Challenging Traditional Views on Preaching: A Biblical Perspective
Today, I want to challenge our traditional thinking about preaching. It's a topic close to my heart, and I believe it's time we take a fresh look at what the Bible really says about this crucial aspect of our faith.
Introduction
Have you ever wondered if there's more to preaching than what we commonly see in our churches? I certainly have. The idea I want to explore with you today is this: preaching is primarily for unbelievers, not just for delivering a monologue to the same congregation repeatedly for decades.
I know this might sound radical to some, but bear with me. In this blog post, I aim to dive into the biblical foundation for preaching to unbelievers and challenge the conventional notion of preaching as a weekly monologue to the same audience. Let's embark on this journey together, with open minds and hearts ready to be shaped by God's Word.
The Traditional View of Preaching
Before we delve into what the Bible says, let's consider the common misconception many of us have grown up with. In many churches, preaching is seen as giving a monologue to the same congregation week after week. It's a familiar scene: the pastor stands at the pulpit, delivers a sermon, and the congregation listens attentively (or sometimes not so attentively).
But where did this idea come from? To understand this, we need to look at some historical and cultural factors.
The origin of this perception can be traced back to several key developments in church history. In the early centuries of Christianity, as the church became more institutionalized, there was a gradual shift from the house church model to larger gatherings in dedicated buildings. This shift naturally led to a more formalized structure of worship, including the sermon as a central element.
The Protestant Reformation, while emphasizing the importance of Scripture and personal faith, also inadvertently contributed to this model. The reformers' focus on the centrality of preaching in worship services reinforced the idea of a single speaker addressing a congregation.
In more recent times, the rise of mass media and the "celebrity pastor" phenomenon has further entrenched this model. Large churches and televised services have made it seem normal for one person to speak to thousands, reinforcing the one-to-many relationship in preaching.
Cultural factors have played a role too. In many societies, there's a tradition of respecting authority figures, which can translate into a passive acceptance of the preacher's words without much dialogue or questioning. The education system, with its lecture-based model, has also influenced how we perceive learning in church settings.
However, this model presents a problem. The focus on creating large congregations necessitates an uninterrupted monologue for information transfer, which is not the biblical model of discipleship. It can create a passive audience rather than active disciples, and it doesn't necessarily lead to the kind of transformative growth we see in the New Testament church.
Now that we've identified this issue, let's turn to the Bible to see what it really says about preaching.
Biblical Context and Examples
When we look at the Bible, we find a much more dynamic and engaging picture of preaching than what we often see in our churches today. Let's explore some key examples.
Paul's Preaching in Acts 20
One often misunderstood passage is Acts 20:9-11, where Paul is preaching, and a young man named Eutychus falls asleep and dies. Many say this as an example of long sermons, but a closer look reveals something different.
The King James Version says:
"And there sat in a window a certain young man named Eutychus, being fallen into a deep sleep: and as Paul was long preaching, he sunk down with sleep, and fell down from the third loft, and was taken up dead." (Acts 20:9, KJV)
The key here is the Greek word used for "preaching." It's "dialegomai," which means more of a discussion or dialogue, not a monologue. This word is usually translated as 'disputing' or 'reasoned' and is only used as 'preach' in Acts chapter 20. This is different from the word used in Romans 10, which we'll look at later. Paul wasn't just talking at people; he was engaging in a lively discussion that went on for hours!
Open-Air Preaching in the Bible
When we look at Jesus and the apostles, we see them often preaching in open spaces, addressing large, diverse crowds. The Sermon on the Mount is a prime example:
"And seeing the multitudes, he went up into a mountain: and when he was set, his disciples came unto him: And he opened his mouth, and taught them, saying," (Matthew 5:1-2, KJV)
Jesus didn't confine His preaching to a synagogue or a select group. He went where the people were and spoke to them directly.
Similarly, we see Paul engaging with people in public spaces. In Athens, he reasoned with people in the marketplace and at the Areopagus:
"Then certain philosophers of the Epicureans, and of the Stoicks, encountered him. And some said, What will this babbler say? other some, He seemeth to be a setter forth of strange gods: because he preached unto them Jesus, and the resurrection." (Acts 17:18, KJV)
Preaching to the Lost
A crucial point we often overlook is that preaching in the New Testament is primarily directed towards those who have never heard the Gospel. Paul makes this clear in his letter to the Romans:
"Yea, so have I strived to preach the gospel, not where Christ was named, lest I should build upon another man's foundation:" (Romans 15:20, KJV)
And again in 2 Corinthians:
"To preach the gospel in the regions beyond you, and not to boast in another man's line of things made ready to our hand." (2 Corinthians 10:16, KJV)
The Greek Word 'Kerusso': To Publicly Herald the Gospel
The word 'kerusso' is used 61 times in the New Testament to indicate public proclamation. This isn't about speaking to a closed group of believers, but publicly declaring the good news to all who would hear. This is the same Greek word Jesus uses in the Great Commission passage found in Mark 16.
In Romans 10, Paul emphasizes the importance of preaching to those who haven't heard:
"How then shall they call on him in whom they have not believed? and how shall they believe in him of whom they have not heard? and how shall they hear without a preacher?" (Romans 10:14, KJV)
Biblical Model of Discipleship
While we've established that preaching in the New Testament was primarily directed towards unbelievers, it's crucial to understand how this fits into Jesus' overall ministry model. Jesus' approach provides a clear distinction between preaching to the masses and discipling believers.
When addressing large crowds of primarily unbelievers, Jesus often used parables:
"And he spake many things unto them in parables, saying, Behold, a sower went forth to sow;" (Matthew 13:3, KJV)
These parables weren't straightforward sermons but thought-provoking stories that challenged listeners to engage with His message. This method of preaching to unbelievers invited reflection and personal discovery, sparking curiosity that might lead to deeper inquiry.
However, Jesus' approach to those who believed was markedly different. He focused on small group discipleship, pouring most of His time and energy into three key disciples—Peter, James, and John—while also mentoring the other nine, albeit less intensively.
This dual approach highlights an important distinction: preaching, in its purest form, was aimed at introducing unbelievers to the Gospel, while discipleship was reserved for believers who sought to deepen their faith.
By recognizing this difference, we can see that the common practice of delivering weekly sermons to the same congregation doesn't align with the biblical model of preaching. Instead, it more closely resembles discipleship, which Jesus conducted in smaller, more intimate settings.
This realization challenges us to rethink our current church structures. Are we truly engaging in biblical preaching if we're primarily addressing the same group of believers week after week? Should we not, like Jesus and the apostles, be focusing our preaching efforts on reaching those outside the church, while reserving more intensive, relationship-based teaching for those already in the faith?
By understanding and applying this biblical model, we can more effectively fulfill both the Great Commission to preach the Gospel to all creatures (Mark 16:15) and the command to make disciples (Matthew 28:19-20). It's about striking the right balance between reaching out to unbelievers through public preaching and nurturing believers through intimate discipleship.
Historical Context: Whitefield and Wesley
To bring this into a more recent historical context, let's look at George Whitefield and John Wesley. These two great preachers of the 18th century revolutionized how the Gospel was shared, particularly through their embrace of open-air preaching.
Initially, John Wesley was hesitant about preaching outside of church buildings. He considered it a breach of church order and was uncomfortable with the idea. However, his friend George Whitefield saw the potential to reach those who would never darken the door of a church.
In his journal entry for March 29, 1739, Wesley recounts his pivotal decision to join Whitefield in open-air preaching:
"I could scarce reconcile myself at first to this strange way of preaching in the fields, of which he [Whitefield] set me an example on Sunday; having been all my life (till very lately) so tenacious of every point relating to decency and order, that I should have thought the saving of souls almost a sin if it had not been done in a church."
