Search

Citrusdal | Clanwilliam | Graafwater | Kompas Gemeente Vredendal | Somerset-Wes

Author: Jan Oosthuizen

Leader & Spiritual Mentor | Apostolic Missionary | Relationship & HR Consultant | Social Reformer & Acculturist | Peacemaker & Lobbyist | Speaker & Writer | Musician and unashamed follower of Jesus Christ.

Categories
Sermons Social Relevance

Know the Power of Healthy Agency

Do you ever find yourself struggling to find the right tool for a specific task? It’s like searching for a number-10 spanner and ending up using a pair of pliers instead! Similarly, the church sometimes tries to adopt a one-size-fits-all approach, but witnessing a professional at work is truly awe-inspiring—they work effortlessly and swiftly, utilizing the perfect tools for the job!

This scenario emphasizes the concept of “agency”: God created the world as a diverse community of species, each with its own unique purpose. Whether it’s predators, insects, birds, reptiles, or even pesky mosquitoes, they all serve a specific role.

A Tapestry of Unique Diversities

As we progress in our journey to become more like Christ, our individual callings, identities, and purposes become clearer. We are all fashioned with different personalities, temperaments, talents, and abilities. Together, we complement one another, forming what Apostle André (Harvester’s Founder) aptly describes as “God’s Genius.”

The functions and expressions of the church also possess their unique purposes. Each of the five-fold gifts—apostle, prophet, evangelist, teacher, and pastor—has a distinct passion for different aspects of our spiritual development. Believers thrive spiritually when they are mentored and exposed to these invaluable gifts: the apostle assists in discovering one’s mission; the prophet guides and urges listening to God’s heart; the evangelist encourages bringing others to Christ; the teacher instructs in understanding God’s Word and ways; and the pastor fosters love and care for one another. Engaging in these fivefold spiritual practices allows us to grow, mature, and become more resilient in the face of life’s challenges.

Discovering Our Purpose

The story of Martha and Mary is not a comparison of virtuous work versus the importance of prayerful intimacy with God. In Luke 10:41, Jesus says to Martha, “You are worried and troubled about many things. But one thing is needed, and Mary has chosen that good part, which will not be taken away from her.” It was a matter of timing and agency. Mary chose the better part because Jesus was teaching, and it wasn’t the time for food preparation. Once Jesus had finished teaching, everyone could have joined in preparing and enjoying a delicious meal together.

Furthermore, this story highlights personal agency. Traditionally, women were not expected to be disciples of a Rabbi. “Sitting at a Rabbi’s feet” was an ancient idiom for being a devoted disciple. Mary intended to defy societal norms. But how could a woman become a Rabbi? According to cultural expectations, women were tasked with domestic responsibilities. Jesus’ words, “Mary has chosen that good part (Greek Meris – share), which will not be taken away from her,” affirm this interpretation. She chose to be His disciple and devotee, and no one could take that role away from her.

Likewise, we should know our calling, our part, our share, our place, and our mandate in life. (2 Pet 1:10). Once we understand God’s purpose and design for our lives, we no longer need to compete with others. A healthy ecosystem of believers resembles a cosmos of provision and support, where everyone functions in their unique agency. Envision a close-knit family of Christ-centered lawyers, doctors, nurses, teachers, engineers, farmers, artists, artisans, counselors, law enforcers, philanthropists, or architects! It can become a powerful combination of resources, provision, and wisdom.

Recognizing the Bigger Picture

While we all require continuous love and special care, relying solely on one person or family can lead to disappointment. Yes, it’s true! Remember, even our closest loved ones can transition from the temporal to the eternal at any moment. Our loved ones are precious gifts from God because we know them and are familiar with them. However, the Holy Spirit wants us to also acknowledge the unknown greater Body of Christ that is always present.

That is why it is vital to belong to and commit to a local church whilst continuously make new friends, as we never know how God may use them or us when the need arises. This is the essence of the story of the good Samaritan. He was simply a friend, a committed neighbor who helped a person (Jew) in need (Luk 10:25-35).

I believe that all our emotional, spiritual, intellectual, physical, vocational, and social needs can be met within the local body of Christ!

The Essence of Health

In the spiritual realm, the church is likened to the human physical body, highlighting its interconnectedness and dependence on each member. When assessing the health of a church, we should not focus on age or size. An elephant can never become a mouse, as each possesses unique advantages and liabilities due to its size. A mouse can never grow as big as an elephant. Every church is limited to its original creational purpose and mandate. We cannot be everything to everyone and end up being nothing to no one. Understanding our purpose and remaining true to it enables us to fulfill and FINISH our calling, just as Jesus, Paul, and David did.

Irrespective of whether a church is old or new, small or large, what truly matters is its ability to maintain a healthy symbiosis of holy relationships. As the Apostle Paul emphasizes in 1 Corinthians 12:12-14, the church comprises of various parts, each contributing to the whole. The unity and collective strength of these parts, not their external characteristics, determine the church’s health and effectiveness. Those who depart and establish new churches in anger and offense due to apparent problems will inevitably encounter similar issues within their own structures.

Combatting Spiritual Viruses

To remain a healthy church, it is crucial to recognize and address the spiritual viruses and parasites that can infiltrate and weaken it. Sins such as division, rebellion, arrogance, lovelessness, pride, apathy, doctrinal error, lukewarmness, and dead works are among the spiritual afflictions that hinder the church from fulfilling its purpose.

Thankfully, healthy churches possess the inherent ability to heal themselves through the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. By continuously seeking His guidance and adhering to His teachings, the body of Christ can confront and overcome the spiritual diseases that threaten its well-being. Healing and restoration take place through the continual transformative work of the Holy Spirit.

It is essential to remain committed and work towards healing for all, even when a church is visibly affected by a disease. Each individual has a vital role as a vessel of healing and restoration within the body of Christ. You get two kinds of people, those who bring healing and those who make everything toxic. Galatians 6:9 encourages believers not to “grow weary in doing good”, promising that perseverance will yield a harvest. By standing firm in the face of challenges and actively participating in the healing process, we contribute to the overall well-being of God’s genius—the church.

Tragically, it is also true that any ecosystem can become so severely afflicted that recovery becomes unattainable, leading to its demise. Some viruses are as lethal as cancer, necessitating significant intervention for survival. Sins like arrogance, pride, division, and rebellion can utterly destroy a church organization or family if not addressed adequately.

Acknowledging the Different Agencies

The church should also learn to understand the power of agency in the marketplace, government, and society at large. Within a community, various structures function in diverse ways. I often observe believers attempting to be a voice in the wilderness, disconnected from society, instead of being salt and light within society.

Envision how a community can become God’s Delight as the TRUE CHURCH begins to influence and reform every aspect of society, starting with the pillars of government, law and order, health, education, and business, and extending to the glue of society—creative industries, sports, and recreation.

Sometimes, due to our lack of understanding of agency, its culture, and its protocols, we can either become distant couch-sitting critics or unwittingly participate in a manner similar to someone attempting to play cricket with rugby rules and gear. Our ignorance of how agency operates within different contexts can lead to misunderstandings, miscommunication, and ineffective engagement. Just as a skilled player knows the rules, strategies, and appropriate gear for each sport, we need to familiarize ourselves with the unique dynamics and expectations of different agencies.

Call to Action

Rather than complaining about the government, one can choose to represent an agency on a Ward Council or take on the role of a Ward Counsellor. Instead of criticizing the teachers at your child’s school, it is more productive to become actively involved and serve on the management committee. Instead of pointing fingers at the church, one can either plant a new one or seek to be added to a church where they can serve and have a positive influence.

By embracing agency and understanding our unique roles within the church community, we foster collective growth and strengthen the body.

Let us meditate and reflect prayerfully on this important verse in Ephesians 4:16, “From him the whole body, joined and held together by every supporting ligament, grows and builds itself up in love, as each part does its work.”

A healthy, radiant church becomes a marvelous testament to the manifold wisdom of God in the spiritual realm.

Categories
Sermons

Hearing the Whisper: Discovering God’s Voice

How to hear God’s whisper in a noisy world.

“But the LORD said, ‘Go out and stand on the mountain in the presence of the LORD, for the LORD is about to pass by.’ Then a great and powerful wind tore the mountains apart and shattered the rocks before the LORD, but the LORD was not in the wind. After the wind, there was an earthquake, but the LORD was not in the earthquake. After the earthquake came a fire, but the LORD was not in the fire. And after the fire came a gentle whisper.” 1 Kings 19:11-12

In his book “Whisper,” Mark Batterson explores the profound importance of learning to hear the voice of God. He begins by describing the Tomatis effect. 

Alfred Tomatis grew up in a musical family in France. His father was an opera singer, and he spent much of his childhood traveling with him and watching his opera performances from the wings. At an early age, however, he and his parents decided he was unfit for the stage. So he went into medicine and eventually became an Ear, Nose, and Throat physician.

