As we read through the Gospels we see time after time that when Jesus would do something they could not explain or that was not conforming to their traditions they would rise up and challenge Him, call Him names or try to kill Him.
The Pharisees were the most learned of the Jews and were the leaders of the community. They knew the law. They demanded strict compliance. They loved to get attention by their long if not loud prayers. In their own opinion they were the most knowledgeable, respected and holy.
Are there any Pharisees today? Should God move beyond our understanding or religious position, how is it received? Are there challenges to be made or outcries to be heard?
When Pentecost arrived at Azusa Street and the Holy Ghost moved in powerful demonstration, there was plenty of opposition. When God began to move in the realms of healing in the 1940’s many churches rejected God’s move among His people. When the Charismatic Renewal resurrected praise and worship, it was condemned by most. When the Word of Faith began to awaken faith and a hunger for the Word of God, many turned their back.
These were not new moves of God. He was simply restoring to the Church what was needed and lacking. At least in the spirit many were raised from the dead. Religion had to bow its head because God was moving among His people. As it was when Jesus walked upon this earth; more were opposing and rejecting what Jesus was doing than those who accepted it with faith and praise.
How different is it today? Instead of accepting what the Bible says about the Baptism of the Holy Ghost, tongues, the gifts of the Spirit, the ministry of a Prophet there are those who will reject, condemn or explain away what the Word of God declares as the truth. Rom. 3:4 God forbid: yea, let God be true, but every man a liar; as it is written, that thou mightest be justified in thy sayings, and mightest overcome when thou art judged.
No doubt we are living in the last days. God is not willing that any should perish. I personally believe God is going to manifest Himself in some very remarkable ways to gain man’s attention lest they perish. The devil will also do some remarkable things. All Christians need one another and we must have a Biblical foundation when things happen or else we will be easy targets to be deceived, mislead and confused. Pray that no Pharisee misleads you. There are many out there. John 8:32 And ye shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.
Maranatha!
