Freedom of Simplicity: Finding Harmony In a Complex World (1981, 2005) by Richard J. Foster, Book Review

Freedom of Simplicity: Finding Harmony In a Complex World (1981, 2005) by Richard J. Foster

 
I was first introduced to Christian spiritual disciplines through Richard Foster's classic Celebration of Discipline many years ago. I learned so much from that book, and I've practiced some of it until today, such as the disciplines of study, service, solitude, celebration - and simplicity. But then, I read and heard other authors criticize this book as being very influenced by ancient Catholic mystics, Eastern practices, and extrabiblical advice. In my opinion, some of the critics are valid (such as contemplative prayer, Lectio Divina, etc., which I'm very uncomfortable with), and some simply disagree on methods and traditional streams of Christianity, which are very subjective. This is a good reminder - for me and you - to read any books, even so-called Christian books with spiritual discernment, and holy skepticism, and get the most out of them (perhaps Philippians 4:8 is applicable here).

With this in mind, I reread Richard Foster's Freedom of Simplicity, an extension of one of the disciplines in his classic book as mentioned above. The idea of Christian simplicity is similar to secular minimalism but with one major difference: the main focus of simplicity is on God first, not the self. It is about intentionally getting rid of the things and reordering our lives that hinder our walk with God. Or, to put it positively, to enable us to walk with God with joy and freedom. God is calling us to live a simple life as Jesus lived simply. It allows us to create more space and the mental capacity for the Holy Spirit to move in all areas of our lives. This book reminds me of Proverbs 30:8b-9, "Give me neither poverty nor riches! Give me just enough to satisfy my needs. For if I grow rich, I may deny you and say, 'Who is the Lord?' And if I am too poor, I may steal and thus insult God’s holy name." Give me Jesus!

Foster divided the book into two parts: the foundation and the practice. He first argues why the discipline of simplicity is urgent, challenging, complex, and yet necessary. He also shows that it is rooted in the Old Covenant (Testament), the New Covenant, and church history among the saints. Based on his survey of Biblical texts, witnesses and practices, he concludes that inward simplicity must consist of 1) The Divine Center and, 2) Holy Obedience. From these, outward and corporate simplicity will overflow from our lives to affect our community and the world around us. Foster ends this book with encouragement, namely, the simplicity of simplicity: "There are not many things we have to keep in mind - in fact, only one: to be attentive to the voice of the true Shepherd. There are not many decisions we have to make - in fact, only one: to seek first his kingdom and his righteousness. There are not many tasks we have to do - in fact, only one: to obey him in all things." Come to think about it, the discipline of simplicity IS indeed simple because it is by God's grace. How do I get there? Well, hard work! A paradox.

#LeadersAreReaders #FreedomOfSimplicity #RichardFoster #SpiritualDiscipline #GraceAndWork #ChristianLifestyle #ServeToLead #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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The Spirit-Filled Life: Restoring A Biblical Understanding and Experience of the Holy Spirit (1895, 2019) by John MacNeil, Book Review

To listen to the audiobook of this book, go to Aneko Press YouTube Channel

 The Spirit-Filled Life: Restoring A Biblical Understanding 
and Experience of the Holy Spirit (1895, 2019) by John MacNeil

If I want to listen to or read Bible-saturated Christian classics, the first place I go is the Aneko Press website and YouTube. So many good titles, sound authors, and the best is - it’s free! Although it's an old book, the heart of MacNeil’s message is timeless. Aneko Press has done a good job of updating and revising it. This book can be scary to read because it sometimes emphasized heavily the teaching of ‘inner life’ like that of Andrew Murray’s books. In fact, he, Murray, and others were parts of the controversial Higher Life Movement. If not careful, it will make you feel spiritually inferior. But with prayerful reading and Scripture meditating, your eyes will be open to how much God desire for His children to be filled with the Holy Spirit - and to know Him. “The fullness of the Holy Spirit,” writes MacNeil, “is the birthright of every believer.”

The author begins this book by quoting Acts 19:1-2, “Now it happened that while Apollos was in Corinth, Paul passed through the upper country and came to Ephesus, and found some disciples. He said to them, ‘Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?’ And they said to him, ‘On the contrary, we have not even heard if there is a Holy Spirit.’” MacNeil comments on this situation, “Many - oh, so many - of God’s dear children are living on the wrong side of Pentecost, living on the same plane as that on which the disciples were living before they were filled with the Holy Spirit, and thus by their lives they practically make the sad confession, ‘We did not so much as hear whether the Holy Spirit was given or whether there is any Holy Spirit.’” Indeed, this is a sad confession. I have said it before too. Chapter 3: A Command to Be Obeyed; Chapter 4: Something Different from the New Birth; Chapter 7: The Time Between Regenerating and Filling; and Chapter 8: Other Words for Being Filled With the Spirit; are very helpful chapters to understand the distinction between being filled with the Spirit from being born (again) of the Spirit. The Scripture examples and passages that MacNeil used to support his writings are very persuasive. Don’t take it all at face value, of course, but do consider it seriously.

