How deep in the presence of God are you?
It is evident that not all who call themselves Christians actually are. Many who make the claim have never truly repented and are not born again. Of those who are born again, many are not baptised with the Holy Spirit. And of those who have been baptised most are only ankle deep in the rivers of living water. Some others are up to their knees, few are in to the waist, and very few the chest, and very very few are in fully over their heads walking in the fullness of the baptism as we see demonstrated in the Book of Acts. “And with great power the apostles gave witness to the resurrection of the Lord Jesus. And great grace was upon them all.” (Acts 4,33).
This teaching will help you to receive the Baptism in the Holy Spirit and if you are already baptised it will help stir up the gift to go deeper. It will cover: God’s will, hindrances to receiving, the new covenant promise and plan, the role of faith, repentance, surrender and water baptism, hunger and desire, the laying on of hands, the evidences that we are filled, and receiving. It includes many scriptures and rebukes false doctrines that hinder. Read on and receive, as faith comes by hearing and hearing by the word of God – “You shall receive POWER when the Holy Spirit has come upon you”. (Acts 1,8)
GOD’S WILL
Firstly we must understand the complete willingness of God to give and empower His people with His Holy Spirit (the Spirit of God) today. Many remain unsure or are confused by the powerless state of many churches today, or are dissuaded by denominational false doctrines. If you are unsure if its God’s will for you read the following scripture and settle it now forever to believe and agree with the words of Jesus over the words of any man or denomination:
– Luke 11,9-13: “So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, and he who seeks finds, and to him who knocks it will be opened. If a son asks for bread from any father among you, will he give him a stone? Or if he asks for a fish, will he give him a serpent instead of a fish? Or if he asks for an egg, will he offer him a scorpion? If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, HOW MUCH MOREWILL YOUR HEAVENLY FATHER GIVE THE HOLY SPIRIT TO THOSE WHO ASK HIM!”.
Settle it, know it, have faith for it today, it is God’s will for all his born again Children to be filled and empowered by the Holy Spirit.
HINDRANCES TO RECEIVING
It is God’s will that all his people be filled with the Spirit, but the enemy will try a number of tactics to cause people to stumble away from the will of God and fail to receive. These hindrances are very wide spread in the body of Christ and have been very damaging to the effectiveness of the church. Scripture shows us that people can resist and grieve the Holy Spirit (Acts 7,51 & Eph 4). So if we truly call Jesus Lord, then we must actively know and align ourselves with the will of God on this issue.
The main hindrances are:
UNBELIEF – The promise is by grace accessed by faith, and without faith it is impossible to please God or receive from Him. The double minded man receives nothing (James 1,1-8). We must choose to believe what God has said and promised (Acts 2,38-39).
FALSE DOCTRINE – Cessationism is the name of false doctrine that the gifts and ministries of the Holy Spirit have ceased since the death of the original apostles. Many traditional churches believe this great lie. The deception of this doctrine is that it claims to focus only on scripture but denies the truth for today of what those very scriptures teach on the Baptism in the Holy Spirit, it has invented a change which the Bible does not teach. We are not permited to do such. The New Covenant does not change at around 100 AD at the death of the original 12 apostles, it continues the same until the coming of Christ, and so does the 5 fold ministry including apostles & prophet’s. Yes one day tongues and gifts will cease – after the coming of Christ, once the plan of God is completed and not before. They are not gifts of the apostles, they are gifts of the Holy Spirit, He is still here and his ways are the same. Renounce that false damaging doctrine and stay with what the Bible literally says and be blessed.
MODERN CHURCH MODEL – settling for modernism and a powerless `today` style church rather than striving for the model of the Book of Acts.
IDOLS, SIN, WORLDLINESS – The Lord wont share his temple with idols. We must repent and pursue holiness and make room for Him to fill our hearts and lives. (Heb 12,14)
LACK OF DESIRE, LUKEWARMNESS – We must be zealous and repent of this self-focussed attitude that causes us to subtly resist God and live in a powerless state and not even be concerned about it.
LACK OF PRAYER & PERSISTENCE – We must strengthen our spiritual connection and faith if we are serious about walking with God.
THINK YOU ALREADY HAVE IT ALL, WHEN YOU DON’T – Many are deceived into thinking that because they are born again, then they are automatically also baptised in the Hoy Spirit. At the new birth we receive the Holy Spirit inside us yes (Ezekiel 36,26-28), but the baptism is an additional empowerment, scripture is clear on that (Acts 19,1-5 & Acts 18,24-28)). That’s why the 2 issues have 2 different names – New Birth, and Baptism in the Holy Spirit. It is a 2nd experience. They can occur at the same time and also separately. In Acts 19 we see disciples who weren’t yet Baptised in the Holy Spirit and Paul had to teach them about it and Baptise them. They were like many of todays denominational Christians, born again & water baptised but not baptised in the Holy Spirit. But when they were taught by Paul they received it fully: Acts 19,1-6: “Paul, having passed through the upper regions, came to Ephesus. And finding some disciples he said to them, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” So they said to him, “We have not so much as heard whether there is a Holy Spirit.” And he said to them, “Into what then were you baptized?” So they said, “Into John’s baptism.” Then Paul said, “John indeed baptized with a baptism of repentance, saying to the people that they should believe on Him who would come after him, that is, on Christ Jesus. When they heard this, they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they spoke with tongues and prophesied.”
NEW COVENANT PROMISE & PLAN
Let your faith arise as you read the scriptural promises and truths that are key parts of the New Covenant plan and purpose of God:
– Acts 1,4-5, 8: “He commanded them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the Promise of the Father, “which,” He said, “you have heard from Me; for John truly baptized with water, but you shall be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.” … 8 But you shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth.”
