FAITH THERAPY 2
THIS is the concluding part of Pastor A.C. Ohanebo’s very illuminating discussion on “Faith Therapy.” In Part One, Pastor Ohanebo defined Faith Therapy as “the treatment of the disease of lack of faith in the hearts of the people, by digging into the Word of God and working on the mind with the knowledge derived therefrom until the faith-filled heart of Jesus our Lord (or what can compare favourably to it) is achieved”. It has become very necessary, he said, “that Christians of today, especially, church workers, be passed through such a therapy, so as to be healed of the cancerous disease of faithlessness.”
THIS is the concluding part of Pastor A.C. Ohanebo’s very illuminating discussion on “Faith Therapy.” In Part One, Pastor Ohanebo defined Faith Therapy as “the treatment of the disease of lack of faith in the hearts of the people, by digging into the Word of God and working on the mind with the knowledge derived therefrom until the faith-filled heart of Jesus our Lord (or what can compare favourably to it) is achieved”. It has become very necessary, he said, “that Christians of today, especially, church workers, be passed through such a therapy, so as to be healed of the cancerous disease of faithlessness.”
Faith For The Ministry
The “Ministry” here refers to the 5-fold task the Lord has given the Watchman Catholic Charismatic Renewal Movement (WCCRM) to accomplish through His Spirit. Faith for the ministry therefore means, ‘we, believing implicitly that through His motivation, guidance, power, protection and provision, no aspect of the said task will fail to be accomplished’ (Isaiah 7:3-9; Luke 1:18-20; 1:45).
Joshua, believing implicitly that the task of taking the Israelites across Jordan to the promised land and dividing same for them (as the Lord hath bidden him) was going to be unfailingly accomplished, charged the people to get prepared to cross Jordan and to fight the wars to possess the land (see Joshua 1:1-9 and 10-15). Also because of his faith for the ministry he had received, he sent out spies to search out Jericho, the first city to attack on crossing Jordan (Joshua 2:1). Going through the entire book of Joshua, we discover through his actions and words that he was a man who had faith for the ministry.
On receiving his own ministry also, the apostle Paul pursued same with faith for the ministry (as before defined). It is this faith that accounts for this remark to the Ephesian church elders: “but none of these things move me..., so that I might finish my course and the ministry which I have received of the Lord Jesus...” (Acts 20:24; see also Acts 26:13-18 and 19-20). Caleb and Joshua had faith for the ministry of conquering and possessing the land through their God (Numbers 13:30; 14:6-9).
Our Lord Jesus is the model of those who had, or want to have faith for the ministry. He must be about the Father’s business from even the age of twelve (Luke 2:48-49). He was to engage in the ministry given Him and get it accomplished (John 4:34).
From the above, it is mandatory that we all develop and put on faith for the ministry. Without it, there will be no resources and consequently, no progress from the Lord. In the circumstance, the ministry could be removed and given to others (cons. Numbers 13:25-29, 31; 13:20-23; Isaiah 7:3-9; Luke 1:19-20).
Joshua, believing implicitly that the task of taking the Israelites across Jordan to the promised land and dividing same for them (as the Lord hath bidden him) was going to be unfailingly accomplished, charged the people to get prepared to cross Jordan and to fight the wars to possess the land (see Joshua 1:1-9 and 10-15). Also because of his faith for the ministry he had received, he sent out spies to search out Jericho, the first city to attack on crossing Jordan (Joshua 2:1). Going through the entire book of Joshua, we discover through his actions and words that he was a man who had faith for the ministry.
On receiving his own ministry also, the apostle Paul pursued same with faith for the ministry (as before defined). It is this faith that accounts for this remark to the Ephesian church elders: “but none of these things move me..., so that I might finish my course and the ministry which I have received of the Lord Jesus...” (Acts 20:24; see also Acts 26:13-18 and 19-20). Caleb and Joshua had faith for the ministry of conquering and possessing the land through their God (Numbers 13:30; 14:6-9).
Our Lord Jesus is the model of those who had, or want to have faith for the ministry. He must be about the Father’s business from even the age of twelve (Luke 2:48-49). He was to engage in the ministry given Him and get it accomplished (John 4:34).
From the above, it is mandatory that we all develop and put on faith for the ministry. Without it, there will be no resources and consequently, no progress from the Lord. In the circumstance, the ministry could be removed and given to others (cons. Numbers 13:25-29, 31; 13:20-23; Isaiah 7:3-9; Luke 1:19-20).
Faith For Ministry
MINISTRY this time refers to the specific services we render for the freedom and edification of all. The word is used of both men and women servants of churches (Matthew 23:11; Mark 9:35; Romans. 16:1); Jesus Christ rendering service to the Jews in the act of preaching, teaching and healing (Romans 15:8; Galatians 2:17; Matthew 4:23-24; 9:35; Acts 10:38); those serving the church (Matthew 20:26; Mark 10:43); preachers of the gospel (1 Corinthians 3:5; 2 Cor. 3:6; Ephesians. 3:7; Colossians1:2325; 1 Thessalonians 3:2). Ministry therefore includes preaching, teaching, building up babes in Christ, strengthening the weak and demoralized. Other forms of ministry are: counselling, witnessing Christ person-to-person, singing, delivering the oppressed and possessed of devils, healing the sick, prophesying, teaching/counselling the children, youths and the aged; giving to the store house of the Lord to progress the work of the ministry and to care for the needy, ruling and organising others etc. (see Romans 12:3-8).
