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In churches today, the notion of feeling the presence of God is highly prioritized. But can we truly ascertain the presence of God through our emotions? This week, we delve into the misconceptions surrounding the purported feeling of God’s presence, largely perpetuated by charismatic pastors, and examine the risks associated with relying on emotions rather than scriptural truth.

The Influence of Emotional Gospel Music:

The sensation Christians associate with God’s presence is nothing more than the emotional aftermath of engaging with slow, stirring Gospel music. The powerful emotions evoked by soulful hymns and worship songs are usually mistaken for a divine encounter. The melodic strains and heartfelt lyrics of Gospel music have a strong impact on the human psyche, producing feelings of joy, peace, and spiritual elevation. In the midst of such musical experiences, Christians attribute their heightened emotional state to the presence of God, identifying the intensity of their feelings with a tangible manifestation of God. Consequently, the line between genuine spiritual communion and mere emotional resonance becomes blurred, leading many to equate the sensation of euphoria induced by music with a direct encounter with God.

Benny Hinn

Benny Hinn, a prominent televangelist, has significantly propagated this false notion through his books, “Good Morning, Holy Spirit” and “The Anointing.” In “Good Morning, Holy Spirit,” Hinn writes, “Suddenly, I began to feel a strange warmth. It started in my hands and began to move up my arms.” This is a common description of the emotional response associated with heightened spiritual experiences, leading individuals to attribute such sensations to God’s presence. Similarly, in “The Anointing,” Hinn emphasizes the experiential aspect, stating, “The anointing is what makes us feel the presence of God.” Here, Hinn suggests that God’s presence is contingent upon an external force and is discerned through human feelings rather than on faith in God’s written Word.

The Dangers of Emotional Dependency:

Relying on feelings to discern God’s presence poses several dangers. Firstly, emotions are inherently subjective and prone to fluctuation, making them an unreliable indicator of spiritual truth. Secondly, this dependency on feelings leads individuals astray, creating a superficial faith that prioritizes experiential highs over a deep-rooted understanding of God’s Word. Moreover, it opens the door to manipulation, as charismatic leaders capitalize on emotional vulnerability to exert control over their followers.

Biblical Reassurances of God’s Presence:

Contrary to the on-and-off experience of God’s presence that charismatic circles offer, the Bible offers reassurances of God’s constant presence with true believers. Psalm 46:1 declares, “God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble,” reaffirming the unwavering nature of God’s presence irrespective of our emotional state. Similarly, Hebrews 13:5 assures believers, “I will never leave you nor forsake you,” revealing the enduring faithfulness of God beyond fleeting emotions. These verses serve as anchors, grounding believers in the reality of God’s presence regardless of their emotional fluctuations.

The idea that God’s presence is something that can be ushered in or out by worship leaders is a misleading misconception. God’s presence is not dependent on human agency, such as the actions of worship leaders. God is always present with believers, regardless of the specific worship environment or the individuals leading it. Worship is not a means of summoning God’s presence but an acknowledgment and celebration of His continual presence in our lives.

Theologian Perspectives:

Dr. Timothy Keller, a renowned theologian and author, cautions against equating emotional experiences with God’s presence, stating, “We must be careful not to mistake emotional highs for genuine encounters with God.” Similarly, Dr. John Piper, a prominent pastor and author, emphasizes the primacy of Scripture in discerning God’s presence, asserting, “Our feelings must always be tested against the unchanging truth of God’s Word.” It is important to maintain a balanced perspective, wherein emotions are secondary to the foundational truths of Scripture.

Conclusion:

The sensation of feeling God’s presence, often attributed to emotional experiences, warrants critical examination. Figures like Benny Hinn have perpetuated the misconception that such feelings are indicative of God’s presence while disregarding the inherent risks of emotional dependency. By anchoring ourselves in the unwavering truths of Scripture, we can embrace a faith that transcends fleeting emotions and rests securely in the unchanging presence of God.

