Note: Permission received to publish this article in full. Thank you Prof Malan. www.bibleguidance.co.za [Picture added by DTW]
The Role of Signs and Wonders
Prof. Johan Malan, Middelburg, South Africa (July 2009)
Signs and wonders are supernatural acts by which God demonstrates His omnipotence to miraculously save believers, to subdue His enemies, and to reveal aspects of His counsel. As in the time of Noah and Lot, divine judgements were at times poured out upon rebellious societies. Although the Lord can reveal Himself at any time through signs and wonders, there were periods in history when such phenomena more frequently occurred. That was particularly the case during and after Israel’s exodus from Egypt; during the wars of conquest under leaders such as Joshua, Gideon, Samson, and David; and also in the actions of prophets such as Elijah and Elisha. In the time of Joshua the Lord even caused the sun and moon to stand still in order for Israel to catch up with their enemies and destroy them before nightfall (Josh. 10:12-13).
The beginning as well as the end of the New Testament dispensation are also characterised by the large-scale occurrence of signs and wonders, but during the long period of the church dispensation itself, they do not play a prominent role. During this time the Lord maintains His presence on earth through His Holy Spirit who convicts people of their sin and guides believers into spiritual truth in accordance with Scriptural pronouncements. It is of the utmost importance that we should not artificially continue signs and wonders into the church dispensation that were basically meant for the preparation and establishment of the Christian church. It is just as important that we do not pursue the false signs that occur in the end-time as preparation for the revelation of the Antichrist.
A closer examination of the various groups of signs and wonders is required in order to determine their purpose and meaning, and where they fit into God’s counsel. True exegesis of Scripture and great discernment are needed to obtain clarity about this matter.
OT signs and wonders
In the Old Testament (OT) the Lord called Israel as His own people and placed them in opposition to the pagan nations that were in Satan’s power. There was a distinct boundary between God’s kingdom and Satan’s kingdom. The Lord often intervened in the physical battle between Israel and their hostile neighbours by ensuring great victories for His people. Jericho’s walls collapsed without Israel moving a finger (Josh. 6). Samson slew thousands of Philistines with his supernatural power. In the time of Hezekiah the angel of the Lord killed 185 000 Assyrians who besieged Jerusalem (2 Kings 19:35). By God’s doing, the furnace of Nebuchadnezzar was powerless against three believing Israelites, while Daniel miraculously survived in the lions’ den. The omnipotence and saving power of the Lord could be seen by everybody, so that everybody could realise that there is a true God of heaven and earth who is far above all the vain idols.
In OT times, the religious practises among all nations manifested in many overt ways. Pagan religions were based upon various forms of idol worship. Therefore, when fighting against them, Israel had to physically destroy the images of idols as well as their temples. Israel’s religion mainly comprised the conducting of daily sacrifices in the tabernacle or temple. Ritual acts were of the greatest significance, as was the position of the priests as human mediators. The Lord often revealed Himself in supernatural ways through dreams, visions, an audible voice, as well as angels that were sent to people with specific messages from the Lord. His presence could sometimes be seen in the form of a pillar of cloud or a pillar of fire. Holy places were prepared in the tabernacle or temple where certain anointed persons could inquire of the Lord.
Beginning of the Christian church
At the beginning of the New Testament (NT) period there was a distinct leading up to the establishment of the Christian church. It coincided with great signs and wonders – particularly the healing of the sick and the raising up of dead people – in order to validate the Messiahship of Jesus as the Son of God. His resurrection from the dead and ascension were the climax of a life in the power of God, so that all could see and know that He was the promised Messiah.
Peter reminded Israel of the divine aspects of Jesus’ life: “Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a Man attested by God to you by miracles, wonders and signs which God did through Him in your midst.” He also referred to the great significance of Jesus’ crucifixion, “Him, being delivered by the carefully planned intention and foreknowledge of God” (Acts. 2:22-24). The miracles done by Jesus was God’s way of proving that Jesus is the Messiah and Saviour of Israel and the whole world.
In a time of great persecution against the early Christian church the apostles prayed that the Lord would enable them to do healings, and signs and wonders in the Name of Jesus (Acts 4:29-30; Heb. 2:4). These confirmative signs were part of their ministry (Acts 2:43; 5:12; 6:8; 14:3; 15:12). There are indications that power to do these special signs was also given to other believers during this time. The Lord Jesus said:
“And these signs will follow those who believe: In My name they will cast out demons; they will speak with new tongues; they will take up serpents; and if they drink anything deadly, it will by no means hurt them; they will lay hands on the sick, and they will recover. So then, after the Lord had spoken to them, He was received up into heaven, and sat down at the right hand of God. And they went out and preached everywhere, the Lord working with them and confirming the word through the accompanying signs” (Mark 16:17-20).
Profs. Walvoord & Zuck (The Bible Knowledge Commentary, p. 196) say the following on Mark 16:17-20: “These verses list five kinds of signs which would attend those who believe. Signs are supernatural events attesting the divine origin of the apostolic message (cf. Mark 16:20). The signs authenticated the faith the early believers proclaimed, not the personal faith that any one of them exercised. In the light of this and historical evidence it is reasonable to conclude that these authenticating signs were normative only for the apostolic era. In fulfilling their commission believers would be given the ability to do miraculous things in Jesus’ name… As a final kind of authenticating sign they would put their hands on sick people and they would get well.”
