Reflections of an Undeconstructed Pentecostal
A revelational model is informed by Paul’s teaching on the spiritual gifts in 1 Corinthians 12:8-11. In this model, God reveals information through the word of knowledge to the minister about a suffering person so that the minister can intercede.[1] The “word of knowledge” (1 Corinthians 12:8) is a spiritual gift of revelation – knowing by the Spirit.
Continue reading “A Word from the Lord: A Revelational Model of Pentecostal Healing”
Peer Accountability – Sanctification through Community
Paul charged the Ephesian church elders: “Be on guard for yourselves and for all the flock, among which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers, to shepherd the church of God which He purchased with His own blood” (Acts 20:28). His warning is not to guard the flock from the devil, but from toxic leaders within the church: “…savage wolves will come in among you, not sparing the flock; and from among your own selves men will arise, speaking perverse things, to draw away the disciples after them” (Acts 20:29-30). Here we discern two aspects of guarding the flock. First, church leaders must exercise sober caution in the initial placement of leaders in ministry. Paul places the responsibility for dealing with toxic leadership squarely upon the bishops and elders of the church. He warns, “Do not lay hands upon anyone too hastily and thereby share responsibility for the sins of others; keep yourself free from sin” (1 Timothy 5:22). When the bishops of the church fail to guard against toxic leaders, they become complicit toxic leaders.
Continue reading “Chrism, Charismata, and Character”