We need to continually be filled with the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 5:18). I find that if I don’t, my spiritual life will be dry. There were times when I preached the Word of God, it was all rhetoric but no power. Bones with no skins. iPhone 13 software with short battery life. At one-third of the book, MacNeil gave a very valuable reminder: “[Be] on guard against desiring such an important blessing from wrong motives. We must seek it for the one supreme reason - the glory of God. If self is at the root of our motives at all, God will most surely block our way to fullness of blessing... there is a need for the refining fire to go through our hearts. God must be Alpha and Omega in the matter. ‘For God’s glory, and for God’s glory alone’ must be our motto as we proceed with our search for the fullness of the Spirit.” Amen. Read it!

#ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #TheSpiritFilledLife #TheHolySpirit #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain

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The Corinthian Agenda (1982, 2004) by Michael Green, Summary-Review

 The Corinthian Agenda (1982, 2004) by Michael Green

“The apostle [Paul]’s love for his wayward church at Corinth is very obvious,” concludes the late Dr. Michael Green, an author, evangelist, and theologian. “He had after all found it. He had visited them at considerable inconvenience on numerous occasions. He had poured out his heart in letters to them and sent colleagues to help them. They were very dear to him. And yet, like any good father, he has to correct their failures and weaknesses. I am thankful he did. For what he has to say is of enormous value for the contemporary church, if only we will heed it.” I agree. God’s church in Corinth was very privileged in the early New Testament times. Paul testified: “I always thank my God for you and for the gracious gifts He has given you, now that you belong to Christ Jesus. Through Him, God has enriched your church in every way…” and “you have every spiritual gift you need…” (1 Corinthians 1:4-5, 7).

But with all of these gifts, it doesn’t guarantee that the church is all well. The issues within the church in Corinth were very serious and yet it is a blessing for us today. Why? Because without them, we won’t know how to think theologically and handle practically based on the Scripture the same issues facing the church today! So we should thank God for using Paul to give us these two sacred letters - 1 and 2 Corinthians. These letters (the scholars suggest that perhaps Paul have written at least three or four letters to the Corinthians, two of them completely or partially lost) are a remarkable record of the relations “between the greatest of church planters and one of the most influential communities [Paul] founded and cared for.” In the period of reading this book, I also took time to read 1 & 2 Corinthians in the New Living Translation (NLT) and listened to audio Bible in King James Version (KJV) read by the legendary voice of Alexander Scourby. In this way, I can get the most from the Scripture and the book. I recommend this practice especially if you’re reading Bible commentary!

In this book, Michael Green (1930 - 2019) selected some very important issues or major themes and devoted a short chapter for each. This is not a verse by verse commentary but the author just wants to show how “Paul speaks directly to us over a broad range of issues in the Christian life, and speaks with an incisiveness, clarity, and authority that are rare.” There are 3 parts (The Church, The Members & Authority) and 17 short chapters on Mission, Baptism, The Lord’s Supper, Body Life, Love, Worship, Prophecy, Intellect, Freedom, Giving, Sex, Suffering, Death, Leaders, Women & Apostles. As you can see, some of these themes are still hot issues nowadays and very much debate between and within the Christian denominational circles. Of course, I don’t agree with everything Dr. Green writes but if I only read books that I agree with, what benefits will I get? For sure, he was very passionate for the word of God, always trying to provide a balanced view on difficult issues, making sure that important points have Scripture references, and aim to be as plain and practical as possible so that we can apply these truths or principles in our everyday life. The Corinthian Agenda (first published as To Corinth with Love) is a good overview of these sacred letters. But if you want to study in-depth I suggest getting a set of 1 & 2 Corinthians MacArthur New Testament Commentary and those from The Bible Speaks Today commentary series.

