 2 Day after day they pour forth speech; night after night they display knowledge. 3 There is no speech or language where their voice is not heard. 4 Their voice goes out into all the earth, their words to the ends of the world.” NIV All of God’s creation is a demonstration of God’s glory and majesty. Everywhere the eyes of man turn there is a stunning testimony of the wisdom and power of God speaking forth in front of him.
These verses in Psalm 104 are a celebration of the glory of God’s creation as they describe the expanse of the seas as creatures great and small playfully move about within its depths. The Psalmist speaks of the creator as if He were a loving Father watching over His family to make sure that there needs are met. He speaks of the creation as if they were submissive children looking to God the Father, thankful for His kindness but careful not to violate the boundaries that He has placed lest He punish their disobedience. These verses portray powerfully the reality that all things, all men, every facet of creation looks to God for its very existence. Let no one diminish the glory that is due to the Lord for His matchless creation. Let nothing keep u s from giving Him praise!
Tuesday
Psalm 104:1-4 - October 13, 2009
Ps 104:1-4 "O LORD my God, you are very great; you are clothed with splendor and majesty. 2 He wraps himself in light as with a garment; he stretches out the heavens like a tent 3 and lays the beams of his upper chambers on their waters. He makes the clouds his chariot and rides on the wings of the wind. 4 He makes winds his messengers, flames of fire his servants." NIV
Stand now in God’s presence by faith. Look around you. See the living creatures of Ez. 1 and Rev. 1. Be silent as you consider the glorious God of Isaiah 6. Listen as the thunders roll and the voice of the Lord comes forth with resounding echoes and the sound of many waters. Hear the trumpet blasts and the angels crying out in praise. See the elders gathered round the throne casting down their crowns at His feet in Rev. 4:10, the seven lamp-stands, seven spirits and emerald rainbow as it circles a golden throne.
Such wonder compels us to ask with King David in Ps 24:10 as he cries out: “Who is he, this King of glory? The LORD Almighty — he is the King of glory.” NIV
The king of glory is clothed with splendor and majesty, wrapped in light as a garment. The Lord is coming. Psalm 104:1-4 encourages us to see the Lord in the midst of this presence of angels and glorious splendor. Imagine Him in His royal court exercising judgment over the affairs of the earth. Consider the words of Ps 89:6-7 “For who in the skies above can compare with the LORD? Who is like the LORD among the heavenly beings? 7 In the council of the holy ones God is greatly feared; he is more awesome than all who surround him.” NIV Each passage only tells a part of the story as we see the Lord of Hosts surrounded by the angels and all forms of heavenly beings. Each one awesome in its own right but none can compare to our King. None can stand before Him without trembling in fear.
The Lord reigns. He exercises judgment in the earth. He rises up in strength and might. He sends forth His angelic servants as flames of fire into the earth. A great king conducting the affairs of His kingdom, the angels working to fulfill His every command, this is the throne room of our God. What is it that these angels have been sent forth to do. Heb 1:14-2:1 provides the answer to this question. “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” NIV God’s angels are at work on your behalf. God sends forth His servants like flames of fire to minister to the saints of God – that’s you! Did you know that you are on His mind today? Do you realize that in the courts of heaven God is preparing good for you! He is assigning angels to work in the invisible realms of the spirit world on your behalf! Be strong in the Lord today, knowing that you are on His mind. Reflect on the power of His presence and boldly place yourself in before His throne with confidence and make your requests known to Him as He has instructed us. Then picture Him by faith administering the affairs of His court room and your prayers coming up before the majestic throne of judgment. Know that He is viewing your plea with mercy and grace and expect a swift response as He set angels to work on your behalf. Give Him glory today knowing that your life is secure in the courts of the great king!
Stand now in God’s presence by faith. Look around you. See the living creatures of Ez. 1 and Rev. 1. Be silent as you consider the glorious God of Isaiah 6. Listen as the thunders roll and the voice of the Lord comes forth with resounding echoes and the sound of many waters. Hear the trumpet blasts and the angels crying out in praise. See the elders gathered round the throne casting down their crowns at His feet in Rev. 4:10, the seven lamp-stands, seven spirits and emerald rainbow as it circles a golden throne.
Such wonder compels us to ask with King David in Ps 24:10 as he cries out: “Who is he, this King of glory? The LORD Almighty — he is the King of glory.” NIV
The king of glory is clothed with splendor and majesty, wrapped in light as a garment. The Lord is coming. Psalm 104:1-4 encourages us to see the Lord in the midst of this presence of angels and glorious splendor. Imagine Him in His royal court exercising judgment over the affairs of the earth. Consider the words of Ps 89:6-7 “For who in the skies above can compare with the LORD? Who is like the LORD among the heavenly beings? 7 In the council of the holy ones God is greatly feared; he is more awesome than all who surround him.” NIV Each passage only tells a part of the story as we see the Lord of Hosts surrounded by the angels and all forms of heavenly beings. Each one awesome in its own right but none can compare to our King. None can stand before Him without trembling in fear.
