It has been my observation that many of our visitors are not only welcomed but also encouraged to offer feedback to the church leaders. Many are so grateful for the positive and passionate worship. A few years ago I realized that visitors often want to replicate the things they see at the "vacation" church in there own congregation. I had a brave soul come to talk to me one Sunday morning. He was a song leader at his home church. We sang the song, “Glorify Thy Name” during our morning worship. This is something that is forbidden by his elders. He did not share their passions for dismissing this and other songs. However, he wanted my opinion. I shared it with him, as I will share it with you.
First, we need to remember that the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit are all part of the Godhead. Read Genesis 1 and John 1 to see that each were a part of the creation. The Gospels and the book of Acts reveal that all three were a part of the scheme of redemption and the establishment of the church. All three are one! Deuteronomy 6:4 says, “Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one.” Just listen to Jesus’ prayer in John 17 to see how intimate this unity is between the Trinity.
Second, I believe it is blasphemous to teach that the Holy Spirit is a lesser part of the Trinity. How can someone sleep at night after arguing that we shouldn’t “glorify” or “praise” Him in song. This is dangerous ground. To ignore the attributes of the Holy Spirit is one thing. But to consider Him "less" than the Father or the Son is preposterous! If He is God, HE IS GOD! Jesus teaches that blaspheming the Holy Spirit is something that is unforgiveable by those who clearly know what they are doing (Matthew 12:22-32). Do these people know the danger of blasphemy? We must not to quench the Spirit (I Thessalonians 5:19).
Finally, the end does not justify the means. Some church leaders are fearful of “spiritual” and “charismatic” issues. They are fearful that if too much emphasis is placed upon the Holy Spirit that people might start dancing in the aisles or bring snakes to church. There are some concerns about spiritual overload and trying to hear the voice of God when He is not speaking directly too someone. The pendulum will swing. Some people will seek to justify everything they do by supernatural guidance while others will reject anything spiritual. We need to find balance. We can be cautious of being overzealous while we being wise to the Spirit’s power and work in this world. Revelation clearly shows that the Spirit and the bride (the church) are inseparable in the work of the Lord today.
How can we read the New Testament and not see the work of the Holy Spirit? How can we see the work of God in the church today and not know that His presence is still with us? Why are we told to take up the sword of the Spirit? What about all of those promises to never leave us alone, to be with us always, and to seal us with His Spirit? Are those promises empty? No. Let’s praise the Father AND the Son AND the Holy Spirit!
You are loved.
Ray Reynolds
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