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Romans 2:1-4 God's Kindness Leads To Repentance (#LetterToTheRomans)

Why does God still let the sinners live? Surely it's NOT because they are good but because God IS good. Many of us misunderstand the goodness of God towards the sinners. "God’s kindness [or goodness] is meant to lead you to repentance" (Romans 1:4). The clock is ticking. The offer is now. Today is probably your last breathe. Will you repent? ⏳⌛⚡

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Angelus' Quote: Real Success Is Doing the Will of God Regardless of the Consequences

 

Currently, I'm rereading John MacArthur's Ashamed of the Gospel (together with R.C. Sproul's The Holiness of God). In this meaty book, MacArthur is dealing with the modern-day Down-Grade Controversy. As he compares the Biblical Church to the User-Friendly Church nowadays, he touches on the topic of success: "Size [of the church] does not signify blessing. And popularity is no barometer for success... In Scripture, big budgets, affluent members, and large membership rolls are NEVER portrayed as valid goals.

"Paul was not telling Timothy how to be 'successful'; he was not instructing him on techniques for increasing attendance figures; he was encouraging him to pursue the DIVINE STANDARD... It is not prosperity, power, prominence, popularity, or any of the other worldly notions of success. Real success is doing the will of God regardless of the consequences" (page 42) 💪⚡📖 #ServeToLead #ObedienceOverSuccess #SpiritualLeader

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Blessing or Curse: You Can Choose (2006) by Derek Prince, Book Review

Blessing or Curse: You Can Choose (2006) by Derek Prince

Last week I didn't post anything on my social media, so I have lots of time (and works too, but I'm able to manage my work very well) to read books. I finished two books. One by N. A. Wilson on the life of Adolf Hitler and this book. Now can you see how much time we wasted on social media weekly? Monthly? Yearly? Except for WhatsApps, I don't even have active personal social media accounts! You can be a reader - all of us can - if only you reduce your idle time on social media. Join my #SocialMediaSabbath every week. To know more, visit LEGASI.tv Instagram.

Okay, about this book. If I want to understand the Bible better, I refer to David Pawson; but if I want to learn more about spiritual warfare, I go to Derek Prince (don't be confused with Joseph Prince ya). There are invincible forces influencing our lives today. Some recognize it, some just simply ignorance. "The Bible speaks plainly about these forces," writes Prince, "In fact, it has a great deal to say about them. It calls them respectively blessings and curses." The word “bless” or “blessing” occurs more than 410 times in the Bible; the word "curse" occurs nearly 160 times. Both are absolutely real —so real that our Lord Jesus had to be made a curse so that we might be redeemed from the curse and receive the blessing (read Galatians 3:13).

Prince explains, "Some people are inclined to think that blessings are real but curses are imaginary, or hypothetical. That is an illogical idea. If we consider any pair of opposites, it stands to reason that if one is real, the other must be real. Take day and night, for example. If the day is real, then the night is also real. Heat and cold — if heat is real, then cold is real. Good and evil — if good is real, then evil is real. We cannot accept one and ignore the other. So it is with blessings and curses. Blessings are real, and so are cursed." I think the questions from the back cover are very telling: Are you or your family experiencing repeated sickness or accidents? Do you feel under mental, emotional, or financial pressure much of the time? Are your closest relationships in turmoil? Do you wonder why success comes easily to others but seems to elude you? If you say YES to most of the questions (there are very good questions outline in the book to identify it), probably, you're intentionally or unintentionally, is under a curse.

Don't be discouraged if you think you do. The good news is that God has provided the means to overcome it. From the beginning, God desires for you to receive His blessings and not curses through Jesus Christ, His Son. In my life, relationships and ministry, I sense that something is not right and believe that spiritual warfare and curses were in operations. Only when I acknowledged what's going on, I then bring it in prayer to my Father in heaven. Now I know that I'm free and experience God's blessing in my life. The best is yet to come! I really recommend this book. Or, you can start by watching YouTube video How to Pass from Curse to Blessing by Derek Prince. Would you pray this prayer:

"Lord Jesus Christ, I believe that You are the Son of God and the only way to God; and that You died on the cross for my sins and rose again from the dead. I give up all my rebellion and all my sin, and I submit myself to You as my Lord. I confess all my sins before You and ask for Your forgiveness — especially for any sins that exposed me to a curse. Release me also from the consequences of my ancestors’ sins. By a decision of my will, I forgive all who have harmed me or wronged me — just as I want God to forgive me. In particular, I forgive [say the name of the person]. I renounce all contact with anything occult or satanic — if I have any 'contact objects,' I commit myself to destroy them. I cancel all of Satan’s claims against me. Lord Jesus, I believe that on the cross You took on Yourself every curse that could ever come upon me. So I ask You now to release me from every curse over my life — in Your name, Lord Jesus Christ! By faith, I now receive my release and I thank You for it."