The Lord reigns. He exercises judgment in the earth. He rises up in strength and might. He sends forth His angelic servants as flames of fire into the earth. A great king conducting the affairs of His kingdom, the angels working to fulfill His every command, this is the throne room of our God. What is it that these angels have been sent forth to do. Heb 1:14-2:1 provides the answer to this question. “Are not all angels ministering spirits sent to serve those who will inherit salvation?” NIV God’s angels are at work on your behalf. God sends forth His servants like flames of fire to minister to the saints of God – that’s you! Did you know that you are on His mind today? Do you realize that in the courts of heaven God is preparing good for you! He is assigning angels to work in the invisible realms of the spirit world on your behalf! Be strong in the Lord today, knowing that you are on His mind. Reflect on the power of His presence and boldly place yourself in before His throne with confidence and make your requests known to Him as He has instructed us. Then picture Him by faith administering the affairs of His court room and your prayers coming up before the majestic throne of judgment. Know that He is viewing your plea with mercy and grace and expect a swift response as He set angels to work on your behalf. Give Him glory today knowing that your life is secure in the courts of the great king!
Monday
October 12, 2009
Seasons of Revelation
As we embrace a season of drawing nearer to God there is a natural
bi-product of this increased intimacy with the Lord – Revelation.
The scriptures declare that God rewards those who diligently seek him:
Heb 11:5-6 “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” NIV
Joel 2:28 also says that when the Holy Spirit is poured out on people the end result is supernatural communication increases in all of its various forms. The implication of these truths is that we must expect during this season significant increases in dreams, visions and prophecy as we draw near to the Holy Spirit. Because of this we are going to take a look at some principles of revelation to prepare us to be good stewards of what God is saying in this season.
Why Revelation?
1 Cor 14:26-33 “What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. All of these must be done for the strengthening of the church. 27 If anyone speaks in a tongue, two-or at the most three-should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret. 28 If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and God. 29 Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said. 30 And if a revelation comes to someone who is sitting down, the first speaker should stop. 31 For you can all prophesy in turn so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged. 32 The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets. 33 For God is not a God of disorder but of peace.” NIV
1 Cor 14:6-7 “Now, brothers, if I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction? 7 Even in the case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as the flute or harp, how will anyone know what tune is being played unless there is a distinction in the notes?” NIV
• Revelation is a common part of the Christian experience.
• The goal of revelation is to strengthen the church.
• The purpose of revelation is to impart value not intrigue.
• Revelation can bring instruction and encouragement.
Eph 1:17-18 “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.” NIV
• Revelation is the bi-product of the Holy Spirit’s ministry.
• Revelation enables us to know Christ better.
Pr. 29:18-19 “Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but blessed is he who keeps the law.” NIV
• Revelation provides a focus that motivates us to be disciplined.
Dan 2:27-30 “Daniel replied, "No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, 28 but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come. Your dream and the visions that passed through your mind as you lay on your bed are these:
29 "As you were lying there, O king, your mind turned to things to come, and the revealer of mysteries showed you what is going to happen. 30 As for me, this mystery has been revealed to me, not because I have greater wisdom than other living men, but so that you, O king, may know the interpretation and that you may understand what went through your mind.” NIV
• God’s nature is to reveal mysteries to those who seek him.
(Look at how Daniel got his revelation.)
Job 33:15-18 “In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on men as they slumber in their beds, 16 he may speak in their ears and terrify them with warnings, 17 to turn man from wrongdoing and keep him from pride, 18 to preserve his soul from the pit, his life from perishing by the sword.” NIV
• At times dreams are given as warnings.
o To turn us from wrongdoing.
o To keep us from pride.
o To preserve our soul.
o To keep us from physical harm.
Matt 2:19-23 “After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt 20 and said, "Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child's life are dead."
21 So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, 23 and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets: "He will be called a Nazarene." NIV
Matt 2:11-13 “And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route. 13 When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. "Get up," he said, "take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him." NIV
• An individual can have a series of dreams directing his steps.
• God can reveal the plans of the enemy.
• In the Old Testament the prophet heard the king’s plans in his own bedroom.
• Through revelation God can give detailed personal direction.
Matt 27:19 “While Pilate was sitting on the judge's seat, his wife sent him this message: "Don't have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him." NIV
• Revelation comes at times as a means to serve others.
• Dreams can be given to reveal innocence or guilt.
Common Reactions to Revelation.
• Often times dreams are despised as fantasies.
Ps 73:20 “As a dream when one awakes, so when you arise, O Lord, you will despise them as fantasies.” NIV
• Sometimes dreams are quickly forgotten.
Job 20:8 “Like a dream he flies away, no more to be found, banished like a vision of the night.” NIV
• Sometimes our dreams can cause us to fall in to pride.
o Prophetic ministry is intended to benefit the people who receive it.
o A word that is not from the Lord is worthless
• Pride can open the door for false revelations that lead people astray.
Jer 23:30-32 "Therefore," declares the LORD, "I am against the prophets who steal from one another words supposedly from me. 31 Yes," declares the LORD, "I am against the prophets who wag their own tongues and yet declare, 'The LORD declares.' 32 Indeed, I am against those who prophesy false dreams," declares the LORD. "They tell them and lead my people astray with their reckless lies, yet I did not send or appoint them. They do not benefit these people in the least," declares the LORD.” NIV
• Sometimes we don’t understand the dream or vision.
