“All Scripture is God-breathed and is useful for teaching, rebuking, correcting, and training in righteousness” – 2 Timothy 3:16 NIV.
A school curriculum is designed to guide learning, ensuring students are exposed to diverse lessons and activities that aid in knowledge, intelligence, and expression. We see the results in student assessments and interactions outside school. Therefore, we choose schools not just based on their advertisements, but on their proven ability to teach accurately according to the curriculum.
We began this week with a series on the signs of a good church. One lesson from yesterday is that a non-negotiable mark of a genuine church is its doctrine on the gospel. Today, we consider another important sign: their doctrine on the charismatic. From our anchor verse, we see that the word of God teaches, rebukes, corrects, and trains us in righteousness. Therefore, it is not enough to attend a church that teaches the gospel correctly; every other aspect of their teaching must align with God’s word.
Be intentional when choosing a church. Ask yourself, “Is it a Bible-believing and Bible-teaching church? Do they emphasise the indwelling power of the Holy Spirit and its gifts, such as speaking and interpreting tongues, prophecy, miracles, and healing?”
These questions are essential because every believer must fulfil the message of Jesus in Mark 16:17: “And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name, they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues.” A charismatic church will always emphasise this divine mandate. Choosing a church isn’t just about witnessing communal miracles but also about recognising your mandate.
A well-grounded charismatic church will show you these possibilities and equip you to function in them. Imagine the empowerment that comes with this knowledge: “I can heal the sick and cast out devils.”
We often exert painstaking consideration in choosing our friends, spouses, our children’s schools, and the apartment to rent. Apply the same diligence when selecting a church. It is essential for your edification and furtherance and joy in the faith (Philippians 1:25).
“What if I’m confused about which church to choose?”
Fast and pray about it. This is a destiny-changing decision, and you cannot afford to decide based on non-spiritual or superficial factors. Do not rely on your feelings but trust that God, the good shepherd, will lead you to the right place.
It is all about desire. Do you desire the sincere milk of the word and the operation of the Spirit so that you can grow, be edified, and be equipped? (1 Peter 2:2). The church you choose will likely align with the direction of your desires.
Dear brethren, choose prayerfully and wisely.
Bible Reading Plan: John 19