Let us consider these five special signs and miracles:
Driving out of demons. The power of God over the kingdom of darkness was publicly demonstrated when people were delivered from demon-possession in a spectacular way. The purpose of these acts was to authenticate the apostles’ message of salvation: “And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralysed and lame were healed” (Acts 8:6-7). In the subsequent church dispensation the saving power of the Lord is still effective against all the works of the devil, but the ministry of reconciliation is not confined to certain “anointed” ones. In the process of deliverance much bigger emphasis should be placed upon the faith of the receiver, rather than on another person one-sidedly driving out demons. When someone approaches the Lord Jesus’ throne of grace in faith he does not need another person to rebuke the devil and declare him free from demonic bondage. However, biblically correct counselling and spiritual guidance are, in many cases, indeed necessary to ensure that a person’s confession of sin is complete, his faith in the saving power of Christ is based upon firm promises, and that his deliverance and cleansing are fully accepted in faith. He should be taught to turn to Christ’s throne of grace where deliverance can be obtained through the blood of the Lamb (Eph. 1:7), and not to persons with special “powers” to rebuke devils, break bondages, or to heal.
Speaking in other tongues. During the time of the early Christian church there was not yet a Bible with concrete commands and promises of the Lord in order that sinners could repent and young converts be established in the full counsel of God. During this time the Lord revealed His will in a supernatural way through the signs of other tongues. However, these were other known tongues (glossa) or dialects (dialektos) which the particular person did not know. The Holy Spirit then gave him the gift to speak in one or other foreign language and to someone else the gift to translate it into the language of the audience. They did not speak in a strange gibberish. Because of this sign, unbelieving and sceptical listeners believed that it was the work of God and hence accepted the message: “Therefore tongues are for a sign, not to those who believe but to unbelievers” (1 Cor. 14:22). When, later in the first century, the gospels and epistles of the NT were written and circulated among congregations, the speaking and interpretation of tongues were gradually replaced by Scripture reading and the interpretation of Scripture (cf. Col. 4:16 and 1 Thess. 5:27). At that stage it was no longer necessary to receive supernatural revelations of God’s will, since His whole counsel is declared in the Bible (cf. Acts 20:27). The Bible not only replaces the speaking in tongues, but also divine revelations through dreams, visions, audible voices, and angels who deliver messages. God speaks to us by the word of His Son as recorded in the Bible (Heb. 1:1). That means that the function of prophets have also ceased. We can only study and proclaim biblical prophecies. Extra-biblical prophecies uttered by self-appointed prophets are a breeding-ground for spiritual deception and are used to deceive many people.
Power over venomous serpents. The Lord also used this sign to convince pagans that his apostles proclaimed the truth. On the isle of Malta Paul was bitten by a deadly venomous snake and the inhabitants expected that he would become very ill or fall down dead. When nothing happened to him they accepted him in amazement as a divine person. He preached the Word to them and also healed the sick in the name of the Lord Jesus (Acts 28:1-10). Believers do not have such special powers in the church dispensation. Even if somebody is miraculously protected against lethal snake venom it still does not constitute a general rule that applies to all.
Power over other types of poison. During the time of the apostles even the Grecian poison-cup did not pose any threat to the special servants of the Lord. However, believers in the church dispensation are not automatically safeguarded against the effect of poison and other life-threatening substances and neither can they lay claim to this sign.
The power of healing. The apostles had the gift of the laying on of hands, which was practised to secure the healing of large numbers of sick people. This gift was also practised by elders in the early church (Jas. 5:14-15). Because of this sign many people believed the gospel and received Christ as Saviour. However, the special apostolic gift of the laying on of hands ended long ago. The apostles lived during a transitional time when the emphasis shifted from a visible (physical) level to an inner (spiritual) level. The Lord wants us to realise that He primarily died to bear our spiritual ailments so that healing may be attained for our sick and starving souls (cf. Isa. 53:4-5). If bodily healing was part of the reconciliation on the cross there should never be a sick Christian who does not find healing. But that is not the case! In spite of this we should still confidently mention all our problems and illnesses in prayer before the Lord’s throne because He cares for us. But we should remember that we do not have special power or anointing to heal people – neither can we claim physical healing by virtue of Christ’s death on the cross. The Lord can miraculously heal a person by His grace, and it often happens, but that is not the experience of all sick and disabled people. Even Paul who healed many people suffered under bodily afflictions from which he was not delivered. But he was content with his situation as the Lord allowed it with a purpose (2 Cor. 12:7-10). We live in a perishing world in which our bodies are subject to corruption. Some people die earlier than others, but the important matter is that our earthly lives are passing away. Our highest priority should not be earthly happiness, prosperity and a life without sorrows, but peace in our hearts that our case with Him has been settled. The completeness for which we long will only be attained when Jesus comes again.
Conditions in the church dispensation
We in the church dispensation are in an extremely privileged position in that we have the fully revealed will of God in the Bible, as well as His uninterrupted presence in our lives through the Holy Spirit. We have enlightened eyes of the mind to understand the mysteries of Christ’s grace, and are empowered by the Holy Spirit to live accordingly. We should strictly abide by NT principles in our life of faith in the crucified and risen Lord Jesus who came long ago for our salvation, and who will come again for the revelation of His kingdom. The following facts with regard to signs, wonders, the struggle against evil, as well as God’s revelations to us, should be clearly understood:
• There is no longer a geographic delimitation between God’s people and the pagan world – we are like wheat and tares that grow in the same field. The physical battle in the OT between the Chosen People (Israel) and the pagan nations with their idol-worship has changed in the NT to a spiritual battle between the kingdom of light and the kingdom of darkness. The coming of the Messiah has introduced an entirely new dimension to this battle since He is the Conqueror against Satan’s power, and in His name we can also prevail. Because we do not wrestle against flesh and blood (Eph. 6:10-12) we must put on spiritual armour to remain standing and achieve the victory (2 Cor. 10:3-5). Physical strength is of no avail in this battle – only the power which the Lord gives to us through His Holy Spirit enables us to conquer.
