We have been shoved into a scriptural paradox, which I contend should push us into a time of inquiry of the Author and our Creator. This has been a subject that has been swirling about recently. In the last few days I have received an email and a call from those who were looking for clarification and direction. Here is the quandary – When the Word of God declares a paradox (two things that appear to contradict), what do I do? Following authorities blindly or in faith?
The current issue surrounding this is: The Bible clearly states that we are to obey governing authorities and also that we are not to forsake the assembling together. So what do we do when the governing authorities tell us that we can’t assemble? If I obey government, I deny God’s mandate to meet, if I meet, aren’t we in rebellion to the Word and those governing authorities? This is a perfect scenario to be in. For me it has only ONE answer—ASK the Author!
Authorities Overreach
We are currently seeing what appears to be a governmental overreach into our lives. “You can’t sing, you can’t meet, you can’t hug.” And we are seeing pastors from coast to coast, fight for their rights to assemble. I get it totally, and I am not judging them as right or wrong. I can absolutely see God directing His children to do exactly this. On the other hand, there are those who are saying, the authorities are dictating we are not to meet, and God put those leaders in place. “Shouldn’t we obey?” Again, I am not judging this position because I could go there with them, as well.
So what am I saying? This relates to this situation, and should be our automatic go to in all situations regardless. ASK THE SOURCE! Especially when there is an apparent contradiction, I am to inquire not decide. If these pastors went forth based on rights or theological understanding, I think they are missing the point. And as a pastor they would be leading others along the same route. Now, alternatively, if they did seek the face of the Father and heard His Voice to meet, it would be sin not to resist this overreach. I am not throwing down to tell anyone which way they should go. What I am defending is God’s right to be asked. I am petitioning us all to inquire because I believe that is the point of this exercise to begin with.
Asking, Seeking, and Knocking
As long as we live our lives based on what we think is correct, we are headed for a ditch. Our super relational God yearns for His children to ask, seek, and knock. He wants to be God, Father and Shepherd. There is no way that happens without interaction with His heart and mind. He has the right to direct my steps and this happens as I seek His Will. Sure, His Word is my absolute infallible road map, but without my connection with His Spirit, I do not have the mind of the Author.
We are to live by Spirit and Truth. One side without the other is heresy. From here on, worshiping the Father will not be a matter of the right place but with the right heart. For God is a Spirit, and He longs to have sincere worshipers who worship and adore Him in the realm of the Spirit and in Truth.” John 4:24 TPT It is a divine pairing and impossible without them both.
As we face an apparent contradiction in the direction we are to go, could this paradox just be an invitation to seek and inquire? Could our Father not have a wealth and treasure of Wisdom of Himself to express? If we fail to ask we will never know. I guarantee Jesus wants to reveal His heart and Will. And His Holy plan will be the best and cause us to know Him more than if we were to just decide and GO.
Scriptural Paradox
Everyone must submit to governing authorities. For all authority comes from God, and those in positions of authority have been placed there by God. So anyone who rebels against authority is rebelling against what God has instituted, and they will be punished. For the authorities do not strike fear in people who are doing right, but in those who are doing wrong. Would you like to live without fear of the authorities? Do what is right, and they will honor you. The authorities are God’s servants, sent for your good. But if you are doing wrong, of course you should be afraid, for they have the power to punish you. They are God’s servants, sent for the very purpose of punishing those who do what is wrong. So you must submit to them, not only to avoid punishment, but also to keep a clear conscience.
Romans 13:1-5 NLT
Don’t stop meeting together with other believers, which some people have gotten into the habit of doing. Instead, encourage each other, especially as you see the day drawing near.
Hebrews 10:25 CEB
I love your writings, read them all the time, and share a lot of your information with our ministry. However, this is too iffy for me. Too wishy washy….which is the state of the structural church right now…. I love and agree with the part of INQUIRING of the Lord…this is my dilemma (principal only here) if you were married and your husband is the “Authority” figure of your home, but is abusive verbally or physically, and God hates divorce…do you remain in that house or relationship because you are in covenant? I think NOT, God does not want his… Read more »
Thank you so much Paulette for your comment! I am real grateful you have been following my posts and sharing them. And I get your point totally! I probably believe very similarly to you about what is happening in our country. I do want you to know that the “current situation” we find ourselves in is just the backdrop on which my messages rests. My actual point is what you love and agree with. “Inquire of the Lord…” That is my only petition in this post. In my upcoming book which is about to be printed, The Sovereign Touch, I… Read more »
Thank you for clarity, John. As we seek, we should assume the best of our church body. It further divides us if we judge what we think is the wrong response of others in the body. We must pray for everyone to seek His face, and not assume we know the answer He has given someone else!
The division these days is just so awful! I am shocked at the levels because I believe much of it is ginned up! Blessing and loving you!
MY take away from these posts that John has shared: Believers are not to trust in our own understanding, but to cry out to our ABBA, what do YOU want me to do. Show me the path that is your will and I will follow. Bless you for this succinct training.
Yes, Sue!