– Acts 2,1-4 “When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly there came a sound from heaven, as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting. Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
– Acts 2,16-18: “But this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: And it shall come to pass in the last days, says God, That I will pour out of My Spirit on all flesh; Your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, Your young men shall see visions, Your old men shall dream dreams. And on My menservants and on My maidservants I will pour out My Spirit in those days; And they shall prophesy.” (The Last Days started at the day of Pentecost and continues til the second coming of Christ, the last of the last days. We are in it now, its irrefutable.)
– Acts 2,38-39 “Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
THE ROLE OF FAITH
Faith comes by hearIng and hearing by the word of God. Study the topic in the word of God. Hear it, read it, believe it. Do not be passive when God is already willing. Remember faith without works in dead, so you must believe, pray and ask, act on your faith and receive the gift. And then testify to others afterwards to encourage their faith (Mark 5,24-34).
– Luke 11,9-13: “So I say to you, ask, and it will be given to you; seek, and you will find; knock, and it will be opened to you. For everyone who asks receives, …. how much morewill your heavenly Father give the holy spirit to those who ask him!”.
REPENTANCE & SURRENDER & WATER BAPTISM
– Acts 2,-38-39 “Then Peter said to them, “Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.”
As we see here it is important to come to a proper place of repentance from sin & surrender to the Lord, and in this case people were water baptised and received the Holy Spirit baptism at the same time. If you are leading people to the Lord best lead them all the way.
In Acts 10,38-48 they were water baptised after being baptised in the Holy Spirit. At other times believers water baptised first (Acts 19,1-6) and at other times water baptised and baptised in the Holy Spirit at the same time (Acts 2,38 & Acts 9). Regardless of the variation in order, believers should be both baptised in water and the Holy Spirit, as the Lord commanded and demonstrated. They will then receive the freedom and power and deliverance to live for Him.
HUNGER AND DESIRE
– John 7,37-39: “On the last day, that great day of the feast, Jesus stood and cried out, saying, “If anyone thirsts, let him come to Me and drink. He who believes in Me, as the Scripture has said, out of his heart will flow rivers of living water.” But this He spoke concerning the Spirit, whom those believing in Him would receive; for the Holy Spirit was not yet given, because Jesus was not yet glorified.”
Get hungry, pray and worship, seek His face, see the importance, read the Book of Acts to see it clearer and difference between the believers of those days and the average of today’s. Desire it greatly and pursue Him until you are filled.
– Acts 4, 24 “So when they heard that, they raised their voice to God with one accord … 31 And when they had prayed, the place where they were assembled together was shaken; and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with boldness.”
LAYING ON OF HANDS
It is correct and biblical to have another Christian lay hands on a believer to receive the Baptism on the Holy Spirit. (But it is also not essential you can receive by faith on your own). Just ensure that the person praying has already been Baptised in the Spirit themselves and has continued on in His presence and anointing.
– Heb 6,2: “of the doctrine of baptisms, of laying on of hands, of resurrection of the dead, and of eternal judgment.”
– Acts 8, 14-19: “Now when the apostles who were at Jerusalem heard that Samaria had received the word of God, they sent Peter and John to them, who, when they had come down, prayed for them that they might receive the Holy Spirit. For as yet He had fallen upon none of them. They had only been baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then they laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit. And when Simon saw that through the laying on of the apostles’ hands the Holy Spirit was given, he offered them money, saying, “Give me this power also, that anyone on whom I lay hands may receive the Holy Spirit.”
– Acts 9,17: “And Ananias went his way and entered the house; and laying his hands on him he said, “Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus, who appeared to you on the road as you came, has sent me that you may receive your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.”
EVIDENCES OF THE BAPTISM
In the Bible when believers were Baptised in the Holy Spirit something happened, people saw something, there was clear evidence. These include: Power, Speaking in Tongues, Prophecy, and Boldness. Thus they didn’t just hope they received but clearly knew they had.
– Acts 1, 8 “But you shall receive POWER when the Holy Spirit has come upon you; and you shall be witnesses to Me”
– Acts 10, 44-46 “While Peter was still speaking these words, the Holy Spirit fell upon all those who heard the word. And those of the circumcision who believed were astonished, as many as came with Peter, because the gift of the Holy Spirit had been poured out on the Gentiles also. For they heard them SPEAK WITH TONGUES and MAGNIFY GOD.”
– Acts 4,31 “and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit, and they spoke the word of God with BOLDNESS.” … and Acts 9,20 “Immediately he preached the Christ in the synagogues, that He is the Son of God.”
– Acts 19,1 “And when Paul had laid hands on them, the Holy Spirit came upon them, and they SPOKE WITH TONGUES & PROPHESIED.”
MY TESTIMONY
To encourage others, my personal experience in receiving was that after I got born again and I went to 6 weeks of Bible study foundations classes and after which was a lesson on the Baptism in water and the Holy Spirit. At the end of that class the leader prayed laying hands on me and I received baptism and spoke with other tongues (in a prayer language to God – 1Cor14,2). I felt His presence and power filling me, I was amazed and said things like “I can actually feel God, his presence, its amazing, just like He is here touching me”. The next weekend I was water baptised in a public swimming pool. I went on to seek Him much and having wonderful fellowship in His presence and prayer.
Before this I had not yet shared by new faith, but after this new power and boldness came and I preached all my friends and family, losing many as friends but winning some to the Lord. Over the years there have also been seasons of greater hunger where Id pursue Him for more, which took some time before I broke through to a deeper level of His presence and power. There is always more, we can go much deeper into His presence. Lets not settle for less than what we see in the book of Acts but pursue Him.