Here under, it will be proven that whatever ministries we have received must be rendered with faith, else, it will be unpleasing to God and consequently ineffective (cons. Hebrews 11:6; Romans 14:23).
MINISTRY this time refers to the specific services we render for the freedom and edification of all. The word is used of both men and women servants of churches (Matthew 23:11; Mark 9:35; Romans. 16:1); Jesus Christ rendering service to the Jews in the act of preaching, teaching and healing (Romans 15:8; Galatians 2:17; Matthew 4:23-24; 9:35; Acts 10:38); those serving the church (Matthew 20:26; Mark 10:43); preachers of the gospel (1 Corinthians 3:5; 2 Cor. 3:6; Ephesians. 3:7; Colossians1:2325; 1 Thessalonians 3:2). Ministry therefore includes preaching, teaching, building up babes in Christ, strengthening the weak and demoralized. Other forms of ministry are: counselling, witnessing Christ person-to-person, singing, delivering the oppressed and possessed of devils, healing the sick, prophesying, teaching/counselling the children, youths and the aged; giving to the store house of the Lord to progress the work of the ministry and to care for the needy, ruling and organising others etc. (see Romans 12:3-8).
Here under, it will be proven that whatever ministries we have received must be rendered with faith, else, it will be unpleasing to God and consequently ineffective (cons. Hebrews 11:6; Romans 14:23).
i. Ministry Of The Word
Those who have the ministry of the word, either as preachers, teachers, prophets, exhorters, counsellors, follow-up workers, etc, must preach, teach, prophesy, exhort, etc, with faith in God. This means that they must act with hearts full of belief that the word is authentic, quick and powerful, efficacious and that God will confirm their ministry and do what He has declared in His word that He will do. It also implies acting with zeal and earnestness (1 Timothy 2:7 eg. Matthew 7:28-29; Mark. 1:21-22; Matthew. 13:53-54; Acts 2:14-37; 3:12-26; 10:34-44; 20:17-21, 26-28; 26:1-32; Romans 12:6-8). If they minister otherwise than with faith, God’s power will not be released and their word becomes unfruitful (cons. Hebrews 11:6; Matt. 17:19-20).
Those who have the ministry of the word, either as preachers, teachers, prophets, exhorters, counsellors, follow-up workers, etc, must preach, teach, prophesy, exhort, etc, with faith in God. This means that they must act with hearts full of belief that the word is authentic, quick and powerful, efficacious and that God will confirm their ministry and do what He has declared in His word that He will do. It also implies acting with zeal and earnestness (1 Timothy 2:7 eg. Matthew 7:28-29; Mark. 1:21-22; Matthew. 13:53-54; Acts 2:14-37; 3:12-26; 10:34-44; 20:17-21, 26-28; 26:1-32; Romans 12:6-8). If they minister otherwise than with faith, God’s power will not be released and their word becomes unfruitful (cons. Hebrews 11:6; Matt. 17:19-20).
ii Healing The People
All the works of healing that the Lord Jesus did on the people were done through unwavering belief that whatever He desired of God for the people must hold to the letter. If He touched them, spoke against their diseases or used whatever methods He pleased to knock out all their diseases, all was done with absolute assurance. Consequently, the power of God was released to knock out all their diseases, and correct their infirmities and disabilities (Matthew. 4:23-24; 8:1-3; 8:5-13; 9:1-7; 9:18-19, 23-25; Mark. 8:22-25; Luke. 13:10-13; 17:12; John. 5:5-9).
In the ministry of the Lord’s apostles/disciples, it was this same faith that granted the astonishing results recorded (Acts 3:1-8; 5:12, 15-16; 8:5-7; 9:32-42; 14:8-10). Even when they had not been baptized with the Holy Spirit, it was still faith in the authority (to heal) which the Lord had vested with them that brought down power to heal the people (Luke 9:1-2, 6; 10:1-3, 9, 17-19).
In the ministry of the Lord, as well as that of His apostles, one thing should be noted about their faith-filled hearts. They did their homework well, so the results flowed naturally in the field. They tarried before God incessantly in prayer-communion, meditated extensively on the nature of God, their calling, the work given to them, the need of the people and the willingness of God, thereby building up and maintaining hearts filled with faith always. Consequently, astonishing results were recorded (cons. Mark. 1:35; Luke. 6:12; 11:1; John. 7:53-8:1-2; Acts 6:2-4). These rules have not changed.
iii. Delivering The Oppressed And Possessed Of Devils.
The oppressed of the devils are those who do not have the evil spirits living within them, but the spirits operate from without. The spirits use evil dreams and influences directed against the minds and bodily systems of their prey (mainly while they are asleep) to destabilize their minds and cause some form of harm, problem or sickness in their systems. On the other hand, the possessed of the devils are those who have the evil spirits operating from within and without. Those within will not allow their captives any freedom or rest, using many schemes against their minds and bodies. They often open their eyes of understanding to see the other demons outside, sometimes in the form of snakes, strange beings, etc.