In the quest for spiritual connection and eternal assurance, many individuals seek various avenues. From church membership to association with charismatic preachers, from engaging in church activities to fervent participation in good works, people endeavour to find fulfilment and assurance in their spiritual journey. However, amidst these pursuits, the essence of true connection with God often gets overshadowed. In 1 John 5:11, the apostle John illuminates this essential truth, asserting, “And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.”

External Means

It’s undeniable that many individuals seek spiritual fulfilment through external means. Church membership, pursuit of prophetic ministries, and active participation in church activities are common pathways people embark upon in their spiritual journey. However, renowned theologian John Piper cautions against misplaced priorities, stating, “The greatest enemy of hunger for God is not poison but apple pie. It is not the banquet of the wicked that dulls our appetite for heaven, but endless nibbling at the table of the world.”

Illusion of Self-Righteousness

Many individuals believe that their good deeds and charitable acts will secure favour with God. While these deeds are commendable, they fall short of providing true fulfilment. The apostle Paul emphasizes this in Ephesians 2:8–9, stating, “For it is by grace you have been saved, through faith—and this is not from yourselves, it is the gift of God—not by works, so that no one can boast.”

Rituals vs. Relationship

In addition to these pursuits, individuals seek a connection with God through intellectual comprehension or adherence to religious rituals. Engaging in Bible studies, pursuing theological training, and submitting to rituals like baptism are commendable endeavours, yet they cannot secure salvation.

Theologian J.I. Packer said, “One can know a great deal about God without much knowledge of Him.” Merely knowing about God or performing religious rituals does not bring about true intimacy with Him. This is because man’s problem is not intellectual; rather, it is primarily moral in nature. We all possess inherent inclinations towards thoughts, desires, and behaviours that are contrary to God’s divine laws.

Temptation of Emotionalism

Another avenue often pursued is emotional or mystical encounters. These encounters do not substitute for a genuine relationship with Christ. Mystical and emotional experiences are subject to cultural, psychological, or neurological predispositions. Their subjective nature makes them susceptible to misinterpretation or manipulation by both human and evil spiritual forces.

Mystical and emotional experiences offer fulfillment momentarily, but they eventually leave individuals feeling unfulfilled in the long run. In John 4:13-14, Jesus tells the Samaritan woman at the well, “Everyone who drinks this water will be thirsty again, but whoever drinks the water I give them will never thirst. Indeed, the water I give them will become in them a spring of water welling up to eternal life.”

Christ Alone

In contrast to these fleeting endeavours, the ultimate solution lies in a personal relationship with Christ. Faith in Christ alone paves the way for salvation. As Acts 4:12 asserts, “Salvation is found in no one else, for there is no other name under heaven given to mankind by which we must be saved.” The apostle Peter echoes this sentiment, proclaiming in Acts 2:38, “Repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. And you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”

Heart Transformation

The notion of reciting a “sinners’ prayer” as a means of salvation is not substantiated in Scripture. Rather, salvation is a heart transformation that occurs through a genuine response of repentance and faith in Christ. As Romans 10:9–10 states, “If you declare with your mouth, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ and believe in your heart that God raised him from the dead, you will be saved. For it is with your heart that you believe and are justified, and it is with your mouth that you profess your faith and are saved.”

The cross

The remedy to our rebellion against God’s moral principles and laws is found in Christ’s sacrifice on the cross. Jesus Christ, through His sacrificial death and subsequent resurrection, provided a path to reconciliation between God and man. His act of atonement offered redemption and forgiveness for the sins of humanity and reconciled man to God by putting us in right standing with Him. Through faith in Christ and acceptance of His sacrifice, we are offered the opportunity for spiritual rebirth, transformation, and eternal salvation. Christ’s sacrifice is a demonstration of God’s love, grace, and mercy, offering hope and healing to all who will receive it. Embracing Christ’s sacrifice involves us turning away from our rebellion and embracing a life of faith, obedience, and service to Christ.