RECEIVING THE GIFT
Firstly, it is recommended that you prepare yourself sufficiently on the above issues regarding knowing clearly what the word of God says, avoiding the hindrances, repenting, surrendering, desiring and getting water baptised. Secondly, if able pray with someone who is has been baptised and get them to pay hands on your when praying. If not still pray by faith by yourself. Thirdly: believe, ask, act, and receive.
If prepared, pray to God something like this: “Dear Holy Father, I believe your word regarding the Baptism of the Holy Spirit and ask now for the gift and promise of the Holy Spirit. Baptise me now in Jesus name. I believe I receive now, I thank you and praise you.”
Lift up your hands and receive His presence and power in-filling you, continue to receive and act on your faith by thanking Him, worshipping, and upon his leading whether to speak forth in tongues or prophecy or other gifts. Relax and receive, and ensure to focus on Him, not just on the experience.
I have keep this prayer short in words because that’s all it needs to be for those who have prepared themselves to receive. But persist longer in prayer enjoying His presence and fellowship.
If you feel you have not received anything, go back to the word of God and continue to study the issue to build your knowledge and faith and desire, and check through all the points above. Don’t give up but persist with faith and patience and receive the promise.
A VISION & MESSAGE – OUTPOURING OF THE HOLY SPIRIT
In the early 1900’s missionary John G Lake had seen extraordinary miracles and healings during his years of missionary work in South Africa and was praying for the same outpouring in the USA. In answer to a cry from Lake’ heart, an angel of the Lord appeared before him. The angel took a Bible and opened to the Book of Acts. He called attention to the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost, and then proceeded through the book pointing out the great, outstanding revelations and phenomena in it. Then the angel spoke these words:
“This is Pentecost as God gave it through the heart of Jesus. STRIVE FOR THIS. CONTEND FOR THIS. TEACH THE PEOPLE TO PRAY FOR THIS. For this, and this alone, will meet the necessity of the human heart, and this alone will have the power to overcome the forces of darkness.”
As the angel was departing, he said: “PRAY. PRAY. PRAY. Teach the people to pray. Prayer and prayer alone, much prayer, persistent prayer, is the door of entrance into the heart of God.”
– 2 Chron 7,14 “If My people who are called by My name will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and heal their land.”
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Beloved of the Lord, true devotion and discipleship starts the moment we awake each and every day as we seek the face of God. Take the command of Jesus seriously to seek first the Kingdom by seeking Him first thing every morning in worship and prayer. And not for a shallow hasty few mins as we rush off to less important things, but a significant amount of time, 30-60mins, in quality deep prayer, fellowship and worship.
THE DEEPER PLACE
Im talking about the deeper place in God, that is a place unknown to the worldly lukewarm christian and those complacent with sin, to those pre-occupied with busyness, worldly matters, partying, entertainment & games, cares and worries. But accessible to all who hunger and thirst for righteousness, who will be filled. To those who enter by faith into the holy place of his heart, eagerly longing for more of Him, discontented with the vanities and falsehoods of this world, but longing just for more of HIM. Is that you beloved of God? Are you hearing the still small voice calling “Seek My face”
The deeper place of prayer is being lost in His holy presence, experiencing the anointing that breaks every yoke, its where veils are removed and we behold His glory and are changed more so into His image. Its where we literally feel the manifestation of the fruit of the Sprit – His peace and love overwhelming us, joy unspeakable, self control & patience imparted, his divine empowerment to go forth carrying his anointing and power to minister His life. Its where we know Him as I AM, not I was or I will be, knowing Him now personally, abiding in Him.
— Jesus: “when you pray, go into your room, and when you have shut your door, pray to your Father who is in the secret place; and your Father who sees in secret will reward you openly.” (Matt 6,6)
ENTERING IN
Entering the deeper place of prayer we start by singing spiritual songs of worship to God, perhaps 3-5 songs as you enter His gates with thanksgiving and His courts with praise, and worship Him in the beauty of his holiness. (see more on Worship in Spirit and Truth).
Once deep in His presence confess your sins and let His blood cleanse you from all unrighteousness. Renounce and forsake any sins, and forgive all other people. Ask for an abundance of grace and the power of His Spirit to live holy and truly for Him.
— “And whenever you stand praying, if you have anything against anyone, forgive him, that your Father in heaven may also forgive you your trespasses. But if you do not forgive, neither will your Father in heaven forgive your trespasses.” (Mark 11,25-26)
PRAYER AND PETITION
Then start to pray biblical prayers (see below) in faith for yourself, and your family, church, ministries, the lost, friends and connections. Stand in the gap and pray for the nations, for revival, for the Lord of Harvest to send out the labourers, for unreached people groups, for missions, those those lost in idolatry and error. Pray for those in authority (1Tim1-4). Pray for the will of God be done on Earth just as in Heaven: for lost people to come to a knowledge of the truth, to repentance, that they might be saved. Pray for the Lord to pour out His Spirit on all flesh (Acts 2,17-18). Pray for repentance and true revival in the church (2Chron7,14). Bring your petitions by faith in Jesus name, in heart-felt earnest believing prayer.