Soon after he began his practice, his father referred him to opera colleagues with vocal problems. Tomatis soon discovered traditional treatments were inadequate but also that there was very little research on the voice itself. He formulated the theory that many vocal problems were really hearing problems. His theory that “the voice does not produce what the ear does not hear”, is the hallmark of his research and his method. He discovered that the voices of opera singers had damaged their own muscles of the middle ears. With damaged hearing, they were forcing their voices to produce sounds in registers they could no longer hear.

Batterson believes that by learning to hear God’s voice, we can find solutions to 1000 problems, discover our destiny, and fulfill our potential. When we learn to recognize and respond to God’s whispers, our lives are transformed. His whispers bring comfort in times of trouble, guidance in moments of uncertainty, and affirmation in our deepest insecurities. God’s voice can change our perspective, shape our decisions, and direct our paths.

“Be still, and know that I am God; I will be exalted among the nations, I will be exalted in the earth.” Psalm 46:10

Is God’s voice the loudest voice in your life?

Living in a culture where everyone wants their voice heard, we often find ourselves drowning in a sea of noise. Batterson suggests that the best way to be heard is to listen to God. If we aren’t willing to listen to everything God says, we may eventually stop hearing anything He says.

Lean in to listen, really listen.

Batterson compares God’s voice to a whisper, emphasizing its intimacy. Just as we lean in and draw closer to hear a whisper, God wants us to be close to Him. He shares a touching story of playing a game with his children, where he would whisper to get them to come closer, showing the depth of God’s love for us.  

Your Spiritual Ear is the willingness to want to hear. 

“Cry out for insight, and ask for understanding. Search for them as you would for silver; seek them like hidden treasures. Then you will understand what it means to fear the LORD, and you will gain knowledge of God.”Proverbs 2:3-5 When God whispers, He invites us into a deeper relationship with Him. He calls us to obedience, surrender, and stepping out in faith. It is not enough to hear His voice; we must also respond. When we obey His whispers, we experience His blessings and witness His miracles.  

The more I obey, the more I hear. 

“Do not merely listen to the word, and so deceive yourselves. Do what it says.” James 1:22

The Whispering Spot

I remember visiting the capitol in DC as a kid and having the Whispering Spot pointed out. It is a place where acoustically, one can hear voices on the other side of the hall.

Just as there are whispering spots in the physical realm, Batterson suggests there are also spiritual places where we can hear God more clearly. He encourages us to find our own “whispering spot” by seeking solitude, and silence, and eliminating distractions. 

Beethoven’s 5th Symphony begins with an 8th note rest. And we need many 8th note rests in our life to help us understand what God is doing.

Church and Bible school is one of the best whispering spots on earth. “Whether you turn to the right or to the left, your ears will hear a voice behind you, saying, ‘This is the way; walk in it.'” Isaiah 30:21

The Seven Love Languages

Batterson introduces Howard Gardner’s types of intelligence and emphasizes that God speaks to different personalities in different ways. He urges us not to rely on the way God speaks to others but to seek a personal relationship with Him.

The First Language: Scripture

Batterson discusses the power of Scripture as a language through which God speaks. He shares insights from rabbinic tradition, highlighting the multifaceted meanings of every word. He also encourages the practice of Lectio Divina, combining it with neurological science to enhance our experience of God’s Word.

All Scripture is given by inspiration of God, and is profitable for doctrine, for reproof, for correction, for instruction in righteousness, that the man of God may be complete, thoroughly equipped for every good work.(2 Tim 3:16)

For the word of God is living and powerful, and sharper than any two-edged sword, piercing even to the division of soul and spirit, and of joints and marrow, and is a discerner of the thoughts and intents of the heart. And there is no creature hidden from His sight, but all things are naked and open to the eyes of Him to whom we must give account. (Heb 4:12) 

The Voice of Gladness – The Second Language: Desires

Batterson emphasizes that our desires can be a means through which God speaks to us. He reminds us that enjoying God’s presence is an indicator of spiritual maturity.  What can we do that makes us the gladdest?…I believe that if it is a thing that makes us truly glad, then it is a good thing and it is our thing.”

He has made everything beautiful in its time. Also He has put eternity in their hearts, except that no one can find out the work that God does from beginning to end. I know that nothing is better for them than to rejoice, and to do good in their lives, and also that every man should eat and drink and enjoy the good of all his labor—it is the gift of God. (Eccl 3:11-12)

The Door to Bythinia – The Third Language: Doors

Batterson explores the role of circumstances and doors in discerning God’s voice. He cautions against relying solely on circumstances and encourages us to interpret signs through Scripture.  

The Apostle Paul began his second missionary journey with his traveling companion, Silas. When they came to Lystra (where the locals had stoned Paul on the first journey), Paul met Timothy, a young man who joined them on the journey.

As they planned their itinerary, the doors began to slam shut.

They tried to speak God’s Word in Asia, but the Holy Spirit forbid them to do so—and slammed the door (Acts 16:6). But why? Wasn’t sharing the Word kind of the whole point? Didn’t Asia need the gospel?

They moved on and tried to enter Bithynia. But again, “The Spirit of Jesus did not permit them” (v. 7). Slam! Sorry, Bithynia, you don’t get to hear God’s Word. But how come?

When Paul and his companions landed at Neapolis, God’s gospel of grace touched a new continent that would spread His Word across the world. In the major city of Philippi, doors kept opening:

The Lord “opened [Lydia’s] heart” to hear the Word of God.

  • He opened the prison doors of a jailer’s heart, as well his whole family.
  • In opening a door to Europe, God opened European hearts as well.

But What about Asia and Bithynia?

Geography offers us some insight into why God shut the doors to Asia and Bithynia. It all proved a matter of timing, for the doors would blow open in a few years. In fact, the very team the Lord had shut the door on—Paul, Silas, Timothy—would play a major role in God’s plan for Asia and Bithynia.

How?

  • Timothy would serve as pastor to Ephesus, a major city in Asia.
  • Paul would travel to Asia on his 3rd Missionary Journey; he would even live in Ephesus for several years.
  • From his house arrest in Rome, Paul would write to the churches of Asia in his epistles to the Ephesians and Colossians and in his letter to Laodecia.
  • Silas would serve as Peter’s secretary in writing 1 Peter “to those chosen of God in … Asia and Bithynia” (1:1).

The reasons for the closed doors of the past became clear: God wanted the gospel in Asia and Bithynia, yes. But He wanted it in Europe first.[1]

Test Your spirit

  • “Goose Bump Test”  The will of God should make your heart skip a beat.
  • “the Peace Test” The apostle Paul said, ‘Let the peace of Christ rule in your hearts.’
  • “the Wise Counsel Test.”
  • “the Crazy Test.” By definition, a God-sized dream is always beyond our abilities, beyond our logic, and beyond our resources. In other words, we can’t do it without God’s help.”
  • “Released-from and Called-to Test.” God will not keep piling on more and more things for you to do. He will also release you from some things if he is calling you to something new.

Dreamers by Day – The Fourth Language: Dreams

Batterson shares his belief in the significance of dreams as a means through which God communicates. He challenges readers to bring their dreams before God, acknowledging the supernatural by-product of being filled with God’s Spirit. 

Throughout the Bible, there are several instances where God speaks to people through dreams. Here are a few examples of scriptures where God communicates through dreams:

Genesis 20:3-7: God warns Abimelech in a dream not to touch Sarah, who was Abraham’s wife.

Genesis 28:10-17: God appears to Jacob in a dream, showing him a ladder reaching to heaven and promising to bless him and his descendants.

Genesis 31:10-13: God speaks to Jacob in a dream, instructing him to return to his homeland.

Genesis 37:5-11: Joseph has a dream where he sees his brothers bowing down to him, which foreshadows his future role of leadership.

Genesis 40:5-23: Joseph interprets dreams for Pharaoh’s cupbearer and baker while in prison. These dreams foreshadow their respective fates.

Genesis 41:1-36: Joseph interprets Pharaoh’s dream about seven years of plenty followed by seven years of famine, leading to his appointment as second in command in Egypt.

Numbers 12:6: God speaks to Moses, Aaron, and Miriam in a dream, rebuking Miriam for her criticism of Moses.

Daniel 2:1-49: God gives King Nebuchadnezzar a dream that Daniel interprets, revealing the rise and fall of empires.

Daniel 4:4-37: God speaks to Nebuchadnezzar in a dream, warning him of his impending punishment and subsequent restoration.

Matthew 1:20-23: An angel of the Lord appears to Joseph in a dream, assuring him that Mary’s pregnancy is from the Holy Spirit and instructing him to take her as his wife.

Matthew 2:12-13: The wise men are warned in a dream not to return to Herod, but to go back to their own country by another route.

Matthew 27:19: Pilate’s wife sends him a message, saying she had suffered in a dream because of Jesus and urging him to have nothing to do with Him.