Conclusion

The quest for spiritual fulfillment and eternal life is a profound journey embarked upon by many. While various avenues promise satisfaction, true assurance is found only in Christ Himself. As believers, let us heed the words of the apostle John and anchor our faith in the Son of God, Who alone offers eternal life.

Romans 8:35, as rendered in the New Living Translation (NLT), poses a heavy question that should be contemplated by all followers of Jesus Christ: “Does it mean he no longer loves us if we have trouble or calamity, or are persecuted, or hungry, or destitute, or in danger, or threatened with death?” Since time immemorial, believers have grappled with the apparent contradiction between divine love and the presence of suffering in their lives.

The Nature of Adversity:

The verse addresses a range of human experiences, from personal troubles to external calamities, including persecution, hunger, destitution, danger, and the looming threat of death. In doing so, it acknowledges the reality of the human condition—one that is marked by trials and tribulations, where we are not immune to the challenges that befall the world.

Erroneous Teachings:

In the context of Romans 8:35, it becomes evident that modern preaching implies a different narrative. In contemporary church gatherings, there exists a prevalent message that suggests a direct correlation between divine favour and a life free from adversity. This perspective often surfaces in teachings that promise material prosperity, immediate deliverance from hardships, and an absence of trials as evidence of God’s unwavering love. However, this interpretation appears to be at odds with the message presented in Romans 8:35, which challenges the notion that God’s love ushers in a trouble-free existence. The verse acknowledges the enduring nature of God’s love even in the midst of life’s inevitable challenges.

Challenging the Assumption:

The question itself challenges a common assumption that if God truly loves us, we should be shielded from adversity. It prompts us to confront a theological quandary: Can the presence of hardship be indicative of a withdrawal of God’s love? The subsequent verses unfold a narrative of unwavering love and victorious faith.

Tim Keller, an American pastor, theologian, and Christian author, once said: “Suffering is actually at the heart of the Christian story. It is not peripheral.” Faith in Christ, far from being a shield against suffering, is an anchor that grounds us in God in the midst of negative human experiences. The teachings of Christianity consistently point out that embracing Christ does not immunize us from the challenges and tribulations inherent in life. Instead, faith serves as a guiding light through the darkness of suffering, providing strength, hope, and resilience. The life of Jesus Himself exemplifies this truth, as He endured profound suffering while on earth. The essence of Christian faith lies in a profound understanding that even in the face of adversity, we can find purpose and meaning through our relationship with Christ. Faith is not a promise of a life without pain but an assurance that, in Christ, suffering is not devoid of significance and that God’s love remains steadfast through every trial.

Contextualizing the Passage:

To fully grasp the significance of Romans 8:35, it is important to understand the broader context of the entire chapter. Romans 8 expounds on the freedom found in Christ, the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, and the assurance of God’s love for His children. In this context, the question raised in verse 35 serves as a rhetorical device to emphasize the potency and endurance of God’s love amidst life’s adversities.

Overwhelming Victory Through Christ:

The passage continues with a resounding answer to the initial question: “No, despite all these things, overwhelming victory is ours through Christ, who loved us” (Romans 8:37, NLT). This proclamation shifts the focus from the adversity itself to the triumphant power of Christ’s love. It teaches that rather than interpreting hardship as a sign of God’s abandonment, we should view it as an opportunity to experience unparalleled victory through our relationship with Christ.

Theological Implications:

Romans 8:35–37 challenges us to reconsider our understanding of God’s love in the face of adversity. It suggests that God’s love is not contingent upon a life free from trouble but is, instead, a steadfast and unwavering force that sustains and empowers us through life’s challenges. This theological perspective enables us to find solace and hope in our faith, knowing that even in the midst of difficulties, we can experience an overwhelming victory through our connection with Christ.

