If the gospel still
possesses the same power that it had during the apostle’s time, why do we not
see the same results today as they did then? Has God’s promise changed?
“These scenes [that occurred with the apostles] are to be repeated, and
with greater power. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of
Pentecost was the former rain, but
the latter rain will be more
abundant. The Spirit awaits our demand and
reception. Christ is again to be
revealed in His fullness by the Holy Spirit’s power. Men will discern the value of the precious pearl, and with the apostle Paul they will
say, “What things were gain to
me, those I counted loss for Christ. Yea doubtless, and I count all things but
loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord.” Philippians
3:7, 8. Christ Object Lessons, p. 121
Here we see that the Spirit (which is what brings the gospel
power) is simply awaiting our demand and reception. Could it be that we don’t
have it because, while we may be asking, we aren’t receptive or ready to
receive it?
“The Lord did not lock the
reservoir of heaven after pouring His Spirit upon the early disciples. We,
also, may receive the fullness of His blessing. Heaven is full of the treasures
of His grace, and those who come to God in faith may claim all that He has
promised. If we do not have His power, it is of our spiritual lethargy, our
indifference, our indolence. Let us come out of this formality and deadness.
There is a great work to be done for this time, and we do not half realize what
the Lord is willing to do for His people.” Review
and Herald, June 4, 1889
This puts things in perspective doesn’t it? To think that we
don’t even half realize what God longs to do for us! So what exactly seems to
be the problem from this promise being realized today?
·
The
message is still the same. The gospel is still the power of God. (Rom 1:17)
·
The
sender is still the same. God is still almighty. He hasn’t changed. He is
the same yesterday today and forever. (Heb. 13:8)
·
The
promise is still the same. God cannot lie. His promises do not return unto
Him void. (Titus 1:2, Isa. 55:11) And as long as the great commission is on,
the promise still holds.
·
The only
problem in this equation seems to be US, the messenger! We have changed!
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