Something to Consider: Was Jesus a Socialist?
Was Jesus’ teachings about caring for one another, feeding the five thousand, and others demonstrate that Jesus taught socialist principles? Is this a “Social Gospel” for today?
I was with a group of spiritual leaders doing Bible study and one of them stated that the “Bible endorses socialism and Jesus was a socialist” and he further quoted many passages from the Bible to prove His point.
At first, I was struck by what he said and wanted to respond immediately, but decided not to respond and just pray upon the Lord’s timing to reply. I was contemplating “when” I should respond, and then I saw a pastor post up his thought on social media that those who are racist should be thrown out of the church. Though I agree with the pastor that racism is a sin, if you're going to throw out a racist, then he should be willing to throw out other church members who had sex before marriage, adultery, getting a divorce without biblical principles, lying, stealing, and so forth. So, if “social justice gospel” means kicking someone out because of sin, then it should be equal to all who have sinned. Isn’t this socialism, making it equal for all things and for the common good? Another pastor, started a “Christian social justice” book reading for his young adult groups through an author teaching on how Christians can respond to social injustice. Because there is so much misinformation about Jesus and the Bible, I decided that this should be the time for me to respond.
If we say, we are followers of Jesus Christ and the Bible, then let’s begin from there. We need to clarify God’s words and confirm if the Bible and Jesus are for socialism or principles of it. As we journey through to understand the relationship between the Bible and socialism, it's important to set aside our feelings and emotions. We need the wisdom of God to be greater than what we know about our personal feelings, emotions and self ideologies. We shouldn’t adapt to the culture, but let the culture of Christ be the shining light in the darkness. For God’s truth has never changed nor will ever change in the future.
“Holy, holy, holy, is the Lord God Almighty,
who was and is and is to come!” (Revelations 4:8)
Let’s first begin with an understanding of what socialism is:
We can confidently say that a larger movement of socialism exploded with the 1789 French Revolution. Furthermore, the widespread of socialism was written with “The Communist Manifesto” by Karl Marx and Friedrich Engels in 1848 and spread throughout Russia and Europe. And during the latter part of the 19th century, social democratic parties started in Europe with main ideas from Marxism. We now see these same ideologies and movements happening in our current times in the United States and throughout the world.
So, if Jesus was a socialist, then Jesus’ ideas and His movement started over 2,000 years ago. The principles of Jesus’ teaching must have activated the ideas into the minds of the 1789 French revolutionists and gave grounds for “The Communist Manifesto” in 1848. If all these were true, then what happened to the socialist ideas and the movement after Jesus before the French Revolution? Shouldn’t socialism be the dominant principle as martyr or willingness to die for a cause before 1789? Understanding the foundation of socialism will give us an insight into the past, present, and future.
What exactly is socialism?
Socialism is summarized as various economic and political actions for collective or governmental ownership and administration of the means of production and distribution of goods. Socialism does not hold to the ideas and concepts of private property and believes in the means of production and ownership to be controlled by the state.
Basically, whoever is in charge of distribution, production, and exchange is owned or regulated by the state and not by individuals.
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What happens to the socialists who are given the power and authority deciding the distribution but don’t believe in God?
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Will compassion and mercy be as same in giving to the poor and vulnerable without God?
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Will the state give with fairness and equal distribution among the people that have a differing ideologies?
Summary of Socialism in History
We see what happens throughout history when socialism takes root in Russia, Eastern Europe (before the fall of the Soviet Union), Africa, China, Venezuela, Vietnam, Cuba, North Korea, and others. Estimated killings over 65 million and still counting to expand the ideas of socialism continues to grow and divide nations, states, and communities. The human cost of new social order and political program efforts to overthrow capitalism, eliminate markets, and private property has cost millions of lives and trillions of dollars of businesses destroyed and stolen. it is a common practice in China for the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) to tear down homes at will to make new apartment buildings and sell them for profit to give to the government. In regards to religion, socialism’s goal is to eliminate all religions and faith of all kinds and place the ideology of the ruling state to be in total control. We see perfect examples of this in Venezuela, China, and North Korea where religion of any type is suppressed and condemned and the ruling party becomes dominant rulers and kings.