These are just a few examples of God speaking through dreams in the Bible. Dreams were a significant means of communication between God and individuals in various situation

Hidden Figures – The Fifth Language: People

Batterson highlights the importance of other people in discerning God’s voice. He explores the concept of putting our ego on the altar and finding our true identity in Christ.

Proverbs 11:14: “Where there is no guidance, a people falls, but in an abundance of counselors there is safety.”

Proverbs 12:15: “The way of a fool is right in his own eyes, but a wise man listens to advice.”

Proverbs 13:10: “By insolence comes nothing but strife, but with those who take advice is wisdom.”

Proverbs 15:22: “Without counsel plans fail, but with many advisers, they succeed.”

Proverbs 19:20: “Listen to advice and accept instruction, that you may gain wisdom in the future.”

Proverbs 20:18: “Plans are established by counsel; by wise guidance, wage war.”

Proverbs 24:6: “For by wise guidance you can wage your war, and in abundance of counselors there is victory.”

Proverbs 27:9: “Oil and perfume make the heart glad, and the sweetness of a friend comes from his earnest counsel.”

Proverbs 28:26: “Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered.”

Psalm 1:1-2: “Blessed is the man who walks not in the counsel of the wicked, nor stands in the way of sinners, nor sits in the seat of scoffers; but his delight is in the law of the Lord, and on his law, he meditates day and night.”

Proverbs 1:5: “Let the wise hear and increase in learning, and the one who understands obtain guidance.”

Proverbs 2:6: “For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come knowledge and understanding.”

Joystick – The seventh language: Pain 
This chapter expands on CS Lewis statement about pain being God’s megaphone to get our attention. “God whispers to us in our pleasures, speaks in our consciences, but shouts in our pains. It is his megaphone to rouse a deaf world.”” 

“Blessed be the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ, the Father of mercies and God of all comfort, who comforts us in all our affliction, so that we may be able to comfort those who are in any affliction, with the comfort with which we ourselves are comforted by God.” Here, God is described as the source of comfort in our afflictions, and through our experiences of being comforted, we can provide comfort to others. 2 Corinthians 1:3-4

Conclusion:

In “Whisper,” Mark Batterson provides valuable insights into hearing the voice of God. Through Scripture, desires, doors, dreams, people, promptings, and even pain, God speaks to us. By cultivating an intimate relationship with Him and being attentive to His whispers, we can discover our purpose, experience His love, and navigate life’s challenges with confidence. Let us open.

Whisper: How to Hear the Voice of God – Mark Batterson https://a.co/d/3raRyvT

[1] https://waynestiles.com/blog/how-geography-opens-our-eyes-about-gods-closed-doors

Categories
Blogs Social Relevance

South Africa Needs Leaders with a Christ-Centred Moral Compass

The world has never been more in danger of grave self-destruction!  

THE DISMAL LACK OF MORAL EXEMPLARY LEADERS! 

Recently I was called by the Executive Mayor of the Cederberg Municipality to request all the Spiritual Leaders in our community to take up their God Given Mandate as Custodians of the Moral Standards and Values of Society. Dr Ruben Richards, in his own words: “For the past three decades (since 1994), South Africa has been transitioning from the apartheid past into a democratic dispensation. Unfortunately, that transition remains bedevilled by challenges of significant proportions, which, if not fixed, can see our country plunged into literal and figurative (spiritual) darkness. As a predominantly Christian country, we are emotionally, economically, and spiritually traumatized by ongoing revelations of moral decay at all levels of society. We need our Spiritual Leaders!”[1]

In a world that often seems plagued by greed, laziness, and selfishness, the need for leaders with a strong moral compass is more critical than ever. South Africa, a country rich in diversity and cultural heritage, is no exception. As we navigate the challenges of the modern era, with the emergence of large language models powered by AI, the threat of undetectable fake news and fake information is imminent.  The dark storm clouds of the immanent anti-Biblical Woke Culture War regarding critical race theory, gender identity, humanism, and freedom of sexual expression are looming much closer to home than we realize! 

We are like sheep without a shepherd! Like a ship in a storm in search of a lighthouse! 

In this tumultuous landscape, the need for leaders with a Christ-centred moral compass becomes increasingly imperative.  

History is repeating itself!  

Since 1994 four successive presidents: Nelson Mandela, Thabo Mbeki, Jacob Zuma, and Cyril Ramaphosa made pleas for a Moral Regeneration Strategy.  The SA Government initiated and funded the Moral Regeneration movement, the Ethical Institute, Special Investigating Unit, Hawks (Directorate for Priority Crime Investigation); the National Prosecuting Authority; Zondo Commission (Commission of Inquiry into State Capture). These efforts are praiseworthy and absolutely necessary to safeguard our constitutional democracy, but Kwazi Dlamini succinctly proves in his article how Political interference disbanded the original, highly effective Scorpions, where ALL corruption was investigated[2].  

Now 29 years later, the nation is still grappling with issues such as state capture and the devastating revelations of the Zondo Commission, implicating former President Zuma and President Ramaphosa!  The latest book by former Eskom CEO Andre De Ruiter[3], exposes similar structural sin and corruption in the same way as Beyers Naude’s prophetic resistance against the Apartheid Government.  Already De Ruyter’s book is outselling two previous best sellers: Jacques Pauw’s The President’s Keepers and Kyle Cowan’s Sabotage: Eskom Under Siege.  It seems that the silent Majority of the South African Collective is growing increasingly impatient with corruption! 

The Church’s Imperfect Example and Silence:

As I am writing this article, there are currently three news articles running in the Volksblad and Burger about the church’ dismal silence against systemic structural sin and corruption. Archbishop Thabo Makgoba of the The Anglican Church gave the following message on the first day of the NG Church in the Western Cape’s synod session: “Do not be silent for fear of being called racist.” The “new struggle” according to him is the struggle to regain the moral compass and our equality of opportunity. (1 June 2023 – Prof Kobus Lazanby, Heidelberg – Volkblad.)

The collapse of the South African social landscape forces every citizen to do its thing, as much as they can. But even greater demands are placed on civil institutions. Gift of the Givers, AfriForum, Solidarity and others bring their side, but where are the churches? What is going on with the churches in South Africa? Where is the protest in the Reformed tradition of the word? Where is the church’s voice? Where is the prophetic voice of the church that is supposed to proclaim God’s name, kingdom and will? (3 June 2023 – Article by Koos Marais, Silver Lakes – Die Burger)

‘The church’s voice is getting quieter and quieter’ Church leaders played a significant role in establishing democracy in South Africa. So why do we still live in a divided country? And, asks Marlene le Roux, where are today’s leaders? A heated debate evolved with more than 70 comments in the Burger (1 June 2023 – Die Burger) 

The Church, traditionally seen as an exemplar, has faced its share of moral challenges.[4] Dr. Wim Dreyer from the Department of Church History and Church Polity, Faculty of Theology, University of Pretoria, sites Kinneman regarding the growing perception that the church cannot be trusted, lacks integrity, and has lost its original purpose.  

According to Dr. Dreyer recent published literature, including empirical research, reveals a growing disillusionment with ecclesial practices and a disturbing picture of how churches could lose their way and become engrossed in things that bear little semblance to the life and teaching of Christ. Recurring themes are summarised as follows by Dreyer:

Institutionalism:

More traditional churches are perceived to be obsessed with their own survival and the maintenance of the institutional aspects of the church[5].

Materialism:

This trend can be seen in the prominence of mega-churches with elaborate facilities and affluent leaders, as well as the marketing of Christian products and services that cater to material desires. Additionally, there is a growing consumerist mentality within Western Christian culture, where individuals seek to attain and display material possessions as a means of demonstrating their faith and status within the community. [6]

Jesus consistently emphasized the importance of disregarding materialism and outward impressiveness. He taught that true value lies in spiritual and moral qualities rather than in the accumulation of worldly possessions or the pursuit of external appearances. In Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus states, “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also.” In Mark 8:36, Jesus highlights the insignificance of worldly gains compared to spiritual matters, saying, “What good is it for someone to gain the whole world, yet forfeit their soul?”

Sexual abuse:

Evidence of individuals in positions of religious authority who have been involved in sexual misconduct, revealing a disturbing trend of exploitation and betrayal of trust within religious communities. [7]

Fraudulent ministries:

‘Healing ministries’ proven to be fraudulent is quite common, with news headlines about preachers carried on thrones by their members, inciting their members to spray Doom on themselves to irradicate evil spirits. A quick search on the Internet shows close to a million postings on fraudulent healings. In some cases where patients stopped medical treatment, it led to their death. [8]

People have lost their trust in leaders and institutions: 

From the perspective of the wonderful outcomes of the speed of trust, cited by Covey and Merrill we, as a civil society, have come to a complete halt.[9]  There seems to be little trust anywhere.  The culmination of five hundred years of self-determination at the cost of others through monopolies, racial and class divisions made us the most unequal but also most unstable society ever in history.  This is the dark side of capitalism: Self-interest.[10] According to Pareto’s efficiency theory, if we do not balance self-interest with mutuality, we inevitably become an unstable unequal society and collapse on ourselves.[11] The ethical counterbalance of mutuality heals this vested-economic-selfish interest and makes it sustainable in the long term as proposed in Dr. Arno Van Niekers’s new book – The Inclusive Economy: Criteria, Principles And Ubuntu.