😊⚡✔ #ServeToLead #1Book1Week #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain #LeadersAreReaders #DerekPrince #BlessingsAndCurses #SpiritualWarfare

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Angels: God's Secret Agents (1975) by Billy Graham, Book Review

Angels: God's Secret Agents (1975) by Billy Graham

I read this book for the first time during our campus Christian Fellowship (CF) mission trip to Betong many years ago. When we encountered spiritual warfares, I was curious about what the Bible really said about angels - good and evil - Who are they? What is their purpose or mission? And why are they always appear in the Word and frequently in the world today? Late Billy Graham wrote a book on this topic when the people of his generations were getting more interested in the supernatural such as UFO, ESP, and demonic cults. With all the confusion, he wants to direct his readers to biblical truths about angels. He is faithful to the Scripture, very clear, non-speculative and his writing is easy to read.

Billy's wife, Ruth, who was born and raised in China, recalls that in her childhood days tigers lived in the mountains. One day a poor woman went up to the foothills to cut grass. To her back was tied a baby and a little child walked beside her. As she reached the top of a hill she heard a roar and then saw a mother tigress (hey, a female tiger is more frightful than a male tiger) springing at her. "This illiterate Chinese mother had never attended school or entered a church. She had never seen a Bible," writes Mr. Graham, "But a year or two earlier a missionary had told her about Jesus, 'who is able to help you when you are in trouble.' As the claws of the tigress tore her arm and shoulder, the woman cried out in frenzy, 'Oh Jesus, help me!' This ferocious beast, instead of attacking again to get an easy meal, suddenly turned and ran away." Had God sent an angel to help this poor woman?

I remember a few incidents in my life where I suspect God sent an angel(s) to protect me. A man who appeared out of nowhere helped me pulled my car out from the drain and then gone. I was so sure that a wild dog trying to bite and run very fast toward me (I mumbled some prayer, I think) but about 1 meter away, the dog suddenly stopped for no reason. During one of the mission trips, a witch doctor came to us and asked us who 'protecting' us from her spells.

I believe God when He promises us in Psalms 91:11, "He will give angels charge of you, to guard you in all your ways." Especially, when we do the works of ministry. [Good] angels are our allies. Do not worship them, but know that they - and us, in some parts - are servants of God. As Mr. Graham puts it: "While we do not place our faith directly in angels, we should place it in the God who rules the angels; then we can have peace" 😊🙏⚡ #1Book1Week #ServeToLead #LeadersAreReaders #LetsMakeReadingCoolAgain #Angels #BillyGraham

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Biblical Manhood #4 Must Exercise Self-Control (Part 2)

In the previous video, I said that the fourth characteristic of Biblical manhood is that we must exercise self-control. Here I would like to extend this point by sharing three essential areas that we - as a man - must take care of:

a) Spiritual Stability

b) Emotional Stability

c) Psychological Stability

#ServeToLead #GodlyMan #MustExerciseSelfControl #LEGASIManhood

To watch other videos on #BiblicalManhood CLICK HERE:

1) Becoming A Leader https://youtu.be/s67p9D4jeQc

2) Having A Good Reputation https://youtu.be/cKNTiWard6U

3) Must Be A Faithful Man https://youtu.be/hDOw_gO62PM

4) Must Exercise Self-Control https://youtu.be/2c2k9FBpOvk

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Angelus' Quote: Agi Idup Agi Ngereja Ka Pengawa TUHAN

This morning Rev Dennis Gimang preached in the English service on the topic of Preaching, Repent & Calling (PRC) based on Matthew 5:12-23 at St. Francis's Church. While taking note, this line caught my attention. We (the Ibans) use to hear 'Agi idup agi ngelaban' but as we became Christ-followers, explains Rev Dennis, we must have a different mindset: "Agi idup agi ngereja ka pengawa TUHAN."* Loosely means, "While we still alive, we do the works of God" 💪😉👌 #ServeToLead #SpiritualLeader

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Angelus' Quote: In Spiritual Leadership, Fasting Is Essential

Leadership usually means activity and busyness. Always there is something else to complete, somebody to meet, the next meeting to attend, another book to read, etc. Often what's left behind is our private, personal, intimate walk with God. Fasting is one means to redirect our attention to Him. From my-leadership to God-leading-ship.

Years ago, I read Richard Foster's The Celebration of Discipline, a classic book, he wrote: "Fasting can bring breakthroughs in the spiritual realm that will never happen in any other way. It is a means of God's grace and blessing that should not be neglected any longer." It is essential 💪😉 #ServeToLead #SpiritualLeader

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Seven (7) MORE Ways to Read the Entire Bible in One (1) Year

I hope you already read my previous article entitled Seven (7) Ways to Read the Entire Bible in One (1) Year. If not yet, CLICK HERE to read. God through many of His faithful scholars and servants, has produced hundreds of Bible translations. In this way, God doesn't limit His Written Word with only the original Hebrew, Greek and Aramaic languages. You and I in Malaysia (and all over the world) can read the Bible in our mother tongue or native language. God is also the God of Iban, Chinese, Indian, Malay, Dusun - all languages. With this awesome privilege to know God and His Mind, why wouldn't Christians don't want to read the Bible for his or herself?