In the matter of delivering such people, it is still through faith in the power and authority vested with the deliverer and in the name of Jesus (Luke. 9:1-2; Mark. 16:17-18; Matthew. 28:18; Philippians. 2:9-10). This means that the deliverer is full of assurance or confidence that the authority vested with him and power vested with the name of Jesus, can never be disobeyed (eg. Mark. 5:2-13; 9:17-18, 20, 25-26; Acts 8:5-7; 16:16-18).
This authority and the resultant faith that was in use in the above instances can be illustrated with what happens between the law enforcement officer and the suspect. The law enforce-ment officer has been sent with authority to arrest a suspect. Once it is proven that the officer is a genuine one, the suspect complies with his orders. It can also be likened to what happens between the traffic policeman and the motorist. The motorist has no option than to heed the stop-order of the policeman.
When the devils see this unwavering assurance, they do not have any option than to depart forthwith (eg. Acts 16:16-18). If this faith is not there, God’s power will not be released. Moreover, the devils don’t obey mere statements (eg. Mark 9:17-19).
All the works of healing that the Lord Jesus did on the people were done through unwavering belief that whatever He desired of God for the people must hold to the letter. If He touched them, spoke against their diseases or used whatever methods He pleased to knock out all their diseases, all was done with absolute assurance. Consequently, the power of God was released to knock out all their diseases, and correct their infirmities and disabilities (Matthew. 4:23-24; 8:1-3; 8:5-13; 9:1-7; 9:18-19, 23-25; Mark. 8:22-25; Luke. 13:10-13; 17:12; John. 5:5-9).
In the ministry of the Lord’s apostles/disciples, it was this same faith that granted the astonishing results recorded (Acts 3:1-8; 5:12, 15-16; 8:5-7; 9:32-42; 14:8-10). Even when they had not been baptized with the Holy Spirit, it was still faith in the authority (to heal) which the Lord had vested with them that brought down power to heal the people (Luke 9:1-2, 6; 10:1-3, 9, 17-19).
In the ministry of the Lord, as well as that of His apostles, one thing should be noted about their faith-filled hearts. They did their homework well, so the results flowed naturally in the field. They tarried before God incessantly in prayer-communion, meditated extensively on the nature of God, their calling, the work given to them, the need of the people and the willingness of God, thereby building up and maintaining hearts filled with faith always. Consequently, astonishing results were recorded (cons. Mark. 1:35; Luke. 6:12; 11:1; John. 7:53-8:1-2; Acts 6:2-4). These rules have not changed.
iii. Delivering The Oppressed And Possessed Of Devils.
The oppressed of the devils are those who do not have the evil spirits living within them, but the spirits operate from without. The spirits use evil dreams and influences directed against the minds and bodily systems of their prey (mainly while they are asleep) to destabilize their minds and cause some form of harm, problem or sickness in their systems. On the other hand, the possessed of the devils are those who have the evil spirits operating from within and without. Those within will not allow their captives any freedom or rest, using many schemes against their minds and bodies. They often open their eyes of understanding to see the other demons outside, sometimes in the form of snakes, strange beings, etc.
In the matter of delivering such people, it is still through faith in the power and authority vested with the deliverer and in the name of Jesus (Luke. 9:1-2; Mark. 16:17-18; Matthew. 28:18; Philippians. 2:9-10). This means that the deliverer is full of assurance or confidence that the authority vested with him and power vested with the name of Jesus, can never be disobeyed (eg. Mark. 5:2-13; 9:17-18, 20, 25-26; Acts 8:5-7; 16:16-18).
This authority and the resultant faith that was in use in the above instances can be illustrated with what happens between the law enforcement officer and the suspect. The law enforce-ment officer has been sent with authority to arrest a suspect. Once it is proven that the officer is a genuine one, the suspect complies with his orders. It can also be likened to what happens between the traffic policeman and the motorist. The motorist has no option than to heed the stop-order of the policeman.
When the devils see this unwavering assurance, they do not have any option than to depart forthwith (eg. Acts 16:16-18). If this faith is not there, God’s power will not be released. Moreover, the devils don’t obey mere statements (eg. Mark 9:17-19).
iv Other Services
By other services is meant all the other works we do for the freedom and edification of men, apart from the ones already discussed. These include (among others):- singing, giving to the store-house of the Lord to progress the work of the Movement and for the care of the needy, clerical, technical and professional services, etc. For these services to be acceptable to the Lord, they must be rendered in faith. The giver is giving as to the Lord, willingly, cheerfully and expecting or not expecting reward (as the case may be ) (implied in Ephesians 6:5-8; 2 Cor. 9:7). The singer is singing as to the Lord, to please Him and with the mind of influencing the hearts of men (when the song is meant for edification of men) (cons. Exodus 15:1-21; Psalm 33:1-3; 2 Chronicles 20:22; 1 Chronicles 6:31-32). On their part, the clerical, technical and professional service-givers are also giving their services as to the Lord, not man and not with eye service, expecting or not expecting reward (as the case may be) Ephesians 6:5-8).