When a person or state does NOT believe in God, then someone or government will eventually become a god and determine the course and lives of the people. We see this clearly in North Korea and what is now happening with the common people. Kim Jong-un of North Korea is called the “Supreme Leader” since 2011 and is the leader of the Workers’ Party. He is revered as a “god” and their practices or religion is built around idolizing the Kim dynasty. Looking at socialist movements across history, this is not uncommon but common for the one who has the power and authority to determine who receives the distribution of wealth. And, “god” like power and authority arises and takes control. Socialism becomes the means, tools, methods, and ideology to be used as instruments for control.
Wasn’t Jesus’ teaching similar to socialism?
Let’s begin with Luke 12:13-14, “Someone in the crowd said to him, “Teacher, tell my brother to divide the inheritance with me.” But he said to him, “Man, who made me a judge or arbitrator over you?”
We can say it in few other ways, “Who gave me the right to settle arguments between you and your brother?” or "Friend, who gave me the right to judge or to divide the property between you two?” We see clearly that Jesus’ priority is not on dividing or distributing anyone’s possessions, even when he has given the power and authority to do so, Jesus does not give or divide for the sake of “equality” and to benefit all. Jesus’ has and will always be his goal of saving the lost soul, “Fool! This night your soul is required of you, and the things you have prepared, whose will they are? So is the one who lays up treasure for himself and is not rich toward God” (Luke 12:20-21). In God’s goal, reaching the lost souls and building His kingdom takes first priority before equality and distribution of wealth.
Even Jesus made it clear in regards to the famous story of the Roman coin. The Pharisees wanted to trap Jesus saying, “Teacher, we know that you are true and teach the way of God truthfully, and you do not care about anyone’s opinion, for you are not swayed by appearances. Tell us, then, what you think. Is it lawful to pay taxes to Caesar, or not?” (Matthew 22:15-16). Caesar was the ruler, and paying taxes to Rome was the “social justice” because they get to decide and distribute who gets the money and what it will be used for. Historically, Romans like some of our current social countries determine the tax rate, whether you agree with it or not and you have no say in it (forced social justice). In any society, whoever has the authority or power, gets to decide the distribution of wealth. This is the kingdom of man, but God’s not about this kingdom world for he said, “My kingdom is not of this world” (John 18:36). This is the reason why Jesus responded back, “Whose likeness and inscription is this?” They said, “Caesar’s” Then he said to them, “Therefore render to Caesar the things that are Caesar’s , and to God the things that are God’s ” (Matthew 22:20-21). Again, God’s priority is about expanding His kingdom and the spiritual things of man to be given to God. Though the Jews hated the Romans and paying high taxes, in Jesus’ view the money was to be given to Caesar and Rome. Jesus himself separated Christ’s kingdom and state kingdom.
Why did Jesus clear the Temple of Money Changers? Was Jesus against capitalism?
I hear this passage quite a bit from Christians who bring up the Bible passage in Matthew 21:12-13, Mark 11:15-18, Luke 19:45-46, and John 2:13-17. Jesus and his disciples were in Jerusalem to celebrate the Passover. You have to remember that this city during the Passover had people from all over the Roman empire speaking in many different languages. Thousands of pilgrims from all over the world entered God’s Holy temple with money changers, along with merchants selling animals for sacrifice. Many of these coins had images of Roman emperors and some with Greek gods, which the Temple priests considered as idolatrous, but they still exchanged money in the Holy Temple courts. Jesus was filled with anger because of such unholy practices in the temple courts and he took some cords and used them as whips to drive out the animals and turning over tables of the money changers. We can all assume that many of the money changers, those selling animals, and other religious items all had some type of small business for-profit and most likely earned a good portion of livelihood for their families and community. So, was Jesus against capitalism?
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Did Jesus turn the tables at the grocery market or any market?
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Did Jesus get angry at the tax collectors office or the banks and turn their tables upside down?
No!
It was the location . Jesus didn’t like the fact that the world’s business was inside God’s house, especially His Holy Temple. This is what you would expect to see in the world and in the markets but not in the Lord’s house of worship. Jesus responded, “My house shall be called a house of prayer, but you make it a den of robbers” (Matthew 21:13). Jesus is not about destroying small businesses, but it’s about God’s house and His Temple being tarnished, spiritual uncleanliness, and unholy.
Jesus is not against capitalism or individuals working hard to gain wealth. In fact, Jesus himself was a carpenter before going off into full-time ministry. “Is not this the carpenter , the son of Mary and brother of James and Joses and Judas and Simon?” (Mark 6:3). The word carpenter could also bean a builder or laborer, but either way, Jesus worked as a carpenter and this was how he worked for a living. Typically in those days, whatever your father did, the trade would go down to his children and so it could be a good possibility that Jesus' father had a small business.