Deep inside we know that as Jesus' followers we need to read the Bible consistently. But you and I know that most Christians have never even finished reading the New Testament, let alone the entire Bible (Matthew 26:41 says, "For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!"). As you know too, the Bible is a BIG volume book. But do not be discouraged! By dividing the Bible into 366* daily readings, your goal of reading the Bible in a year can easily be accomplished. Get a Bible reading plan today and start where you are. It's not too late (yet). In addition to the 7 ways to read the entire Bible in 1 year that I already suggested in the previous article (again, please check it out), here I would like to add another 7 ways or tips to encourage you in this noble and profitable holy-curious-reading to know the living God through His written Word:

*year 2020 have 366 days

#8 LISTEN TO (DRAMATIZED) AUDIO BIBLE

In my opinion, reading is better than listening to the Bible in terms of memorizing, familiarizing and imagining the Scripture. But listening is as Biblical as reading the Scripture. Romans 10:17 puts it this way: "[Faith] comes by hearing, and hearing by the word of God." I love to listen to podcasts, audiobooks and dramatized audio Bible. In my office, we have a set of The Bible Experience (TNIV) audio Mp3 and I love it very much. If Mp3 is too old school for you, you can download or listen to audio Bible online such as through http://www.bible.is/ website or App (untuk Bahasa Indonesia, saya cadangkan kamu mendengar https://www.alkitabsuara.com/). By all mean, try to READ the actual, physical Bible. Use the audio Bible if you need to catch up with some of your readings or to listen to the overall ideas or themes of the book that you are read now.

#9 WRITE YOUR THOUGHTS, REFLECTIONS & QUESTIONS ON YOUR NOTEBOOK OR JOURNAL

When the apostle John was in exile in the Patmos island, he was given a vision of heaven. The Lord appeared to him and said, "Write on a scroll what you see... Write, therefore, what you have seen" (Rev. 1:11,19). Likewise, you can write what you have read and 'seen' in Scripture. If your Bible has big margins, write your responses there. If you think your Bible is too 'sacred' to write something on, then use a notebook or post-it-notes. Some people use a journal, you can, but I'm not that disciplined. As you read and meditate on the Word, some insights and observations may come to mind, so you should write it down while it is still fresh.

Most of the time, when I read the Bible, I have more questions than insights. Question is good and very important provided that you have the initiative to ask God to reveal it to you in prayer and to search for the answer(s) later. Even if God doesn't give you the answer to your question immediately, just write it down. Who knows, maybe a few years later the answer may come to you unexpectedly but divinely orchestrate. Sometimes there is no answer... and it's okay too.

#10 FIND A QUITE, COMFORTABLE & LESS DISTRACTION PLACE TO READ

I would love to say that I get up early morning every single day, pour a cup of coffee and spend two hours reading my Bible and praying on my knee. Sorry, I don't. I'm not that spiritual. I do, however, when I wake up (probably around 7-9.00am, even 11.00am, depending on what time I sleep), tidy up my bed, drink water, take a shower and then I read my Bible as I boil the water to make myself a cup of coffee. After I post a daily reminder of Bible reading for that day (if you want to receive a daily reminder of 1 Year of Chronological Bible Reading Plan, follow me on Instagram: https://instagram.com/legasi.tv/), I put my phone on airplane mode to avoid digital distraction while I’m reading. 

Since I stay alone, so, it's easy for me to find a quiet and comfortable place to read. In the past, I used to read the Bible in the toilet. For some people, this can be disguised, but for me, this was the only option I have to read peacefully and away from distractions. I also used to find that the quietest place in the morning is in my car on the way to the office. Be creative and adjust your priorities. Some people love to read the Bible at night. I don't recommend it. Reading novels or other books are okay. The psalmist says, "Your word is a lamp to my feet and a light to my path" (Psalm 119:105). As you begin to step into the day, let God's Word be the lamp and the light to your feet.

#11 ITS OKAY TO SKIP 'HARD CHAPTER', COME BACK TO IT AGAIN LATER

The Bible can be a difficult book to read when you begin, but the more you read it, the more you'll get to grips with it. If you keep going you'll learn to love it and understand it better, and soon you won't be able to remember how you get by without it. Most people I interviewed said they stop reading regularly after they get into the Book of Leviticus. Some are more endurance; they give up after the Book of Deuteronomy. No doubt, there are some difficult, hard and torturing chapter(s) to read, but don't give up yet. Keep the good fight!