— “I exhort first of all that supplications, prayers, intercessions, and giving of thanks be made for all men, for kings and all who are in authority, that we may lead a quiet and peaceable life in all godliness and reverence. For this is good and acceptable in the sight of God our Savior, who desires all men to be saved and to come to the knowledge of the truth. For there is one God and one Mediator between God and men,the Man Christ Jesus, who gave Himself a ransom for all” (1Tim 2,1-4)
— “Therefore I say to you, whatever things you ask when you pray, believe that you receive them, and you will have them” (Mark 11,14)
LISTEN
Lastly rest silently and soak in His glorious presence, feeling Him, receiving more of Him and be silent, and listen. He also wants to speak to you, prayer is to be a 2 way encounter. Ask Him want He wants of you. You may also ask Him questions you have and listen for direct answers via the inward witness of the Sprit of God. Many clear answers can be resolved here. His sheep know his voice. Thank Him and go on your way carrying His presence and anointing, talking to him throughout the day and longing for His intimacy and to be back in the deep place of prayer again before sleep-time.
HOW ABOUT YOU?
Christians need and must have a serious prayer life or they wont amount to much and have little power to overcome the world or the flesh. If we are to walk in the Spirit we need to have a deep fellowship with the Holy Spirit and abide in Him. Christians must be baptised in the Holy Spirit, and abide in his presence through prayer and worship, full of fresh oil, like the wise virgins. Without this many will simply not endure to the end, but fall to worldly and fleshly temptations. But with this many will overcome and produce much fruit, lasting fruit, eternal fruit for HIS glory and pleasure.
— “My house shall be called a house of prayer for all nations” (Mark 11, 17)
BIBLICAL PRAYERS
These are Bible prayers that the Jesus and Apostle Paul and others prayed for the believers. As they are in the word of God, we can be sure they are the 100% will of God for us to pray and receive the answers, thus we can pray in faith, believe and receive. Here they are, read and see the wonderful things God wants you to pray for. Learn & remember them, personalising them and add them to your praying for yourself and others:
1.) PHILIPPIANS 1,9-11: “And this I pray, that your love may abound still more and more in knowledge and all discernment, that you may approve the things that are excellent, that you may be sincere and without offence till the day of Christ, being filled with the fruits of righteousness which are by Jesus Christ, to the glory and praise of God.”
2.) COLOSSIANS 1, 9-11: “we do not cease to pray for you, and to ask that you may be filled with the knowledge of His will in all wisdom and spiritual understanding; that you may walk worthy of the Lord, fully pleasing Him, being fruitful in every good work and increasing in the knowledge of God; strengthened with all might, according to His glorious power, for all patience and long-suffering with joy; giving thanks to the Father”
3.) EPHESIANS 1,17-20: “mention of you in my prayers: that the God of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of glory, may give to you the spirit of wisdom and revelation in the knowledge of Him, 18 the eyes of your understanding being enlightened; that you may know what is the hope of His calling, what are the riches of the glory of His inheritance in the saints, and what is the exceeding greatness of His power toward us who believe, according to the working of His mighty power which He worked in Christ when He raised Him”
4.) EPHESIANS 3,16-19: “He would grant you, according to the riches of His glory, to be strengthened with might through His Spirit in the inner man, that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith; that you, being rooted and grounded in love, may be able to comprehend with all the saints what is the width and length and depth and height— to know the love of Christ which passes knowledge; that you may be filled with all the fullness of God.”
5.) MATTHEW 6,9-10: “Our Father in heaven, Hallowed be Your name. Your kingdom come. Your will be done On earth as it is in heaven. Give us this day our daily bread. And forgive us our debts, As we forgive our debtors. And do not lead us into temptation, But deliver us from the evil one. For Yours is the kingdom and the power and the glory forever. Amen”
6.) ROMANS 15,13: “Now may the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, that you may abound in hope by the power of the Holy Spirit.”
TRUE DEVOTION
Out of many things important things, this would be towards the top my list about what can make the biggest difference in a believers life. True devotion to the Lord will manifest a serious prayer life. How about you?
“When You said, “Seek My face”, My heart said to You,
“Your face, Lord, I will seek.”” (Psalm 27,8)
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The Lord appeared to a ministe back in the 1980’s and showed him a church service and said “These modern day Charismatic’s know a little about praising me, but they know little or nothing about true worship.”
The Lord went on to say that the church was substituting brass for gold (explained below). God has His plan for worship and if we want to experience His presence, anointing and manifest glory in our lives and services we need to follow His plan, not our own styles and traditions. If you desire a deeper true worship experience then invest 15 mins in reading the rest of this teaching. I will share some of things the Lord told this man of God and what he told 3 other people in prophetic experiences, as well as teach the word of God. This is not about any denominational style, but true worship for any true Christian. *** You will soon go permanently deeper, and will cease to do certain distracting practices common today! ***
GOD’S ORDER OF WORSHIP
In the Old Testament we see in exodus that God spent 6 chapters instructing Moses in great detail how to construct the Tabernacle and all the important furnishings to be used in worship and service. The same when Solomon built the Temple. Because He is the person of worship and He is Holy and gave His plan for how they were to draw near to Him. It had to be followed. They weren’t to just do their own thing. For the OT saints the Bible has much to say about their God-given order of worship that we wont go into now.
JESUS CHANGED THE ORDER OF WORSHIP
In the encounter with the women at the well Jesus announced a profound change would be coming to the God-given order of worship.
— John 4,19-24: “The woman said to Him, “Sir, I perceive that You are a prophet. Our fathers worshiped on this mountain, and you Jews say that in Jerusalem is the place where one ought to worship. Jesus said to her, “Woman, believe Me, the hour is coming when you will neither on this mountain, nor in Jerusalem, worship the Father. You worship what you do not know; we know what we worship, for salvation is of the Jews. But the hour is coming, and now is, WHEN THE TRUE WORSHIPERS WILL WORSHIP THE FATHER IN SPIRIT AND TRUTH; FOR THE FATHER IS SEEKING SUCH TO WORSHIP HIM. GOD IS SPIRIT, AND THOSE WHO WORSHIP HIM MUST WORSHIP IN SPIRIT AND TRUTH.”