• At the beginning of the dispensation of faith in Christ it was of the utmost importance to authenticate and confirm the Messiahship of Jesus, as well as His message of spiritual salvation, by divine power and signs. Many things would drastically change, and for that reason the message of Jesus was not popular among Israel’s leaders who were immovably caught up in their legalism and form of godliness. Jesus would not be a military leader to liberate Israel from Roman domination, but a spiritual leader to save His people from their sin. He abolished the OT sacrificial system when He sacrificed Himself as the spotless Lamb of God on the cross. He did not continue Israel’s ritualistic temple service, but rendered the priestly order obsolete and caused the veil of the temple to tear, thereby offering all believers access to the throne of grace. He would subsequently be the High Priest of all believers and also our only Mediator to the Father. The role of human mediators was ended. In the new dispensation the righteous would live by faith and not through institutionalised religious traditions.
• The apostles were empowered to continue with authenticating signs for confirming the Messiahship of Jesus until the early church was well established. Actually, their special powers were in conflict with the NT position of the believer as well as our free access to the throne of grace, and for that reason they only functioned for a limited time until their purpose had been served. The sign of speaking in tongues ceased when the statement was clearly and repeatedly made that the gospel was to be proclaimed in all languages to all people. The very common sign of healing through the laying on of hands which was initially offered without reservation to all people also ceased when there were no longer any apostles with special powers. After that, all believers had to approach the Lord’s throne of grace themselves in prayer with all their needs and problems. He gives healing, relief, or acceptance of our difficult circumstances, illness or disability, as well as strength to face our challenges as we look forward to the completeness that we will one day have. We should be content with provision in our basic needs while finding our way through a broken world, gladly bear our cross and follow Christ (cf. 1 Tim. 6:7-12). We must always be mindful of the fact that we do not yet live in kingdom circumstances where there will be no want, tribulation or affliction. Christ’s reign of peace is still future, and we presently live in a spiritually and morally dark world which lies in the sway of the Evil One (1 John 5:19; Phil. 2:15).
• It is obvious that we should not be looking for signs and wonders in the NT, but keep on growing up in the most holy faith. Even during the time of great signs and wonders the Lord Jesus warned against a pronounced inclination towards these things. He said, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah” (Matt. 12:39-40). The sign of Jonah was fulfilled in Jesus, who was raised from the dead on the third day after His crucifixion and burial. Are the atoning death and resurrection of Jesus the central truths upon which your spiritual life has been built, or do you still look for miracles and extraordinary revelations of God through dreams, visions and extra-biblical prophecies?
End-time signs and wonders
In the end-time there will again be big and dramatic revelations of God’s power. For some people it will be to salvation and for others to condemnation. One of the biggest and most dramatic interventions of God in the destiny of humanity will occur at the rapture. The deceased believers of all time will be raised from the dead in a moment and receive glorified, immortal bodies. After that, living believers will also receive glorified bodies in the twinkling of an eye, then all of them will be caught up to meet the Lord in the air (1 Cor. 15:51-53; 1 Thess. 4:16-18). To us, faith will be replaced by sight while great and wonderful things are revealed to us.
On earth the Antichrist and false prophet will be revealed to institute a satanic new world order. Their rule will be accompanied with dramatic signs and wonders since the coming of the Antichrist is “according to the working of Satan, with all power, signs, and lying wonders” (2 Thess. 2:9). The false prophet also “performs great signs, so that he even makes fire come down from heaven on the earth in the sight of men” (Rev. 13:13). Through his signs he will deceive humanity into accepting the mark of the Antichrist and to worship his image (Rev. 19:20).
We are living in the end-time shortly before the coming of the heavenly Bridegroom and should be on the alert for the worldwide occurrence of false signs and wonders through which people will be conditioned to accept and follow a false christ and his false prophet. There are presently many false prophets who act in the name of Jesus, but in reality they are paving the way for the coming false christ. The Lord Jesus warned against them:
“Take heed that no one deceives you… Many false prophets will rise up and deceive many… For false christs and false prophets will arise and show great signs and wonders, so as to deceive, if possible, even the elect” (Matt. 24:4,11,24).
What will be the end of these false teachers who deceived people in the name of Jesus? “Many will say to Me in that day, Lord, Lord, have we not prophesied in Your name, cast out demons in Your name, and done many wonders in Your name? And then I will declare to them, I never knew you; depart from Me, you who practise lawlessness!” (Matt. 7:22-23).
Signs and wonders are supernatural phenomena that are often difficult to judge. Given the fact that the devil will extensively use them to deceive humanity, we should be very cautious not to accept anything by its outward appearance. John says: “Beloved, do not believe every spirit, but test the spirits, whether they are of God; because many false prophets have gone out into the world” (1 John 4:1). Apply a Scriptural test to the “prophets”. Determine if what they say is strictly in accordance with biblical pronouncements. The devil is intent on distorting the Bible and creating false expectations among people. Also see if their methods conform to biblical guidelines. Strange phenomena such as slaying in the spirit, holy laughter, prophesying in the spirit, and many similar manifestations are foreign to the Bible and therefore false.