One thing we do know for certain that helped many people out of poverty was capitalism. We see a great example of this in South Korea and how capitalism brought many Koreans out of poverty from multiple wars to become one of the wealthiest nations in the world. Korea is now the second-largest missionary-sending country after the United States. Because of the wealth of the country, many Christians were called into ministry and evangelism throughout the world. We also see a perfect example of what happens when ideas of socialism and communism take root in North Korea. A government that is not under God becomes a god to determine who gets the food, services, distribution, and even hair cut style. Without "The God," someone or the state will always become a "god."
Finally, what about fair wages or equal pay?
The book of Matthews 20:1-16 records a story about a master paying the laborers equally, but those who worked in the vineyard did NOT think the wages were fairly paid nor equal.
Matthew 20:1-5
“For the kingdom of heaven is like a master of a house who went out early in the morning to hire laborers for his vineyard. 2 After agreeing with the laborers for a denarius a day, he sent them into his vineyard. 3 And going out about the third hour he saw others standing idle in the marketplace, 4 and to them he said, ‘You go into the vineyard too, and whatever is right I will give you.’ 5 So they went. Going out again about the sixth hour and the ninth hour, he did the same.
The Bible continues on that the master found more workers. Then the master called the foreman to pay the laborers their fees from last to the first. When the first hired received their money, they received just as the same as the last hired and they thought they would receive more but each received “one” denarius. They grumbled to the master of the house saying, “ These last worked only one hour, and you have made them equal to us who have borne the burden of the day and the scorching heat. ” But he replied to one of them, ‘Friend, I am doing you no wrong, Did you not agree with me for a denarius? Take what belongs to you and go. I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you ” (Matthew 20:12-14).
First, the vineyard was private property by the master and the state did not own it. Verse 1 makes it clear that the master hired “laborers for his vineyard .”
The second is supply and demand , the basic principles of capitalism or business. If the vineyard needs more workers, then the company can hire as needed. The workers “volunteer” to work as agreed upon.
Third, this was a voluntary agreement. In verse 2 it states that the laborers were in agreement to work a day for “one” denarius. If this was a union hired, then those who worked much longer and experience should have the right or demand the right to receive more pay. In fact, they did grumble for not getting paid more, but all received equal pay. This would be more of God’s grace that those who worked last still get paid equally as agreed upon.
Fourth, the master never forced anyone to work in his vineyard. Just like the gospel message, Jesus never forced anyone to go to heaven. God has given us free choice to either receive God as a free gift or reject his offers. The laborers freely accepted the offer from the master and received what was agreed upon. The master himself gave fairly to all who accepted the work.
“I choose to give to this last worker as I give to you”: I believe this statement clearly explains the whole concept of giving and equal distribution of His wealth. God himself determines the distribution of His wealth and to whoever is willing to receive it. In fact, God gives so much that He is willing to sacrifice His own son to die on the cross so that ALL can receive the free gift of life for those who accept it and have eternal life (John 3:16).
What about the good Samaritan, the feeding of five thousand people, and many others, do those not count as socialism?
We can on through the entire bible and illustrate the purpose of every story of God’s reasons but bottom line is that everything Jesus has said and did was towards His kingdom purpose. Thus the reason for all His believers to have the great commission or mission beyond socialism of any kind.
Matthew 28:18-20
18 And Jesus came and said to them, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. 19 Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, 20 teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.”
It’s clear that Jesus was not a socialist and nor does the Bible indicate any support for socialism. If the ideas of socialism were true, it would have started 2,000 years ago and not during the French Revolution or in Russia, but in Jerusalem. Jesus’ ministry has always emphasized the importance of helping others, healing the sick, and provide masses for the people. God has tremendous compassion for the poor, the sick, and the widows. That’s why He sends someone like Mother Teresa to the poorest of the poor, the sick and dying to come along, and help with their needs and bring lost souls to Christ. This is why God chose many to be His instruments, to be His hands and feet across the globe to bring the "good news" and making disciples of nations. This is why such organizations like Red Cross, Salvation Army, Compassion International, World Vision, Samaritan’s Purse, Children’s Hunger Relief Fund, and many others started because God himself is love and His compassion reaches the vulnerable and the weak through Christ-followers.
