Oct 2 2011 - Bulletin and Sermon note

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October 2, 2011

What to do with a whisper?

Whispers and Nudges

Is it truly from God?

Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits to see whether they are from God, for many false prophets have gone out into the world. 1 John 4:1

Is it biblical?

But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control … Galatians 5:22-23a

1

Now there were in the church at Antioch prophets and teachers, Barnabas, Simeon who was called Niger, Lucius of Cyrene, Manaen a member of the court of Herod the tetrarch, and Saul. 2While they were worshiping the Lord and fasting, the Holy Spirit said, “Set apart for Me Barnabas and Saul for the work to which I have called them.” 3Then after fasting and praying they laid their hands on them and sent them off. Acts 13:1-3

God speaks in the midst of our surrender.

While they were worshipping …

Is it wise?

For it has seemed good to the Holy Spirit and to us…

Acts 13:2a

Acts 15:28

To declare, “God said … ”, is to walk on sacred ground.

Is it confirmed by others?

Without consultation, plans are frustrated, but with many counselors they succeed. Proverbs 15:22

You shall not misuse the Name of the Lord your God, for the Lord will not hold anyone guiltless who misuses His Name. Exodus 20:7 I warn everyone who hears the Words of the prophecy of this book: if anyone adds to them, God will add to him the plagues described in this book… Revelation 22:18

As deeply-flawed human beings, we have potential to misunderstand.

… it is hard to explain, since you have become dull of hearing. ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Summary of last week: 5 ways in which God guides: 1. God guides those who sincerely follow. 2. The Bible is His primary voice. 3. God’s Spirit informs our conscience. 4. God confirms as we proceed. 5. God leads in supernatural ways.

Hebrews 5:11

Whoever trusts in his own mind is a fool, but he who walks in wisdom will be delivered. Proverbs 28:26