• At times we can be troubled by this not understanding.
Dan 2:2-3 “So the king summoned the magicians, enchanters, sorcerers and astrologers to tell him what he had dreamed. When they came in and stood before the king, 3 he said to them, "I have had a dream that troubles me and I want to know what it means." NIV
• At times God’s dreams can make us afraid.
Dan 4:4-5 “I had a dream that made me afraid. As I was lying in my bed, the images and visions that passed through my mind terrified me.” NIV
• Revelation experiences at times can cause suffering. After one revelation experience Daniel was sick for days.
Matt 27:19 “While Pilate was sitting on the judge's seat, his wife sent him this message: "Don't have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him." NIV
• Handling revelation in such a way that brings embarrassment to us publicly.
Gal 2:1-2 “Fourteen years later I went up again to Jerusalem, this time with Barnabas. I took Titus along also. 2 I went in response to a revelation and set before them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. But I did this privately to those who seemed to be leaders, for fear that I was running or had run my race in vain.” NIV
Are All Revelations From the Lord?
• No!!! Jer. 23:30-32 There can be false dreams
Jer 23:30-32 "Therefore," declares the LORD, "I am against the prophets who steal from one another words supposedly from me. 31 Yes," declares the LORD, "I am against the prophets who wag their own tongues and yet declare, 'The LORD declares.' 32 Indeed, I am against those who prophesy false dreams," declares the LORD. "They tell them and lead my people astray with their reckless lies, yet I did not send or appoint them. They do not benefit these people in the least," declares the LORD.” NIV
• There can be stress related dreams.
Eccl 5:3 “As a dream comes when there are many cares, so the speech of a fool when there are many words.” NIV
• There can be dreams influenced by your personal desires.
Handling Revelation Rightly
• When revelation comes it is good to spend time with the Lord.
1 Kings 3:13-15 “And if you walk in my ways and obey my statutes and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life." 15 Then Solomon awoke-and he realized it had been a dream. He returned to Jerusalem, stood before the ark of the Lord's covenant and sacrificed burnt offerings and fellowship offerings. Then he gave a feast for all his court.” NIV
• Our hearts must be enlightened to comprehend what is communicated. Eph. 1:17
• It is important to realize that our own revelation is not the complete picture and that others may have a more complete interpretation for us as well as others may be receiving other portions of the revelation that God is communicating. Da. 2:27-30
Dan 4:9-10 “I said, "Belteshazzar, chief of the magicians, I know that the spirit of the holy gods is in you, and no mystery is too difficult for you. Here is my dream; interpret it for me. 10 These are the visions I saw while lying in my bed: I looked, and there before me stood a tree in the middle of the land. Its height was enormous.” NIV
Matt 2:12-13 “And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route. 13 When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. "Get up," he said, "take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him." NIV
• Recognize that some revelation is best handled privately.
Gal 2:1-2 “Fourteen years later I went up again to Jerusalem, this time with Barnabas. I took Titus along also. 2 I went in response to a revelation and set before them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. But I did this privately to those who seemed to be leaders, for fear that I was running or had run my race in vain.” NIV
• Write down what you receive.
• Make the revelation plain so that it can be communicated.
• Recognize that revelation comes with an appointed timing.
Hab 2:2-3 “Then the LORD replied: "Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it. 3 For the revelation awaits an appointed time.”
NIV
• The example of David’s response. II Sa. 7:17-8:1
As we embrace a season of drawing nearer to God there is a natural
bi-product of this increased intimacy with the Lord – Revelation.
The scriptures declare that God rewards those who diligently seek him:
Heb 11:5-6 “And without faith it is impossible to please God, because anyone who comes to him must believe that he exists and that he rewards those who earnestly seek him.” NIV
Joel 2:28 also says that when the Holy Spirit is poured out on people the end result is supernatural communication increases in all of its various forms. The implication of these truths is that we must expect during this season significant increases in dreams, visions and prophecy as we draw near to the Holy Spirit. Because of this we are going to take a look at some principles of revelation to prepare us to be good stewards of what God is saying in this season.
Why Revelation?
1 Cor 14:26-33 “What then shall we say, brothers? When you come together, everyone has a hymn, or a word of instruction, a revelation, a tongue or an interpretation. All of these must be done for the strengthening of the church. 27 If anyone speaks in a tongue, two-or at the most three-should speak, one at a time, and someone must interpret. 28 If there is no interpreter, the speaker should keep quiet in the church and speak to himself and God. 29 Two or three prophets should speak, and the others should weigh carefully what is said. 30 And if a revelation comes to someone who is sitting down, the first speaker should stop. 31 For you can all prophesy in turn so that everyone may be instructed and encouraged. 32 The spirits of prophets are subject to the control of prophets. 33 For God is not a God of disorder but of peace.” NIV
1 Cor 14:6-7 “Now, brothers, if I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction? 7 Even in the case of lifeless things that make sounds, such as the flute or harp, how will anyone know what tune is being played unless there is a distinction in the notes?” NIV
• Revelation is a common part of the Christian experience.