By other services is meant all the other works we do for the freedom and edification of men, apart from the ones already discussed. These include (among others):- singing, giving to the store-house of the Lord to progress the work of the Movement and for the care of the needy, clerical, technical and professional services, etc. For these services to be acceptable to the Lord, they must be rendered in faith. The giver is giving as to the Lord, willingly, cheerfully and expecting or not expecting reward (as the case may be ) (implied in Ephesians 6:5-8; 2 Cor. 9:7). The singer is singing as to the Lord, to please Him and with the mind of influencing the hearts of men (when the song is meant for edification of men) (cons. Exodus 15:1-21; Psalm 33:1-3; 2 Chronicles 20:22; 1 Chronicles 6:31-32). On their part, the clerical, technical and professional service-givers are also giving their services as to the Lord, not man and not with eye service, expecting or not expecting reward (as the case may be) Ephesians 6:5-8).
Faith In Receiving Heaven’s Gifts
HEAVEN’S gift in this context include, salvation (in other words, forgiveness and remission of sins and regeneration of heart), circumcision of heart (ie. Sanctification), baptism of the Holy Spirit, divine healing and health. Others are, divine protection, guidance, provision and intervention, gifts of the Holy Spirit, etc.
For anyone to receive any of these heaven’s gifts, the person must believe what the Bile has revealed about such gifts. The person must also ask in prayer and believe unwaveringly that he has got what he asked for (Matthew 7:7-8; 21-22; James 1:5-7).
For instance, if a sinner wants to be saved, he must believe that he was not only born in sin, but has continued willfully in sin, and so, come short of the glory of God, and under the condemnation of God (Psalm 51:5; Romans 3:23; 5:12-18). He must further believe that continuing in sin and dying in same will lead him to hell fire (John 8:24; Psalm 9:17; Hebrews 6:8; Revelation 21:8). He must believe that, since Jesus Christ died for the sins of all men (Isaiah 53:12; John 10:11; Romans 5:6; 1 Corin-thians 15:3; 2 Corinthians 5:15), his sins can, and will be forgiven if he comes to God in repentance. Reali-zing these truths, he now goes to God in prayer, repenting and confessing his sins and believing unwaveringly thereafter that all his sins have been forgiven and blotted out. At this point, the act of God takes place, his sins are forgiven, he is justified and his heart is regenerated. The above act of God become his lot through his faith, notwithstanding his feelings.
HEAVEN’S gift in this context include, salvation (in other words, forgiveness and remission of sins and regeneration of heart), circumcision of heart (ie. Sanctification), baptism of the Holy Spirit, divine healing and health. Others are, divine protection, guidance, provision and intervention, gifts of the Holy Spirit, etc.
For anyone to receive any of these heaven’s gifts, the person must believe what the Bile has revealed about such gifts. The person must also ask in prayer and believe unwaveringly that he has got what he asked for (Matthew 7:7-8; 21-22; James 1:5-7).
For instance, if a sinner wants to be saved, he must believe that he was not only born in sin, but has continued willfully in sin, and so, come short of the glory of God, and under the condemnation of God (Psalm 51:5; Romans 3:23; 5:12-18). He must further believe that continuing in sin and dying in same will lead him to hell fire (John 8:24; Psalm 9:17; Hebrews 6:8; Revelation 21:8). He must believe that, since Jesus Christ died for the sins of all men (Isaiah 53:12; John 10:11; Romans 5:6; 1 Corin-thians 15:3; 2 Corinthians 5:15), his sins can, and will be forgiven if he comes to God in repentance. Reali-zing these truths, he now goes to God in prayer, repenting and confessing his sins and believing unwaveringly thereafter that all his sins have been forgiven and blotted out. At this point, the act of God takes place, his sins are forgiven, he is justified and his heart is regenerated. The above act of God become his lot through his faith, notwithstanding his feelings.
Faith In Prayers
It is a known fact that the prayers of many believers today are rather thunderous and exciting. But it is also obvious that the results are not commensurate to the nature of these prayers. This shows that there is something wrong somewhere and that thing is, the lack of faith in such prayers. This type of situation was there even in the early church. Peter had been imprisoned and was about to be killed by Herod, but prayers were made without ceasing (and of course vibrantly) by the church for him (Acts 12:1-5). But the reaction of the people after the miraculous escape of Peter from the prison shows that they hardly believed that God was going to set Peter free (Acts 12:6-16). It can be concluded that God gave the miracle because He had ordained a ministry for Peter, which he (Peter) needed to fulfill, and so, must be delivered. It is the same reason that underlines the conception of John the Baptist. Because Zacharias would not believe the announcement of the Angel, God would have refrained from giving John the Baptist, if not for the ministry He had ordained for him (cons. Luke 1:5-20).