This moment marked a significant turning point in Wesley's ministry. Despite his initial reservations, he soon saw the profound impact of this approach. In the same journal entry, he continues:
"In the evening I reached Bristol, and met Mr. Whitefield there. I could scarce believe he would suffer me to declare, as I had determined, if it were permitted me, the glad tidings of salvation, in the highways and hedges, to all who would hear. But he did not say a word against it; so on Monday, April 2, I began expounding our Lord's Sermon on the Mount, in a place called the Brickyard, to about three thousand people."
Whitefield's influence and Wesley's willingness to step out of his comfort zone led to a revolutionary approach to evangelism. Their open-air preaching was considered scandalous at the time. The established church frowned upon preaching outside of consecrated buildings. But these men saw the need to reach people where they were, just as Jesus and the apostles had done.
Their open-air preaching had a significant impact during the Great Awakening. They reached thousands who would never have set foot in a church, bringing the Gospel to the masses in a way that hadn't been seen since the early church. Wesley himself would go on to preach over 40,000 sermons in his lifetime, many of them in the open air.
This historical example reinforces our earlier points about the nature of biblical preaching. Like Jesus and the apostles, Whitefield and Wesley took the message to the people, focusing on reaching those who were outside the church. Their approach challenges us to reconsider our modern methods and to ask ourselves: Are we truly following the biblical and historical model of preaching?
Conclusion
As we've explored the biblical and historical evidence, it becomes clear that our traditional view of preaching needs to be challenged. Preaching, in its purest form, is not about delivering weekly monologues to the same group of believers. It's about reaching the lost, engaging in dialogue, and fostering deep, personal discipleship.
I want to encourage you to rethink your approach to preaching and consider the biblical examples we've discussed. Here are some practical steps you can take:
Prioritize evangelistic preaching: Look for opportunities to share the Gospel with those who haven't heard it.
Engage in dialogue: Don't just preach at people, but create opportunities for discussion and questions.
Focus on discipleship: Invest deeply in a few people, following Jesus' model.
Be willing to go where the people are: Don't limit your preaching to church buildings.
Use stories and parables: Engage people's minds and hearts, not just their ears.
Remember, the goal of preaching is not to create passive listeners, but to make disciples who will, in turn, make more disciples. As we align our practices more closely with the biblical model, we may see a revival in our churches and communities that rivals the Great Awakening.
Let's be bold in our proclamation of the Gospel, innovative in our methods, and always grounded in the truth of God's Word. The world is waiting to hear the good news. Will we deliver it as Jesus and the apostles did?
I pray that this exploration has challenged and inspired you. May we all grow in our understanding and practice of true biblical preaching, for the glory of God and the expansion of His kingdom.
Today, I want to talk about something that’s been more than just a passing thought; it's a topic that has been stirring deep in my soul for a long, long time. You know how the Lord plants a seed? It’s not something you can rush. You can't just dig it up the next day to see if it’s growing. You rise and sleep, and somehow, God gives the increase. This particular seed has been bubbling up to the surface, and I finally have to speak on it.
The words are exhort, evangelize, and preach.
Have you ever found yourself sitting in a church service, looking around, and a quiet question forms in your mind: "Where is this in the Scripture?" Maybe you’ve felt a disconnect, a disparity between the traditions we practice and the raw, powerful faith we read about in the Book of Acts. It’s one of my biggest pet peeves, seeing how our traditions, as Jesus said to the Pharisees, can nullify the Word of God. When I read the book of Acts, a part of me gets fired up, even a little angry, because I see a model of the spiritual and supernatural life that seems so distant from our modern experience.
This post is about closing that gap. It's about rediscovering the original, potent meaning of these three foundational actions. It’s a call to examine ourselves, to see if we are truly in the faith as the Bible describes it, and to reclaim the dynamic, world-changing power that Jesus promised to His followers.
The Missing Signs: Where is the Power?
Let's start with a foundational promise from Jesus Himself. In Mark 16, He gives the Great Commission, and it's packed with a word we need to understand: preach.
"Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover." (Mark 16:15-18, KJV)
The passage doesn't stop there. It tells us what the disciples did next: "And they went forth, and preached every where, the Lord working with them, and confirming the word with signs following. Amen." (Mark 16:20, KJV)
This puts a critical question on my radar, and it should be on yours too: If these signs are meant to follow believers, where are they today? If we see a lack of the supernatural—the healings, the deliverance, the divine protection—we have to ask why. It forces us to examine ourselves, as Scripture commands, to see if we're truly in the faith. We often quote Hosea 4:6, "My people are destroyed for lack of knowledge." Could it be that our lack of knowledge about the true nature of preaching, exhorting, and evangelizing is what’s holding back the power of God in our lives and communities?
I believe we might be missing the mark. The word "sin" itself means "to miss the mark." So let's take aim and redefine our understanding of these crucial concepts, starting with the word "exhort."
1. The True Meaning of "Exhort" (Parakaleo)
When you hear the word "exhort," what comes to mind? For many, it might have a connotation of stern warning or correction. But the Greek word, parakaleo, is much richer. It’s related to Parakletos (the Comforter, the Holy Spirit) and means an impartation of solace, comfort, and consolation. The King James Dictionary defines it as "to embolden, to cheer, to advise... to excite or to give strength, spirit, or courage."
It’s about inciting someone to a good deed, to animate them, to urge them on. Paul uses it this way in 1 Corinthians 14:3, where he connects it directly with the prophetic gift:
"But he that prophesieth speaketh unto men to edification, and exhortation, and comfort." (1 Corinthians 14:3, KJV)
This is exactly what I see happen when we're out praying for people. So often, we encounter the "lost sheep of the house of Israel"—lukewarm or backslidden Christians who feel off-course. Our role in that moment is to exhort them. It’s a prophetic act of course correction. We remind them of the abundant life Jesus promised and help them identify the "rocks" in their soil—unforgiveness, bitterness, church hurt—that are choking out the Word. We use the keys to the kingdom that Jesus has given us to help them rise up in their faith again. This isn't about condemnation; it's about breathing courage and spirit back into a weary soul.
2. The Work of an "Evangelist" (Euaggelistes)
Next, let's look at "evangelist." We might think of massive crusades with figures like Reinhard Bonnke. But the word only appears three times in the New Testament. In 2 Timothy, Paul gives a charge to his young protégé that reveals the heart of this role:
"Preach the word; be instant in season, out of season; reprove, rebuke, exhort with all long suffering and doctrine... But watch thou in all things, endure afflictions, do the work of an evangelist, make full proof of thy ministry." (2 Timothy 4:2-5, KJV)
Notice the context: enduring afflictions, dealing with people who have "itching ears" and have turned to fables. The work of an evangelist is the work of a preacher of the gospel, and it’s not always glamorous. It involves perseverance and a commitment to truth even when it's unpopular. It's tied directly to the act of preaching and exhorting, often in difficult circumstances. It's a role every believer is called to step into in some capacity, sharing the good news wherever we are.
3. The Radical Call to "Preach" (Kerusso)
This brings us to the most misunderstood word of all: preach. What is your paradigm of preaching? Is it a polished 45-minute sermon delivered from a pulpit to a room full of saved people? For centuries, that has been the tradition handed down to us. But is it biblical?
The Greek word is kerusso, and it means "to herald, as a public crier." A herald doesn't speak in a private room; they cry out in the public square. They proclaim a message for all to hear. Look at how Jesus defines it when He sends out the twelve:
"And as ye go, preach, saying, The kingdom of heaven is at hand. Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give." (Matthew 10:7-8, KJV)
Notice they are going. They are moving. Christianity is a portable religion. And the preaching is immediately followed by supernatural power. Later in the same chapter, Jesus intensifies the public nature of this call:
"What I tell you in darkness, that speak ye in light: and what ye hear in the ear, that preach ye upon the housetops." (Matthew 10:27, KJV)
This is about a deep, personal, spiritual relationship with the biblical Jesus. What He speaks to us in the "darkness," in those quiet, prophetic night seasons, we are to proclaim from the rooftops! This isn't preaching to the choir; this is preaching to people who might want to harm you. It’s a public, bold, and courageous heralding of the good news.