Conclusion:

Romans 8:35–37, in the New Living Translation, serves as a reminder of the enduring nature of God’s love in the face of adversity. It challenges us to transcend a simplistic view of God’s love and embrace the profound truth that, through Christ, we can experience triumph even in the midst of life’s most challenging circumstances. In exploring this passage, we are invited to anchor our faith in the unshakable love of God, finding comfort and strength in the assurance of overwhelming victory through our relationship with Christ.

Religious communities have long served as pillars of support, providing spiritual guidance, comfort, and a sense of belonging. However, an alarming trend has emerged in recent years where unscrupulous pastors exploit the trust and faith of their congregants for financial gain. One particular example involves the manipulation of the firstfruit offering, a biblical concept from the Law of Moses, to deceive congregants into surrendering their January salaries and/or the first salaries in their new jobs.

What was Firstfruits?

The Law of Moses, found in the Old Testament of the Bible, is a comprehensive set of instructions and commandments given to the Israelites by God through the prophet Moses. Among the various regulations outlined in this Law is the concept of “firstfruits.” Firstfruits were a unique offering that represented the first and best of the harvest presented to God as an expression of gratitude, dependence, and obedience.

Biblical Basis:

The term “firstfruits” is mentioned throughout the Old Testament, particularly in the books of Exodus, Leviticus, and Deuteronomy. In Exodus 23:19, God commands the Israelites, “The best of the firstfruits of your ground you shall bring into the house of the Lord your God.” This mandate was designed to acknowledge God’s sovereignty over the land and its produce, recognizing that all blessings came from Him.

Symbolic Meaning:

Firstfruits symbolize acknowledgment of God’s provision and sovereignty. By offering the first and best of the harvest, the Israelites acknowledged that their prosperity was a direct result of God’s blessings. This act of giving the initial portion of the harvest represented an act of trust and obedience, affirming the covenant relationship between God and His chosen people.

Moreover, firstfruits carried a symbolic representation of consecration and sanctification. The act of setting aside the first portion of the harvest signified that the entire harvest was holy and belonged to God. It was a way of consecrating the entire crop to God, acknowledging that He was the source of their sustenance.

Ceremonial Observance:

The offering of firstfruits was accompanied by a specific ceremony. In Deuteronomy 26:1–11, the Israelites were instructed to bring the firstfruits to the priest, make a confession, and recite a brief historical account of God’s faithfulness. This ritual captured the connection between the land, the people, and God’s covenant promises.

What Firstfruits was Not

Not a Monetary Transaction:

It is essential to clarify that the biblical principle of Firstfruits is not centered on monetary transactions or the demand for individuals to give their January and/or first-month-on-the-job salaries to pastors. Instead, it is rooted in the agricultural practices of ancient Israel and holds spiritual significance.

Not an Ongoing Financial Obligation:

Firstfruits, as outlined in the Law of Moses, does not establish an ongoing financial commitment. It is a specific offering tied to the Old Testament Jewish agricultural harvest rather than a continuous requirement related to modern individuals’ income.

Not a Form of Manipulative Giving:

The biblical concept of Firstfruits is not intended to be manipulated by pastors to exploit congregants. It is an Old Testament voluntary and sincere expression of gratitude by Jews, not a coercive practice to extract financial contributions.

Not a Guarantee for Personal Prosperity:

Contrary to some modern distortions, the genuine Firstfruit offering is not a guaranteed formula for personal financial prosperity or specific blessings. It is an act of faith and gratitude, not a transaction for material gain.

Not an Exclusive Offering for January:

The biblical Firstfruits offering was not limited to a specific month, such as January. It was tied to the agricultural cycle and represented the first and best portion of the harvest, which varied depending on the crops and geographical region.

Not a Replacement for Responsible Stewardship:

Firstfruits giving is NOT responsible financial stewardship. The Bible encourages individuals to manage their resources wisely and provide for their families. Surrendering your entire salary to a pastor due to a false interpretation of biblical doctrine is a form of financial irresponsibility.