It is a known fact that the prayers of many believers today are rather thunderous and exciting. But it is also obvious that the results are not commensurate to the nature of these prayers. This shows that there is something wrong somewhere and that thing is, the lack of faith in such prayers. This type of situation was there even in the early church. Peter had been imprisoned and was about to be killed by Herod, but prayers were made without ceasing (and of course vibrantly) by the church for him (Acts 12:1-5). But the reaction of the people after the miraculous escape of Peter from the prison shows that they hardly believed that God was going to set Peter free (Acts 12:6-16). It can be concluded that God gave the miracle because He had ordained a ministry for Peter, which he (Peter) needed to fulfill, and so, must be delivered. It is the same reason that underlines the conception of John the Baptist. Because Zacharias would not believe the announcement of the Angel, God would have refrained from giving John the Baptist, if not for the ministry He had ordained for him (cons. Luke 1:5-20).
Knowing the role of faith, that without it, we cannot please God (Hebrews 11:6), nor can we receive anything from the Lord (James 1:5-7), our prayer-lives must change forthwith to contain this all-important ingredient.
i. Prayers Of Worship Or Thanksgiving
We must pray, worshipping and thanking God in faith, ie, seeing Him that is invisible, while we are praying (cp. Hebrews 11:27; Matthew 11:25-26; John 6:11), and He that rewards them that diligently worship Him (Hebrews 11:6). Any prayers of worship or thanksgiving (or of whatever purpose), which is not made in faith is like speaking into the air.
We must pray, worshipping and thanking God in faith, ie, seeing Him that is invisible, while we are praying (cp. Hebrews 11:27; Matthew 11:25-26; John 6:11), and He that rewards them that diligently worship Him (Hebrews 11:6). Any prayers of worship or thanksgiving (or of whatever purpose), which is not made in faith is like speaking into the air.
ii Prayers of Intercession, Petition or Request
In these kinds of prayers, the rule of faith, which we have been considering still applies. Without believing in the omnipotence of God and that we have received what we are requesting, our prayers of intercession, petition or request are worthless (Hebrews 11:6; James 1:5-7). Therefore, it is one thing to ask for the salvation of our children, parents, husbands/wives, the healing of our bodies or those of others, or protection of God on our lives and property, or whatever petition and intercession we are making; yet it is another altogether to believe unwaveringly that God, being good, omnipotent and willing, has granted our petitions. It is when these two distinct things constitute the prayer, that the answer comes (cons. Matthew 21:21-22; Mark 11:23-24; implied in Matthew 7:7-8; Luke. 11:9-11; James 5:16).
In these kinds of prayers, the rule of faith, which we have been considering still applies. Without believing in the omnipotence of God and that we have received what we are requesting, our prayers of intercession, petition or request are worthless (Hebrews 11:6; James 1:5-7). Therefore, it is one thing to ask for the salvation of our children, parents, husbands/wives, the healing of our bodies or those of others, or protection of God on our lives and property, or whatever petition and intercession we are making; yet it is another altogether to believe unwaveringly that God, being good, omnipotent and willing, has granted our petitions. It is when these two distinct things constitute the prayer, that the answer comes (cons. Matthew 21:21-22; Mark 11:23-24; implied in Matthew 7:7-8; Luke. 11:9-11; James 5:16).
Faith For Adventures
An adventure is an unusual, exciting or dangerous experience or undertaking. This treatise on faith for the ministry and for ministry will not be complete without considering faith for adventures.
Some Bible-days’ adventures include: Joshua warring against those Gentile nations on the other side of Jordan (Joshua 6, 8, 10 etc); David confronting and killing the bear and the lion bare-handedly (1 Samuel 17:32-37); David confronting and killing the Philistine giant - Goliath (1 Samuel 17:32-52). Others are: Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego daring the fiery furnace of Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 3:14-18); Daniel accepting to be thrown into the lion’s den (Daniel 6:5-10); Esther contravening the unchanging laws of the Medes and Persians (Esther 4:10-5:2); Peter stepping out of the boat to walk on the sea (Matthew 14:26-29).
Besides, some examples of the adventures of today are: Taking the gospel to these ancient and fortified institutions of religious errors; taking the gospel to nations that restrict it.
Nonetheless, we realize that there is no fortification or danger of any type that faith in God will not conquer/crush. Nebuchadnezzar’s majesty and terror were conquered by the faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego (Daniel 3:16-28). Goliath’s awesomeness, expertise and the Philistines’ confidence were demolished by David’s faith in God (1 Samuel 17:1-11, 32-52). The unchangeable law of the Medes and Persians was altered by Esther’s faith in God (Esther 4:10-5:2). The dread of the sea was temporarily overcome by Peter’s faith in the Person and word of Jesus (Matthew 14:26-29).
We have received a ministry, some of whose aspects are rather adventures. But glory to God, FAITH IN GOD STILL WORKS.
An adventure is an unusual, exciting or dangerous experience or undertaking. This treatise on faith for the ministry and for ministry will not be complete without considering faith for adventures.
Some Bible-days’ adventures include: Joshua warring against those Gentile nations on the other side of Jordan (Joshua 6, 8, 10 etc); David confronting and killing the bear and the lion bare-handedly (1 Samuel 17:32-37); David confronting and killing the Philistine giant - Goliath (1 Samuel 17:32-52). Others are: Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego daring the fiery furnace of Nebuchadnezzar (Daniel 3:14-18); Daniel accepting to be thrown into the lion’s den (Daniel 6:5-10); Esther contravening the unchanging laws of the Medes and Persians (Esther 4:10-5:2); Peter stepping out of the boat to walk on the sea (Matthew 14:26-29).
