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Three Main Ways We Receive the Word of God. 1. DIRECTLY A voice or inspired thought in our minds which we attribute to God Various events in day to day life, within which we feel God speaks to us Divine dialogue - in the context of Spirit-led prayer and personal prophecy
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Three Main Ways WeReceive the Word of God 1. DIRECTLY • A voice or inspired thought in our minds which we attribute to God • Various events in day to day life, within which we feel God speaks to us • Divine dialogue - in the context of Spirit-led prayer and personal prophecy • Visions - a vivid mental picture while awake; usually only evident to the seer • Dreams - a strong and often reoccurring dream; usually rich in symbolism • Audible voice (this is rare and not typically heard by others)
Directly STRENGTHS • A Sensitivity to the Holy Spirit • Passion for and intimacy with God • Responsiveness and flexibility WEAKNESSES (if not balanced with other means of hearing) • Errors in accuracy, interpretation, discernment, and timing • Independence and pride • Emotional instability
Three Main Ways WeReceive the Word of God 2. THE BIBLE • Reading, studying, memorizing, and meditating on the Scriptures • Reading and listening to sound teaching and exposition of The Word
The Bible STRENGTHS • Accuracy in knowledge of God • Balance and stability in faith • Wisdom and strength WEAKNESSES (if not balanced with other means of hearing) • Independence and pride • Tendency towards being non-relational • Tendency towards judgement and legalism
Three Main Ways WeReceive the Word of God 3. THROUGH PEOPLE • Counsel, encouragement and admonishment of leaders • Prophetic word brought personally or corporately • Conversation - instruction, challenge and encouragement through the Church and beyond
Through People STRENGTHS • Humility and love for the Church • Deep relationships and strong friendships • Teachable and responsive to leadership WEAKNESSES (if not balanced with other means of hearing) • Unhealthy dependency on people, thus prone to disappointment • Weakness in the maturity that comes from self-feeding • Lacking confidence and faith in the ability to personally know God’s voice