If it's such a pain for you, skipped it for a while and come back later, until the end of that particular book (by God's grace, we have studied the Bible from Genesis chapter-by-chapter for 3 years now. When we get to the Book of Leviticus, I thought that we were going to end there, but amazingly, I learned such great lessons from that book!). Camden McAfee, a blogger, says it well: "We need Scripture we enjoy and Scripture we don't in order to have a healthy spiritual diet. Sometimes the passages hardest to digest are the passages we need most. By approaching with humility to listen, faithfulness to examine ourselves, and courage to speak, we can turn the hard parts of the Bible into essential nutrients for our souls."

#12 SHARE SOME OF YOUR FINDING(S) AND/OR VERSE OF THE DAY FOR YOU ON SOCIAL MEDIA

I don't particularly do this, but I find this is a great idea to encourage you to read the Bible and at the same time may encourage others as well. I don't like to read just Bible-verse posts. I like to read Bible-verse posts with thoughtful captions. I love to read someone's honest reflection of a particular passage or verse online provided that they don't simply cut and paste but seriously thought about it. It's not how many words you share but the substance that's matters. What you put in words is what you really thoughts through. Save some very personal stories, but don't let your life experiences and the Word's reflections deprived others of these wonderful blessings. Share it!

#13 READ TOGETHER WITH YOUR FAMILY OR FRIENDS OR ROOMMATES

If you can read the Bible by yourself, great! But if you can't or lack of discipline in this area, then read the Bible with other people. I have found that when we read the Bible together (especially during Bible Study) we all bring our own experiences to the Bible so it's really helpful to read the Bible with other people. This is of course provided that we know essential doctrines of the Bible and have an accountable partner(s) that can keep on encouraging one another. You'll gain other people's perspectives on what they think the Bible says. To get some different ideas, read it with someone from a different culture or ethnic, age, working experience, etc. Read a chapter or two together and then after a time of reflection (say 10-15 minutes), share what God has spoken to you through His Word [P.s: the smaller group, the better]

#14 KNOW THE BIG PICTURE OF THE BIBLE

One of the most helpful things you can do to understand the Bible better is to gain a clear comprehension of the whole sweep of the biblical story. To see and know "the big picture." Early in my journey as a Bible-reading Christian, I was (and is) greatly helped by the ministries of Charles W. Missler a.k.a. Chuck Missler and John David Pawson. These two Bible teachers are God's faithful servants who expand my knowledge of the Scripture and spark my passion for the truth. I used to play and devoured 24-hours teaching DVD of Missler's Learn the Bible in 24 Hours in my bedroom. Two times! And then, as I first enter the full-time ministry, I consumed the whole DVD series of Pawson's Unlocking the Bible. Whenever I want to be reminded of the big picture of a particular book that I read, I come to David Pawson. He provided an excellent and easy-to-understand overview of the Bible. Once you grasp the big picture - that includes the contexts and backgrounds - your view of the Bible will never be the same again! If you want to apply only one of these suggestions, take #14 with you. Nowadays you don't need to slot DVD into the player to watch these videos, all you have to do is log on to YouTube and watch online.

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THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.

War In Heaven: Taking Your Place In the Epic Battle with Evil (2003, 2015) by Derek Prince, Book Review

War In Heaven: Taking Your Place In the Epic Battle with Evil (2003, Expanded Edition 2015) 

by Derek Prince

First of all, do not be confuse Derek Prince with Joseph Prince, the Singapore megachurch pastor. Peter Derek Vaughan Prince (1915-2003) was a great Bible teacher whose daily radio program, Derek Prince Legacy Radio, is broadcast around the world in various languages even now. The radio existed before the exposure of social media mind you. I see Derek Prince as impactful and effective as David Pawson, another Bible teacher whom I admire so much. Both of them are anointed Bible teachers and have the gift of explaining the Scriptures in a clear, depth, and simple way. You can find their teachings online such as on YouTube, podcast, and their websites. Derek, who was born in India to British parents and died in Jerusalem peacefully, has helped build a foundation of faith in millions of lives including mine. What makes Derek different from other teachers, in my opinion, is that he emphasizes greatly the spiritual sides of the Christian life. He is sound in theology (not that I agree with everything he said or wrote, even in this book) but he sees more than mere theology – the victory of Christ over all things seen and unseen.