Besides, some examples of the adventures of today are: Taking the gospel to these ancient and fortified institutions of religious errors; taking the gospel to nations that restrict it.
Nonetheless, we realize that there is no fortification or danger of any type that faith in God will not conquer/crush. Nebuchadnezzar’s majesty and terror were conquered by the faith of Shadrach, Meshach and Abednego (Daniel 3:16-28). Goliath’s awesomeness, expertise and the Philistines’ confidence were demolished by David’s faith in God (1 Samuel 17:1-11, 32-52). The unchangeable law of the Medes and Persians was altered by Esther’s faith in God (Esther 4:10-5:2). The dread of the sea was temporarily overcome by Peter’s faith in the Person and word of Jesus (Matthew 14:26-29).
We have received a ministry, some of whose aspects are rather adventures. But glory to God, FAITH IN GOD STILL WORKS.
Faith In, And Outside The Sanctuary
This point on the on-going treatises on faith is borne out of the need for us to know the tendencies within the sanctuary and outside it. By the sanctuary is meant, the fellowship centre or the meeting place (the house of God), where we gather to worship the Lord, listen to His word, pray, etc.
It is obvious that whenever we come to the house of God, the atmosphere is charged and changed, because of the presence of the Spirit of God (Matthew 18:20) and the word of God, apart from the influence of songs and choruses, renditions from the choir, testimonies, the word of knowledge/wisdom, prophecy, speaking in tongues and powerful prayers of ministers. In such a circumstance, it is easy for one to readily believe that one’s confessed sins have been forgiven, intercessions granted and requests for whatever also granted.
Howbeit, there is this other tendency when we get out of the sanctuary. The whole atmosphere in the sanctuary having dissipated, the mind tends to go into doubt. This is the time of test of faith (Genesis 22:1-2; Deuteronomy 8:2; 1 Peter 1:7; James 1:3).
The Lord will not want us to fail the test. And if we will not fail, but continually and completely believe until we have received (even if years pass), then we must be aware of the following:-
God is omnipotent within and without the sanctuary (Luke. 1:36-37; Job 42:2; Isaiah 43:13; Matthew 19:26; with Malachi 3:6; Psalm 102:27; Hebrews 1:12; Jas. 1:17).
God remains omnipotent, in the face of seemingly terrible and mind-bending experiences or circumstances (cons. Mark 4:36-40; Luke. 1:30-37).
The promises of God, through revelations, word of knowledge, prophecy or ordinarily on any matter is unchanging (Numbers 23:18-24; James. 1:17; 1 Kings. 8:56; Ezekiel. 12:25; Matthew 5:18, unless one goes into sin or unbelief and remains there (eg. 1 Samuel 2:30; Isaiah. 7:3-9; Numbers. 14:21-23; Hebrews 4:1-2).
Outside the sanctuary, there is always the test of faith, which we must pass (1 Peter 1:7; James. 1:3; Deuteronomy. 8:2).
This point on the on-going treatises on faith is borne out of the need for us to know the tendencies within the sanctuary and outside it. By the sanctuary is meant, the fellowship centre or the meeting place (the house of God), where we gather to worship the Lord, listen to His word, pray, etc.
It is obvious that whenever we come to the house of God, the atmosphere is charged and changed, because of the presence of the Spirit of God (Matthew 18:20) and the word of God, apart from the influence of songs and choruses, renditions from the choir, testimonies, the word of knowledge/wisdom, prophecy, speaking in tongues and powerful prayers of ministers. In such a circumstance, it is easy for one to readily believe that one’s confessed sins have been forgiven, intercessions granted and requests for whatever also granted.
Howbeit, there is this other tendency when we get out of the sanctuary. The whole atmosphere in the sanctuary having dissipated, the mind tends to go into doubt. This is the time of test of faith (Genesis 22:1-2; Deuteronomy 8:2; 1 Peter 1:7; James 1:3).
The Lord will not want us to fail the test. And if we will not fail, but continually and completely believe until we have received (even if years pass), then we must be aware of the following:-
God is omnipotent within and without the sanctuary (Luke. 1:36-37; Job 42:2; Isaiah 43:13; Matthew 19:26; with Malachi 3:6; Psalm 102:27; Hebrews 1:12; Jas. 1:17).
God remains omnipotent, in the face of seemingly terrible and mind-bending experiences or circumstances (cons. Mark 4:36-40; Luke. 1:30-37).
The promises of God, through revelations, word of knowledge, prophecy or ordinarily on any matter is unchanging (Numbers 23:18-24; James. 1:17; 1 Kings. 8:56; Ezekiel. 12:25; Matthew 5:18, unless one goes into sin or unbelief and remains there (eg. 1 Samuel 2:30; Isaiah. 7:3-9; Numbers. 14:21-23; Hebrews 4:1-2).
Outside the sanctuary, there is always the test of faith, which we must pass (1 Peter 1:7; James. 1:3; Deuteronomy. 8:2).