Ensure that your knowledge of the Bible is sufficient to be used as a frame of reference to test all doctrinal disputes and controversial questions: “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free” (John 8:32). Do not be deceived – particularly not by the false signs and wonders of the enemy.
Source: http://www.bibleguidance.co.za/Engarticles/Signs-wonders.htm
“Ensure that your knowledge of the Bible is sufficient to be used as a frame of reference to test all doctrinal disputes and controversial questions: “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall set you free” (John 8:32). Do not be deceived – particularly not by the false signs and wonders of the enemy.”
Indeed the truth shall set one free. Wise words given to those who takes heed and keep their eyes and ears open and test all things to see whether they proceed from God. Thank you Prof Malan and Debs for placing this article.
My question is this. There are many Christians that have this kind of very important knowledge in one form or the other. But, there seems to be many more Christians and non Christians that do not. What can we do about it?
To sit here and protect our individual dignity in discussions to see who is more intelligent has very little to do with love.
Surely we must try and reach others.
I do appreciate Prof Malans writings because he is doing something and he seems truly accurate even though I’m sure he probably gets quite a lot of terrible responses to his efforts.
What about the rest of us. Should we too not be doing something, even if it means getting a punch in the face here and there?
AMi
Believe me Ami all of us have private lives and other things to do apart from being here 24/7. You do not know us. The only one who would protect their individual dignity may be you? This is not a place to check who is the more intelligent if you think so sorry wrong place for you. Do you know what Love means as described in the Word of God? Have you taken note of the traffic on this blog, well that says it about reaching people?
Oooooooh believe me we do get punched in the face and on the nose plenty times. I get the feeling this is what you are doing also?
What to you define as doing something Ami ??
You know when one tell people the truth most of the time they don’t/Won’t believe you or the would say nasty things to one. But that is the least of our problems because Jesus warns we will be hated and perscecuted for working for him. He will keep us from harms way always.
John 15:18
If the world hates you, know that it hated Me before it hated you.
Jesus prayed the following before he was taken prisoner……….
John 17:13-15 (Amplified Bible)
13And now I am coming to You; I say these things while I am still in the world, so that My joy may be made full and complete and perfect in them [that they may experience My delight fulfilled in them, that My enjoyment may be perfected in their own souls, that they may have My gladness within them, filling their hearts].
14I have given and delivered to them Your word (message) and the world has hated them, because they are not of the world [do not belong to the world], just as I am not of the world.
15I do not ask that You will take them out of the world, but that You will keep and protect them from the evil one.
AMi
Aaaaagh noooo comment like yours is non constructive. Sorry Ami but that is what I read in your comment.
I could not help but think about these verses in the Word.
James 4:1-3 (Amplified Bible)
1 WHAT LEADS to strife (discord and feuds) and how do conflicts (quarrels and fightings) originate among you? Do they not arise from your sensual desires that are ever warring in your bodily members?
2 You are jealous and covet [what others have] and your desires go unfulfilled; [so] you become murderers. [To hate is to murder as far as your hearts are concerned.] You burn with envy and anger and are not able to obtain [the gratification, the contentment, and the happiness that you seek], so you fight and war. You do not have, because you do not ask. [I John 3:15.]
3 [Or] you do ask [God for them] and yet fail to receive, because you ask with wrong purpose and evil, selfish motives. Your intention is [when you get what you desire] to spend it in sensual pleasures.
Ami
Goodness, did you just punch me in the face? What do you think this blog does Ami? I would love to have 1 million readers but what potion of that lot would listen to the Holy Spirits warning? You know I have had some really nasty comments lately, I am only human and I do this in my spare time along with everything else. IF you don’t like it, then go find yourself a crowd pleaser that broadcasts on tv via satallite.
most (if not all) activists groups are listed here: http://www.goodmoney.com/directry_active.htm
I think maybe Ami was looking for this?
Deborah and Elmarie
I get the point – you do not want me on this site – fine,
Let me leave you then with a last comment.
I agree Deborah you can mistakes, as we all can. For this reason it is that I was asking that patience with everybody be favoured. I have seen the traffic on this site and that is precisely why I am making the suggestion. I’ve seen some good comments and I‘ve seen some crazy notions, but what is most disturbing is that there truly is a lack of love. And yes Elmarie I have indeed read what the bible says about love. Love is the very core of the bible. It wouldn’t even have been written if God didn’t love us.
The world has a distinctive lack of love and surely if we are to do something in this world it is to love. Spreading the gospel in coldness would be a self initiative as the Holy Spirit is never cold.
Often we get asked of God to start something – like this site for example. But along the way our self does take over. This is something that we all either have or will go through and this is why we should always remember love. And we are all open to this mistake every day. But we should persist.
John 14:19 Just a little while now, and the world will not see Me any more, but you will see Me; because I live, you will live also.
John 14:20 At that time [when that day comes] you will know [for yourselves] that I am in My Father, and you [are] in Me, and I [am] in you.
John 14:21 The person who has My commands and keeps them is the one who [really] loves Me; and whoever [really] loves Me will be loved by My Father, and I [too] will love him and will show (reveal, manifest) Myself to him. [I will let Myself be clearly seen by him and make Myself real to him.]
There are two distinct aspects that need to be taken into account by Christians when dealing with spiritual matters:
1. Love
2. Denying of the self life so as to be filled with Christ’s life. Which brings us back to No.1
And who are the true disciples of Jesus?