She was wanting to know who had it right between the Samaritans and the Jews but Jesus pointed to something greater. After the birth of the church at Pentecost, People would no longer have to go to the Temple at Jerusalem to present themselves before God where the Spirit of God dwelled in the holy of holies, now they would become his temples with the Holy Spirit indwelling them.
— 1Cor 3,16-17 “Do you not know that you are the temple of God and that the Spirit of God dwells in you? If anyone defiles the temple of God, God will destroy him. For the temple of God is holy, which temple you are.”
The Old Testament (OT) saints were spiritually dead, the New Testament (NT) saints are born again New Creations and spiritually alive and reconciled to God. Everything would now be done in partnership and in the presence of the Spirit of God dwelling in us. The Lord is concerned that the church is filled with His Spirit, baptised in His power, abiding in His presence, drinking in the rivers of living water, worshipping in union and communion with Him – in Spirit and Truth. Eph 5,17-18: “Do not be unwise, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit”
ARE YOU BRINGING BRASS OR GOLD?
Where the Lord said to that Minister that the church was substituting brass for gold, he was comparing it to an incident that occurred with Israel. The Lord had instructed Solomon that the furnishings of the house of the Lord were to be made of pure gold, and the shields of pure gold, which he did (2Kings7,48-50). Years Later a change happened after the King of Egypt invaded Israel:
— 2Chron 12,9-10 “So Shishak king of Egypt came up against Jerusalem, and took away the treasures of the house of the LORD and the treasures of the king’s house; he took everything. He also carried away the gold shields which Solomon had made. Then King Rehoboam made brass (or bronze) shields in their place, and committed them to the hands of the captains of the guard, who guarded the doorway of the king’s house.”
Brass looks a lot like gold but is actually an alloy, a cheaper mix of copper and zinc. As Rehoboam had substituted brass for gold shields, the church today has substituted brass for gold, with worship that looks similar but has a worldly mix, and even a mix from the OT order.
Consider this as we look the details of NT order of worship:
PSALMS, HYMNS AND SPIRITUAL SONGS
— Col 3,16: “Let the word of Christ dwell in you richly in all wisdom, teaching and admonishing one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing with grace in your hearts to the Lord.”
— Eph 5,17-20: “And do not be drunk with wine, in which is dissipation; but be filled with the Spirit, speaking to one another in psalms and hymns and spiritual songs, singing and making melody in your heart to the Lord.“
Psalms are an inspired songs/poem such as the 150 songs in the book of psalms and many new ones the Lord gives His people. Hymns are songs of worship, not meaning singing just from a traditional hymn book, but singing worship in union with the Spirit of God songs both new and old that flow with HIm. These songs should also have teaching of truth in them, the word of Christ, in the words that may be sung to yourself, others and to God. Spiritual songs are songs that are given you directly by the inspiration of the Holy Spirit that you speak or sing forth. It may start with one verse that then flows on from there as you step out and follow His lead. These can be done on your own with God, and also in gatherings.
It does not mention music and instrumentation here. These are fine to use but they are to be the minor element and should not eclipse the singing of worship or distract but simply complement. The church today has added to this list by bringing in the worldly styles of Rock n roll, Rap, Reggae music – this is BRASS, a mix with the world, that actually distracts from pure focus on God and dissipates true worship. (See more on that in the testimonies below)
— 1Cor 14,26 “How is it then, brethren? Whenever you come together, each of you has a psalm, has a teaching, has a tongue, has a revelation, has an interpretation. Let all things be done for edification.” See that full chapter for more on these points.
WHAT ABOUT DANCING ??
Many today dance to the music as part of their worship or churches have choreographed dance teams on stage and they say its Biblical using, 2Sam 6,14:“Then David danced before the LORD with all his might”. But this is more Brass, it’s a mix with the old order of worship in OT and worldly things. You will not find one single scripture on dancing before the Lord in the New Testament. What David did then was perfectly right for then, but today we do not dance BEFORE the Lord or to the beat of the music, but we may dance IN the SPIRIT if the Holy Spirit manifests in us that way, moving us by his power and directing our steps. The two are entirely different things. If you bring Brass you will grieve Him.
WHAT ABOUT CLAPPING ??
It is a very common modern thing in Charismatic churches to clap to the music of the fast songs, to clap at the end of the song, and as directed by the leader or Pastor to give the Lord a clap offering. And it as often quoted: Psalm 47,1 “Oh, clap your hands, all you peoples! Shout to God with the voice of triumph!”. But again this is but the OT order, and such clapping is offering more Brass and grieves Him. Clapping is even applause rather than worship. You will not find one single scripture instructing us to clap our hand in worship in the New Testament. Rather you will find instructions to lift our hands,1Tim 2,8: “I desire therefore that the men pray everywhere, lifting up holy hands, without wrath and doubting”. Prayer, praise, worship are all direct communion with God, praise is a high form of prayer. As we lift up our hands in worship we will often feel His glorious presence and are more still to purely focus on Him (which does not happen when clapping).
REJOICING AND THANKSGIVING
As we give thanks and rejoice in the Lord we may laugh in the Spirit as the Spirit manifests the fruit of joy in our hearts, such joy is our strength, Phil 4,4 “Rejoice in the Lord always. Again I will say, rejoice!”
— Eph 7,21: “giving thanks always for all things to God the Father in the name of our Lord Jesus Christ, submitting to one another in the fear of God.”
