Doug Norman
Throughout God's Word we see that He speaks to us in many ways. He talked to Adam in the garden, He told Noah to build an ark, He spoke to Moses in a burning bush and Paul heard His voice on the road to Damascus. But does He still speak today? The answer is yes! God does speak through the Holy Spirit - revealing Himself, His purposes, and His ways!
The KIngdom of God is for those who remain faithful to Jesus Christ. It is for those who separate themselves from the world and choose to seek God's Kingdom and His righteousness above all else. There is a wedding ceremony being prepared for all who have received Christ as Savior and have a prepared wedding garment. This garment represents both the imputed and imparted righteousness of Christ.
The last words of Jesus to His disciples, prior to ascending to heaven were "Go, teach, baptize" (Matt 28:19). This has become known as "the great commission." Each and every follower of Christ is called to obey it. A kingdom minded people understands this and is willing to follow the Lord's call. However, many are like Jonah in the old testament - unwilling to obey. God has a way of getting our focus back on the Kingdom!!!
When God's Word is received it always yields fruit. God is a God of increase, He desires growth and expansion. According to the parable in Mark 4, when the seed of God's Word finds good soil, it produces a harvest 30, 60, and 100 fold. The question is, "are we sowing seed?" If we are - there will be increase!
The Kingdom of God is not made up of territory, material goods or what we see in the natural. It is a matter of surrending to the King's power, authority and rule. There is an open invitation to come and be a part of this Kingdom. The invitation has been made possible by Jesus Christ! As we accept it and become focused on building this Kingdom - all the resources of heaven are opened up to us!
It is the Holy Spirit that stirs us, moves us and brings life to us and our churches. The question is, "do you have the willingness to respond to the Holy Spirit when He begins to move?" There is a danger of simply settling into our spiritual "comfort zone" and no longer desiring to be stirred. Fortunately, The Holy Spirit is faithful to continue His work in us. Let's respond!
We are clearly living in a very dark time, but according to Jesus; His followers would be a source of light. However, we can not bring forth this light of ourselves - it comes from our union with Jesus. He is the branch and we are the vines, without Him we can do nothing! What are you pouring into your lamp?
Throughout scripture and church history we see some of the greatest moves of God take place when society is at its worse. When the testimony of God is being threatened, the Lord will rise in defense! Are we living in such a time? Negative news is all around us, darkness is approaching and the testimony of Christ is being marginalized. So, why not now and why not us? God, bring a divine moment!
This message addresses the question, "What is the destiny of the true follower of Christ?" For the believer, death is not final! There is a resurrection of the dead. The Word of God is clear on this truth an we must not allow our minds and hearts to be captivated by the here and now. This life is simply a dressing room for eternity!
In the battle for our minds, the devil is constantly trying to plant thoughts that we can have joy and peace apart from living for God. However, these thoughts leave us with anxiety, fear and worry. The Lord wants us focused on truth, good reports, peace and His promises. 2 Corinthians 10:4-6 gives us a blueprint for taking control of our thought life.