An additional result of self-interest and consequent mistrust in civil society and its formal agencies is that we begin to work in silos, sometimes even against each other, with little impact and hopelessly ineffective.[12]There seems to be no common deep-rooted singular purpose national cohesive narrative that connects all these silos.  This low-outcome poor service delivery inefficiency throughout most sectors is the most significant contributor to broken trust in a nation. 

The Social Fiber of society is disconnected:

The recent reports of international Banks going bankrupt and Mega Church Scandals exasperate the aftermath of Covid 19,s social disconnect, evidenced in the low-attendance-rate of involvement in civil organization meetings like School Boards, Business Chambers, and Police forums and a continual downward lower and lower voter turnout in elections. 

The Conscious Leadership and Ethics summit hosted by the Mail & Guardian[13] shed light on the significance of conscience over compliance. Paul Polman, a prominent speaker at the summit, emphasized the importance of doing what is right rather than simply fulfilling the minimum requirements. He referred to society’s crisis due to greed, apathy, and selfishness, highlighting the urgent need for moral and cooperative leadership. This crisis demands leaders who prioritize ethical values and are willing to make principled choices.

Imtiaz Sooliman, the founder of Gift of the Givers, a primary Muslim-financed NGO, emphasized that conscious leadership is a spiritual pursuit. It involves aligning one’s soul with correct behaviour, fostering social cohesion, practicing compassion, and relinquishing ego and greed. True leaders uplift and support others, creating a society built on shared values and empathy.

Embracing Universal Morals:

The universal principles of morality are not exclusive to any specific religious or cultural group. A survey of 60 cultures worldwide revealed that certain moral rules consistently emerged, including helping one’s family and group, returning favours, showing bravery, respecting authority, fair resource distribution, and respecting others’ property.[14] These principles align with the teachings of Christ and provide a framework for ethical leadership.

The root of corruption is illicit means of financial security:

During the Mediation Foundation for Peace and Justice[15] conference at the Cape Castle for the restoration of land and the dignity of the people under the leadership of Alan Nelson, the 18th August 2018 keynote speaker Chief Justice Mogoeng Mogoeng, reminded participants that corruption is not only a government practice, the private sector has also been inundated by corruption scandals.[16] Corporate corruption, including deliberate bankruptcy, thin capitalization, illicit financial flows, transfer (mis)pricing, trade mispricing, jurisdiction shopping, and tax evasion.[17] Curruption Scandals that rocked SA lately is: Steinhoff, EOH, Tongaat Hulett to name a few.

Illicit Financial Flows (IFF) have several sources and channels which generally fall within three major categories: business-related activities (e.g. trade mis-invoicing); criminal activities (e.g. drug trade, human trafficking, illegal arms dealing, smuggling of contraband and tax evasion); and corruption and money laundering.

According to the Report of the High-Level Panel (HLP) on IFFs from Africa commissioned by the African Union (AU) and the United Nations Economic Commission for Africa (UNECA) Conference of Ministers of Finance, Planning and Economic Development (2015),[18] over the last 50 years, Africa has lost in excess of USD 1 trillion in IFFs. A recent report by the AU Commission[19] indicates that “estimates of these amounts hover between USD 50 and 80 billion annually and seem to be on an upward trajectory.[20]

Economics and ethics are inseparable:

Over and above the economic reality of the cost of wages Henry Hazlitt reveals that economics and ethics are, in fact, intimately related. Both are concerned with human action, human conduct, human decision, and human choice. There is hardly an ethical problem, without its economic aspect. Our daily ethical decisions are the main economic decisions, and nearly all our daily economic decisions have, in turn, an ethical aspect.[21]

Thus, there is a need for a Biblical Consensus on the tenets of redemptive entrepreneurship. This is what “ethical trade”[22] and the “International Christian Chamber of Commerce” institutions try to achieve, Christians do business ethically. Moreover, Christians should see their vocation as a redemptive cause! See https://trigaventures.org.

Dale Partridge explains in his book People Over Profit that short-term profit gain, at the cost of the people, eventually leads to long-term decline. History has proven that all lasting commerce is born from a dedication to high moral character, the highest quality, and high customer loyalty.[23] 

Roche & Mayer started a collaborative research program between Oxford University and Mars to study the current capitalist system of increasing worldwide inequality, presenting a new model of ‘an economics of mutuality.’  We may soon need a new, more mutually beneficial, and complete form of capitalism that holistically optimizes value for all three inputs—the people, the planet, and financial capital—to reform the current system of financial capitalism that may one day collapse.[24]

Helmut Gollwitzer, a concerned pastor, theologian, and thinker known as a democratic socialist, debated that regardless of our Christian political biases, we need to strive toward a social togetherness – “perfect togetherness without any conflict.”[25] This local community togetherness and economic justice cannot be achieved politically, culturally, economically, or legislatively! This task lays at the Church community’s feet. To disciple the “ethos” where we reside and beyond. (Mat 28:19). 

This means in practise: Every Church begins to focus on the own influence sphere and awaken people to the person of Jesus Christ! 

What is God’s Heart for His Church – Book by Jan Oosthuizen

The Bible is implicit regarding its warnings about how not to earn a living:

Purposeless Toil (Prov. 23:4); lies (Prov. 21:6); charging interest to family members (Exo 22:25; Deut. 23:19); dishonest gain (Eze 22:13); ponzi & pyramid marketing schemes[26]; fraud, over-promise-under-deliver; slavery & oppression of the poor (Prov. 22:16); unjust scales (Prov. 11:1); quick-profit (Prov. 13:11); default on payments (Ps 37:21; Rom 13:7); passive income (2 Thes. 3:10); extortion & bribes (Luk. 3:14); violence (Prov. 1:19). 

In the face of South Africa’s deepening moral crisis, there have been select voices such as Unashamedly Ethical Movement and Crown Financial Ministries who have emerged as beacons of hope. Unashamedly Ethical, a global movement, strives to transform society by taking a stand for ethics, values, and clean living. 

The Foundation of our Christian Moral Code:

Jesus established the cornerstone of the Christian moral code. Love for God with all one’s heart, soul, and mind, and loving one’s neighbor as oneself are the foundational principles that promote empathy, compassion, and a sense of responsibility toward others.

Here are some specific examples of how Christ-centred leaders can make a difference in South Africa:

Human Rights vs. Human Wrongs:

  • We have chosen human rights at the cost of mutual, reciprocal responsibility.
  • We have chosen economic gains and profits at the cost of the people working for those profits.
  • We try to correct wrongs by laws and policies but ignore the intricate network of relationships involved.
  • We tried to silence the poor with grants and houses, but in the process, they were crying for friendship and inclusion.
  • We try to give more people work but regard them as objects and figures on growth charts, dehumanizing them.
  • Unions won CCMA cases but lost relationships, vital inherent provisions to the worker’s future.
  • Politicians win votes from a minority electorate, but did they build a nation?
  • Leaders lobby for votes where they should have built bridges.

Conclusion:

Alfred Tomatis, born into a musical family in France, initially aspired to be a performer like his opera-singer father. However, due to certain assessments, it was determined that he was not suitable for the stage. Consequently, Tomatis pursued a medical career, specializing in Ear, Nose, and Throat (ENT) practices.

During his medical practice, Tomatis’s father referred opera colleagues to him, seeking help for their vocal issues. Through his experience, Tomatis realized that traditional treatments were insufficient, and he also noticed a lack of research on the voice itself. This realization led him to develop a ground-breaking theory that connected vocal problems to hearing problems.

Tomatis’s core theory, “the voice does not produce what the ear does not hear,” became the foundation of his research and his unique methodology.

He found that opera singers had damaged the muscles in their middle ears, resulting in compromised hearing. Consequently, they would exert excessive effort to produce sounds in registers they could no longer perceive. 

Could it thus be that one of the primary reasons why the CHURCH and a predominant number of South Africa’s citizenry have lost their moral compass is the result of not hearing and discerning the “small voice of the Holy Spirit” within themselves?  Have we become deaf to the voice of God, because of the overwhelming noise of our times? Too many voices, opinions, information, social pressure, anxiety, fear, and personal ego have rendered us deaf to the gentle promptings of the Holy Spirit of God.

May we all be revived and awakened to the person and spirit of Jesus Christ, our spiritual true North! 