• The goal of revelation is to strengthen the church.
• The purpose of revelation is to impart value not intrigue.
• Revelation can bring instruction and encouragement.
Eph 1:17-18 “I keep asking that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the glorious Father, may give you the Spirit of wisdom and revelation, so that you may know him better.” NIV
• Revelation is the bi-product of the Holy Spirit’s ministry.
• Revelation enables us to know Christ better.
Pr. 29:18-19 “Where there is no revelation, the people cast off restraint; but blessed is he who keeps the law.” NIV
• Revelation provides a focus that motivates us to be disciplined.
Dan 2:27-30 “Daniel replied, "No wise man, enchanter, magician or diviner can explain to the king the mystery he has asked about, 28 but there is a God in heaven who reveals mysteries. He has shown King Nebuchadnezzar what will happen in days to come. Your dream and the visions that passed through your mind as you lay on your bed are these:
29 "As you were lying there, O king, your mind turned to things to come, and the revealer of mysteries showed you what is going to happen. 30 As for me, this mystery has been revealed to me, not because I have greater wisdom than other living men, but so that you, O king, may know the interpretation and that you may understand what went through your mind.” NIV
• God’s nature is to reveal mysteries to those who seek him.
(Look at how Daniel got his revelation.)
Job 33:15-18 “In a dream, in a vision of the night, when deep sleep falls on men as they slumber in their beds, 16 he may speak in their ears and terrify them with warnings, 17 to turn man from wrongdoing and keep him from pride, 18 to preserve his soul from the pit, his life from perishing by the sword.” NIV
• At times dreams are given as warnings.
o To turn us from wrongdoing.
o To keep us from pride.
o To preserve our soul.
o To keep us from physical harm.
Matt 2:19-23 “After Herod died, an angel of the Lord appeared in a dream to Joseph in Egypt 20 and said, "Get up, take the child and his mother and go to the land of Israel, for those who were trying to take the child's life are dead."
21 So he got up, took the child and his mother and went to the land of Israel. 22 But when he heard that Archelaus was reigning in Judea in place of his father Herod, he was afraid to go there. Having been warned in a dream, he withdrew to the district of Galilee, 23 and he went and lived in a town called Nazareth. So was fulfilled what was said through the prophets: "He will be called a Nazarene." NIV
Matt 2:11-13 “And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route. 13 When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. "Get up," he said, "take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him." NIV
• An individual can have a series of dreams directing his steps.
• God can reveal the plans of the enemy.
• In the Old Testament the prophet heard the king’s plans in his own bedroom.
• Through revelation God can give detailed personal direction.
Matt 27:19 “While Pilate was sitting on the judge's seat, his wife sent him this message: "Don't have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him." NIV
• Revelation comes at times as a means to serve others.
• Dreams can be given to reveal innocence or guilt.
Common Reactions to Revelation.
• Often times dreams are despised as fantasies.
Ps 73:20 “As a dream when one awakes, so when you arise, O Lord, you will despise them as fantasies.” NIV
• Sometimes dreams are quickly forgotten.
Job 20:8 “Like a dream he flies away, no more to be found, banished like a vision of the night.” NIV
• Sometimes our dreams can cause us to fall in to pride.
o Prophetic ministry is intended to benefit the people who receive it.
o A word that is not from the Lord is worthless
• Pride can open the door for false revelations that lead people astray.
Jer 23:30-32 "Therefore," declares the LORD, "I am against the prophets who steal from one another words supposedly from me. 31 Yes," declares the LORD, "I am against the prophets who wag their own tongues and yet declare, 'The LORD declares.' 32 Indeed, I am against those who prophesy false dreams," declares the LORD. "They tell them and lead my people astray with their reckless lies, yet I did not send or appoint them. They do not benefit these people in the least," declares the LORD.” NIV
• Sometimes we don’t understand the dream or vision.
• At times we can be troubled by this not understanding.
Dan 2:2-3 “So the king summoned the magicians, enchanters, sorcerers and astrologers to tell him what he had dreamed. When they came in and stood before the king, 3 he said to them, "I have had a dream that troubles me and I want to know what it means." NIV
• At times God’s dreams can make us afraid.
Dan 4:4-5 “I had a dream that made me afraid. As I was lying in my bed, the images and visions that passed through my mind terrified me.” NIV
• Revelation experiences at times can cause suffering. After one revelation experience Daniel was sick for days.
Matt 27:19 “While Pilate was sitting on the judge's seat, his wife sent him this message: "Don't have anything to do with that innocent man, for I have suffered a great deal today in a dream because of him." NIV
• Handling revelation in such a way that brings embarrassment to us publicly.
Gal 2:1-2 “Fourteen years later I went up again to Jerusalem, this time with Barnabas. I took Titus along also. 2 I went in response to a revelation and set before them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. But I did this privately to those who seemed to be leaders, for fear that I was running or had run my race in vain.” NIV
Are All Revelations From the Lord?