Faith In God & God’s Perfect Will
It is obvious that some substantial ground has been covered so far in this matter of faith in God. At this point, the relationship between this matter of faith in God and God’s perfect will on matters must be shown. If one is ignorant of this relationship, one is likely to begin to manifest faith in God indiscriminately, not minding whether what one is believing God for is in keeping with God’s perfect will or not.
It is obvious that some substantial ground has been covered so far in this matter of faith in God. At this point, the relationship between this matter of faith in God and God’s perfect will on matters must be shown. If one is ignorant of this relationship, one is likely to begin to manifest faith in God indiscriminately, not minding whether what one is believing God for is in keeping with God’s perfect will or not.
The lead Scripture in this matter is 1 John 5:14. “And this is the confidence that we have in Him, that, if we ask anything according to His will, He heareth us”. It follows therefore that, if we ask anything that is not in keeping with His perfect will, or the truth of His Word, He will not answer us, though we manifested some great faith in Him.
Consider the following instances:- If a believer goes manifesting faith that God will convince an unbelieving woman/man to marry him/her, such faith is a wasted one (cons. 2 Corinthians. 6:14-16; Isaiah 52:11). If a child of God, whom God, in His omniscience knows that he will be influenced and destroyed by money goes believing God implicitly that he will get a lot of money (even to help sponsor God’s work), such faith will yield no dividend (cons. Luke. 12:15; John. 17:12, 15; 1 Timothy. 6:9-10). If another manifests faith to get visa/resident permit to go and live or study in a land that will surely corrupt and return him to sin and Satan, such faith will not be honoured (cons. John. 17:12, 15; 1 Timothy. 2:4; 1 Corinthians. 15:33). Suppose another goes believing God unwaveringly for an unrighteous means to be prospered by the Lord, such faith is null and void (cons. Romans 9:14; Deuteronomy 32:4; Jeremiah 23:6). If we pray, believing God implicitly that one (whom He has decided that he/she should die) live, such faith will not be honoured, unless there is another perfect will of God that can supersede the first. Examples: Hezekiah changed God’s will that he should die because he proved a point - the fact that it was God’s perfect will to reward them that fear/obey Him with long life (Isaiah 38:1-4, Psalm 91:16; 1 Kings. 3:14).
Moses also changed God’s will of instantaneous extermination of those Israeli multitudes because he proved that it was God’s original perfect will to let them (the seed of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob) have the land of Canaan (Exodus 32:9-14; Genesis 12:7; 13:14-17). On the part of the Canaanitish woman, she was able to change Christ’s will not to give her the blessing of the children because the woman proved that the blessing of the children usually spills out to non-children, and this was to be true of Christ’s blessings later on (Matthew 15:21-28). If one goes believing God that one will deliberately take poison or step on a venomous snake and not be hurt, the one will surely be hurt (cons. Matthew. 4:5-7; Deuteronomy 6:16; 1 Corinthians 10:9; 2 Peter 2:10). The list of things that are contrary to the perfect will of God, for which we must not manifest faith in God can continue. On the other hand, there is a world of things in keeping with the perfect will of God for our lives, families and ministries, for which we should believe God and keep receiving.
So then, in this matter of faith in God, we must be sure that we are asking and exercising faith for things that are not contrary to God’s perfect will, lest we run into disappointments and discouragements.
Faith In God & Holiness
This is another issue in the matter of faith in God, of which we need to be sufficiently informed. Apparently, there are Christians (so called), who deliberately do not bother about right-living, only teaching, emphasizing and manifesting faith for the mundane things of this world. They also claim to be receiving their ‘miracles’. If their claim is true, then the devils have played on their ignorance, as we shall see later in this sub-section.
For true children of God, they know that faith in God must go with right-living, else, one risks being tricked by devils or disappointments. A number of Bible instances will prove this point. After destroying and capturing Jericho, the people of Israel — the spies, Joshua and the rest, manifested faith in God, believing that they needed only a few thousands of soldiers to take Ai, but this turned out a presumption because, Israel had already been defiled by the sin of Achan (see Joshua 7:1-11). After he had transgressed in revealing the secret of his power to Delilah, Samson thought and believed that God was still with him, but alas, that was also a presumption (Judges 16:1-20). Through the mouth of prophet Isaiah, the Lord, who nicknamed His people and their rulers ‘Sodom and Gomorrah’, declared that all their sacrifices and feasts unto Him (and of course in faith) were vain things (see Isaiah 1:9-15). James said, “ye ask (and in faith too), and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts” (James 4:3).
In the face of the above instances and much more, it is absurd to think that God will honour the faith of sinning “believers”, having covetousness, lusts for the mundane things of this life, pride, etc. Hath He not declared that He will only honour those who honour Him? (1 Samuel 2:30).
However, it is possible that, by virtue of His universal goodness and for the purpose of drawing them to Himself, sinners manifest faith in God and He would hear them; but for true children of God, they know that faith in God must go with right-living, else, one risks being tricked by devils or disappointments. A number of Bible instances will prove this point. After destroying and capturing Jericho, the people of Israel - the spies, Joshua and the rest manifested faith in God, believing that they needed only a few thousands of soldiers to take AI, but this turned out a presumption because, Israel had already been defiled by the sin of Achan (see Joshua 7:1-11) (cons. Romans 2:4; John. 6:44; 12:32).
