To Measure a Message

This series of thoughts, a framework for later articles, was triggered when we attended a widely publicised ‘new revival’ service. Promoted as cutting edge, the move had a central figure, and his teachings and methodology were prominent.

Not unusual – a number of such moves have risen, and will continue to do so. Some burn out in a brief flash, others stabilise and become a solid brick in God’s constant construction work.

How can we skip the showbiz and at the same time celebrate the supernatural?

The Believers’ only test for any movement is: Is it preaching a message consistent with His message, as presented in the scriptures?

We will not always be Comfortable

Yes, we will see fresh moves of God; Yes, some things He does are going to rattle our complacency. Yes, He has every right to choose to use eager, inexperienced people.

Yet beyond the peripheral issues, beyond the subjective perceptions affected by our culture, our upbringing, our expectations; beyond our comfort zones, our experiences, the experiences related by others, we have to center in on the one thing that can be judged by an objective measure:

The message that is preached.

So How do we Measure a Message?

The message presented must meet that one critical measure: Consistency with His message, as presented in the scriptures.

Yet almost every cultic movement and pseudo-church claims that they are 100% valid, and presents their own proofs – so how do we measure the measure?

Over the next few posts, (and later in expanded articles), we’re going to look at some considerations.

What is not the Measure

º Eloquence or experience.
º Dramatic presentations
º Manifestations of demons, or what may be to our eyes peculiar behaviour.
º A dress code
º Certificates.

But it Is. .

The message, the message, the message.

continued in Critical Analysis