• No!!! Jer. 23:30-32 There can be false dreams
Jer 23:30-32 "Therefore," declares the LORD, "I am against the prophets who steal from one another words supposedly from me. 31 Yes," declares the LORD, "I am against the prophets who wag their own tongues and yet declare, 'The LORD declares.' 32 Indeed, I am against those who prophesy false dreams," declares the LORD. "They tell them and lead my people astray with their reckless lies, yet I did not send or appoint them. They do not benefit these people in the least," declares the LORD.” NIV
• There can be stress related dreams.
Eccl 5:3 “As a dream comes when there are many cares, so the speech of a fool when there are many words.” NIV
• There can be dreams influenced by your personal desires.
Handling Revelation Rightly
• When revelation comes it is good to spend time with the Lord.
1 Kings 3:13-15 “And if you walk in my ways and obey my statutes and commands as David your father did, I will give you a long life." 15 Then Solomon awoke-and he realized it had been a dream. He returned to Jerusalem, stood before the ark of the Lord's covenant and sacrificed burnt offerings and fellowship offerings. Then he gave a feast for all his court.” NIV
• Our hearts must be enlightened to comprehend what is communicated. Eph. 1:17
• It is important to realize that our own revelation is not the complete picture and that others may have a more complete interpretation for us as well as others may be receiving other portions of the revelation that God is communicating. Da. 2:27-30
Dan 4:9-10 “I said, "Belteshazzar, chief of the magicians, I know that the spirit of the holy gods is in you, and no mystery is too difficult for you. Here is my dream; interpret it for me. 10 These are the visions I saw while lying in my bed: I looked, and there before me stood a tree in the middle of the land. Its height was enormous.” NIV
Matt 2:12-13 “And having been warned in a dream not to go back to Herod, they returned to their country by another route. 13 When they had gone, an angel of the Lord appeared to Joseph in a dream. "Get up," he said, "take the child and his mother and escape to Egypt. Stay there until I tell you, for Herod is going to search for the child to kill him." NIV
• Recognize that some revelation is best handled privately.
Gal 2:1-2 “Fourteen years later I went up again to Jerusalem, this time with Barnabas. I took Titus along also. 2 I went in response to a revelation and set before them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. But I did this privately to those who seemed to be leaders, for fear that I was running or had run my race in vain.” NIV
• Write down what you receive.
• Make the revelation plain so that it can be communicated.
• Recognize that revelation comes with an appointed timing.
Hab 2:2-3 “Then the LORD replied: "Write down the revelation and make it plain on tablets so that a herald may run with it. 3 For the revelation awaits an appointed time.”
NIV
• The example of David’s response. II Sa. 7:17-8:1
Sunday
October 11, 2009
TODAY'S DEVOTIONAL IS THE FIRST CHAPTER OF PASTOR DAN'S NEW STUDY GUIDE ON THE PROPHETIC MINISTRY!
A Revelation Generation
We are in a time in the earth when God is raising up an army of people who will reveal the purpose, presence and work of Christ in the earth through supernatural signs and wonders.
Dan 11:31-32 "His armed forces will rise up to desecrate the temple fortress and will abolish the daily sacrifice. Then they will set up the abomination that causes desolation. 32 With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him.” NIV
One of the primary means of this display of supernatural partnership will be through the means of revelation.
1 Cor 14:24-25 “But if an unbeliever or someone who does not understand comes in while everybody is prophesying, he will be convinced by all that he is a sinner and will be judged by all, 25 and the secrets of his heart will be laid bare. So he will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, "God is really among you!" NIV
Luke 2:34-35 "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too." NIV
Jesus lived as an example of supernatural partnership. His life was one of constant exchange between He and His Father as He said, “I only do what I see my Father doing.” Regularly the Word says that He knew the people’s thoughts as he was dealing with them.
Matt 9:4 “Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, "Why do you entertain evil thoughts in your hearts?” NIV
Matt 12:25-26 “Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.” NIV
Luke 9:47 “Jesus, knowing their thoughts , took a little child and had him stand beside him.”
NIV
In the last days the power of revelation will flow in such a degree that great conflict and confrontation will be the result of the levels of prophetic power that are released in to the earth.
Rev 11:1-12 “I was given a reed like a measuring rod and was told, "Go and measure the temple of God and the altar, and count the worshipers there. 2 But exclude the outer court; do not measure it, because it has been given to the Gentiles. They will trample on the holy city for 42 months. 3 And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth." 4 These are the two olive trees and the two lamp-stands that stand before the Lord of the earth. 5 If anyone tries to harm them, fire comes from their mouths and devours their enemies. This is how anyone who wants to harm them must die. 6 These men have power to shut up the sky so that it will not rain during the time they are prophesying; and they have power to turn the waters into blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they want. 7 Now when they have finished their testimony, the beast that comes up from the Abyss will attack them, and overpower and kill them. 8 Their bodies will lie in the street of the great city, which is figuratively called Sodom and Egypt, where also their Lord was crucified. 9 For three and a half days men from every people, tribe, language and nation will gaze on their bodies and refuse them burial. 10 The inhabitants of the earth will gloat over them and will celebrate by sending each other gifts, because these two prophets had tormented those who live on the earth. 11 But after the three and a half days a breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet, and terror struck those who saw them. 12 Then they heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, "Come up here." And they went up to heaven in a cloud, while their enemies looked on.” NIV
Though I believe these are two literal people, I also believe that they are also a picture of the prophetic Spirit that will be at work within the church prior to their appearing. Paul in his writings commands us to seek earnestly the gift of prophecy. I Co. 13:2; I Co. 14:1
I Cor 14:1 “Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy.” NIV
I Cor 14:3-5 “But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort. 4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. 5 I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified.” NIV
The Key to Revelation
The scriptures give us the key to receiving revelation from God. It is a personal encounter with the Holy Spirit. As we receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit we are now in a position to encounter the ministry of revelation that flows through him in a much greater way.