— Col 3,17:”And whatever you do in word or deed, do all in the name of the Lord Jesus, giving thanks to God the Father through Him”
REVERENCE & TRUTH
These two are big keys to worship, and need to be better set in order in a believers life if they desire more of God. He is a great King and He is holy, and must be reverenced in awe and godly fear. We must also walk in transparent truth and holiness, and not worldly compromise or hypocrisy lest we grieve Him. The worldly, lukewarm & disobedient, Christians need to repent to enter into true worship, and even to stay saved.
— Heb 12, 23-24 “let us have grace, by which we may serve God acceptably with reverence and godly fear. For our God is a consuming fire.”
— 2Cor 7,1 “having these promises, beloved, let us cleanse ourselves from all filthiness of the flesh and spirit, perfecting holiness in the fear of God.”
LIVING SACRIFICES
Going beyond expressive worship and communion our whole lives are to be given in worship of God, laying down self, living holy & acceptable to Him, changing our thoughts to His thoughts, our ways to His ways, renewing our mind, seeking His will.
— Rom 12,1-2 “I beseech you therefore, brethren, by the mercies of God, that you present your bodies a living sacrifice, holy, acceptable to God, which is your reasonable service. And do not be conformed to this world, but be transformed by the renewing of your mind, that you may prove what is that good and acceptable and perfect will of God.”
WORSHIP OR IDOLATRY ?
Worshiping in spirit and in truth does not involve the use of images, statues, idols, objects, no saints or prayers to Mary. Such things are forms of idolatry that God hates. We are also not to become fixated with people, obsess over favourite preachers or singers, or denominations but keep our focus on worshipping God.
— Rev 22, 8-9 “ Now I, John, saw and heard these things. And when I heard and saw, I fell down to worship before the feet of the angel who showed me these things. Then he said to me, “See that you do not do that. For I am your fellow servant, and of your brethren the prophets, and of those who keep the words of this book. Worship God.”
— 1 John 5,21 “Little children, keep yourselves from idols.”
MORE ISSUES THAT NEED TO CHANGE IN CHURCH WORSHIP
The following are some negative issues common in some churches today that are a distraction from true worship and that need to change.
1.) Having music that is only designed to be relevant to one age groups eg just the youth, or just the older people. We are here to serve all people
2.) Having the music sound system so loud its almost deafening. Blasting people with volume wont help them focus on God, but will hinder them.
3.) Having only young pretty girls with good figures on the worship team as singers. And/or wearing tight, revealing or sexy cloths. Flesh focus! Dress modestly and help others focus on Christ alone and dont be a source stumbling for others.
4.) Having the worship team lead like rock stars at a concert, stealing the focus, copying the world. Instead we need to lower ourselves and lift up the Lord.
5.) Musician showing off with drum solos and guitar solos, distracting the focus.
6.) Worship leader trying to hype up the congregation with clapping and dancing and various antics, when all you need to do is encourage them to turn their eyes on Jesus
7.) The use of very large video screens, disco type lighting, and even some churches use smoke machines. More distractive brass!
8.) Also we are not called to follow an old denominational tradition that hinders the flow of the spirit and denies His inspired gifts. We must welcome the Spirit of God and follow His lead.
Lets get back to simplicity & purity in devotion to Christ. The Father seeks those who will worship Him in Spirit and Truth. He desires us to be continually filled with His Spirit and true worship helps achieve that. Its so simple.
***** THREE TESTIMONIES *****
1. DAVID.E.TAYLOR – WHY THE LACK OF POWER IN THE CHURCH
Preacher David Taylor testified of how he was caught up in the Spirit and the Lord Jesus showed him why there was a lack of power and demonstration of the Spirit in the church today including issues such as: worldliness in the congregation, worldly music being used by the worship team, fear of man in the Pastors. This was hindering a great a glorious outpouring. He was shown churches where worldly music styles were being used by the worship team and that the pastor knew in His heart that it was wrong but feared the people and keep silent. The church needs to repent and put away worldliness, put away worldly rap & rock music & seeker sensitive strategies, and shun the fear of man and return to the fear of God. Watch the video : https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vift1BEL1wA
2. RODOLFO ACEVEDO – UNHOLY MUSIC IN THE CHURCH
From His testimony of Heaven and Hell and the Condition of today church : “Now the Lord showed me a disco and a church and the Lord told me: “observe well” and I looked and saw that the church just looked like the disco! There was no difference! They had the same sound systems, same music, same equipment that is entering from the world into the church! The world should convert to Christianity but not the other way around. We are bringing the world into the church! Also I have to tell you this: We cannot praise and worship God with Reggaeton, with Bachaton or Rock. Even today there are Christians songs that are being sung to God and then to the world, using the very same words! They don’t mention God but only mention the word ‘love’.
I also saw Rap music and Perreo in the church and that is unacceptable. The Bible says that we must worship the Lord in the beauty of holiness. Rock is satanic and it was invented in hell. Pastors and evangelists, please get that Cursed music out of the churches!!! (Read the rest here )
3. ANGELICA ZAMBRANO – WORLDLY MUSIC STYLES IN THE CHURCH
From her 3rd testimony of Heaven and Hell: The LORD said “I will show you another sin that takes place on the alter of churches. It is regarding music.” The Lord showed me people playing and listening to rock music, rap music and reggae music in the alter at churches. This displeases the LORD. The word of God says He wants us to worship Him in Spirit and Truth. He does not say He seeks for those who will rap for Him in spirit and in truth.