Thankfully, as listed throughout this article, there is also evidence that some leaders and churches do hear, and are tuned into what the Spirit is saying!!

A follow-up article is thus also needed! The Listing of what the ones are doing who do HEAR and OBEY his call! Amen!

[1] Speech to implore Spiritual Leaders to take up the role of the Moral Custodians of the Community 30 May 2023. Dr Ruben Richards, Executive Mayor of Cederberg Municipality, and Leader of the first Resident Association participating in Local Elections – Cederberg Eerste. 

[2] https://www.corruptionwatch.org.za/political-interference-in-south-africas-elite-anti-corruption-unit-leads-to-impunity/

[3] https://www.penguinrandomhouse.co.za/book/truth-power-my-three-years-inside-eskom/9781776390625

[4] Dreyer, W., 2016, ‘Church, mission and ethics: Being church with integrity’,
HTS Teologiese Studies/ Theological Studies 72(1), Art. #3163, 8 pages. htp:// dx.doi.org/10.4102/hts. v72i1.3163 and Kinnaman, D., 2007, unChrisian. What a new generaion really thinks about Chriianity, Baker Books, Grand Rapids, MI. 

[5] Viola, F. & Barna, G., 2008, Pagan Chrisianity? Exploring the roots of our church pracises, Tyndale House Publishers, Carol Stream, IL. 

[6] Rah, S.-C., 2009, The next evangelicalism. Freeing the church from Western cultural capivity, InterVarsity Press, Downers Grove, IL. 

[7] Küng, H., 1968, The Church, Search Press, London. 

[8] Randi, J., 1987, The faith healers, Prometheus Books, Bufalo, NY.

[9] Covey, S. and Merrill, R., n.d. The speed of trust.

[10] James, Harvey & Rassekh, Farha. (2000). Smith, Friedman, and Self-Interest in Ethical Society. Business Ethics Quarterly. 10. 659-674. 10.2307/3857897.

[11]  As understood by the Pareto Efficiency Principle: Pareto efficiency, named after the Italian economist and political scientist Vilfredo Pareto (1848-1923), is a major pillar of welfare economics.

[12] https://www.forbes.com/sites/brentgleeson/2013/10/02/the-silo-mentality-how-to-break-down-the-barriers/?sh=55d94bf38c7e

[13] https://mg.co.za/thoughtleader/opinion/202

[14] https://www.ox.ac.uk/news/2019-02-11-seven-moral-rules-found-all-around-world

[15] http://peaceandjustice.co.za

[16] https://www.janenchantal.com/report-of-the-restoration-of-land-and-the-dignity-of-the-people-conference-in-the-cape-of-good-hope-castle/

[17] Bracking A qualitative reframing of private sector corruption Considerations from the natural resource sectors in South., 2020. Anti- Corruption Resource Centre U4, [online] August 2013 No 7(U4 Issue), p.2. Available at: <https://www.u4.no/publications/a-qualitative-reframing-of-private-sector-corruption-considerations-from-the-natural-resource-sectors-in-south-africa.pdf> [Accessed 13 August 2020].

[18] https://www.uneca.org/sites/default/files/PublicationFiles/iff_main_ report_26feb_en.pdf

[19] African Union Commission (2019). Domestic Resource Mobilization: Fighting against Corruption and Illicit Financial Flows. AUC Publishing, Addis Ababa.

[20] https://www.oecd.org/tax/transparency/documents/Tax-Transparency-in-Africa-2020.pdf

[21] http://jpatton.bellevue.edu/biblical_economics/morality-economics.html

[22] https://www.ethicaltrade.org

[23] Partridge. Dale, People over Profit, Thomas Nelson, 2015 

[24] Roche, B. and Jakub, J., 2017. Completing Capitalism. 1st ed. Oakland, CA 94612-1921: Berrett-Koehler Publishers, Inc.

[25] See Gollwitzer,  Protestant Theology  : 191 –  2. Gollwitzer draws very briefly here on the imagery found in Mi 4.3f, Zec 3.10, and Rom 14.17.

[26] https://www.crown.org/blog/are-multi-level-marketing-companies-a-r6good-idea-for-christians/

Categories
Preke

Die Uitstorting van die Heilige Gees

Hoe die Here van ’n bang Petrus wat Jesus verloën ’n kragtige getuie gemaak het. 

Die Handelinge-UITSTORTING van die Heilige Gees gebeurtenis word die eerste kontak punt met die KRAGSTASIE van die KERK.  Wanneer gewone diverse mense van byna elke klas en kleur inprop by hierdie BONATUURLIKE kragbron verander hulle na KRAGDADIGE VREESLOSE ONGEVEINSE getuies van JESUS IN MY, die HOOP op HEERLIKHEID! 

Kom word HERLAAI en BEKRAGTIG in die GEES!! 

Die Bonatuurlike Kragstasie van die Heilige Gees is op Pinksterdag aangeskakel om vandag nog vir ons ononderbroke krag te voorsien! 

In Mat 26:69-75 verloën Petrus die Here deur te ontken dat hy Hom ken, in vrees om nie ook gevange geneem te word nie.  Na die uitstorting van die Heilige Gees staan Petrus vreesloos op om die Waarheid te verkondig van Jesus se opstanding. “Deur watter krag en in wie se naam het julle dit gedoen?” Toe het Petrus, vol van die Heilige Gees, vir hulle gesê: (Acts 4:6-8)

KRAG OM TE GETUIG 

“Maar julle sal krag ontvang wanneer die Heilige Gees oor julle kom, en julle sal my getuies wees in Jerusalem sowel as in die hele Judea en in Samaria en tot in die uithoeke van die wêreld.” Acts 1:8 

Toe die dag van die pinksterfees aanbreek, was hulle almal op een plek bymekaar. Skielik was daar ‘n geluid uit die hemel soos van ‘n geweldige stormwind, en dit het die hele vertrek gevul waar hulle gesit het. Hulle het iets soos vuur gesien wat in tonge verdeel en op elkeen van hulle gekom het. Almal is met die Heilige Gees vervul en hulle het in ander tale begin praat soos die Heilige Gees dit aan hulle gegee het om onder sy leiding te doen. (Acts 2:1-4) 

Nadat hulle gebid het, het die plek waar hulle bymekaar was, geskud. Hulle is almal met die Heilige Gees vervul en het met vrymoedigheid die woord van God verkondig. (Acts 4:31 

Stefanus, aan wie God baie genade en krag gegee het, het groot wonders en tekens onder die volk gedoen.(Acts 6:8) 

Ananias het toe gegaan en in daardie huis gekom. Hy het Saulus die hande opgelê en gesê: “Saul, broer, die Here Jesus wat aan jou verskyn het toe jy op pad hierheen was, het my na jou toe gestuur sodat jy weer kan sien en met die Heilige Gees vervul kan word.” (Acts 9:17) 

Dié het toe gegaan en vir die mense daar gebid dat hulle die Heilige Gees mag ontvang, want die Gees het nog nie op een van hulle gekom nie; hulle was net in die Naam van die Here Jesus gedoop. Die apostels het hulle die hande opgelê, en hulle het die Heilige Gees ontvang.  (Acts 8:15-17) 

“Skaars het ek begin praat, of die Heilige Gees kom op hulle net soos op ons in die begin. Toe dink ek aan die woorde wat die Here gesê het: ‘Johannes het wel met water gedoop, maar julle sal met die Heilige Gees gedoop word.’ (Acts 11:15-16) 

Paulus het hulle ook die hande opgelê. Toe het die Heilige Gees op hulle gekom, en hulle het ongewone tale of klanke gebruik, en hulle het geprofeteer. (Acts 19:6) 

Die boodskap wat ek verkondig, het julle oortuig, nie deur geleerdheid en welsprekendheid nie, maar deur die kragtige werking van die Gees. Dus is julle geloof nie op die wysheid van mense gegrond nie, maar op die krag van God. (1 Cor 2:4-5) 

DIE WARE BETEKENIS VAN DIE JOODSE PINKSTER FEES

Die fees van weke of soos die meeste Christen kerke dit noem ‘Pinksterfees’ is die tweede mees belangrikste fees in die Joodse kalender.  Die fees gedenk die verkryging van die Wet op die berg Sinai deur Moses.  Dit het op die 50ste dag geval, sewe volle weke vandat die sekel die eerste keer in die ongesnede graan geslaan is (Deut. 16:9).

Die getal 50 word bereken as die hoeveelheid dae wat dit geneem vir die volk om uit Egipte tot by Sinai te trek. (Eks 19:1). Hulle het hierdie dag getel van die tweededag van die Paasfees.  Die naam Pinkster kom van die Griekse woord “hè pentekostè” = die 50ste.   Die fees word deur die Here ingestel en die voorskrifte van die fees word aan Moses deurgegee (Lev 23:15-21). Hierdie fees is vervul op die 50ste dag toe die Heilige Gees uitgestort is op die wat in die bovertrek gewag het op die vervulling van die belofte.  