From the Housetops to the Streets: My Experience
This isn't just theory for me. I’ve seen the difference between the traditional model and the biblical one firsthand. A while back, my wife Susan and I, along with some friends, went down to Beale Street in Memphis. We were just carrying signs that said "Jesus" and "Free Prayer." It was a typical night, with crowds hell-bent on partying. We saw a group with a PA system playing worship music. One of the guys saw my Christian t-shirt and the sign. The first thing he said to me was, "You want to talk?"
And just like that, I began to preach on a public street corner, right across from the Hard Rock Cafe. I talked about relationship, not religion. And you know what happened? The cops came and told me to stop. It was a stark reminder that when you’re truly preaching in the biblical sense, you will face opposition. But those are the people who need to hear it most.
On another occasion, during an outreach, I saw a man on the side of the road with his own PA system set up in a parking lot. He had a small pulpit and a microphone, and he was preaching the gospel with passion. We stopped to listen, and I was blown away. This was it. This was kerusso in action. This was biblical preaching. And as I watched, two or three different people walked up and gave the man an offering, completely unprompted. He didn't have to compel them or manipulate them. His obedience to the call bore witness in their spirits, and they wanted to support the work of God they were seeing.
A Call to Action for Team Jesus
I see articles every day about how our nation is drifting further from God, and I believe it's directly connected to the apathy in the Church. Too many of us are hiding in our buildings, just waiting for the rapture, when we are called to be out in our communities, making an impact. We are called to exhort the weary, to do the work of an evangelist, and to preach—to herald the good news—in the public square.
It's time for Team Jesus to rise up. It's time to step out of our comfort zones, endure the afflictions that may come, and get serious about bringing people into the kingdom of God. Ask yourself this sobering question: If your church disappeared today, would your community even notice?
Let's reclaim the spiritual, prophetic, and supernatural power that is our inhJoin the Conversation!
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How Paramahansa Yogananda's "Other Jesus" Infiltrated the Church
What if, before His ministry began, the Son of God had to take a seventeen-year gap year to travel to India and learn secret techniques from Hindu yogi masters? What if the power He demonstrated wasn't unique divinity, but a cosmic consciousness that anyone could achieve?
This might sound absurd, but for millions of people, this idea forms the very core of their spiritual path. It’s a belief system that was masterfully imported to America a century ago and has since woven itself deeply into the fabric of our culture, presenting a counterfeit Christ that is dangerously appealing.
Welcome to the blog. My name is Conrad, and my passion here at ConradRocks.Net is to help you cultivate a genuine, powerful, and supernatural relationship with the one true biblical Jesus. A vital part of that relationship is developing spiritual discernment—the ability to recognize a lie, especially when it’s wrapped in the words of Jesus Himself.
Today, we are going beyond the surface to unmask the staggering influence of an Eastern guru who redefined Jesus for the modern world, and whose ideas continue to lead countless hungry souls astray.
The Pain of a Hungry Soul in a Barren Land
I know the ache of spiritual thirst because I’ve lived it. Many of you have too. It’s the pain of being a genuine seeker, desperate for a real encounter with God, only to find yourself in a church where the Bible is treated like a history book instead of a living, breathing document.
I grew up in the cessationist tradition, a place where we were told magnificent stories about a God who used to part seas and heal the blind. The unspoken message was clear: He doesn't operate like that anymore.
It felt like being handed the keys to a supernatural Ferrari and being told how amazing it was, only to discover the engine would never turn on again. This created a massive disconnect for me, because my own life was filled with the supernatural. I had out-of-body encounters, demonic attacks, and unexplainable prophetic revelations, even as a kid. I was thrilled\! This proved to me that the supernatural car did work. God is real. Angels are real. Demons are real. Right now.
But when I took these genuine experiences to the older people that I trusted in my church, the reaction was crushing. It wasn't joy; it was fear. "That's dangerous, Conrad," they’d say. "That's not God. It's either your imagination or the demonic."
Though they were trying to protect me from their limited understanding, they invalidated my entire spiritual reality. In a tragic irony, the very system designed to lead people to God became the reason I was pushed out the door and into the waiting arms of the New Age. Jesus had strong words for religious leaders who created these kinds of barriers:
"But woe unto you, scribes and Pharisees, hypocrites\! for ye shut up the kingdom of heaven against men: for ye neither go in yourselves, neither suffer ye them that are entering to go in." Matthew 23:13
This is the pain point for so many: being made spiritually homeless by the very people who were supposed to provide a home.
For a boy who was told the supernatural was a relic of the past, this book was electric. Yogananda wrote of levitating saints, masters who could be in two places at once, and a direct, "scientific" path to experiencing God. It validated every spiritual longing I had. I was sure I’d hit the spiritual jackpot.
And I wasn't alone. Steve Jobs, one of the greatest innovators of our time, considered this the only book on his iPad. Why? Because Yogananda's message is custom-made for the modern, intelligent mind. It says, You don't need priests or dogma. You have the divine power within you. You just need the right technique to unlock it.
This feels incredibly empowering, as it puts you in the driver's seat. But the Bible gives us a sober warning about what feels right in our own minds.
"The heart is deceitful above all things, and desperately wicked: who can know it?" Jeremiah 17:9
What felt like empowerment was, in reality, the oldest temptation in the book: "Ye shall be as gods" (Genesis 3:5). Yogananda arrived in a post-WWI America that was shell-shocked and disillusioned with a formal religion that offered no real answers or experiences. He stepped into that vacuum and declared his way was "scientific," offering people a method to feel spiritual without submitting to a God they couldn't control.
Unmasking the "Other Jesus"
Here is the crux of the matter, where our discernment must be sharp. The entire foundation of Yogananda's system required him to renovate the person of Jesus Christ.
He presented Jesus not as the unique Son of God, but as a master yogi—an enlightened being who achieved "Christ consciousness." He taught that "Christ" is not a person but a universal state of awareness, and Jesus was simply one of many who attained it, putting him on the same level as Krishna and Buddha.
But the claim of the biblical Jesus is infinitely more radical and exclusive. He did not say He found the way; He declared that He is the way.
"Jesus saith unto him, I am the way, the truth, and the life: no man cometh unto the Father, but by me." John 14:6
This is a claim of absolute, singular, divine uniqueness. The implications are universe-altering.
If Jesus is just a yogi, His death on the cross was a tragedy—a good man martyred for his beliefs. It is an example to be admired. But if Jesus is the Son of God, His death on the cross was a cosmic victory—the glorious, triumphant, and sufficient payment for the sins of all humanity.
As the Apostle Paul wrote, the cross is the dividing line of eternity:
"For the preaching of the cross is to them that perish foolishness; but unto us which are saved it is the power of God." 1 Corinthians 1:18
A yogi Jesus, a teacher Jesus, an enlightened-master Jesus—that Jesus has no cross with the power to save. His cross is an example of detachment, not an act of Atonement.
A Different Gospel, A Different Destination
Once Jesus is demoted, the entire gospel message changes. This new system required a complete overhaul of core Christian doctrines, creating a stark contrast with biblical truth:
On Salvation: Grace vs. Self-Realization
The Biblical Truth: Salvation is a free gift of grace. We have an infinite debt we could never pay, so Jesus paid it for us in full on the cross (Ephesians 2:8-9). Our role is simply to accept this gift through faith.
The Counterfeit Teaching: Salvation is achieved through self-realization. It is presented as an upward path of human effort and secret techniques designed to help you realize your own inner divinity.