We moved to another location in Hell and I saw a young christian man who was singing christian rap or reggae style music. I asked the LORD ‘Why is he here? LORD I really want to know why is he here? Why is he singing?”. At this time I was remembering how many musicians are in Hell; Selena, Michael Jackson, , and many other musicians are burning in Hell. I asked “LORD did he sing in the church?”. He replied “Yes daughter he sang at church”. The LORD did not say anything else after that statement.
I began speaking with this young man. He said “My name is Mark. I am in this place because I did not worship the LORD . I sang rap style music instead. I would sing these songs at church but I did not like to pray, I had no prayer life. I did not like to seek God’s presence. My purpose in singing these songs was to attract young people to church. I wanted gang members to come to church, I didn’t realise it is God who must draw them. It is He alone who deals with there hearts.”
I asked “How long have you been in this place? and is there any other reason you are here?”. He said “4 years. Yes I had a lot of pride, I am also here because of that. Here the demons torment me and continually laugh at me they say ‘Worldly music is an instrument that we use to bring young people to this place.‘ Mark was completely bound while he talked with me. His arms and body were tied up with snakes.
He would cry and ask me “Can you help me?”
I said “No Mark, I would if I could but I cannot”.
He replied “I know I will never get out of here. Look at me, I am in torment. When I died I fell into a tunnel. After I descended from the tunnel my body exploded as I landed in Hell. Worms came out of my body and I have remained in torment until now. I have become disfigured and the flames of Hell continue to burn me. I cant stand it anymore. The demons say this is my kingdom and that satan is my god”.
I said “I understand, but Mark on Earth you had a chance to repent.”
He cried and said “Tell the young people to worship Jesus. Tell the whole church to worship. God seeks true worshippers!” After Mark had spoken a flame came between us. He became engulfed by the flames as soon as I stepped away. While we had been speaking the flames had only risen to his waist, after his last statement his torment continued as before.
The LORD said “Daughter, many people think that with certain music and certain programs they are able to attract the world and reach the gang members and drug addicts. No! It is not men that bring conviction of sin, it is the Holy Spirit that deals with and convinces man of his sins. It is I who touches hearts. It is I who deals with the hearts of man, I alone am able to save. Men think they are the saviours.”
This is what the LORD told me. I cried. This was so difficult for me, it is still difficult. I think that if you are listening to this type of music you must STOP. This is between you and God though. As I fulfil God’s will in telling you, I am no longer responsible because I told you what God said. If you want to accept it, accept it. If you want to reject it, reject it, I fulfil my responsibility. This is something He required of me. If I don’t obey Him, Hell awaits (Ezekiel 3,16-21). I don’t want to go to that place & end up in torment, I have already visited there 3 times, its more real than life in Earth. As we left Mark’s cell he began to blaspheme. The LORD told me ‘When we leave this place tell My church to worship Me in Spirit and in Truth”. (Read the rest here)
— John 4, 23 “the hour is coming, and now is, when the true worshipers will worship the Father in spirit and truth; for the Father is seeking such to worship Him. 24 God is Spirit, and those who worship Him must worship in spirit and truth.”
WORSHIP SONGS, EXAMPLES
These are some examples from songs that are on You Tube that I consider acceptable worship songs. I give example as some people have asked for them. One song does not endorse all the songs by an artist (as many singers today have both good and bad songs), but each song should be judge on its own merits.
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We see in the Book of Acts the LORD places much importance on being led by the Spirit of God in ministry and for guidance in all situations in life. If we learn how to truly hear from God we can: navigate through all deceptions & confusion and walk in truth; discern between true & false prophecy or predictions; make right life choices; be alert to either dangers or opportunities before us; and know what ministries areas to be involved in or help support.
Even for Internet sites, the media, churches or the many claims made in some You Tube videos that could be true or complete falsehood, He is here to lead us into all truth. There are other important issues in doing this such as correct bible doctrine, following the word of God, prayer, obedience etc, however this teaching is purely about the aspect of being led by the Spirit.
A.) FOUNDATIONS FOR BEING LED
1. Our connection to God
– We are a spirit, we have a soul, we live in a body (1 Thess 5, 23)
– If we are to connect with God we must worship him in spirit and truth, as God is Spirit, and he is wholly true (John 4, 23-24)
2. Led by the Spirit of God
– Those who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God. (Rom 8,14). This is for born again believers
– Guides us into all truth, Our helper and comforter, the greater one in us (John 14, 15, 16)
– God for us, with us, and in us, and has qualified us to be ministers of the new covenant in the Spirit
3. What else can we be falsely led astray by?
‘Stiff necked uncircumcised in heart & ears, always resisting the Holy Spirit’ Acts 7,51
– Our flesh, our self, own desires
– Our unrighteous judgments, ambition and pride
– Demons, delusions, wounds, lies & heresies
– The world, peer pressure, opinions, mans wisdom, human ideals
– Traditions of men, denominationalism
– the Media, sensationalism & hype
– Good ideas, but not God ideas
– Human compassion, particularly in ministry
– Fear of man, and other people’s opinions
– Fearfulness rather than faith
B.) HOW HE LEADS US
There are at least 6 ways that the Spirit of God leads us. Some of them are very subtle and some are very spectacular. They are all from God, but the KEY to not missing God is to understand the subtle very well and not be distracted by seeking the spectacular. They are all Supernatural means, but the subtle is common & easy to miss, the spectacular is rarer but harder to miss.
1. The Inward Witness
This is the PRIMARY WAY, the main way that God leads us by His Spirit. Although not easy to describe, the inner witness is not a voice, but rather an inner feeling, confirmation, check, red or green light, a peace or disturbance witnessing for or against, it is the Yes or No of God given by the Holy Spirit to our spirit. Many people often say “God said this or that” many times a day, but this is very unlikely. In most cases they are hearing their own soul and getting deceived, as the most common way is not a voice but a supernatural witness.