Vergelyk hierdie twee tekste: “Johannes het wel met water gedoop, maar julle sal binne ‘n paar dae met die Heilige Gees gedoop word.” (Hand 1:5,8). 

“Hy sal julle met die Heilige Gees en met vuur doop.” (Mat 3:11) 

Die ooreenkomste tussen die gebeurtenis by Sinai en in Hand 2 is baie interessant:  

Toe die Here op die berg aan die volk verskyn… donderweer en weerlig… rook en vuur… die berg het geskud. (Exo 19:16-18) 

“geluid van baie sterk basuin” en in Handelinge 2 “geluid soos van ʼn geweldige rukwind” 

“omdat die Here in ʼn vuur daarop neergedaal het” – “tonge gesien soos van vuur” 

In Eks 32:28 word 3000 mans doodgemaak as straf vir hulle vrees, ongeloof en maak van ʼn valse god.  Na die uitstorting van die Heilige Gees kom 3000 mense tot bekering!  Tydens Moses se tyd op Sinai, word instruksies oor die bou van ʼn tent van samekoms, later word die volk opgeroep om vrywillige offers te bring vir die oprigting van ʼn heiligdom. (Exo 25:1) “ook moet hulle vir my ʼn heiligdom maak, dat Ek in hulle midde kan woon” (Exo 25:8) Na die uitstorting van die Heilige Gees word na ons as gelowiges verwys as die tempels van die Heilige Gees.  (1 Cor 3:16; 2 Cor 6:19; 2 Cor 6:16) Die kerk van Jesus Christus word die gebou en tempel van God, gebou met lewende stene  (Eph 2:21).  

Dit is ook baie duidelik uit die getuienis en vrug van die Pinksterdag belewenis dat die Here by hierdie geleentheid die nuwe verbond profesie deur Jeremia in Christus bekragtig en verwesenlik het. 

Daar kom ‘n tyd, sê die Here, dat Ek met Israel en Juda ‘n nuwe verbond sal sluit. Dit sal nie wees soos die verbond wat Ek met hulle voorvaders gesluit het toe Ek hulle aan die hand gevat en uit Egipte laat trek het nie. Hulle het daardie verbond wat Ek met hulle gesluit het, verbreek al was Ek getrou aan hulle, sê die Here. Dit is die verbond wat Ek in die toekoms met Israel sal sluit, sê die Here: Ek sal my woord op hulle harte skryf en dit in hulle gedagte vaslê. Ek sal hulle God wees en hulle sal my volk wees. ‘n Man sal nie meer vir sy buurman of vir sy broer voorhou: “Jy moet die Here dien” nie, want almal sal My dien, klein en groot, sê die Here. Ek sal hulle oortredings vergewe en nie meer aan hulle sondes dink nie. (Jer 31:31-34)

Die gebruik om twee brode voor die Here te wuif is baie interessant.  Veral as jy in aanmerking neem dat geen offer aan die Here suurdeeg mag bevat het nie (Lev 2:11). Maar in hierdie geval word die twee brode gebak van die opbrengs van die oes, met suurdeeg en voor die Here gewuif.  Die Jode sien die twee brode verwysend as een na die Jode en die ander na die Heidene.  Hierdie is ʼn geheimenis wat eers deur Paulus later duidelik gemaak is om te verstaan die middelmuur tussen Jood en Nie-Jood verwyder in Christus (Eph 2:11-22).  

Onthou toe die Jode uit Egipte gevlug het was daar die van gemengde bloed wat saam uitgetrek het (Exo 12:37,38). Met ander woorde, almal wat die woord gehoor het, en in geloof en gehoorsaamheid bloed aan die deurposte gehad het is gespaar.  God se hart is dat al die nasies gered sal word  (Ps 72:11; Mat 28:19; Rev 22:2). Maar beide Heiden en Jood het ʼn inherente hartprobleem met sonde.  Beide is vasgevang in die mag van sonde en kan nie hulself bevry nie.  Op Pinksterdag hoor elke nasie wat onder die hemel is die dissipels getuig oor die wonderdade van God in hulle eie taal!  

Die skrywer van Hebreërs werp nog meer lig op die vervulling van die fees en hoe God Sy ware bedoeling van wat by Sinai moes gebeur verwesenlik op Pinksterdag in Hand 2.  Julle het immers nie gekom by ‘n tasbare berg met brandende vuur, donderwolke, duisternis, stormwind, trompetgeskal en geklank van woorde nie. Hulle wat dit gehoor het, het gesmeek dat geen woord meer tot hulle gerig moes word nie. Die bevel dat selfs ‘n dier wat aan die berg raak, met klippe doodgegooi moet word, was vir hulle ondraaglik. So angswekkend was die verskynsel dat Moses uitgeroep het: “Ek sidder van angs!” 

Maar julle het wel gekom by Sionsberg en die stad van die lewende God, dit is die hemelse Jerusalem met sy miljoene engele, by die feestelike samekoms, die vergadering van die eersgeborenes wie se name in die hemel opgeteken is. Julle het gekom by God wat Regter oor almal is, en by die geeste van dié wat vrygespreek en wat nou volmaak is, by Jesus, die Middelaar van die nuwe verbond, en by die besprinkelingsbloed wat van iets beters getuig as die bloed van Abel.  (Heb 12:18-21) 

God wou Homself aan ʼn groep mense, sy volk, uitverkorenes persoonlik openbaar, maar die mens kon die heerlikheid nie uitstaan of hanteer nie.  In vrees en ongehoorsaamheid gaan maak hulle vir hulleself ʼn afgodsbeeld.  

Op Pinksterdag kom stort die Here Sy Gees in ons uit, en vind die kulminasie van honderde jare se belofte en goddelike verwagting plaas toe mens God van aangesig tot aangesig sien en ervaar.  Dit is die hoogtepunt en ware betekenis van wat gebeur tydens die vervulling met die Heilige Gees.  

#Pinkster #Pinkstererfenis #Kragdadigheid #Bonatuurlik #Buitengewoon #Vreesloos #Getuie #InnerlikSterk #Kragbron

Categories
Sermons

5 Strategies to Overcome EVIL

5 Strategies to Overcome Evil  https://www.youtube.com/live/6tCr4lYZySY?feature=share

5 Strategies to Overcome Evil

 

Today, we will explore five powerful strategies that can help us overcome evil in our lives. The world is becoming increasingly more evil by the day. Undoubtedly, this is because so many people are caught in the trap of satan to do his will (2 Tim 2:26). In this message, you will learn how to not fall into the web of satan’s lies and overcome evil, unrighteousness, and destruction. These strategies will equip you with the tools to navigate the challenges of a darkened world and emerge victorious. By implementing these strategies, you can reclaim your life from the clutches of evil and walk in the path of righteousness. Let’s delve into these 5 strategies to overcome evil. 

Overcome Evil by Doing Good

Do not be overcome by evil, but overcome evil with good. (Romans 12:21).

The Apostle Paul encourages us to conquer evil with good. Instead of an emotional retaliation in a similarly bad spirit like hatred and anger, we are called to respond with opposite acts of kindness, compassion, and forgiveness. By choosing to do good, we break the cycle of evil and allow the light of God’s love to shine through us.

Not Against Flesh and Blood

For we do not wrestle against flesh and blood, but against principalities, against powers, against the rulers of the darkness of this age, against spiritual hosts of wickedness in the heavenly places. (Ephesians 6:12):

When we are under attack, it is crucial to understand that our ultimate struggle is not against human beings but against spiritual forces of evil. The enemy seeks to divide, deceive, and destroy. In contrast, we must recognize the spiritual nature of our battles and rely on God’s strength and spiritual weapons to overcome evil. This is why Jesus prayed for His oppressors and tormentors. “Father forgive them for they know not what they do.” (Luke 23:34)

Manifest the Manifold Wisdom of God

To the intent that now the manifold wisdom of God might be made known by the church to the principalities and powers in the heavenly places, according to the eternal purpose which He accomplished in Christ Jesus our Lord, (Ephesians 3:10):

The Church has a vital role in overcoming evil by manifesting the manifold wisdom of God. As followers of Christ, we are called to live in unity, demonstrate love, and display God’s wisdom to the world. Through our actions and attitudes, we can reveal the power of God and His ability to overcome evil.

Resist Every High Thing

For the weapons of our warfare are not carnal but mighty in God for pulling down strongholds, casting down arguments and every high thing that exalts itself against the knowledge of God, bringing every thought into captivity to the obedience of Christ, and being ready to punish all disobedience when your obedience is fulfilled. (2 Corinthians 10:5):

Evil often tries to exalt itself against the knowledge of God and His truth. To overcome it, we must actively resist the lies, false ideologies, and temptations that oppose God’s wisdom and principles. By anchoring ourselves in God’s Word and discerning His truth, we can stand firm against evil schemes.

