In a recent edition of the Gospel Coalition, Willian Ross wrote while commenting on the account of the paralytic in Mark’s gospel.
“When we read the story of Jesus and the paralytic lowered through the roof (Mark 2:1–12), we usually focus on the loving persistence of the paralytic’s friends or on Jesus’s “which is easier” question and subsequent miracle.
But this story also teaches us something serious about ourselves: We’re often less like the paralytic’s friends and more like the paralytic himself.
……
No matter how spiritually mature or disciplined we might be, we’re all paralytics at times. Grumpy, helpless, reluctant, embarrassed. But Jesus delights to serve us anyway. He redeemed us, and he is sending us home at last. And he patiently and persistently invites us to let our paralysis be made perfect in himself (2 Cor. 12:9).”
This is a good reminder for us all, and, at the moment, for me as well.
We all go through difficult times but some seem more difficult than others. Some will know of my situation over recent months, but Ross’ comments sparked something within me.
My faith and commitment to the Lord Jesus remains as strong as ever, and in some mysterious way is even stronger. I can see very clearly my own mortality and recognise that I only have a few years, hopefully decades, left on this earth before I walk with Jesus on the new earth. This makes me even more determined to complete the task I was born for.
In light of this I am more determined than ever to serve the church of Jesus here in Bendigo and among the untouched in India through the Santal Church in India. In Bendigo I may, or more likely will, become even more committed to seeing the church become more like the church Jesus intended. Even the new expressions of church we see at the moment are still far short of what I see in the spirit. The old paradigms are still there, even though they may appear to be changed. Many of the changes still do not go to the core of the legacy of the Constantinian captivity of the church,and the overcoming of the vibrant Celtic English church at the Synod of Whitby, with it's replacement by the Roman Church.
Many may not know what I mean by the above issues which just emphasises the lack of any real understanding of Church History. Next to Biblical literacy, the most important subject for believers to study is church history. However there is so little good, intelligent material available for the average reader. I must write more on this so watch this space.
“Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it. George Santayana (16 December 1863 in Madrid, Spain – 26 September 1952 in Rome, Italy) was a philosopher, essayist, poet and novelist.”
People are still running after soulish things while thinking they are spiritual matters. People are still looking for leaders to rely on rather than being the people Jesus intended, sacrificing their very lives for Him. It is all still too comfortable.
I don't mean this to be all doom and gloom, since I see spectacular examples of young believers reaching out for all there is in Jesus. I see a high level of discipleship happening in the few, but the majority still seek after manifestations.
Even here, though, there is a need to really understand and practice “abiding in Christ “. It seems so easy to say, but it is the most profound thing that most believers miss. The power that comes from just abiding far outweighs all the dunamis power so often spoken of.
I am being more convinced than ever of my need to speak out as an apostle and not to worry about the consequences.
In India I have no trouble with this as there is a real spiritual discernment amongst the tribal people, and a willingness to receive the word of the Lord through apostles and prophets, who are validated by the Bible. Teaching also has its rightful place there.
This does not seem to be the case in Bendigo. Those impacted by Ryan Lestrange’s visit need to read his book carefully and not think that what is seen in public meetings is the whole deal. He has much to say which is helpful, while other things are less helpful. “Judge all things.”
So when you hear me, or read me, please keep in mind that I speak out of a passionate desire to see the Bride of Christ rise to her full stature, without spot or any other wrinkle. I do not speak to offend even though I may, and probably will, offend.
I long with every fibre of my being to see the Church of Jesus Christ rise to her true stature as the Body of Jesus here on earth, and the glorious Bride of Christ being prepared for complete unity with our Bridegroom, Jesus Christ our Lord, Savior and Lover. Will you join me?
