The word of God must be my final authority.
Today, the Holy Spirit has really been challenging my thoughts, ideals and doctrines. He posed to me a number of questions which I am yet to fully digest. I’ll give you just two to get you thinking along with me:
- Do you value your experiences or encounters above my Word?
- Do you look to the spiritual gifts to show yourself approved above my Word?
So where did this stem from I hear you asking?
I was on twitter, just browsing my feed as you do, and I saw this youtube video link posted. Having a very catchy title and being church related I decided I would give it a watch! (Note: only watch if you’re ready to be challenged).
This video started an all-night video trail/bible study of me digging into the doctrines of the charismatic/pentecostal movements, to see whether or not there is substantial, sound biblical backing for them.
I was seriously challenged.
Challenged about the doctrines I believe with regards to tithing, the person of the Holy Spirit and His gifts, spiritual leadership, manifestation/encounter services and the list goes on. I’m still in the process of digesting and discerning, but my take home point for you would be this:
- Test all things with the word of God – sermons your pastor preaches, sensations/experiences you have, “traditions” or sacraments practiced in your church..
The Holy Spirit will not do anything, or reveal anything to you that doesn’t align with God’s word. Anything that is opposed to the word of God is from the evil one.
Psalm 138:2..For You have magnified Your word above all Your name
Final thoughts:
Let’s get back into deep study of the word for ourselves, reading the word with a teachable and humble heart, ready to receive conviction and rebuke from God.
Let’s let go of pastor dependence and fellowship dependance, remembering that we have INSTANT ACCESS to God the Father through Jesus Christ our Lord and Savior.
If we do not rethink these things, they will become a trap that will stunt our spiritual growth and keep our eyes blinded from coming to a full knowledge of who our God is, and who we are in light of that.
The word of God must be our final authority.
“Though the elephant is strong enough to break away from the stake, his slavery mindset keeps him from moving on to greater.”
JO Adeluola
Joanne Olayinka 