John 13:33 [Dear] little children, I am to be with you only a little longer. You will look for Me and, as I told the Jews, so I tell you now: you are not able to come where I am going.
John 13:34 I give you a new commandment: that you should love one another. Just as I have loved you, so you too should love one another.
John 13:35 By this shall all [men] know that you are My disciples, if you love one another [if you keep on showing love among yourselves].
Phil 1:27 Only be sure as citizens so to conduct yourselves [that] your manner of life [will be] worthy of the good news (the Gospel) of Christ, so that whether I [do] come and see you or am absent, I may hear this of you: that you are standing firm in united spirit {and} purpose, striving side by side {and} contending with a single mind for the faith of the glad tidings (the Gospel).
Gal 5:6 For [if we are] in Christ Jesus, neither circumcision nor uncircumcision counts for anything, but only faith activated {and} energized {and} expressed {and} working through love.
And so it is in love Elmarie that I have to tell you that indeed you received those verses – and that they could actually have been meant for you that is why you thought of them. And this should prove it to you. I never responded to your comments regarding Prof Malan’s message on signs and wonders. I was making a general comment that is why it wasn’t addressed to anyone in particular. Actually, I never saw anything wrong with your message. The punch in the face I refer to was that we “all” ( those who have knowledge given by God concerning the end times) be willing to get a bloody nose every now and again from those “who do not have this knowledge” because love to save them to the truth compels us to. It is a call to be patient with those who don’t know so as not to scare them away in an effort to show how advanced we are. For surely anything we have – was given to us to start with.
Love doesn’t lead to strife, sensuality does. That means living from your senses point of view instead of from the Spirit’s (loves) point of view. That is why it can to your mind in thought form instead of to your spirit in spiritual discernment form. The one is soul power, the other is …. Love.
But don’t hassle too much – simply repent and you’ll be just fine – if you mean it.
Keep up the effort Deborah, but allow me to leave you with this thought.
The reason I was so interested in your site is that at last I could be in touch with kind and caring genuine Christians who have a hunger for the truth. For those who come out of apostate churches there is very little of this and they feel isolated.
Perhaps your suggestion is correct – I should not be looking here. Can you recommend any other site? Or perhaps I should just invite any Christian willing to correspond with me directly on the nerve touching subject of the end times as long as they agree that any correspondence be rendered with love for mutual spiritual growth.
To do so I would need your permission to write one last comment with only my email address. The comment will be a simple appeal (not targeted at you or your site.)
God bless you
Ami
AMi
Ami / Jemah / Amedeo - You have been using multiple names to comment on this blog for a while, while subtly promoting your website. The rules of this site state that using multiple names will not be tolerated – What do you have to prove by doing so? What are you trying to hide? When ‘AMi’ came on the scene we watched and waited and sure enough the ‘nasty’ comment reared it’s ugly head. You come here and out of no where insult me and I must sit back and give you a hug for it? Pfff, that will be the day.
Nothing worse than liars…especially so called Christian ones.
And no, not you nor Jemah or Amedeo or any other name you can think of will comment again.
Prof. Johan Malan’s article “Driving out of demons” refers:
“He should be taught to turn to Christ’s throne of grace where deliverance can be obtained through the blood of the Lamb (Eph. 1:7), and not to persons with special “powers” to rebuke devils, break bondages, or to heal.”
If a person is fully possessed, the controlling demon’s will hardly ask to be delivered (and loose it’s hijacked human body) as it is actually the demon controlling the person’s brain and physical body.
In such a case, another person (any spiritually strong christian) must do the deliverance in the name of Jesus Christ. There are the exceptions where God will have mercy upon a person’s soul and deliver them under unusual circumstances.
As a matter of interest, when we communicate with a fully possessed person, we are in reality talking to the demon.
Phillip Mills
Please take note no truly born again Christian can be demon possessed. We have are not told to drive out demons or do deliverance. It was only Jesus and the Apostles that did that as a sign for unbelievers to believe. We have no command to drive out demons or do deliverance. We are only to spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We cannot take Gods work from His hands.
Please read again what Prof Malan says:
Driving out of demons. The power of God over the kingdom of darkness was publicly demonstrated when people were delivered from demon-possession in a spectacular way. The purpose of these acts was to authenticate the apostles’ message of salvation: “And the multitudes with one accord heeded the things spoken by Philip, hearing and seeing the miracles which he did. For unclean spirits, crying with a loud voice, came out of many who were possessed; and many who were paralysed and lame were healed” (Acts 8:6-7). In the subsequent church dispensation the saving power of the Lord is still effective against all the works of the devil, but the ministry of reconciliation is not confined to certain “anointed” ones. In the process of deliverance much bigger emphasis should be placed upon the faith of the receiver, rather than on another person one-sidedly driving out demons. When someone approaches the Lord Jesus’ throne of grace in faith he does not need another person to rebuke the devil and declare him free from demonic bondage. However, biblically correct counselling and spiritual guidance are, in many cases, indeed necessary to ensure that a person’s confession of sin is complete, his faith in the saving power of Christ is based upon firm promises, and that his deliverance and cleansing are fully accepted in faith. He should be taught to turn to Christ’s throne of grace where deliverance can be obtained through the blood of the Lamb (Eph. 1:7), and not to persons with special “powers” to rebuke devils, break bondages, or to heal.