On Sin: Rebellion vs. Ignorance
The Biblical Truth: Sin is a cancerous rebellion in our hearts against a holy God. It is a condition that separates us from Him and requires a divine remedy (Romans 3:23).
The Counterfeit Teaching: Sin is merely ignorance. It’s not a moral failure but simply a mistake made when you forget that you are divine, a problem to be corrected with knowledge.
On Eternity: One Life vs. Endless Chances
The Biblical Truth: We have one life to choose our eternal destiny, followed by judgment (Hebrews 9:27). This reality makes the gospel message incredibly urgent.
The Counterfeit Teaching: Reincarnation gives you endless do-overs. If you have millions of lifetimes to get it right, the pressing need for a Savior right now is completely removed.
This isn't just a theological debate. It has eternal consequences. Embracing a different Jesus leads to a different gospel, which leads to a different eternity.
An Invitation to the Supernatural Realm
My own story is one of being rescued from these deceptions. The same biblical Jesus who warned of false teachers made Himself real to me on my living room floor in 1995, rescuing me from the spiritual counterfeits I had embraced. I poured these raw, real-life encounters into my book, Open Your Eyes: My Supernatural Journey.
If you are hungry for a deeper spiritual reality—if you want to understand angelic visitations, spiritual warfare, and how to hear God's voice—this book is for you. It's an invitation to renounce darkness, pursue true intimacy with Jesus, and walk in the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit.
Three Keys to Building an Unshakeable Faith
So, how do we protect ourselves from these subtle and dangerous deceptions? How do we live out an authentic faith in a world full of spiritual counterfeits?
1. Become a Fierce Gatekeeper of Your Heart. Jesus gave an active command in Mark 4:24: "Take heed what ye hear." When a teacher, book, or influencer talks about "the divine within" or "your inner power," your spiritual alarm must sound. Actively "try the spirits" (1 John 4:1). Ask the crucial question: Does this teaching point to my power or to the power of the cross? Does it exalt my effort or Christ's finished work? Be a ruthless gatekeeper for your heart and mind.
2. Become a Master of the Original. You can't spot a counterfeit if you've only glanced at the real thing. It's time to move beyond casual Bible reading. 2 Timothy 2:15 says to "Study to shew thyself approved unto God...rightly dividing the word of truth." This isn't a chore; it's a delight! The more intimately you know the person of Jesus through the Gospels, the more instantly you will recognize a fraud. I challenge you: take the Gospel of John and a notebook, and ask the Holy Spirit to reveal the true Jesus to you.
3. Find a Spirit-Filled, Word-Grounded Community. This is the antidote to the wound that started the whole problem. The answer to a dry, dead church isn’t to become a lone-wolf Christian. The answer is to find a healthy, living body of believers who love the Word of God and welcome the presence and power of the Holy Spirit. As it says in Hebrews 10:24-25, we must not forsake "the assembling of ourselves together." We need a community that will both anchor us in truth and encourage our spiritual experiences in a biblical context.
The Real Battle of Our Time
My journey—from the spiritual desert of cessationism, through the poisoned oasis of the New Age, and finally to the living water of the biblical Jesus—highlights the great spiritual battle of our era. The enemy’s most effective strategy isn't to make us atheists; it's to offer us a weaker, more comfortable version of Jesus that fits our preferences but lacks the power to save.
Satan knows that a Jesus who is just a good teacher or an enlightened master poses no threat to his kingdom.
Our job, as followers of Christ, is to know Him, love Him, and proclaim Him for who He truly is: the one and only Lord, the singular Way, and the victorious King.
Thank you for spending this time with me. If this message has stirred something in your heart, please share it on social media. And if you found this valuable, you will want to check out my post on The Christian Yoga Deception, which is a perfect companion to today's topic.
00:49 Someone shared the gospel with a saved person;
01:08 Hateful Street Preacher example;
02:29 Biblical Definition of "Preach" or "Preacher" ;
06:29 Acie Burleson chimes in;
06:56 Lance Rowe says not to stand by idly!;
07:28 Monty Simpson God's love must be preached;
08:24 Corey Costelli gives a train example;
08:51 John Roush chimes in;
09:16 Mandy Stork, follow the Lord's leading;
10:24 Muslims having service inside a Christian church!;
11:05 Texas Muslim capitol day - interrupted by Christine Weick;
12:29 Preacher arrested for reading the bible at DMV;
13:39 Examining the Captive audience doctrine;
14:55 My first experience Street preaching the cops shut me down;
15:59 Jonny Gaston from Reach My City Audio;
18:17 Matthew Foutch preaches the Love of Jesus;
20:16 Brandon Hooks If we love people, tell them the truth;
21:51 Stephen Barrett from Holy Fire Japan - Be led by the Spirit;
29:24 Acts 5:27 Obey God about Preaching and not man;
30:19 Philippians 1:15 At least Christ is being preached! ;
Welcome to another edition of Coffee with Conrad from ConradRocks.Net. I’m Conrad, sharing with you today a personal journey into the heart of spiritual hunger, prophetic truth, and the supernatural relationship we are called to cultivate with Jesus.
There's something stirring—an urgent call to reignite our spiritual flame for Jesus Christ. Too many are out of touch with the true presence of God. We know about Him, but are we engaging with Him? Are we developing a supernatural, living relationship with the biblical Jesus rather than succumbing to the noise around us?
This post was influenced by my friend, Lance Rowe. His bold witness for Jesus and challenging insights always prompt me to look deeper, to question what it means to walk in prophetic truth, and push past the lukewarm comfort zones holding many believers hostage.
Spiritual Hunger and Prophetic Voices
Recently, I’ve felt a burning passion for the “lukewarm”—for those who’ve lost the edge of their faith, who need a rekindling in their walk with Jesus. Are we spiritually hungry, or simply numb to the supernatural calling of Christ? Reflecting on Brother Yun’s story from Heavenly Man, I’m amazed at his hunger for God’s Word. In solitary confinement, he memorized entire chapters—sometimes whole books—of the Bible. Where is our hunger? Where is our spiritual fire?
Lance Rowe embodies what this means; he walks with a real cross, often with speakers built in, preaching the gospel wherever led by the Spirit. His online posts—or in documentaries such as Good People Go to Hell, Saved People Go to Heaven—demonstrate a brutal honesty about following Jesus and stir me to examine my own walk. When I see believers living out faith in radical, supernatural ways, it challenges me. That’s what true discipleship looks like.
But in today’s world, prophetic voices are everywhere. Are they really accurate? Or are too many simply profiting—P R O F I T—from sensationalism? Having watched Christian talk shows and read prophetic books, I’ve noticed a disturbing trend: prophecies about financial collapse, blood moons, and tribulation comfort packages. All supposedly based on Scripture, but rarely reliable, often instilling fear and selling survival gear for “suggested donations.”
False Prophets and the Supernatural Call
When big predictions fail, disclaimers abound—“I didn’t say it would happen, but maybe.” That way, they cover their tracks... but at the cost of Christian trust. False prophets, making a buck off the Bible, push cycles of fear rather than true prophetic insight. As Lance points out, Christians get so conditioned by these voices, waiting for the next dramatic prophecy, that we neglect simple obedience to Jesus.
Lance’s words ring true: "Christians are so caught up in what could be that they don’t have time to take care of the what is." If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land — 2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV.
Why are we more obsessed with a prophet’s latest book than with the book God Himself wrote? Why pour our spiritual energy into untested words while neglecting timeless biblical truth?
Personal Reflections and Experiences
I’ve been convicted by all this. Am I living up to the supernatural calling of Jesus, or hiding my faith behind church walls and comfort? Do my actions proclaim Christ to my neighbors? For example, since moving into my neighborhood, I’ve tried reaching out—even praying for a lady with cancer. My initial attempts were rebuffed, but I know from experience Jesus heals. I’ve seen it. God is real and supernatural. But there’s a bitterness and distrust many people have against the Church, often fueled by Christian infighting and inconsistency. We need to show the world the real Jesus: full of love, mercy, and power.
