I'm disturbed by recent exposures of casual, careless, and cavalier attitudes toward prophesying. It's time to refresh our understanding of the incredible privilege of speaking for God. For a robust view of prophecy to begin with, we need to understand both the similarities and the differences between prophecy in the Old and New Testaments. Prophecy in the Old Testament largely served to remind God’s people to return to his covenant when they (repeatedly) strayed. By contrast, the main purpose of the New Testament spiritual gift of prophecy is to strengthen, encourage, and comfort Continue Reading
Examining the “Cyrus Anointing”
As a Charismatic Christian who values critical thinking, I take seriously the Scriptural injunction to test prophecies and the spirit from which they originate. “Dear friends, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see if they are from God, because many false prophets have gone out into the world 1 John 4:1).” “Don’t stifle the Spirit. Don’t despise prophecies, but test all things. Hold on to what is good. Stay away from every kind of evil (1 Thessalonians 5:19-22).” In light of the apostles’ warnings, then, let’s evaluate the popular notion about a Cyrus anointing Continue Reading
How Focusing on the Wrong Thing Derails our Discernment
When you hear the word "discernment," what comes to mind? Let's unpack the term for clarity. Discernment is the ability to comprehend what is obscure (not easily distinguished or readily understood). Synonyms include insight, perception, and wisdom. “And I pray this: that your love will keep on growing in knowledge and every kind of discernment, so that you may approve the things that are superior and may be pure and blameless in the day of Christ… (Philippians 1:9-10).” The Greek term aisthésis here indicates using our intellect for moral discernment and understanding of ethical Continue Reading
Does This Popular Prophetic Word Pass the Test?
I believe God speaks through prophetic words today. That said, we have an enemy who loves to twist this beautiful, Spirit-given gift to further his wicked schemes. It is our responsibility to evaluate prophesies and prophets so we are not deceived (1 Thess. 5:19-22; 1 John 4:1). In light of this instruction, let’s examine the “Seven Mountain Mandate” teaching. This idea started nearly 50 years ago when two Christian leaders believed they heard God say Christians should influence seven areas in culture: family; religion & church; education; government & politics; the media; Continue Reading