Phillip Mills
Could you please supply Scripture for this statement?
Phillip Mills
Nonsense I do not agree with you. Do you believe in ghosts and hauntings ??? Im not trying to be funny but you got this information by reading some silly book and now you believe this nonsense. Phillip the only book to read and trust and believe in is your Bible ok. We are told to test everything to see whether it proceed from God.
1 John 4:1 (Amplified Bible)
1 BELOVED, DO not put faith in every spirit, but prove (test) the spirits to discover whether they proceed from God; for many false prophets have gone forth into the world.
Elmarie wrote:
Many today feel that it would have been better off to live back in the days of Jesus’ ministry, so that we could physically walk up to Him and receive a healing or deliverance. However, did you know that Jesus did not do the miracles because He was the son of God? That’s Right! The Word of God tells us that Jesus went about doing good because He had the Holy Spirit:
Acts 10:38, “How God anointed Jesus of Nazareth with the Holy Ghost and with power: who went about doing good, and healing all that were oppressed of the devil; for God was with him.”
Notice that it doesn’t say, “for He was God” or “for He was God’s son”… it tells us that the works that He did, was done because the Holy Spirit was with Him, not necessarily because He was the son of God. The Holy Spirit is with us today as well, and so we are enabled to go about doing the same works that He did in His ministry!
John 14:12, “Verily, verily, I say unto you, He that believeth on me, the works that I do shall he do also; and greater works than these shall he do; because I go unto my Father.”
Does that really include casting out demons, healing the sick and things of that nature?? Yes!! Look at what Jesus tells His disciples after He rose from the dead:
Mark 16:15-18, “And he said unto them, Go ye into all the world, and preach the gospel to every creature. He that believeth and is baptized shall be saved; but he that believeth not shall be damned. And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues; They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly thing, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick, and they shall recover.”
As the body of Christ, we are considered to be ambassadors for Jesus Christ!
2 Corinthians 5:20, “Now then we are ambassadors for Christ, as though God did beseech you by us; we pray you in Christ’s stead, be ye reconciled to God.”
If we look up the word ambassador in this verse in the Greek, we are given the word presbeuo, which means, “to be a senior, that is, (by implication) act as a representative.” An ambassador is somebody who represents another person or group. We, as the body of Christ, are supposed to be representing Jesus here on earth today!
John 20:21, “Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you.”
We are ambassadors for Christ… that means that we are to go forth doing His work here on earth the way that He demonstrated to us with His own ministry… we need to be healing the sick, casting out demons and ministering in the footsteps that Christ has established before us!
The only difference between living in Jesus’ day and living in today’s world, is that rather than Jesus casting a demon out of you, you can turn to a brother or sister who had made themselves available to the Lord in that area of ministry, and they can cast it out for you because of the authority that Jesus has invested in them! Jesus is relying on the Body, that is you and I, to carry forth His work in today’s world!
Whenever we refuse to cast out demons, pray for the sick, etc., we are doing the body of Christ a disservice. If Jesus came to you with a need for healing or deliverance, would you dare refuse to help Him? I would hope not! Yet, Jesus clearly told us that when we serve even the least of the brethren, we are serving Him!
Matthew 25:40, “And the King shall answer and say unto them, Verily I say unto you, Inasmuch as ye have done it unto one of the least of these my brethren, ye have done it unto me.”
Every time that we cast out a demon for our fellow brother or sister or pray for their healing, it’s as if we are ministering to Jesus Himself! That is how special it is to be used by God in the area of deliverance, healing or any type of ministry for that matter!
Matthew 10:8, “Heal the sick, cleanse the lepers, raise the dead, cast out devils: freely ye have received, freely give.”
I count it a great honor to minister deliverance and healing to my fellow brothers and sisters in Christ!
Elmarie wrote:
“Nonsense I do not agree with you. Do you believe in ghosts and hauntings ??? Im not trying to be funny but you got this information by reading some silly book and now you believe this nonsense. Phillip the only book to read and trust and believe in is your Bible ok. We are told to test everything to see whether it proceed from God.
1 John 4:1 (Amplified Bible)
1 BELOVED, DO not put faith in every spirit, but prove (test) the spirits to discover whether they proceed from God; for many false prophets have gone forth into the world.”
Elmarie, your knowledge can not stretch beyond your own experience.
You have just indicated your own lack of knowledge in the field of our enemy – satan & his demons. What does ghosts, hauntings and ‘reading’ a book has to do with anything I have mentioned. You are wrong, I did not get this from reading a book – stop over reacting and using multiple ??? & !!! & others as it is an indication of attitude.
I am new here and have read a few threads. I must admit that I am not impressed in your people skills as you are probaly doing more damage than good.
Can I make a suggestion; You like saying that you are being led by the Holy Spirit, now go on your knees and ask God the Father to confirm to you (Elmarie) that this information which I have mentioned about demon possession comes from Him and is truthful.
Please report back if you wish…
Phillip Mills
You said this here: G8 World Religions Summit – Worships Mother Earth : http://www.discerningtheworld.com/2010/08/05/g8-world-religions-summit-worships-mother-earth/ and here : Siener van Rensburg en die Boerevolk – http://www.discerningtheworld.com/2010/04/07/siener-van-rensburg-en-die-boerevolk/
I had a feeling to what this will lead. Take note Phillip this is a Discernment site and not a place to post your false believes.