In this book, War In Heaven, Derek Prince writes authoritatively about the spiritual warfare (I highly recommend Derek's other book They Shall Expel Demons) that has been going on since soon after the beginning of time, in between Genesis 1:1 and Genesis 1:2, where confusion and emptiness enter the world [refer to Chapter 3: A Pre-Adamic World]. According to Derek, when the Devil or Satan, who was formerly known as Lucifer (read Isaiah 14:12-15 and Ezekiel 28:12-18) rebels against God for his pride to be equal with God [refer to Chapter 4: Lucifer Challenges God], he and all the fallen angels who are powerless against Him now aim their attacks to us, human beings, who are created in the image of God and His likeness. We are made "only a little lower than the angels" but God "crowned us with glory and honor" and gave us "authority over all things" (Hebrews 2:7-8). We are created to be rulers and to have dominion over all the earth and most importantly to have an intimate fellowship and special relationship with God the Creator [refer to Chapter 5: The Adamic Race: Our Origin and Chapter 6 The Adamic Race: Our Destiny]. But our problem, the big problem is that not only we are attacked by dark forces that are jealous of our future destiny, but we are also tainted by sins that separate us from the holy God. That's when Jesus, the Son of God, came to our rescue [refer to Chapter 11: By the Blood of the Lamb]. "One of the amazing things to me in Scripture," writes Derek, "is how much God concerns Himself with man." I couldn't appreciate the Good News of Jesus Christ and praise God more for His goodness, mercy, and grace. Halleluiah!

Maybe I should explain why the title War In Heaven. Isn't heaven supposed to be peaceful? According to Derek and his simple expositions of the Bible, there are three heavens: 1) Low: the invisible heaven we can see with our eyes; 2) Mid: the mid-heaven, an expanse with different types of beings coming and going; and 3) High: the location of Paradise and the place of God's dwelling – the most sacred place in the universe. So, the war in heaven that Derek writes about is mostly referred to as mid-heaven but also includes low-heaven [refer to Chapter 1: What Is Your Picture of Heaven?]. Derek explains, "Most Christians assume that heaven is a place of unbroken peace and harmony, beauty and worship. That may well be true of the third [high] heaven, but it does not apply to the first and second heavens. Some Scriptures paint a very different picture of what is currently going on in the second heaven. As already stated, it is at times the scene of great conflict between warring angels – some serving God and others serving Satan. It is primarily in the heavenly regions that such conflict takes place. It is here, too, that Satan pours out a stream of slanderous accusations against the Christians on earth who are serving the Lord" [refer to Chapter 2: Life Is a Battle!].

Knowing that the warfare and the battle in heaven are real, what must Christians do? It's no use to be neutral and passive. Either you take a defensive mode and wait for the attack or take a stand in the battle in offensive mode and declare victory in Christ. As Derek said, "The Bible teaches that all Christians must be prepared to encounter conflict and warfare in the spiritual realm." I wish every Christian read this book, especially Christian ministers who are in the midst of God's people's business and are exposed to many spiritual attacks and daily temptations. Here are 5 ways to Engage In the Battle Equipped (these are my takeaways from this book, please read the book for more details, if you can):

#1 Submit Your Life to God Fully. Don't be a half-hearted Christian. Let the dedication of Caleb be ours: "I wholeheartedly followed the LORD my God" (Joshua 14:8). Amid the battle, we must choose sides. If not, we will be squeezed! "The real issue will be this: total submission," declares Derek, "If Almighty God is willing to come into my life, there is only one logical place I can offer Him: total supremacy, complete Lordship. Anything short of this is a sham."

#2 Let Go of Pride, Be Humble. After examining the fall of Satan, Derek concludes, "I believe it is vitally important for all of us to realize that the first sin in the universe was not murder, not adultery, but rather pride." To be prideful is to be like Satan (Isaiah 14:12-15) and thus vulnerable to evil influence. To be humble is to be like Christ (Philippians 2:6-8). Since "self-humbling is an issue of the will, not of the emotions," we need to make a personal decision to humble ourselves before God. Confess our sins of pride, arrogance, and selfishness and repent from all of them. Decide to follow and exemplify Christ and let the Lord change you.

#3 Use God's Word and Intercession Prayer. Ephesians 6:12 says, "We are not fighting against flesh-and-blood enemies" but evil spiritual beings. Thus, our weapons are not guns and bombs but spiritual weapons given to us by God (there are lists of the armor of God in verses 13 to 17). Two offensive weapons in Ephesians 6 are God's Word "the sword of the Spirit" (v.17) and prayer (v.18-19). Derek on God's Word: "The same respect that we owe to God, we owe to His Word" and on prayer: "For effective prayer, there are two things we need: authority and power" [refer to Chapter 7: One Man and His Prayer]. These weapons at the hand of God's faithful servant will enrich his or her own spiritual life and are effective to fight against the evil ones.