Acts 2:14-18 “Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: "Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. 15 These men are not drunk, as you suppose. It's only nine in the morning! 16 No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 17 "'In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. 18 Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.” NIV
Joel 2:28-29 “And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. 29 Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days.” NIV
These passages give us the promise of divine exchange that will lead us in to greater depths of relationship to God and greater fullness of fruit in life.
Images Of The Divine Exchange
Diverse Communication Acts 10:1-24
Verse 3 “One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, "Cornelius!"
Verse 9 “About noon the following day as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. 10 He became hungry and wanted something to eat, and while the meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance. 11 He saw heaven opened...”
Verse 13 “Then a voice told him, "Get up, Peter. Kill and eat."
Verse 19 “While Peter was still thinking about the vision, the Spirit said to him, "Simon, three men are looking for you. 20 So get up and go downstairs. Do not hesitate to go with them, for I have sent them." NIV
The Human Dimension and God’s Intervention
Acts 16:6-10 “Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. 7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. 8 So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. 9 During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." 10 After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.” NIV
Individual Accountability
Acts 5:1-9 “Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. 2 With his wife's full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles' feet. 3 Then Peter said, "Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? 4 Didn't it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn't the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied to men but to God." 5 When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened. 6 Then the young men came forward, wrapped up his body, and carried him out and buried him. About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 Peter asked her, "Tell me, is this the price you and Ananias got for the land?" "Yes," she said, "that is the price." 9 Peter said to her, "How could you agree to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also." NIV
Revelatory Evangelism
Acts 8:26-29 “Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, "Go south to the road-the desert road-that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." 27 So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians. This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship, 28 and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading the book of Isaiah the prophet. 29 The Spirit told Philip, "Go to that chariot and stay near it." NIV
Redemptive Confrontation
Acts 9:1-6 “Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. 3 As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" 5 "Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked."I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied. 6 "Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do." NIV
Prophetic Preparation
Acts 21:10-14 “After we had been there a number of days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. 11 Coming over to us, he took Paul's belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said, "The Holy Spirit says, 'In this way the Jews of Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and will hand him over to the Gentiles.'" 12 When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. 13 Then Paul answered, "Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." 14 When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, "The Lord's will be done." NIV
Revelatory Government
Gal 2:1-3 “Fourteen years later I went up again to Jerusalem, this time with Barnabas. I took Titus along also. 2 I went in response to a revelation and set before them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. But I did this privately to those who seemed to be leaders, for fear that I was running or had run my race in vain.” NIV
Divine Encouragement
Acts 18:9-11 “One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. 10 For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city." 11 So Paul stayed for a year and a half, teaching them the word of God.” NIV
Unearthly Protection
Acts 22:17-18 "When I returned to Jerusalem and was praying at the temple, I fell into a trance 18 and saw the Lord speaking. 'Quick!' he said to me. 'Leave Jerusalem immediately, because they will not accept your testimony about me.' “ NIV
Creative Commissioning
Acts 9:10-12 “In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, "Ananias!" "Yes, Lord," he answered. 11 The Lord told him, "Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12 In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight." NIV
Contradictory Command
Acts 22:19-21 "'Lord,' I replied, 'these men know that I went from one synagogue to another to imprison and beat those who believe in you. 20 And when the blood of your martyr Stephen was shed, I stood there giving my approval and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.' 21 "Then the Lord said to me, 'Go; I will send you far away to the Gentiles.'" NIV
Beneficial Association
Acts 27:21-25 “After the men had gone a long time without food, Paul stood up before them and said: "Men, you should have taken my advice not to sail from Crete; then you would have spared yourselves this damage and loss. 22 But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed. 23 Last night an angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me 24 and said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.' “NIV
A Revelation Generation
We are in a time in the earth when God is raising up an army of people who will reveal the purpose, presence and work of Christ in the earth through supernatural signs and wonders.
Dan 11:31-32 "His armed forces will rise up to desecrate the temple fortress and will abolish the daily sacrifice. Then they will set up the abomination that causes desolation. 32 With flattery he will corrupt those who have violated the covenant, but the people who know their God will firmly resist him.” NIV
One of the primary means of this display of supernatural partnership will be through the means of revelation.
