Somehow, we have searched and sought so diligently to make man into more than what God created. Humbly examining who we are in the realm of creation is not to deny God's care or his love. In fact, it should magnify his greatness and the greatness of his love in our minds and hearts. There are people who teach the doctrine of 'little gods,' perverting the truth that we were created in the image and likeness of God. Yes, we are created in his image, but we do NOT possess his attributes.
A well known pastor behind a quickly growing movement in the US has been quoted as saying that "God is in charge, but not in control." He further has been quoted as saying that he refuses to "accept a theology that allows for sickness." He and many others teach doctrines related to wealth, health, prosperity and supernatural acts by believers. I do not deny that God moves and blesses and demonstrates his glory. Hear my words. I am simply saying that he (along with many) seem to have made a god of the signs, wonders, and gifts of our precious Holy Lord.
There is this growing trend for Christians to pursue 'moving in the supernatural' and to seek the gifts of the Spirit more than the Spirit of God himself. While we should seek all the things that God has provided for us, we are to "seek FIRST his kingdom." God must be the ultimate aim. There is a subtle, almost invisible, sickness affecting many in the pursuit of these supernatural abilities. It is called "self."
This agenda seems to have its focus on making much of man and his talents. There is this push to pursue one's highest potential. To be all you can be and do all you were created to do. These ideas propagate a focus shift of believer from God to self. These are culturally acceptable sayings and ideas that, on the surface, sound innocent, even great. This is how the enemy deceives, by present a fruit that is good for eating and holds promises for selfish gain. Discussing someone's potential and purpose sounds great, especially in the American culture. But is it our potential we pursue or Christ?
Please don't misunderstand my words, knowing your potential and purpose are important. The key is with the instrument one uses to measure and define these words. In our culture, your potential is your untapped ability to success. It is defined as "a latent excellence or ability that may yet be developed." Potential, according to the world rests on each person. Because of the influence of culture, in the church, potential is used to discuss what each person can contribute to the body. This breads partiality, comparison, and pride.
Your potential, in Christ, is not your untapped ability, but your level of obedience to Christ and his word. Our potential is not what we can do or achieve as individuals, but is found in our yielding to God and his power to work through us. We are to be the vessel, not the well. If we were a well, we'd run dry far too soon. The question that sums it up is, "Are you on a selfish pursuit of potential and success, or a selfless pursuit to make Christ known in all the world?". Your joy and satisfaction in Christ in the midst of trial speaks profoundly about the majesty of Christ. Don't waste or discount your sickness and suffering. God has purpose in everything you endure. He is in charge AND in control. We can marvel at his greatness in this knowledge, rather than try to marvel in the greatness of man in his selfish pursuits.
This agenda seems to have its focus on making much of man and his talents. There is this push to pursue one's highest potential. To be all you can be and do all you were created to do. These ideas propagate a focus shift of believer from God to self. These are culturally acceptable sayings and ideas that, on the surface, sound innocent, even great. This is how the enemy deceives, by present a fruit that is good for eating and holds promises for selfish gain. Discussing someone's potential and purpose sounds great, especially in the American culture. But is it our potential we pursue or Christ?
Please don't misunderstand my words, knowing your potential and purpose are important. The key is with the instrument one uses to measure and define these words. In our culture, your potential is your untapped ability to success. It is defined as "a latent excellence or ability that may yet be developed." Potential, according to the world rests on each person. Because of the influence of culture, in the church, potential is used to discuss what each person can contribute to the body. This breads partiality, comparison, and pride.
Your potential, in Christ, is not your untapped ability, but your level of obedience to Christ and his word. Our potential is not what we can do or achieve as individuals, but is found in our yielding to God and his power to work through us. We are to be the vessel, not the well. If we were a well, we'd run dry far too soon. The question that sums it up is, "Are you on a selfish pursuit of potential and success, or a selfless pursuit to make Christ known in all the world?". Your joy and satisfaction in Christ in the midst of trial speaks profoundly about the majesty of Christ. Don't waste or discount your sickness and suffering. God has purpose in everything you endure. He is in charge AND in control. We can marvel at his greatness in this knowledge, rather than try to marvel in the greatness of man in his selfish pursuits.
No comments:
Post a Comment