Too often, Christians live one way on Sunday, and another throughout the week. The divorce rate, even the rates of abortion, match the world. So what makes our witness “supernatural”? It’s not the outward trappings or loud services—it’s authentic living, impacting our neighborhoods, loving our neighbors, and showing the power of God outside the church building.
Biblical References and Teachings
God’s Word cuts through confusion and fear. Mystery and fear mongering from false prophets isn’t what Jesus taught. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof. — Matthew 6:34 KJV
Instead of worrying about tomorrow, we’re called—prophetically and supernaturally—to redeem the time. Today is the day of salvation. Today you can be a witness. Today you can experience the living Jesus. Go ye therefore, and teach all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Ghost — Matthew 28:19 KJV
Revival doesn’t happen while we sit on the couch. The supernatural move of Jesus flows through obedience, in the highways and byways, through spiritual authority and love. We’re called to impact our region—not build our personal kingdoms but advance His.
A final warning from Lance’s post—and echoed in my heart—is that if the church continues to sit on its hands, disaster will come. Bless-me parties, fear-based purchases, and click-ish comfort aren't New Testament Christianity. Instead, it’s time for the prophetic, supernatural gospel: go out, preach, and prove the power of God to a lost and deceived world.
If my people, which are called by my name, shall humble themselves, and pray, and seek my face, and turn from their wicked ways; then will I hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin, and will heal their land. — 2 Chronicles 7:14 KJV
Conclusion and Call to Action
Let’s not settle for lukewarm living. Let’s break the cycle of failed prophecies and consumer religion. Instead, let’s pursue radical, supernatural obedience to Jesus. Develop your spiritual relationship with the biblical Jesus—not just the Jesus you hear about at church, but the real living Savior. Challenge yourself to step out, impact your community, and bring the prophetic gospel to your world.
I urge you: Follow Lance Rowe on Facebook for more challenging posts, and dig deeper into the Word daily. Let’s pursue revival not just in words but in action. If this post has inspired you, please leave a comment below with your spiritual experiences and insights. Every like, comment, or share helps spread the message and builds our spiritual community for the Kingdom of Jesus.
God bless you. As always—dig deeper, go higher. ConradRocks.Net
John Wesley and the Hidden History of Spiritual Warfare
John Wesley, a key figure who helped start Methodism, is well-known for his powerful preaching and strong organizational skills. However, there's a lesser-known part of his life involving his intense fights against demonic forces. In the 18th century, when spiritual battles were an important topic in religious discussions, these hidden struggles show a different side of Wesley that challenges both past views and today's understanding.
Wesley's journey into the realm of spiritual warfare began early in his ministry. He claimed encounters with otherworldly entities that defied conventional wisdom of his time. "I felt what I could not describe," he once wrote, hinting at experiences that would profoundly shape his doctrine on evil and salvation. These occurrences during his itinerant mission work highlight how notions of confronting dark powers permeated religious thought in an era marked by Enlightenment rationality and deepening Christian mysticism.
As we delve deeper into Wesley's intriguing confrontations with unseen realms, this exploration will shed light on the turbulent intersection between faith and fear during one of Christianity’s most transformative periods. Through historical accounts, personal testimonies, and theological reflections, we aim to uncover Wesley's role as a demon slayer—a title that resonates through centuries yet is seldom brought to light in discussion about this towering spiritual leader.
Wesley's Early Encounters with Evil
John Wesley's awareness of demonic forces was not an immediate revelation but evolved through a series of early experiences that left a lasting impression on him. During his time at Oxford, Wesley began meeting with the Holy Club, where he first encountered discussions about the supernatural and the reality of evil forces. This time is often regarded as crucial in sparking his interest and eventual conviction regarding spiritual warfare. Additionally, Wesley's mission to Georgia in 1735 exposed him to significant religious and cultural beliefs surrounding witchcraft and evil spirits prevalent among both settlers and Native American tribes.
Such encounters were instrumental in shaping Wesley’s theological views on evil and deliverance. He became increasingly aware of what he believed to be the tangible presence of demonic entities, leading him to explore biblical passages more intensely for evidence of such phenomena. His studies fostered a view that emphasized divine intervention against evil, positioning deliverance as an integral part of godly living. As a result, Wesley maintained that Christians should not only recognize spiritual battles but actively fight them armed with faith and prayer.
Wesley's changing views began to influence his sermons and writings, as he moved from traditional Anglican beliefs towards promoting personal holiness and spiritual awareness. These early experiences shaped the key aspects of Methodism, like sincere faith and a practical devotion that involved always staying connected with God to avoid evil. By weaving these ideas into his ministry, Wesley was gearing up for the bigger spiritual challenges he felt were coming in his mission work.
Historical Accounts of Spiritual Battles
Throughout his extensive ministry, John Wesley confronted numerous accounts of demonic possession that both captivated and unnerved his 18th-century audiences. These documented encounters were meticulously recorded in his journals and letters, offering intriguing insights into the spiritual battles he engaged in. One particular incident detailed a young woman plagued by what was described as an evil spirit; she experienced violent fits and voices speaking through her. Wesley’s reputed ability to expel these demons through prayer not only highlighted his fervent belief in spiritual warfare but also drew significant attention from those both within and outside Christian circles.
Historians are still exploring how reliable witness accounts are about Wesley's spiritual battles. Many reports came from people caught up in the excitement of the Methodist revival, which might have colored their views with strong emotions or biases. However, evidence from several sources supports some events, indicating that while there may be exaggerations, there's some truth behind them. The tricky part is separating fact from fiction, especially since the time period loved sensational stories.
These accounts considerably shaped public perception of John Wesley. To many believers, he emerged as a formidable figure in combating unseen evils, reinforcing his authority and mystique as a religious leader devoted to direct divine intervention. However, this notoriety also provoked skepticism among secular thinkers and conventional clergymen who questioned the legitimacy of such claims. While some viewed him with suspicion or dismissed him outright as fantasy-driven, others found inspiration—and perhaps validation—in his uncompromising stance against malevolent forces, sparking wider debate about the invisible battles waged between good and evil in everyday life.
Theological Implications
John Wesley's encounters with what he perceived as demonic forces significantly shaped his theological framework. Unlike many of his contemporaries, Wesley believed that spiritual warfare was not only a biblical reality but a present-day occurrence. This belief emerged from numerous experiences where he claimed to have witnessed evil spirits manifesting and disrupting lives. These episodes affirmed for him the vital importance of addressing the presence of evil both in personal faith journeys and within the church community.
Comparatively, during Wesley's era, many theologians approached the concept of demonic possession with skepticism or regarded it as outdated superstition. However, Wesley upheld these events through scriptural interpretations such as Ephesians 6:12, which speaks of wrestling against spiritual wickedness in high places. His insistence on engaging directly with spiritual adversities set a contrasting stance against more allegorical interpretations common among Enlightenment thinkers of his time. Yet, this delineation between tangible manifestations and symbolic meanings provides an insight into how doctrines surrounding evil evolved throughout Christian dogma.
In modern Christianity, Wesley's legacy continues to influence those who advocate for deliverance ministries and emphasize vigilance against spiritual attacks. While some branches of Christianity view demonology through a metaphorical lens or ignore them altogether, others draw upon historical precedents like Wesley's experiences to justify hands-on approaches to exorcism and healing through prayer. Consequently, theological debates sparked by Wesley’s positions endure today—highlighting tensions between empirical rationalism versus faith-based action in addressing unseen challenges facing believers worldwide.