1 Cor 14:24-25 “But if an unbeliever or someone who does not understand comes in while everybody is prophesying, he will be convinced by all that he is a sinner and will be judged by all, 25 and the secrets of his heart will be laid bare. So he will fall down and worship God, exclaiming, "God is really among you!" NIV
Luke 2:34-35 "This child is destined to cause the falling and rising of many in Israel, and to be a sign that will be spoken against, 35 so that the thoughts of many hearts will be revealed. And a sword will pierce your own soul too." NIV
Jesus lived as an example of supernatural partnership. His life was one of constant exchange between He and His Father as He said, “I only do what I see my Father doing.” Regularly the Word says that He knew the people’s thoughts as he was dealing with them.
Matt 9:4 “Knowing their thoughts, Jesus said, "Why do you entertain evil thoughts in your hearts?” NIV
Matt 12:25-26 “Jesus knew their thoughts and said to them, "Every kingdom divided against itself will be ruined, and every city or household divided against itself will not stand.” NIV
Luke 9:47 “Jesus, knowing their thoughts , took a little child and had him stand beside him.”
NIV
In the last days the power of revelation will flow in such a degree that great conflict and confrontation will be the result of the levels of prophetic power that are released in to the earth.
Rev 11:1-12 “I was given a reed like a measuring rod and was told, "Go and measure the temple of God and the altar, and count the worshipers there. 2 But exclude the outer court; do not measure it, because it has been given to the Gentiles. They will trample on the holy city for 42 months. 3 And I will give power to my two witnesses, and they will prophesy for 1,260 days, clothed in sackcloth." 4 These are the two olive trees and the two lamp-stands that stand before the Lord of the earth. 5 If anyone tries to harm them, fire comes from their mouths and devours their enemies. This is how anyone who wants to harm them must die. 6 These men have power to shut up the sky so that it will not rain during the time they are prophesying; and they have power to turn the waters into blood and to strike the earth with every kind of plague as often as they want. 7 Now when they have finished their testimony, the beast that comes up from the Abyss will attack them, and overpower and kill them. 8 Their bodies will lie in the street of the great city, which is figuratively called Sodom and Egypt, where also their Lord was crucified. 9 For three and a half days men from every people, tribe, language and nation will gaze on their bodies and refuse them burial. 10 The inhabitants of the earth will gloat over them and will celebrate by sending each other gifts, because these two prophets had tormented those who live on the earth. 11 But after the three and a half days a breath of life from God entered them, and they stood on their feet, and terror struck those who saw them. 12 Then they heard a loud voice from heaven saying to them, "Come up here." And they went up to heaven in a cloud, while their enemies looked on.” NIV
Though I believe these are two literal people, I also believe that they are also a picture of the prophetic Spirit that will be at work within the church prior to their appearing. Paul in his writings commands us to seek earnestly the gift of prophecy. I Co. 13:2; I Co. 14:1
I Cor 14:1 “Follow the way of love and eagerly desire spiritual gifts, especially the gift of prophecy.” NIV
I Cor 14:3-5 “But everyone who prophesies speaks to men for their strengthening, encouragement and comfort. 4 He who speaks in a tongue edifies himself, but he who prophesies edifies the church. 5 I would like every one of you to speak in tongues, but I would rather have you prophesy. He who prophesies is greater than one who speaks in tongues, unless he interprets, so that the church may be edified.” NIV
The Key to Revelation
The scriptures give us the key to receiving revelation from God. It is a personal encounter with the Holy Spirit. As we receive the baptism of the Holy Spirit we are now in a position to encounter the ministry of revelation that flows through him in a much greater way.
Acts 2:14-18 “Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: "Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. 15 These men are not drunk, as you suppose. It's only nine in the morning! 16 No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: 17 "'In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. 18 Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy.” NIV
Joel 2:28-29 “And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions. 29 Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days.” NIV
These passages give us the promise of divine exchange that will lead us in to greater depths of relationship to God and greater fullness of fruit in life.
Images Of The Divine Exchange
Diverse Communication Acts 10:1-24
Verse 3 “One day at about three in the afternoon he had a vision. He distinctly saw an angel of God, who came to him and said, "Cornelius!"
Verse 9 “About noon the following day as they were on their journey and approaching the city, Peter went up on the roof to pray. 10 He became hungry and wanted something to eat, and while the meal was being prepared, he fell into a trance. 11 He saw heaven opened...”
Verse 13 “Then a voice told him, "Get up, Peter. Kill and eat."