Not a Means of Gaining God’s Favour Through Wealth:

The Old Testament Firstfruit offering was not a transaction for gaining God’s favour or manipulating divine blessings through material wealth. It was a symbolic act of acknowledging God’s sovereignty over the harvest.

Not an Indicator of Spiritual Superiority:

Presenting Firstfruits was not an indicator of spiritual superiority or a measure of one’s righteousness. The Bible teaches that for New Testament believers, salvation and favour with God come through faith in Christ and not through financial contributions.

Not a Mechanism for Guilt-Driven Giving:

The Old Testament Firstfruits offering was not meant to induce guilt or fear among the Jews. It was a joyful and voluntary act, not a tool for manipulating emotions to exploit the givers financially.

Not a Substitute for Genuine Worship and Obedience:

Offering Firstfruits did not replace the importance of genuine worship, obedience to God’s commandments, and a sincere relationship with Him. It was one aspect of expressing gratitude, not a standalone measure of one’s devotion.

Exploitative Tactics:

Wrong Teaching:

Exposing the lie that the Firstfruits offering applies to the New Testament requires a closer examination of biblical theology. While the concept of Firstfruits is indeed present in the Old Testament, particularly in the Law of Moses, it does not carry over into the New Testament. The New Testament emphasizes a shift from the physical and ritualistic practices of the Old Covenant to the spiritual realities fulfilled in Jesus Christ. The Apostle Paul, in 1 Corinthians 15:20–23, refers to Jesus as the “firstfruits of those who have fallen asleep,” connecting the resurrection of Christ to the agricultural symbolism of Firstfruits. This usage is metaphorical and points to the unique significance of Christ’s resurrection rather than instituting a new requirement for believers to present material offerings. The assertion that the Firstfruits offering applies directly to the New Testament is a distortion of biblical theology.

Wrong Practice:

Fraudulent pastors exploit their erroneous interpretation of Firstfruits by persuading congregants that handing over their January and/or the first salaries in their new jobs is a divine commandment, thus positioning themselves as intermediaries between the congregants and God. These pastors often use persuasive rhetoric, cherry-picking verses from the Bible, to create a false sense of urgency and obligation.

Manipulative teachings include claims that surrendering the entire salary as a Firstfruit offering will result in greater financial blessings, protection from calamities, or divine favour throughout the year. Congregants are misled into believing that failure to comply with this demand leads to negative consequences or God’s displeasure.

Wrong consequences:

The consequences of such deceptive practices are profound, both financially and spiritually. Congregants, driven by genuine faith and a desire for spiritual blessings, may sacrifice their hard-earned money under the false pretence that they are adhering to a sacred New Testament biblical practice. This financial strain can have severe consequences for individuals and families, affecting their ability to meet basic needs and obligations.

Furthermore, this exploitation of trust by pastors erodes the very foundation of individual faith. Congregants experience disillusionment, mistrust, and a sense of betrayal as their pastors prioritize personal gain over the genuine well-being of their congregants.

Conclusion:

To teach that the Firstfruit offering from the Law of Moses involves handing over one’s entire salary misunderstands the biblical context and the nature of the offering. It is important for individuals to be discerning and aware of scriptural principles, ensuring that their faith practices align with the genuine teachings of the Bible. In doing so, they can avoid falling prey to manipulative tactics that exploit their trust and misrepresent the true essence of biblical concepts like the Firstfruits.

The exploitation of the Firstfruit offering by fraudulent pastors is a reprehensible betrayal of trust and a distortion of sacred biblical principles. It not only undermines the financial well-being of congregants but also erodes the foundations of faith communities. Vigilance, sound biblical knowledge, and accountability are essential in addressing this issue, ensuring that churches remain true to their purpose of proclaiming the Gospel and nurturing communal support rather than serving as platforms for personal enrichment.