Elmarie
“Nonsense I do not agree with you. Do you believe in ghosts and hauntings ??? Im not trying to be funny but you got this information by reading some silly book and now you believe this nonsense. Phillip the only book to read and trust and believe in is your Bible ok. We are told to test everything to see whether it proceed from God.”
I had a good laugh as I have proved a point about YOUR integrity, Biblical knowledge and faith. You rated very low regardless of what you may think you are offering.
Over and above that, to protect your ‘image’ (lol), you decide not to publish my (and many other people’s) replies. I tend to agree with someone else on this blog which stated that there are some false prophets operaring on this blog.
Keep bluffing yourself…
Phillip Mills
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Please delete all my post as I do not want to be associated with this website.
[EDITED: Phillip
Your comments will be deleted from now on]
Phillip Mills
You come to this blog under false pretenses and now you request to have your comments deleted. What a chop ehh joke you are!!!
Phillip Mills
You are twisting Scripture and using it out of context.
Acts 10:38 (Amplified Bible)
38How God anointed and consecrated Jesus of Nazareth with the [Holy] Spirit and with strength and ability and power; how He went about doing good and, [a]in particular, curing all who were harassed and oppressed by [the power of] the devil, for God was with Him.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
10:34-43 Acceptance cannot be obtained on any other ground than that of the covenant of mercy, through the atonement of Christ; but wherever true religion is found, God will accept it without regarding names or sects. The fear of God and works of righteousness are the substance of true religion, the effects of special grace. Though these are not the cause of a man’s acceptance, yet they show it; and whatever may be wanting in knowledge or faith, will in due time be given by Him who has begun it. They knew in general the word, that is, the gospel, which God sent to the children of Israel. The purport of this word was, that God by it published the good tidings of peace by Jesus Christ. They knew the several matters of fact relating to the gospel. They knew the baptism of repentance which John preached. Let them know that this Jesus Christ, by whom peace is made between God and man, is Lord of all; not only as over all, God blessed for evermore, but as Mediator. All power, both in heaven and in earth, is put into his hand, and all judgment committed to him. God will go with those whom he anoints; he will be with those to whom he has given his Spirit. Peter then declares Christ’s resurrection from the dead, and the proofs of it. Faith has reference to a testimony, and the Christian faith is built upon the foundation of the apostles and prophets, on the testimony given by them. See what must be believed concerning him. That we are all accountable to Christ as our Judge; so every one must seek his favour, and to have him as our Friend. And if we believe in him, we shall all be justified by him as our Righteousness. The remission of sins lays a foundation for all other favours and blessings, by taking that out of the way which hinders the bestowing of them. If sin be pardoned, all is well, and shall end well for ever.
Phillip Mills wrote:
Again your are twisting Scripture and use it out of context.
John 20:21 (Amplified Bible)
21Then Jesus said to them again, Peace to you! [Just] as the Father has sent Me forth, so I am sending you.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
20:19-25 This was the first day of the week, and this day is afterwards often mentioned by the sacred writers; for it was evidently set apart as the Christian sabbath, in remembrance of Christ’s resurrection. The disciples had shut the doors for fear of the Jews; and when they had no such expectation, Jesus himself came and stood in the midst of them, having miraculously, though silently, opened the doors. It is a comfort to Christ’s disciples, when their assemblies can only be held in private, that no doors can shut out Christ’s presence. When He manifests his love to believers by the comforts of his Spirit, he assures them that because he lives, they shall live also. A sight of Christ will gladden the heart of a disciple at any time; and the more we see of Jesus, the more we shall rejoice. He said, Receive ye the Holy Ghost, thus showing that their spiritual life, as well as all their ability for their work, would be derived from him, and depended upon him. Every word of Christ which is received in the heart by faith, comes accompanied by this Divine breathing; and without this there is neither light nor life. Nothing is seen, known, discerned, or felt of God, but through this. After this, Christ directed the apostles to declare the only method by which sin would be forgiven. This power did not exist at all in the apostles as a power to give judgment, but only as a power to declare the character of those whom God would accept or reject in the day of judgment. They have clearly laid down the marks whereby a child of God may be discerned and be distinguished from a false professor; and according to what they have declared shall every case be decided in the day of judgment. When we assemble in Christ’s name, especially on his holy day, he will meet with us, and speak peace to us. The disciples of Christ should endeavour to build up one another in their most holy faith, both by repeating what they have heard to those that were absent, and by making known what they have experienced. Thomas limited the Holy One of Israel, when he would be convinced by his own method or not at all. He might justly have been left in his unbelief, after rejecting such abundant proofs. The fears and sorrows of the disciples are often lengthened, to punish their negligence. http://biblecommenter.com/john/20-21.htm
Phillip Mills wrote:
Again twisting and out of context.
2 Corinthians 5:20 (Amplified Bible)
20So we are Christ’s ambassadors, God making His appeal as it were through us. We [as Christ's personal representatives] beg you for His sake to lay hold of the divine favor [now offered you] and be reconciled to God.
Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary
5:16-21 The renewed man acts upon new principles, by new rules, with new ends, and in new company. The believer is created anew; his heart is not merely set right, but a new heart is given him. He is the workmanship of God, created in Christ Jesus unto good works. Though the same as a man, he is changed in his character and conduct. These words must and do mean more than an outward reformation. The man who formerly saw no beauty in the Saviour that he should desire him, now loves him above all things. The heart of the unregenerate is filled with enmity against God, and God is justly offended with him. Yet there may be reconciliation. Our offended God has reconciled us to himself by Jesus Christ. By the inspiration of God, the Scriptures were written, which are the word of reconciliation; showing that peace has been made by the cross, and how we may be interested therein. Though God cannot lose by the quarrel, nor gain by the peace, yet he beseeches sinners to lay aside their enmity, and accept the salvation he offers. Christ knew no sin. He was made Sin; not a sinner, but Sin, a Sin-offering, a Sacrifice for sin. The end and design of all this was, that we might be made the righteousness of God in him, might be justified freely by the grace of God through the redemption which is in Christ Jesus. Can any lose, labour, or suffer too much for Him, who gave his beloved Son to be the Sacrifice for their sins, that they might be made the righteousness of God in him? http://biblecommenter.com/2_corinthians/5-20.htm
Nowhere in Bible are believers commanded to do miracles, signs and healings. This Was only given to the Apostles to use toward unbelievers to make them believe. You have not even read and understand Prof Malan’s article one bit. Phillip you are being deceived by false spirits and take heed of this warning given in the Word to test everything to see whether they proceed from God. 1 John 4:1 . Your believe that you must drive out demons and heal the sick is a false believe.
This exerpt from above article sums it up clearly:
• The apostles were empowered to continue with authenticating signs for confirming the Messiahship of Jesus until the early church was well established. Actually, their special powers were in conflict with the NT position of the believer as well as our free access to the throne of grace, and for that reason they only functioned for a limited time until their purpose had been served. The sign of speaking in tongues ceased when the statement was clearly and repeatedly made that the gospel was to be proclaimed in all languages to all people. The very common sign of healing through the laying on of hands which was initially offered without reservation to all people also ceased when there were no longer any apostles with special powers. After that, all believers had to approach the Lord’s throne of grace themselves in prayer with all their needs and problems. He gives healing, relief, or acceptance of our difficult circumstances, illness or disability, as well as strength to face our challenges as we look forward to the completeness that we will one day have. We should be content with provision in our basic needs while finding our way through a broken world, gladly bear our cross and follow Christ (cf. 1 Tim. 6:7-12). We must always be mindful of the fact that we do not yet live in kingdom circumstances where there will be no want, tribulation or affliction. Christ’s reign of peace is still future, and we presently live in a spiritually and morally dark world which lies in the sway of the Evil One (1 John 5:19; Phil. 2:15).
• It is obvious that we should not be looking for signs and wonders in the NT, but keep on growing up in the most holy faith. Even during the time of great signs and wonders the Lord Jesus warned against a pronounced inclination towards these things. He said, “An evil and adulterous generation seeks after a sign, and no sign will be given to it except the sign of the prophet Jonah” (Matt. 12:39-40). The sign of Jonah was fulfilled in Jesus, who was raised from the dead on the third day after His crucifixion and burial. Are the atoning death and resurrection of Jesus the central truths upon which your spiritual life has been built, or do you still look for miracles and extraordinary revelations of God through dreams, visions and extra-biblical prophecies?
I posted this comment under the article entitled G8 World Religions Summit – Worships Mother Earth, earlier. Considering that I mention Philip Mills in this comment, and it is on this thread also that he mentions his occultic practice of communicating with demons and entertaining messengers from the spirit world, I thought that posting it here would have relevance as well:
It so often seems pointless, time and time again trying to point people like this Philip Mills to the simplicity of Scriptural truth and the saving reality of faith in Jesus Christ. The deceit pouring from their New Age / Emergent / Mystic beliefs is so tragic, their blindness is so real.
2Co 4:4 In their case the god of this world has blinded the minds of the unbelievers, to keep them from seeing the light of the gospel of the glory of Christ, who is the image of God.
They will not even read postings done with all the best intentions in the world. It never fails to amaze, how people who have harmful intent at heart, come to Christian sites and blogs etc, voice their anti-Christian opinion and when believers try to assist them, they attack the Christian faith. A case in point is Philip Mills, when he attacks the Lord Jesus Christ with his ‘demon slaying’ and demonic ‘visitations’. (No Philip, I am not confusing it with anything else, you are imagining yourself to be a god, with a supernatural agenda).
These are spiritual warriors indeed, warring against the Holy Spirit. But this is nothing new, and I suppose this persecution of the Christian faith is to be expected especially when a blog is out there publicly exposing them.
Luk 12:51 Do you think that I have come to give peace on earth? No, I tell you, but rather division.
Luk 12:52 For from now on in one house there will be five divided, three against two and two against three.
It certainly always proves that there is such a fine line between acting in love on the one hand, and throwing your pearls to the pigs on the other. The duty we have to perform between:
1 Peter 3:15 But in your hearts set apart Christ as Lord. Always be prepared to give an answer to everyone who asks you to give the reason for the hope that you have. But do this with gentleness and respect,
AND
Mat 7:6 “Do not give dogs what is holy, and do not throw your pearls before pigs, lest they trample them underfoot and turn to attack you.
Brothers and sisters, let us try, and I know it’s ‘hard’ to remember, that it is God’s power and grace that saves people, not our efforts. The best and most we can do is pray for them, witness to them, and live the Christian life in front of them. And when the Philip Mills’ cross the path of the Christian, to also bear in mind the words of our Lord:
Mat 10:14 And if anyone will not receive you or listen to your words, shake off the dust from your feet when you leave that house or town.
[Edited by DTW: Gary has nothing nice to say in his comments except nastiness - so they will be deleted]
[Edited by DTW: Gary has nothing nice to say in his comments except nastiness - so they will be deleted]