Yesterday I asked why you read this blog. Your answers were interesting. One thing that made me think was the fact that you know me and know my history and church background and therefore can trust my motivation and my thinking even if you dont always agree with what I say.
This is REALLY important. And I suggest that as these days unfold we are going to need to be increasingly careful about who we listen to and make sure that we really do know and trust those we follow, receive from and submit to. Whilst there is a danger that this can make us closed to ideas from outwith our immediate circle of influence, God will make sure we hear what we need to hear and learn what we need to learn. Discernment is paramount as we know that in the last days the deceiver will be out in force ever-so-slightly distorting and twisting the truth so that it sounds plausible but leads to blindness not sight. I think that one of the reasons I don't listen to, watch or read much of what's available out there is because I don't know who these people are. And that's not to say that most of them aren't perfectly Godly people with great messages and much good to share. Its just that Id rather know the character behind the delivery before I embrace the message wholeheartedly.
But here we reach another tricky matter.
Has anyone seen ' The Jesus Revolution' film yet? I watched it the other day and found it interesting but nothing really to write home about. But it has received big press in the States and has allowed one of the main stars, Kelsey Grammer (Frasier) to talk very openly about his faith in press interviews. Lonnie Frisbee, the hippie protagonist who instigated revival amongst the hippie youth in the 60s and 70s is played by Jonathan Roumie who plays Jesus in The Chosen. Having listened to him being interviewed several times, and loving his portrayal of Jesus, I was minded to give The Jesus Revolution a watch. On doing some research afterwards it appears that Lonnie Frisbee, founder of the Jesus People which later fed into the founding of Vineyard churches, had a very troubled life. These days he probably wouldn't get a chance to preach or teach in many places. And yet there is no denying that his life and ministry led to thousands and thousands of young people turning from sex and drugs and rock and roll to Jesus. And founded churches and movements which are still leading people to Jesus today. So you can see where the difficulty lies. If we are only going to listen to people with impeccable characters we cant listen to the murderous Saul of Tarsus. Or King David. Or any sinful preacher trying to do his/her best.
So maybe along with character we need to know someone's heart. I hope you all know my heart, through knowing me personally and through what I write. I'm nowhere near perfect but I do strive to be honest. My motivation is to encourage. I think I'm a bit prophetic. I think writing is one of the things I do best so I'm just trying to use my talents and not bury them. I once dreamed that Id lead worship in front of thousands but God has beaten the fame-hungry, attention-seeking tendencies out of me 😊 Asbury reminded us all that God isn't after those who seek the limelight and demand our attention. (Which is another reason why I don't find myself much drawn to famous preachers. ) I have a definite aversion to spiritual bandwagons. These days I tend to go by personal recommendation from trusted people before I check out anything new. And when I get those suggestions which have already been filtered through friends I usually agree that they are excellent and worth the time.
This is part of the reason it is essential for us to be firmly planted in the body of Christ. Together we are more able to discern the God from the good. Together we can warn of approaching wolves and share the excitements and blessings God has for us.
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