Personal Testimonies from Wesley's Followers
John Wesley's ministry was marked by numerous testimonies from followers who claimed to have experienced or witnessed deliverance under his guidance. One account, recounted by a member of his congregation, spoke of a woman reportedly possessed and tormented by evil spirits. During one of Wesley's fervent prayer sessions, she allegedly felt the malevolent presence flee as he commanded it to leave in the name of God. Such instances were not isolated; many followers documented similar experiences that contributed significantly to the burgeoning Methodist movement. These narratives fortified community faith, drawing more individuals into their folds, eager for spiritual liberation and divine encounters.
The ripple effect of these testimonies was profound on church growth and community cohesion. They spread like wildfire, reaching ears far beyond those present at the events themselves. Congregants often shared these accounts with neighbors and friends, who were intrigued by tales of supernatural battles won through faith and prayer. The credibility lent by firsthand witnesses made such stories powerful evangelistic tools, not only amplifying church attendance but also leading to conversions among skeptics seeking answers or relief from their own spiritual turmoils.
Wesley’s Methods in Spiritual Warfare
Wesley's approach to spiritual warfare was both methodical and deeply rooted in his theological understanding of scripture. He relied heavily on prayer as a central tactic in confronting demonic forces, believing that persistent supplication could drive out malevolent entities. In addition to prayer, he employed scriptural declarations—reciting verses that asserted Christ's authority over evil—as weapons against oppressive spirits. His emphasis on invoking Jesus’ name reflects biblical precedents found in passages recounting miracles performed by early Christians.
Critics challenged Wesley’s methods as excessive or unsubstantiated during his lifetime; however, he remained steadfast in appropriating biblical tenets for these situations. While some contemporaries viewed his actions with skepticism or dismissed them as hysteria-induced phenomena, others noted measurable outcomes: lives transformed and communities spiritually awakened through what appeared as effective interventions. Such results offered tangible evidence supporting Wesley’s convictions despite criticisms—a testament that endured within Methodism long after his passing.
Controversy and Criticism
John Wesley's focus on spiritual battles stirred up controversy. Many in the Church of England were uneasy with his emphasis on demons and deliverance, seeing it as superstitious. They doubted his approach, saying it distracted from traditional roles like preaching and pastoral care. Critics claimed Wesley was sensationalizing events, using his stories of battling evil spirits more to grip audiences than to truly encourage spiritual development.
Secular commentators, too, were skeptical of Wesley's encounters with the demonic realm. In an Enlightenment era increasingly dominated by reason and scientific thought, many found it difficult to accept claims of supernatural engagement without tangible proof. Some viewed Wesley’s emphasis on unseen battles against evil as emblematic of religious fanaticism rather than grounded doctrine. His reports provoked debates within public spheres about the nature of belief and its place in rational society—a discourse that sometimes painted Wesley's ministry as outdated or irrational.
Despite the criticism, these controversies helped strengthen Wesley's legacy as a devoted advocate for spiritual awareness. Some were skeptical of his methods, but many admired his firm resolve to tackle evil directly. This split solidified his status as both a key figure in Methodism and a contentious voice in religious discussions. Over time, the debates he sparked about spiritual battles have highlighted important issues about faith that continue to echo in today's Christian conversations.
Legacy and Influence Today
John Wesley's pioneering approach to spiritual warfare laid the groundwork for contemporary ministries that focus on deliverance from demonic influences. His reliance on prayer, scripture, and faith as weapons against evil spirits continues to inspire many Christian leaders today. Modern movements such as the Pentecostal and Charismatic branches have embraced this aspect of Wesley's theology, often incorporating similar practices in their own deliverance sessions. These ministries cite Wesley's methods as foundational, emphasizing personal encounters with the Holy Spirit and advocating a proactive stance against dark forces.
Within the Methodist tradition, Wesley’s emphasis on holiness and his pragmatic approach to confronting evil has left an enduring mark. Many Methodist congregations today still practice prayers for deliverance, aligning with Wesleyan ideals of seeking spiritual purity and protection. This commitment is reflected in their broader missions focused on social justice and personal sanctification—a testament to how deeply embedded these principles are within their ecclesiastical framework.
Beyond Methodism, Wesley’s influence extends into wider Christian circles where his teachings have been integrated into theological education and pastoral training programs. Institutions across denominations examine his recorded experiences as case studies in addressing spiritual conflict. Church leaders often draw parallels between modern challenges faced by believers and those chronicled by Wesley, using them as educational tools for equipping faith communities with strategies for battling spiritual adversities effectively.
His legacy also prompts ongoing dialogue regarding the nature of evil and its manifestation in contemporary life—a discussion that resonates today more than ever amidst global unrest and moral ambiguities. John Wesley’s dedication to combating demons transcends time; it serves both as a historical beacon for scholars dissecting religious narratives around good versus evil and a practical guidepost for today’s faith-driven warriors navigating their own unseen battles.
Unveiling Wesley's Spiritual Legacy
John Wesley, long regarded as a central figure in the Methodist movement, also carved a niche as a demon slayer through his ministry of spiritual warfare. His early encounters with evil shaped his theological stance on demonic possession and deliverance, reinforcing his belief in the tangible presence of spiritual battles. Historical accounts document numerous instances where Wesley confronted demonic forces, leaving an indelible mark on public perception and solidifying his reputation among followers who experienced profound deliverances.
The enduring significance of Wesley's covert battle against evil continues to intrigue historians, theologians, and believers alike. By challenging the norms of his time and embracing the complexities of spiritual warfare, he laid a foundation for modern ministries focused on deliverance within various Christian denominations. Today, John Wesley's legacy invites ongoing reflection on the nature of evil and the power of faith—a testament to his multifaceted impact that resonates through centuries.
Some resources for further reading are:
1. The Theology of John Wesley: Holy Love and the Shape of Grace by Kenneth J. Collins - This book delves into the theological underpinnings of Wesley’s thoughts, exploring his understanding of grace and holiness in relation to spiritual warfare.
2. John Wesley: A Biography* by Stephen Tomkins - A comprehensive biography that traces the life and ministry of John Wesley, providing insights into his personal struggles with evil and how it shaped his mission.
4. Spiritual Warfare in a Believer's Life by Charles Haddon Spurgeon (edited by Robert Hall) – Although not focused on Wesley himself, this book provides context for understanding spiritual warfare within Christian faith traditions closely aligned with early Methodist teachings.
5. Articles from The Journal for the Renewal of Religion Studies which regularly feature academic discussions surrounding historical figures like John Wesley and their contributions to concepts such as deliverance.
These sources will offer a broader understanding not only of John Wesley's contributions but also how they continue to influence modern religious practice regarding evil and deliverance today.
Welcome, welcome, welcome to another edition of Coffee with Conrad! This is Conrad from ConradRocks.Net, where I strive to pour out "Rocks of Revelation" to you. My deepest passion, my core mission, is for each of you to develop a vibrant, authentic, and truly personal spiritual relationship with the biblical Jesus. Today, I want to dive deep into a question that has been stirring in my heart, a question that might challenge some of our preconceived notions and open our eyes to where God might be moving next: Could the next great spiritual revival actually begin in the most unexpected of places – among the homeless community?
It might sound strange at first, especially from our comfortable vantage points, but bear with me. As many of you know, my team and I frequently go out praying for people, and in our journeys, we often encounter a significant number of homeless individuals. We carry "goody bags" – sealed, waterproof bags containing toiletries, food, and gospel tracts. The idea is simple: to show them some love, extend a hand of compassion, and, most importantly, share the love of Jesus and the life-changing message of the Gospel. We wish we could do more, and our hearts are always heavy with the desire to meet every need we see.
However, something profound has emerged from these encounters, particularly here on the Gulf Coast. What I’ve noticed, time and time again, is that a remarkable number of these homeless individuals not only believe in Jesus; they *trust* in Jesus. And I mean trust Him for their very survival, for their next meal, for shelter from the elements. This isn't to say we don't encounter those who use "Christian-ese" – spiritual-sounding phrases to elicit money. With a little discernment, those cases are usually quite clear. But what truly stands out are the many, many genuine souls. They often carry Bibles, and what’s more, many can quote large portions of scripture, often with an astonishing depth of understanding. It's a humbling experience to witness such profound faith amidst such profound hardship.