Among the many biblical narratives, the story of Gideon stands out as a pointer to the transformative power of God’s grace and His penchant for choosing the most unexpected candidates to display His glory. The tale of Gideon, found in the book of Judges, is a powerful narrative of redemption, proving that God’s ways are not our ways, and His choices often defy human logic.

1. Gideon: The Unlikely Hero:

Gideon, initially portrayed as an unlikely hero, hailed from the weakest clan in Manasseh and was the least in his father’s house. He saw himself as the least likely candidate to be chosen by God for a mighty task. However, God had a different perspective. In Judges 6:12, an angel of the Lord appeared to Gideon, addressing him as a “mighty man of valour.” This divine encounter was the beginning of Gideon’s journey from a place of insecurity and insignificance to a position of divine purpose and strength.

2. God’s Choice in the Fallen:

It’s a recurring theme in the Bible that God often chooses individuals who, by human standards, seem fallen, weak, or inadequate. The story of Gideon mirrors this pattern, showing God’s ability to work through imperfect vessels. Just as God selected Gideon, who doubted his own capabilities, He chose fallen humanity to showcase His glory. This highlights the divine principle that God’s strength is made perfect in human weakness (2 Corinthians 12:9).

Isn’t it a wonder that, despite our sinful nature and shortcomings, God extends His hand of forgiveness and redemption to us? In His boundless mercy, He offers us the opportunity to experience a transformative connection with Him through His Son Jesus Christ. Through Christ, we find the pathway to reconciliation with God. God not only forgives our sins but also graciously provides us with His Spirit, enabling us to prevail over sin and enjoy a fulfilling connection to Him. Thanks to Jesus, God’s grace is more significant than our failures, and redemption is within reach.

3. Gideon’s Doubt:

Gideon, plagued by doubts and insecurities, sought reassurance from God through the famous fleece test. Twice, he placed a fleece of wool on the threshing floor, asking God for a miraculous sign. Remarkably, God graciously accommodated Gideon’s request, displaying His patience and understanding.

God is willing to meet us where we are, even in our moments of doubt and weakness, guiding us towards a deeper understanding of His divine plan. In ups and downs of our lives, marked by both triumphs and tribulations, God’s willingness to engage with us in the midst of our vulnerabilities becomes a profound source of comfort and assurance.

4. God’s Glory in Gideon’s Victory:

The pinnacle of Gideon’s story is his leadership during the battle against the Midianites. With an army initially numbering 32,000, God orchestrated a series of reductions, leaving Gideon with a mere 300 soldiers. This strategic reduction emphasizes that victory will come not by human might or power but by the Spirit of the Lord (Zechariah 4:6). Gideon’s unconventional battle plan, marked by trumpets, torches, and broken jars, displayed God’s glory in the unexpected.

Ideally, Gideon serves as a type of Jesus Christ. Much like Jesus, Gideon emerges as an unexpected and humble leader, chosen by God to deliver the Israelites from oppression. The trumpets and torches symbolize spiritual illumination and the proclamation of God’s presence, summarized in the Gospel that Jesus brought to the world. The broken jars signify the fragility of human vessels, proclaiming the power of God to work through the weak and the ordinary. Gideon’s story mirrors the redemptive qualities associated with Jesus, alongside the transformative impact of faith and obedience to the Gospel in the face of seemingly insurmountable odds.

Conclusion:

God’s choices often defy human expectations. Through the narrative of this unlikely hero, Gideon, we learn that our inadequacy is no barrier to God’s call and that He uses the fallen to display His glory. Gideon’s journey from doubt to victory shows the transformative power of divine redemption and emphasizes that, despite our flaws and limitations, God can use us for His purposes, showcasing His glory through our lives. As we reflect on the story of Gideon, may we find encouragement in the truth that God’s grace can transform the most unlikely candidates into instruments of His divine plan.