“Get Away with You, Satan!”

“Away with you, Satan! For it is written, You shall worship the LORD your God, and Him only you shall serve.’ ” (Matthew 4:10):

When Satan tempted Jesus in the wilderness, He firmly rebuked him, saying, “Get away with you, Satan!”. This statement reveals the authority and power we have in Christ to resist evil. We can confidently confront and overcome the enemy’s schemes through prayer, fasting, and relying on the Holy Spirit.

As we face evil, let us remember these strategies to overcome it:

 

    • By doing good

    • recognizing the spiritual nature of our battles

    • manifesting God’s wisdom

    • resisting falsehood

    • standing firm in Christ’s authority we can conquer evil and shine as beacons of light in a dark world.

    • Let us draw strength from God’s Word and promises, trusting He will guide us in overcoming evil.

Categories
Sermons

Siege the Gates

In a time when it’s easier to be consumed by fear, doubt, and apathy, Jesus’ timeless words in Matthew 16:18 challenge us to rise to the challenge with audacious faith: 

“I will build my church and the gates of hell will not prevail against it.” Matthew 16:18 

This scripture affirms that when we combine our faith with audacious tenacity, there is no limit to what we can accomplish. In this article, you’ll explore what this scripture means, how it applies to our lives, and how we can encourage and inspire ourselves and others. 

Note that this verse is not about us taking a defensive position but an invitation to siege the gates of hell! The promise is: They will not prevail.  

These words are a powerful reminder of the strength and resilience of our faith. But what do they mean for us today? How can we apply this message to our lives, communities, and world?

Religious and Political Resistance against the Early Church 

To understand the meaning of this verse, we need to look at the historical context in which it was written. At the time, the Christian church was a small and persecuted minority, facing opposition from the Roman Empire and other powerful forces. But despite this opposition, the early Christians persevered, spreading the message of Christ, and building a solid foundation for the church to grow.

In this passage, Jesus is telling us that no matter how strong our enemies may seem, we can overcome them. He urges us to be courageous and stand up for our beliefs, even against adversity.

Remember “Lord of the Rings”?

Just like in the movies, Lord of the Rings, where the heroes had to launch a surprise attack to turn the tide of battle, we too must be willing to take risks and think outside the box to finish God’s call on our lives: Commissioned to Go, Commanded to Love.  

The best way to defend is to siege the enemies’ gates! So, what does it mean to “siege the gates”? It means we must take bold and decisive action to overcome the forces that seek to destroy us. This might mean taking a stand against injustice in our communities, standing up for our faith in the face of persecution, or reaching out to those in need with compassion and kindness. Whatever the challenge, we must be willing to face it head-on, with the knowledge that we are not alone.

We’re Not Alone

“Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.” (Matt. 19:20). We have the power of faith on our side, and with this faith, we can accomplish great things.

Let us take heart from the words of Jesus and siege the gates of our enemies. Let us be bold and courageous in the face of adversity and never forget that we are not alone. With faith and perseverance, we can overcome even the most overwhelming odds and build a better world for ourselves and future generations.

We’re Always in a Spiritual Battle

Additionally, the idea of “sieging the gates” can be seen in other scripture passages as well. In 2 Corinthians 10:3-4, Paul writes: “For though we walk in the flesh, we are not waging war according to the flesh. The weapons of our warfare are not of the flesh but have divine power to destroy strongholds.“ This passage emphasizes the idea that our battles are not physical but spiritual in nature and that we must rely on the power of God to overcome our enemies.

In Ephesians 6:10-11, Paul also reminds us to put on the armor of God, saying: “Finally, be strong in the Lord and in the strength of his might. Put on the whole armor of God, that you may be able to stand against the schemes of the devil.” 

Take a Stand – By Grace in Faith

You will not need to fight in this battle. Position yourselves, stand still, and see the salvation of the LORD, who is with you, O Judah and Jerusalem!’ Do not fear or be dismayed; tomorrow go out against them, for the LORD is with you.” 2 Chron 20:17 

H3320. יצב yasab: A verb indicating to stand, confront, and take one’s stand. It is used in a reflexive stem to station oneself, to take a firm stand.

Women, Heroes of Faith

We also remember the radical Heroines of the Faith on MOTHER’S DAY – Esther, Deborah, Ruth, Priscilla, Joan of Arc, Mother Teresa, and Corrie Ten Boom!  

Remember, we are not weak! He is building His Church! That means we’re not alone, we have a great cloud of eternal witnesses that are cheering us on, but also, in this life, we have a family, His BODY, standing alongside us in collective resistance against evil. 

We are more RIGHT than WRONG 

The devil is an ancient accuser constantly reminding us of where we fail, where we have missed it, and how others have sinned! Look up and see that the harvest is white! It is time to call all people to repentance! Forget about yourself and win the lost at all costs! No more excuses! The liberal culture war is relentless, and the tide is rising; the church looks weak and fragile! But God has given us the KEYS of the KINGDOM. Keys Plural! It means we have the key to every locked door! If we pray and wait on the Lord, He will show us the right key to unlock that door!  

To subdue nations before him And loose the armor of kings, To open before him the double doors, So that the gates will not be shut: Isa 45:1 

#boldness #radikaleGeloof #Aksie #Verlossing #Bevryding #Onverskrokke #Vreesloos #Deurbrake #Oorwinning 

Categories
Sermons

How Can We Seek the Lord as David Did? 

It’s no secret that the Bible’s King David was a man after God’s own heart (1 Sam. 13:14). He committed to a life of deep trust and faith in the Lord that must have been forged through a lifestyle of earnest conversation, sincere inquiry, and a heart to obey. How can we seek the Lord as David did? Using authentic prayer practices inspired by King David’s own example, contemporary believers can build a relationship with the Lord that is both powerful and meaningful.

How can we seek the Lord as David did? Seek Godly Council – Resonate

Firstly, we must surround ourselves with godly people who can offer us spiritual counsel.

Proverbs 15:22 says, “Plans fail for lack of counsel, but with many advisers, they succeed.”

This means we should seek out wise and Spirit-filled people who can offer us guidance and wisdom when needed.

Know the “Logos” Frequency of the Holy Spirit

Secondly, we must rely on the Logos of truth – the Word of God.

In John 17:17, Jesus prayed to the Father, saying, “Sanctify them by the truth; your word is truth.”

The Word of God is the ultimate truth, and it is through reading and studying the Bible that we can:

  • discern what is right and pleasing to the Lord.

  • find direction in speaking the Word.

  • Many times in prayer, you get your answer while praying and gathering your thoughts. The answer becomes clear in conversation, journalling, and lining up your words with the Word of God.

Know Your Own Spirit

Thirdly, we need to be led by the Spirit of the Lord.

Proverbs 20:27 says, “The spirit of man is the candle of the Lord, searching all the inward parts of the belly.”

This means we need to be in tune with the Holy Spirit and allow Him to guide us in our decisions and actions. This naturally presupposes you repent of any unforgiveness, or secret sins, remove hindrances, and do self-deliverance so your Spirit is sanctified and free from offense! Your Spirit is the vehicle by which we and God communicate. It is from this connection we engage and hear God. Abraham and Moses heard God in their spirit, even before scripture or the Law existed. But for our spirit to be most accurate, it has to be most sanctified!

Know the Scriptures

Fourthly, we need to know the Scriptures, which is the language of God.

In 2 Timothy 3:16-17, it says, “All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness, so that the servant of God may be thoroughly equipped for every good work.”

When we know the Scriptures, we are equipped to discern the will of God in our lives.

“Scan” Prophecy, Visions, Dreams and Promises

Fifthly, we can also seek the Lord through prophecy, visions, and dreams.

In Joel 2:28, it says, “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.”

While we need to be careful in discerning these things, they can be powerful ways the Lord communicates with us. Our subconscious is often more in tune with the spirit-world and can be a powerful aid to help us get clarity or confirmation from God. Faithfully scribe and journal these encounters, they sometimes to not make sense immediately, but over time and through meditation and contemplation, you will discern what exactly to do!

Fasting and Prayer

Finally, we can seek the Lord through fasting and prayer.  

Acts 13:2-3: “While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, ‘Set apart for me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.’ So after they had fasted and prayed, they placed their hands on them and sent them off.”

This passage shows the early church leaders fasting and praying together as they sought the Lord’s direction for their mission work.  

Acts 14:23: “Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for them in each church and, with prayer and fasting, committed them to the Lord, in whom they had put their trust.“

In this verse, we see Paul and Barnabas appointed elders for the churches they had founded and did so with prayer and fasting. This shows how fasting and prayer can be a powerful tool for commissioning and committing leaders and ministries to the Lord’s care. 

Enquiring from the Lord takes some effort and time.

Luke 6:12-13: “One of those days Jesus went out to a mountainside to pray, and spent the night praying to God. When morning came, he called his disciples to him and chose twelve of them, whom he also designated apostles.”  