#4 Affirm the Authority of God. In Daniel 10-11, the conflict between Gabriel and the angels opposing him lasted for 21 days. "What weapons did they deploy?" asked Derek. "I cannot find any detailed description in Scripture, but my impression is that God's angels do at least three things: they make proclamations, they offer praise, and they worship" [refer to Chapter 9: Angels at War]. In the mouth of God's servants, the making of positive proclamations is one of the most powerful weapons that He has given to His people. In Jesus' early ministry, He read Isaiah 61:1-2, "The Spirit of the LORD God is upon Me… to proclaim liberty to the captives… to proclaim the acceptable year of the Lord…" Proclamation based on God's Word and Spirit-led, together with true praise and worship, is a very powerful combination! I have experienced this power during mission trips and conferences.

#5 Apply the Blood of Jesus. "In [Christ] we have redemption through His blood, the forgiveness of sins, according to the riches of His grace" (Ephesians 1:7); We are redeemed "with the precious blood of Christ, as of a lamb without blemish and spot" (1 Peter 1:18-19); "For this is My blood of the new covenant, which is shed for many for the remission of sins" (Matthew 26:28); "[The] blood of Jesus Christ His Son cleanses us from all sin" (1 John 1:7). There are dozens other of verses that talk about the effect and power of the blood of Jesus. By His blood, God makes unrighteous people righteous. But Derek says that the blood gives us victory only as we learn to testify about it. The blood becomes effective when we testify about what the blood of Jesus does for us [refer to Chapter 10: Now Salvation Has Come!]. By faith, we testify:

Through the blood of Jesus, I am redeemed out of the hand of the devil.
Through the blood of Jesus, all my sins are forgiven.
Through the blood of Jesus, God's Son is cleansing me, now and continually, from all sin.
Through the blood of Jesus, I am justified, made righteous, just-as-if-I'd never sinned.
Through the blood of Jesus, I am sanctified, made holy, set apart to God.

This book, together with Derek Prince's sermon audios, has opened my eyes again to the world of the unseen, the reality of spiritual warfare, and the power of God available to us (As I read it, I also opened the Bible to check whether the references are accurate or not. This is important). There were times, I confess, when I do the Lord's ministry, I rely too much on my intellect and strength. This book reminds me that I must submit my life and ministry totally to the Lordship of Christ and let the Spirit lead me. Derek ends this book by describing the goal of achieving personal holiness (refer to Chapter 12: What Kind of People?]. God "has given to us all things that pertain to life and godliness" (read 2 Peter 1:2-4 for context). "Achieving personal holiness is not something that God will do for us," Derek reminds us, "It is something that God offers us the grace to do for ourselves." Yes, God already provides us – and the church - the grace to win the battle against Satan, but it's up to us to take the Cross, follow Him, and take our place in the battle. God is sovereign, His will be done. His desire will be accomplished. The question is: Do you want to be on the side of victory or remain a victim?

Other related Book Reviews that you might be interested:

1. Deliverance from Evil Spirits: A Practical Manual (1995, 2009) by Francis MacNutt (CLICK HERE)
2. Deliver Us from Evil (1973) by Don Basham (CLICK HERE)

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.

 

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Leaders, Don't Seek for Great Things for Yourself

I fully recommend Oswald Sanders' Spiritual Leadership

J. Oswald Sanders, the missionary statesman and Bible teacher who for many years directed Overseas Missionary Fellowship (OMF), once wrote about a time when he wanted a particular position in the Christian world very much. Having friends in positions of influence, he was about to see if some strings could be pulled to turn the job in his direction. He was toying with the idea of doing a little lobbying, just like some of today’s Christian leaders. 

But while walking down the main street in Auckland, New Zealand one day, turning the matter over in his mind, as he walked past His Majesty’s Theatre, a verse of Scripture came to his mind with tremendous authority and powerful conviction: “Are you seeking great things for yourself? Don’t do it!” (Jeremiah 45:5).

“The words came just as though it was God speaking. There were crowds all around me, and no one else heard the voice, but I heard it all right!” Sander later said. He continues, “I believe that was a real turning point in my service to the Lord.” As a result, he did not seek the position, but in later years it opened to him on its own in God’s good timing. Wow! In the same ways, leaders shouldn’t seek position and power but faithfully leading where you are now – even without a position – and when the time comes, God will give you the position… or not. No matter what, in God’s business – “Don’t do it!” Be faithful and fruitful anyway.

THINK BIG. START SMALL. GO DEEP.

 

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