DO NOT DESPISE PROPHECY
This is an appeal to those who are watching the ongoing process of cleansing in the church regarding sexual and spiritual abuse and prophetic malpractice. As much as we need to root out sin and compromise from within, I see our spiritual adversary crouching at the door and seeking entrance to the process. Even as the prophetic movement is undergoing a necessary examination and sanctification, we must remember to hold onto what is good. We must celebrate the gifts of the Spirit, and especially prophecy. Otherwise, in our zeal to clean house, we may end up turning off the power and ending up in the dark.
As a prophetic voice, I have personally learned some valuable lessons in this season of exposures. I have been reminded of specific scriptural directives and biblical priorities that have caused me to sharpen my sword and hone my own discernment and presentation. Even so, I have been concerned by a rising sentiment from those who have been focusing on the problems. There is the subtle suggestion that it is the gift of prophecy itself (or supernatural experiences) that is causing the corruption and compromise within some of the Charismatic leaders being exposed. The issues raised concerning false words and counterfeit practices is building a wall of distrust and even disdain for operating in these gifts. And though there is some truth in the danger of manipulating supernatural experiences for personal gain, we must guard our hearts so as not to end up despising prophecy altogether.
This is why we are told to test everything, but hold onto the good. Yes, we need to address that which is wrong, unscriptural, and of the flesh. But at the same time, we need to point out, celebrate, and champion that which is good. In God’s infinite mercy and grace, He will work and speak even through compromised vessels and corrupted systems, simply because He loves us. Even through some of these leaders who are being exposed for wrongdoing, there has been good. Not because THEY are good, but because HE is. To acknowledge that which is good is not negating or disregarding the bad. The reality is that it is human flesh and corrupted hearts that are the source of these sins and counterfeit practices. It is not operating in spiritual gifts that causes the issues, but a lack of godly character within those who operate in them.
In our zeal to weed out the wolves and purify the prophets, lets not forget to celebrate and honor the goodness of God. Lets not negate the presence and power of the Holy Spirit simply because of a few bad actors. We serve a supernatural God who has invited us to partner with His Spirit in demonstrating His love and power to a dying world. The enemy would love nothing more than to quench His Spirit and kill the power switch. Lets keep him from doing this by celebrating the good and giving voice to the testimony of Jesus, which is the spirit of prophecy. (Rev 19:10).