An Encounter with Lyle: A Divine Appointment on the Gulf Coast
Let me tell you about Lyle. Just recently, my friend Doug and I were in a shopping center in Gulfport. We were doing what we often do: praying for a divine appointment, asking the Lord to lead us to someone we could pray for, someone who needed a touch from Him. No sooner had we lifted our heads than this man rode up on a bicycle. Doug recognized him from a few months prior, and we called out to him. The man pulled over, and what unfolded was nothing short of awesome.
We started talking to Lyle, and almost immediately, I was struck by his knowledge of the Bible. He proudly told us he had large portions of scripture memorized. "Hey man, I've got Acts Chapter 2 memorized!" he exclaimed. Acts Chapter 2! The powerful Pentecostal passage, detailing the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and Peter's first sermon. I pulled out my phone, eager to see, and he began quoting, word for word, most of Acts Chapter 2. I was genuinely impressed.
Then I noticed the items on his bicycle and in his bag. He had these incredible trinkets made of wire – crosses, angels, and other Christian-themed artwork. I immediately knew I wanted to support him. I confessed that I rarely carry cash, as we typically prefer to give food to the homeless rather than money. But Lyle's deep faith and his dedication to sharing Christ's message stirred something in me. I went to the ATM, pulled out some money, and made sure to buy pieces that featured the word "Jesus" prominently. Here was a homeless man, riding around on a bicycle, sharing profound Christian artwork, memorizing vast passages of scripture, and engaging us in deep conversation about Jesus!
Doug, Lyle, and I sat there for over 30 minutes, delving into truly rich theological discussions. It wasn't just that Lyle had Bible passages memorized; he knew the Greek words and could articulate their meanings. He gave me a beautiful wire butterfly for my wife, Susan, and as he handed it to me, he said, "Tell her it comes from Romans Chapter 12, Verse 2: 'Be transformed.' I made that because the Lord was talking to me about transformation, and the Greek word there is metamorphoo, which is like a larva turning into a butterfly."
My jaw nearly dropped. This man, living on the streets, was not only quoting scripture but breaking down the Greek etymology and connecting it to profound spiritual concepts! I was utterly blown away by his insight and his faith. It wasn't just a divine appointment; it was a profound lesson for me. And it’s not just Lyle; we've met many others like him. We don't just "hit and run" with our prayers; we take time to truly engage, to have long conversations, to reignite or ignite their passion for Jesus, and to encourage them in their callings. Most often, we find people with a deep love for Jesus, many of whom have experienced "church hurt" – a sense of rejection or judgment when trying to enter traditional church buildings because of their appearance or circumstances. They've been treated poorly, causing them to shy away from organized religion, yet their personal faith in Jesus remains strong.
It’s a strange paradox to us who live comfortably in houses, with cars and modern conveniences. While I personally don’t own a TV, most of us are accustomed to a life of abundance. Yet, these individuals, often living on the margins of society, sincerely love Jesus and trust Him for their very survival. They are genuinely excited to talk about the things of God. This reality begs a deeper look at what the Bible truly says about living for Christ.
Biblical Parallels: Great Spiritual Leaders Who Were "Homeless"
When we ponder the concept of homelessness, our modern minds often associate it with failure, brokenness, or even a curse. But let’s look at the biblical narrative. What does the Bible say about Jesus, about the prophets, about the apostles? It might surprise you how many of the great figures of our faith lived lives that, by our contemporary standards, would be considered "homeless."
Jesus: The Son of Man with Nowhere to Lay His Head
Consider our Lord, Jesus Christ Himself. In Matthew 8:20, Jesus says, “The foxes have holes and the birds of the air have nests, but the Son of Man has nowhere to lay His head.” Think about that. The very Son of God, who came to redeem humanity, did not have a permanent residence. He was itinerant, traveling from town to town, village to village, preaching, healing, and teaching. We see Him in the Garden of Gethsemane, on mountains praying all night, constantly on the move. His earthly life was one of self-denial and absolute reliance on His Heavenly Father, free from the entanglements of property and possessions. This profound truth about Jesus's lifestyle often gets overlooked in our pursuit of comfort and prosperity.
John the Baptist: The Prophetic Voice from the Wilderness
Then there’s John the Baptist, the prophetic forerunner of Jesus. He was raised by his parents, but his ministry began and largely remained in the wilderness. Matthew 3:1-4 describes him: “In those days came John the Baptist, preaching in the wilderness of Judaea, and saying, Repent ye: for the kingdom of heaven is at hand. For this is he that was spoken of by the prophet Esaias, saying, The voice of one crying in the wilderness, Prepare ye the way of the Lord, make his paths straight. And the same John had his raiment of camel's hair, and a leathern girdle about his loins; and his meat was locusts and wild honey.”
He didn't live in a mansion or wear fine clothes. He was a man of the wild, surviving on what the wilderness provided, clothed in rough garments. Jesus Himself, in Matthew 11:7-9, bragged about John: “What went ye out into the wilderness to see? A reed shaken with the wind? But what went ye out for to see? A man clothed in soft raiment? behold, they that wear soft clothing are in kings' houses. But what went ye out for to see? A prophet? yea, I say unto you, and more than a prophet.” John was a powerful prophetic voice, unburdened by worldly comforts, living a life of radical simplicity and devotion to God's call. His effectiveness was perhaps amplified by his detachment from societal norms and expectations.
The Apostle Paul: A Life Without a Certain Dwelling Place
And what about the Apostle Paul, the man who arguably shaped much of early Christianity? Many of us, influenced by certain doctrines, might assume that true blessing equates to material prosperity. But let’s be honest with ourselves and look at Paul's own words regarding his lifestyle. In 1 Corinthians 4:10-13, Paul vividly describes his circumstances:
"We are fools for Christ's sake, but ye are wise in Christ; we are weak, but ye are strong; ye are honourable, but we are despised. Even unto this present hour we both hunger, and thirst, and are naked, and are buffeted, and have no certain dwelling place; And labour, working with our own hands: being reviled, we bless; being persecuted, we suffer it: Being defamed, we intreat: we are made as the filth of the world, and are the offscouring of all things unto this day."
"No certain dwelling place." Paul, the prolific missionary, the profound theologian, lived a life of constant movement, often without a fixed home, enduring hunger, thirst, and exposure. His life was far from the comfortable ideal many of us pursue. Yet, it was through such hardship and self-sacrifice that the Gospel spread so powerfully. This passage deeply challenges the modern prosperity gospel, which often suggests that following Jesus should lead to material wealth. Paul’s life demonstrates that true spiritual richness often comes through self-denial and suffering for the sake of the Gospel.
The Hall of Faith: Destitute, Afflicted, Tormented
Finally, let's turn to the "Hall of Faith" in Hebrews Chapter 11, a passage often read for its inspiring accounts of faith heroes. But have you ever truly focused on the latter verses, particularly 37 and 38? Listen closely:
"They were stoned, they were sawn asunder, were tempted, were slain with the sword: they wandered about in sheepskins and goatskins; being destitute, afflicted, tormented; (Of whom the world was not worthy:) they wandered in deserts, and in mountains, and in dens and caves of the earth."
These are the champions of faith, commended for their unwavering trust in God, yet they were "destitute, afflicted, tormented," wandering in deserts, mountains, dens, and caves. They didn't have houses; they didn't have permanent addresses. They were, by definition, "homeless." The world was not worthy of them, yet they lived outside the world's comforts. This powerfully illustrates that a life of deep faith, a life that truly moves God, does not necessarily correlate with material possessions or societal status. In fact, sometimes it's the very lack of these things that cultivates a profound reliance on God.