In my personal experience am I led by the inner witness most of the time. So it is far more profitable to focus on learning to discern God in this area.
– “It is the Spirit bearing witness with our spirit …” (Rom 8, 16)
– “now when they had gone through phrygia and the region of galatia, they wereforbidden by the Holy Spirit to preach the word in Asia. After they had come to Mysia, they tried to go into Bithynia, but the spirit did not permit them.” (Acts 16, 6-7)
– “it seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us …” – (Acts 15, 28)
– “now after these things, Paul resolved in the spirit …” (Acts 19,21)
– “Paul advised them saying ‘sirs, I perceive that the voyage will end in injury & much loss” (acts 27,10)
– “and let the peace of God rule in your hearts” – (Col 3, 12)
– the unction/anointing teaches us – (1 john 2, 26-27) (Prov 20,27) (John 14 & 15)
We see from the words in bold that it is very subtle supernatural communication and therefore requires us to be humble, sensitive, prayerful to not miss God. The inner witness comes to us many times a day in given situations as He guides us, even without asking, and it also comes in prayer times as we ask the Lord directly to confirm answers to issues.
It is for every Christian, including a prophet. They have particular gifts for ministry, but they also need to hear from God for themselves about many things the same as other Christians.
2. The Voice of God
This can come as a still small voice as in Elijah’s case on the mountain (1 King 19,11-13), or as a clearer stronger direct voice, which is hard to miss.
– “and the Spirit said `go up and join his chariot`” (Acts 8,29)
– “and the Spirit said to them ‘behold three men are looking for you, arise and go, and accompany them without hesitation, for I have sent them'” (Acts 10, 19-20)
– “The Holy Spirit said ‘Set apart for me Saul & Barnabas for the work to which I have called them'” (Acts 13, 2)
3. Dreams
A key sign of the last days outpouring of the Spirit since the day of Pentecost is dreams & visions (Acts 2, 17). Although these are more spectacular and hard to miss, they may require us going to prayer to obtain the inner witness confirmation or clarity of what they mean.
– “For God may speak in one way, or in another, yet man does not perceive it. In a dream, in a vision of the night, When deep sleep falls upon men, While slumbering on their beds, Then He opens the ears of men, And seals their instruction.” (Job 33, 14-16)
– “And a vision appeared to Paul in the night. A man of Macedonia stood and pleaded with him, saying, “Come over to Macedonia and help us.” (Acts 16, 10) + (Acts 18,9)
4. Visions
There are 3 different levels of visions:
– A Vision in the spirit: in which God allows you see & hear into the spirit realm; “Now there was a certain disciple at Damascus named Ananias; and to him the Lord said in a vision, ‘Ananias’. And he said, “Here I am, Lord.” So the Lord said to him, ‘Arise and go to the street called Straight’ …” (Acts 9,10-16)
– An Open Vision: like watching on a big screen: “As he journeyed he came near Damascus, and suddenly a light shone around him from heaven. Then he fell to the ground, and heard a voice saying to him, ‘Saul, Saul, why are you persecuting Me?’ …” (Acts 9,3-6)
– A Trance: in which you interact in the vision such as happened to Peter … ‘he fell into a trance and saw heaven opened and an object like a great sheet bound at the four corners, descending to him and let down to the earth. In it were all kinds of four-footed animals of the earth, wild beasts, creeping things, and birds of the air. And a voice came to him, “Rise, Peter; kill and eat.” But Peter said, “Not so, Lord! For I have never eaten anything common or unclean.” And a voice spoke to him again ….’ (Acts 10, 10-16)
5. Messages delivered by Angels
This is a suspicious & controversial way to the fearful who are more concerned about deceptive `angels of light` rather than hearing from God. But lets remember that some very important messages were delivered by Angels such as the virgin birth message to Mary, and some end times messages given to Daniel etc. Just ensure it completely lines up with the word of God.
– “an angel of the Lord said to Philip “Rise and go toward the south to the road that goes down to Jerusalem to Gaza” (Acts 8, 26)
– “Paul stood in the midst of them and said, “Men, you should have listened to me, and not have sailed from Crete and incurred this disaster and loss. And now I urge you to take heart, for there will be no loss of life among you, but only of the ship. For there stood by me this night an angel of the God to whom I belong and whom I serve, saying, ‘Do not be afraid… (Acts 27,21-26)
6. Prophets, or another believer
The Lord may speak and led us through a Prophet using the gift of a word of Knowledge, word of wisdom, or a prophecy. And also through our brethren by an anointed word or prophecy, for we are one body with many members. We will need to confirm the word by the inward witness & that it is Biblical. A prophet’s message is often corrective and it is therefore important that it is received by faith. His truth may expose us to requiring vital corrections & changes, but these are to be embraced not rejected through fear, remembering God is leading us in His will
– “And in these days prophets came from Jerusalem to Antioch. Then one of them, named Agabus, stood up and showed by the Spirit that there was going to be a great famine throughout all the world, which also happened in the days of Claudius Caesar. Then the disciples, each according to his ability, determined to send relief to the brethren dwelling in Judea.” (Acts 11, 27-29)
Finally, all of these ways and anything we hear MUST line up with truth of God’s word in the Bible – as anything truly from the Holy Spirit always will.So stay in the word of God, prayer, good fellowship, right doctrine, and really learn & seek Him to be more & more led by His Holy Spirit. All Glory to God!!
~ Whoever has an ear to hear let him hear what the Spirit says
to the churches, Rev 3, 22 ~
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