Those Christians (so called), deliberately not bothered about right-living, who claim to be making “break-throughs” to the things of this world by “their great faith in God” are unfortunately being tricked by the devils. If care is not taken, they will be among those to fulfill the Lord’s prediction in Matthew 7:21-23.
Consider the following instances:- If a believer goes manifesting faith that God will convince an unbelieving woman/man to marry him/her, such faith is a wasted one (cons. 2 Corinthians. 6:14-16; Isaiah 52:11). If a child of God, whom God, in His omniscience knows that he will be influenced and destroyed by money goes believing God implicitly that he will get a lot of money (even to help sponsor God’s work), such faith will yield no dividend (cons. Luke. 12:15; John. 17:12, 15; 1 Timothy. 6:9-10). If another manifests faith to get visa/resident permit to go and live or study in a land that will surely corrupt and return him to sin and Satan, such faith will not be honoured (cons. John. 17:12, 15; 1 Timothy. 2:4; 1 Corinthians. 15:33). Suppose another goes believing God unwaveringly for an unrighteous means to be prospered by the Lord, such faith is null and void (cons. Romans 9:14; Deuteronomy 32:4; Jeremiah 23:6). If we pray, believing God implicitly that one (whom He has decided that he/she should die) live, such faith will not be honoured, unless there is another perfect will of God that can supersede the first. Examples: Hezekiah changed God’s will that he should die because he proved a point - the fact that it was God’s perfect will to reward them that fear/obey Him with long life (Isaiah 38:1-4, Psalm 91:16; 1 Kings. 3:14).
Moses also changed God’s will of instantaneous extermination of those Israeli multitudes because he proved that it was God’s original perfect will to let them (the seed of Abraham, Isaac and Jacob) have the land of Canaan (Exodus 32:9-14; Genesis 12:7; 13:14-17). On the part of the Canaanitish woman, she was able to change Christ’s will not to give her the blessing of the children because the woman proved that the blessing of the children usually spills out to non-children, and this was to be true of Christ’s blessings later on (Matthew 15:21-28). If one goes believing God that one will deliberately take poison or step on a venomous snake and not be hurt, the one will surely be hurt (cons. Matthew. 4:5-7; Deuteronomy 6:16; 1 Corinthians 10:9; 2 Peter 2:10). The list of things that are contrary to the perfect will of God, for which we must not manifest faith in God can continue. On the other hand, there is a world of things in keeping with the perfect will of God for our lives, families and ministries, for which we should believe God and keep receiving.
So then, in this matter of faith in God, we must be sure that we are asking and exercising faith for things that are not contrary to God’s perfect will, lest we run into disappointments and discouragements.
Faith In God & Holiness
This is another issue in the matter of faith in God, of which we need to be sufficiently informed. Apparently, there are Christians (so called), who deliberately do not bother about right-living, only teaching, emphasizing and manifesting faith for the mundane things of this world. They also claim to be receiving their ‘miracles’. If their claim is true, then the devils have played on their ignorance, as we shall see later in this sub-section.
For true children of God, they know that faith in God must go with right-living, else, one risks being tricked by devils or disappointments. A number of Bible instances will prove this point. After destroying and capturing Jericho, the people of Israel — the spies, Joshua and the rest, manifested faith in God, believing that they needed only a few thousands of soldiers to take Ai, but this turned out a presumption because, Israel had already been defiled by the sin of Achan (see Joshua 7:1-11). After he had transgressed in revealing the secret of his power to Delilah, Samson thought and believed that God was still with him, but alas, that was also a presumption (Judges 16:1-20). Through the mouth of prophet Isaiah, the Lord, who nicknamed His people and their rulers ‘Sodom and Gomorrah’, declared that all their sacrifices and feasts unto Him (and of course in faith) were vain things (see Isaiah 1:9-15). James said, “ye ask (and in faith too), and receive not, because ye ask amiss, that ye may consume it upon your lusts” (James 4:3).
In the face of the above instances and much more, it is absurd to think that God will honour the faith of sinning “believers”, having covetousness, lusts for the mundane things of this life, pride, etc. Hath He not declared that He will only honour those who honour Him? (1 Samuel 2:30).
However, it is possible that, by virtue of His universal goodness and for the purpose of drawing them to Himself, sinners manifest faith in God and He would hear them; but for true children of God, they know that faith in God must go with right-living, else, one risks being tricked by devils or disappointments. A number of Bible instances will prove this point. After destroying and capturing Jericho, the people of Israel - the spies, Joshua and the rest manifested faith in God, believing that they needed only a few thousands of soldiers to take AI, but this turned out a presumption because, Israel had already been defiled by the sin of Achan (see Joshua 7:1-11) (cons. Romans 2:4; John. 6:44; 12:32).
Those Christians (so called), deliberately not bothered about right-living, who claim to be making “break-throughs” to the things of this world by “their great faith in God” are unfortunately being tricked by the devils. If care is not taken, they will be among those to fulfill the Lord’s prediction in Matthew 7:21-23.
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