This passage shows that Jesus prayed the entire night before selecting the twelve apostles. This was a significant decision, and Jesus recognized the importance of seeking the Father’s guidance and direction through prayer.

Worship Sets The Heart Right to Hear and See God

How can we seek the lord as David did? By becoming Worshippers first! He was a worshipper, and worshipping God puts you in the right frame of mind and heart to hear His instructions.

It is in worshipping Him that:

  • He answers us.

  • our vision gets enlarged and opened to see a Throne Room, a heavenly perspective.

  • we all seek the Lord with all our hearts and souls

  • receive blessings and guidance from Him as we do so. Amen.
  • “How can we seek the Lord as David did?” By following in the footsteps of our lord…

Categories
Sermons

Making the RIGHT decisions by first inquiring by the Lord

https://www.youtube.com/live/38TqKVwWkog?feature=share

Life is filled with big and small decisions that we have to make daily. Sometimes, however, our choices can seem overwhelming, confusing, and even paralyzing. One approach to navigating these decisions is by making the right decisions by first inquiring by the Lord. 

In these times of confusion, disillusionment, uncertainty and disruption, we need God’s guidance more than ever. This sermon will examine how we can make the right decisions by staying in the THRONE ROOM!

We know about GOOGLE, ChatGPT, and Youtube… YET do we still know HOW TO DISCERN GOD’S VOICE and how to consult Him?

In this sermon, we will explore how we can make the right decisions in times of confusion.

Dawid inquired from the Lord. 

David inquired of the Lord on numerous occasions throughout the Old Testament. Here is a list of some of the biblical references where David is recorded as seeking guidance from God:

  1. 1 Samuel 23:2-4 – David inquires of the Lord about whether he should go and fight the Philistines in Keilah.
  2. 1 Samuel 23:10-12 – David inquires of the Lord again about whether he should go to Keilah, and God tells him to go.
  3. 1 Samuel 30:7-8 – After David and his men return from battle to find their families and possessions taken captive, David inquires of the Lord whether he should pursue the raiders. God tells him to pursue them and promises him victory.
  4. 2 Samuel 2:1 – After the death of Saul, David inquires of the Lord about whether he should go up to any of the cities of Judah. God tells him to go up to Hebron.
  5. 2 Samuel 5:19-23 – During a battle against the Philistines, David inquires of the Lord about whether he should attack them directly. God tells him to go around behind them and attack from the rear.
  6. 2 Samuel 21:1-3 – During a famine, David inquires of the Lord about the cause of the famine. God tells him it is because of Saul’s bloodguiltiness, and David makes amends with Saul’s descendants.

4 Steps to Right Decisions

I. Seek God’s wisdom and counsel – Your desire to inquire from God is your spiritual ear. 

Trust in the LORD with all your heart, And lean not on your own understanding; In all your ways acknowledge Him, And He shall direct your paths. (Proverbs 3:5-6)

When we are confused, the first and most important step is to seek God’s wisdom through prayer, reading the Bible, and seeking counsel from wise and godly friends. If any of you lacks wisdom, let him ask of God, who gives to all liberally and without reproach, and it will be given to him. (James 1:5)

II. Be LED by the SPIRIT 

For as many as are led by the Spirit of God, these are sons of God. (Rom 8:14) Focus on the Holy Spirit. Pray in tongues, and be sensitive to the prompting of the Holy Spirit.  He is HOLY and will thus always draw you towards holiness, purity, godliness, compassion and self-surrender.  

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God (1 John 4:1) 

When making decisions, we must be discerning and test everything against the standard of God’s Word. If something contradicts God’s Word, it is not from Him and should be rejected.  

Modern psychology research suggests that people often fail to think critically when making important decisions due to various cognitive biases and other factors. Here are some of the reasons why people might not think when making important decisions:

  1. Confirmation bias: People tend to seek information confirming their beliefs and ignore information contradicting them. This can lead to a lack of critical thinking and a failure to consider alternative perspectives.
  2. Overconfidence bias: People tend to overestimate their abilities and the accuracy of their judgments, leading them to make decisions without fully considering all available information.
  3. Emotional reasoning: People sometimes make decisions based on emotions rather than logic, leading to impulsive or irrational decisions.
  4. Cognitive load: When people are under stress or facing a lot of mental demands, they may have difficulty thinking critically and making careful decisions.
  5. Time pressure: When people are rushed or have limited time to decide, they may be unable to engage in careful, deliberate thinking.
  6. Decision paralysis: When faced with many options or information, people may become overwhelmed and have difficulty deciding, leading to a lack of critical thinking.
  7. Lack of information: When people cannot access all the relevant information needed to make a decision, they may make uninformed or biased decisions.

III. THINK it through  

a. But solid food belongs to those who are of full age, that is, those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern both good and evil. (Heb 5:14) 

So many times, we do not think.  We make impulsive decisions without any consideration for ourselves, others, or God.  Before deciding, we should carefully consider the potential consequences and weigh them against God’s will for our lives.  Sometimes, the right decision is not the easiest one, but it always aligns with God’s truth and leads to long-term blessing and fulfilment.

  1. Analysis: Breaking down complex information into smaller parts to better understand it.
  2. Interpretation: Making sense of information and drawing meaningful conclusions.
  3. Inference: Drawing logical conclusions based on evidence and reasoning.
  4. Evaluation: Assessing the credibility, accuracy, and relevance of information.
  5. Synthesis: Combining different pieces of information to create a new understanding or solution.
  6. Reflection: Assessing one’s thought processes and assumptions, considering alternative viewpoints, and being open to changing one’s perspective.

IV. FAITH and GRACE 

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. (Rom 15:13) 

The Will of God is the source of our FAITH.  When faith COMES, the consequent grace (ability) to act and inner PEACE is how I know this is God.  By this conviction, we live, which is a sure foundation… we are doing and fulfilling HIS WILL.  This is the throneroom experience. 

  1. The Spirit of the LORD shall rest upon Him – continual presence. 
  2. The Spirit of wisdom – skill, experience, clever, shrewdness.
  3. The Spirit of understanding – comprehension, discernment, righteous action.
  4. The Spirit of counsel – a strategy, a plan. It sometimes may suggest the idea of a plot.
  5. The spirit of might – strength, power, might.
  6. The Spirit of knowledge – knowing, learning, discernment, insight, and notion.
  7. And the fear of the LORD – awe, splendour. 
Categories
Bybelskoolkursusse

Protected: Jesaja

This content is password protected. To view it please enter your password below:

Categories
Sermons

The Full Spectrum of LOVE

In the Throne-Room – Series

Love is the ONLY way to sustain the full spectrum of life and live a meaningful life. By remaining in HIS LOVE we experience continual Heaven on Earth, embracing all aspects of life, both the highs and the lows, with love and gratitude.

Different Ways of Love:

  1. Storgé – what we feel for things comfortable and familiar
    1. Patriotism – love for same culture, people, country.
  2. Eros or desire, passions. 
    1. Sexual
    1. Personal pleasure
    1. Honor, power, wealth, friends, knowledge, comfort
  3. Romantic, in loveness. Directed to significant other. (Look to another)
    1. Self-forgetfull, selfless
    1. Sacrificial
    1. Martyrdom
    1. Garden needs tools to cultivate, duty, works
  4. Friendship (philia) 
    1. Side by side focal point common denominator
    1. God’s city, holy nation culture. 
    1. Enjoy mutual presence
    1. Doing things together
    1. Love each other’s virue
    1. Aristotle – utility, pleasure, virtue
  5. Admiration 
    1. God 
    1. A person
    1. Art, music, performance, fruitfulness
  6. Justice, virtue, rightness, holiness
  7. Goodwill, favour, mercy, grace
  8. Goodness, excellence, splendour, glory, beauty
  9. Attention (moments) 
  10. Presence, all of what and who I am – you have all of me, surrender. (permanent) 

The Distorted LOVE of the WORLD – 7 deadly sins: 

1. Autonomy, disguised as freedom (Pride)

2. Self-esteem, disguised as respect (Vanity)

3. Technologism, disguised as power (Greed)

4. Lust, disguised as pleasure

5. Sloth, boredom, and passivity, disguised as entertainment

6. Equality, disguised as justice (Envy)

7. Irreverence, disguised as creativity or originality (Wrath)

Godly Virtues 

  1. Humility
  2. Modesty
  3. Detachment / obscurity 
  4. Chastity
  5. Courage
  6. Meekness, contentment
  7. Piety

Excerpt from: “Wisdom of the Heart: The Good, the True, and the Beautiful at the Center of Us All” by Peter Kreeft. Scribd.

This material may be protected by copyright.

Read this book on Scribd: https://www.scribd.com/book/469505373

To lead a fulfilling existence, it’s essential to embrace the full spectrum of love and life. Nurturing both brings joy and meaning to life.