Now, I’m not suggesting we all sell our houses and become homeless! But I do think of the rich young ruler in Matthew 19:21, whom Jesus told to “sell what you have, give to the poor, and follow Me.” And then Jesus adds, “for where your treasure is, there will your heart be also.” This challenges us to consider: does our house, our possessions, own our heart to the point that it violates our conscience with Christ? Are we so consumed by comfort that we miss God's call to radical faith and compassion?
Confronting Our Assumptions: Poverty, Mammon, and the Church's Role
Another common misconception we often harbor is that homeless people are somehow "cursed with the curse of poverty." This idea, though rarely spoken aloud, often subtly influences our attitudes. It's time to confront this. What does Jesus promise us? Does He promise us houses, cars, and endless comfort? Let's revisit a pivotal passage from Matthew 6:24-34:
"No man can serve two masters: for either he will hate the one, and love the other; or else he will hold to the one, and despise the other. Ye cannot serve God and mammon. Therefore I say unto you, Take no thought for your life, what ye shall eat, or what ye shall drink; nor yet for your body, what ye shall put on. Is not the life more than meat, and the body than raiment? Behold the fowls of the air: for they sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns; yet your heavenly Father feedeth them. Are ye not much better than they? Which of you by taking thought can add one cubit unto his stature? And why take ye thought for raiment? Consider the lilies of the field, how they grow; they toil not, neither do they spin: And yet I say unto you, That even Solomon in all his glory was not arrayed like one of these. Wherefore, if God so clothe the grass of the field, which to day is, and to morrow is cast into the oven, shall he not much more clothe you, O ye of little faith? Therefore take no anxious thought, saying, What shall we eat? or, What shall we drink? or, Wherewithal shall we be clothed? (For after all these things do the Gentiles seek:) for your heavenly Father knoweth that ye have need of all these things. But seek ye first the kingdom of God, and his righteousness; and all these things shall be added unto you. Take therefore no thought for the morrow: for the morrow shall take thought for the things of itself. Sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof."
As you read this, keep the homeless perspective in mind. "They sow not, neither do they reap, nor gather into barns," yet often, their Heavenly Father feeds them. "Why take you thought for raiment?" — Jesus asks. While we in Western culture are constantly laying up treasures for tomorrow, taking thought for our future, and worrying about Mammon (wealth), many homeless individuals live exactly as Jesus describes: day-by-day, relying entirely on God for their daily bread, drink, and clothing. They often embody "sufficient unto the day is the evil thereof" out of necessity, not always by choice, but it mirrors a profound biblical truth.
I’m not saying this is an ideal situation, and I know it’s rough. But we need to look at this honestly. We are so often focused on financial success, even within the church, which sometimes functions more like a business concerned with salaries and building maintenance. Yet, we know the scriptures: "You cannot serve God and Mammon." We know that "what you've done to the least of these, you've done to Me" (Matthew 25:40). And how are we, the church, often treating our homeless neighbors?
Consider the church in Smyrna, described in Revelation 2:9. Jesus says, “I know thy works, and tribulation, and poverty, (but thou art rich) and I know the blasphemy of them which say they are Jews, and are not, but are of the synagogue of Satan.” Here is a church commended by Jesus for being "rich" despite their "poverty" and "tribulation." This is a powerful paradox. They were materially poor but spiritually wealthy. The passage also touches on the "blasphemy of them which are Jews but are not," hinting at those who claim piety but lack true faith, much like the "church hurt" many homeless people experience from hypocritical "Christians" who look down on them. The people in the buildings, with their nice clothes and cars, often "thumb their nose" at the homeless, causing many on the streets to view them as hypocrites, not living according to the Bible's commands. I'm not exempting myself here; I'm still working on this, and we all need to pray about it. This isn't about judgment, but about honest self-reflection.
My aim in sharing these scriptures is to build a bridge from our current Western mindset – steeped in prosperity doctrines and societal pressures for financial success – to a more biblical understanding. We often prioritize comfort and material security above all else, sometimes at the expense of our true calling to love and serve the marginalized. We need to shed contempt for the homeless and, instead, embrace a Good Samaritan attitude. Let's confront the fact that perhaps, in many ways, we've been doing this wrong. We've often prioritized appearance over heart, and possessions over people.
The Spirit of Truth and the Supernatural Call to Transformation
One of the most striking observations Susan and I have made recently is this: many of the homeless people we meet don't have televisions. They don't have the constant stream of secular entertainment and distorted narratives that permeate our culture. Instead, they have Bibles. We often carry Bibles to give them out, only to be told, "No, thank you, I've got my own Bible." What can we learn from that?
I've often spoken about television's pervasive influence, how it can send a "strong delusion" across the Christian church. People sit back, passively absorbing content, often without truly thinking or discerning. When I talk about having a spiritual relationship with the biblical Jesus, guided by the Spirit of Truth into all truth, I'm telling you, when we are honest with the spirit within us, it rings true with the Spirit of Truth. But when we listen to TV, it often puts us into an alpha brainwave state, almost hypnotizing us into believing what it says. This often directly counters what the Spirit of Truth is saying, and the Spirit of Truth always agrees with the Word of God.
Think about it: the homeless people, free from the constant mental corruption of television, are often abiding in the Word of God in a deeper, more direct way. While I can easily remember the lyrics to secular songs from my past – lyrics that, upon reflection, clearly do not glorify God – these individuals are often immersed in scripture. Their minds aren't being conformed by the spirit of the world but are being renewed by God's Word. This is truly a powerful, almost supernatural dynamic at play.
So, I ask you again, with all of this in mind: Is it possible that the next great spiritual revival will happen in the homeless community? Is it possible that the Lord is preparing a pure, unadulterated vessel among those whom society has overlooked and cast aside? The Hall of Faith, John the Baptist, Jesus Himself, Paul – none of them lived in houses or sought worldly comfort. They were focused on God's mission, not on accumulating possessions.
This is something we absolutely must pay attention to. We need to ask God, earnestly, what our next steps should be under His mission. What is God's mission for the homeless people in your area? What is God's mission for your relationship with the very things that pull your heart away from Him, like the constant barrage of media? As Romans 12:2 reminds us, “Be not conformed to this world: but be ye transformed by the renewing of your mind.” This transformation, this metamorphosis like the butterfly Lyle spoke of, is a supernatural process that requires intentionality and a deep commitment to God's Word over the world's influences.
I believe that God is working in unexpected places, drawing a people unto Himself who are unburdened by the very things that weigh us down. The simplicity of faith, the profound trust in divine provision, and the raw honesty found among many in the homeless community could very well be the fertile ground for a truly authentic and powerful spiritual outpouring. This isn't just a charitable cause; it's potentially a prophetic sign of where God is moving next.
Your Call to Action: Pray, Engage, Transform
If this message has touched your heart, if it has resonated with the Spirit of Truth within you, then I urge you to consider a few things. First, please share this blog post with your friends and family. Let's get this conversation going, challenging our perspectives and stirring compassion.
Second, and most importantly, pray about this. Pray about the homeless community in your area. Ask God, with a sincere heart, what His mission is for them where you are. As James 1:5 says, “If any of you lack wisdom, let him ask of God, that giveth to all men liberally, and upbraideth not; and it shall be given him.” Check with the Spirit of Truth; He will talk to you about it.
Finally, consider how you might engage. Whether it's through volunteering, donating, or simply taking the time to truly see and listen to a homeless individual, let's step out in faith. Let’s allow God to transform our minds, our hearts, and our actions, so that we might truly embody the love of Jesus to the "least of these." We are called to clothe the naked, feed the hungry, and love one another, and in doing so, we might just be participating in the next great move of God.
God bless you until we meet again. Dig deeper, and go higher!
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