Verse 19 “While Peter was still thinking about the vision, the Spirit said to him, "Simon, three men are looking for you. 20 So get up and go downstairs. Do not hesitate to go with them, for I have sent them." NIV
The Human Dimension and God’s Intervention
Acts 16:6-10 “Paul and his companions traveled throughout the region of Phrygia and Galatia, having been kept by the Holy Spirit from preaching the word in the province of Asia. 7 When they came to the border of Mysia, they tried to enter Bithynia, but the Spirit of Jesus would not allow them to. 8 So they passed by Mysia and went down to Troas. 9 During the night Paul had a vision of a man of Macedonia standing and begging him, "Come over to Macedonia and help us." 10 After Paul had seen the vision, we got ready at once to leave for Macedonia, concluding that God had called us to preach the gospel to them.” NIV
Individual Accountability
Acts 5:1-9 “Now a man named Ananias, together with his wife Sapphira, also sold a piece of property. 2 With his wife's full knowledge he kept back part of the money for himself, but brought the rest and put it at the apostles' feet. 3 Then Peter said, "Ananias, how is it that Satan has so filled your heart that you have lied to the Holy Spirit and have kept for yourself some of the money you received for the land? 4 Didn't it belong to you before it was sold? And after it was sold, wasn't the money at your disposal? What made you think of doing such a thing? You have not lied to men but to God." 5 When Ananias heard this, he fell down and died. And great fear seized all who heard what had happened. 6 Then the young men came forward, wrapped up his body, and carried him out and buried him. About three hours later his wife came in, not knowing what had happened. 8 Peter asked her, "Tell me, is this the price you and Ananias got for the land?" "Yes," she said, "that is the price." 9 Peter said to her, "How could you agree to test the Spirit of the Lord? Look! The feet of the men who buried your husband are at the door, and they will carry you out also." NIV
Revelatory Evangelism
Acts 8:26-29 “Now an angel of the Lord said to Philip, "Go south to the road-the desert road-that goes down from Jerusalem to Gaza." 27 So he started out, and on his way he met an Ethiopian eunuch, an important official in charge of all the treasury of Candace, queen of the Ethiopians. This man had gone to Jerusalem to worship, 28 and on his way home was sitting in his chariot reading the book of Isaiah the prophet. 29 The Spirit told Philip, "Go to that chariot and stay near it." NIV
Redemptive Confrontation
Acts 9:1-6 “Meanwhile, Saul was still breathing out murderous threats against the Lord's disciples. He went to the high priest 2 and asked him for letters to the synagogues in Damascus, so that if he found any there who belonged to the Way, whether men or women, he might take them as prisoners to Jerusalem. 3 As he neared Damascus on his journey, suddenly a light from heaven flashed around him. 4 He fell to the ground and heard a voice say to him, "Saul, Saul, why do you persecute me?" 5 "Who are you, Lord?" Saul asked."I am Jesus, whom you are persecuting," he replied. 6 "Now get up and go into the city, and you will be told what you must do." NIV
Prophetic Preparation
Acts 21:10-14 “After we had been there a number of days, a prophet named Agabus came down from Judea. 11 Coming over to us, he took Paul's belt, tied his own hands and feet with it and said, "The Holy Spirit says, 'In this way the Jews of Jerusalem will bind the owner of this belt and will hand him over to the Gentiles.'" 12 When we heard this, we and the people there pleaded with Paul not to go up to Jerusalem. 13 Then Paul answered, "Why are you weeping and breaking my heart? I am ready not only to be bound, but also to die in Jerusalem for the name of the Lord Jesus." 14 When he would not be dissuaded, we gave up and said, "The Lord's will be done." NIV
Revelatory Government
Gal 2:1-3 “Fourteen years later I went up again to Jerusalem, this time with Barnabas. I took Titus along also. 2 I went in response to a revelation and set before them the gospel that I preach among the Gentiles. But I did this privately to those who seemed to be leaders, for fear that I was running or had run my race in vain.” NIV
Divine Encouragement
Acts 18:9-11 “One night the Lord spoke to Paul in a vision: "Do not be afraid; keep on speaking, do not be silent. 10 For I am with you, and no one is going to attack and harm you, because I have many people in this city." 11 So Paul stayed for a year and a half, teaching them the word of God.” NIV
Unearthly Protection
Acts 22:17-18 "When I returned to Jerusalem and was praying at the temple, I fell into a trance 18 and saw the Lord speaking. 'Quick!' he said to me. 'Leave Jerusalem immediately, because they will not accept your testimony about me.' “ NIV
Creative Commissioning
Acts 9:10-12 “In Damascus there was a disciple named Ananias. The Lord called to him in a vision, "Ananias!" "Yes, Lord," he answered. 11 The Lord told him, "Go to the house of Judas on Straight Street and ask for a man from Tarsus named Saul, for he is praying. 12 In a vision he has seen a man named Ananias come and place his hands on him to restore his sight." NIV
Contradictory Command
Acts 22:19-21 "'Lord,' I replied, 'these men know that I went from one synagogue to another to imprison and beat those who believe in you. 20 And when the blood of your martyr Stephen was shed, I stood there giving my approval and guarding the clothes of those who were killing him.' 21 "Then the Lord said to me, 'Go; I will send you far away to the Gentiles.'" NIV
Beneficial Association
Acts 27:21-25 “After the men had gone a long time without food, Paul stood up before them and said: "Men, you should have taken my advice not to sail from Crete; then you would have spared yourselves this damage and loss. 22 But now I urge you to keep up your courage, because not one of you will be lost; only the ship will be destroyed. 23 Last night an angel of the God whose I am and whom I serve stood beside me 24 and said, 'Do not be afraid, Paul. You must stand trial before Caesar; and God has graciously given you the lives of all who sail with you.' “NIV
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