The Holy Spirit’s Amazing Work of Art
Where does John Robinson’s challenge find most of current Christianity? Answer: On the outside looking in. In most cases, the test of being a Baptist or an Episcopalian, a Presbyterian or a Lutheran, etc., is “What did our ancestors believe?” That is the very mind-set which the Reformers fought to escape – not to preserve. Had that narrow principle been their guide there would have been no Reformation and the Bible would still be a closed, unknown book. Thank God that this “misery much to be lamented”, that is, the refusal of Christians to accept what God has revealed to other believers, is now changing. Baptists and Brethren are receiving “more truth” about the baptism and gifts of the Holy Spirit. So are Methodists and Mennonites. Presbyterians and Pentecostals are learning from each other. Jesus said, “And this gospel of the kingdom shall be preached in all the world for a witness unto all nations and then shall the end come.” Matthew 24:14-15. The Bible’s final word of warning about changing the gospel comes from Jesus. He said: “For I testify unto every man who hears the words of the prophecy of this book … if any man shall take away from the words of the book of this prophecy, God shall take away his part out of the book of life, and out of the holy city, and from the things which are written in this book. He who testifies these things says, Surely I come quickly. Amen. Even so, come, Lord Jesus.” Revelation 22:16-20.
As 21st century Christians, we may look gratefully to the first century scribes, the Puritan fathers and to King James. More importantly, we look to the Holy Spirit for wisdom to understand what they have put in our hands: The Bible – the Holy Spirit’s great “work of art.”
Adapted from Gentle Conquest (Jan. 11, 2007). Used with permission from Charles Carrin Ministries (www.CharlesCarrinMinistsries.com).
Category: Biblical Studies, Pneuma Review, Spring 2008
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