Historically, we have not seen socialism in any part of the world to be the benefit for the masses, the common people, and especially the weakest and the poor. “Joyfulness” has not been a common language who have lived through or are living in socialist countries. Historically, through socialism, we have seen the few and the elites gain power, authority, and control over the masses and the common people. Historically, we’ve seen socialism kill and destroy the weakest and the poor. Spiritually, we do see how Satan implants an idea and uses it to kill, steal and destroy millions of people and their livelihood. This is Satan’s world and is the opposite of God’s kingdom.
This is the reason, why Jesus’ first message to the world was, “Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand” (Matthew 3:2) because God knows the heart of mankind. Jesus didn’t preach about social justice nor the social gospel, but preached the “Kingdom of God” and is telling all who would hear to “repent” for God desires to bring all who would receive Him to be with Him in paradise.
Since there are many social needs of our time, God is calling you to be His hands and feet but allow God to be the justice and His righteousness. Let God be God and for us to do His instruments and Love the Lord first, then love our neighbors. Let’s bring back the “good news” to the masses, for the common people, and help the vulnerable and the weak and the poor feel the love of Christ through your hands and feet.
Something To Consider is a thought process through the lens of the Bible helping believers process our current issues and cultures of our time.
This is one of the most difficult passages to obey because this requires our heart to believe and walk in it. Our feelings get in the way when we don’t understand why things happen the way they do. Or, when relationships don’t work out, or you don’t get the job you want or your hectic schedule seems to keep you from doing what you want seems to NOT work together for the "good."
Why God would allow pain and suffering or when conflicts at work keeps us up at nights. Or when marriage life is starting to become more of a chore than “marriage.” Even having children and doing all that you can for your child seems to take a life burden. You love them and God gave them to you but when life is out of control or busy, it seems that you can’t see how God can work things out for the “good.”
You have to ask yourself what is “good” and who defines it?
When we define “good” it doesn’t seem to look or hope the way we want that “good” to look. To be honest most people don’t really know what that “good” is. I think that is the issue in most cases. It is we ourselves that define what “good” is and that “good” doesn't always work out the way we hope and it seems like it’s beyond our control. For many of us, this "goodness" that we create on our own, seems to break apart when life conflicts come our way.
This is the reason why God first tells us in order for that “good” to be “good” we must “love God.” Jesus’ first two commandments are for us to “Love Him” with all our hearts, soul, and mind” (Luke 10:27).
God wants to give us the “good” but He requires us to “Love Him” beyond anything else.
When Eunice brought up her article (Something to Consider: Does the Bible contradict itself?) on Luke 14:26 “If anyone comes to me and does not hate his own father and mother …, he cannot be my disciple” the word “hate” had a unique understanding. She wrote, “.. the strong word choice here was deliberate and used on a comparative basis in order to show just how great the difference must be between our devotion to Jesus and our devotion to to everyone and everything else.”
So when God is saying “Love Him” or setting a devotion to Him beyond all else first means for us to prioritize God first. Meaning that when you set God as first before you do anything else or that when life issues come your way, you seek Him first and ask God about all your concerns.
It means for us to talk to Him first before talking to others about life issues. In order for us to know what “good” is we have to speak to the one who is the giver of all that we know to be true and “good.” When we do this and give devotion to Him then what we thought was our own “good” is nothing in comparison to what God’s “goodness” is for us.
We can only see possibly one step ahead of us but God sees a 100 feet in the front, back and the side. We can only see what we see but God sees us in all different directions. And this is where we have to “trust” in God who sees us in all our direction of life.
This is why when scripture tells us “And we ‘know’ that for those who love God…” the word “know” means that we have a relationship with God on a daily basis. Without the relationship we will not know how “all” things can work together for “good." God not only shows us what "good" is for us but He also sees the "greater good" 100 feet in front, back and the side of us. Things we cannot see, He will see for us when our devotion is given to Him.
So God will turn and make something “good” from the “bad” situations of our lives when we walk in that “trust” in Him through a relationship that does not waiver but steadfast. We must do our part in loving God first and He will surely make everything work out according to His purpose and plan for you.
Even if you're rushing off to work, school or whatever you're doing, take a time and spend a few moments with the Lord. Prioritize Him first and you will witness the “goodness” of His work in you.
Blessings,
Pastor Joseph
What is Fasting?
It will be helpful to begin our discussion by providing a definition for fasting. What is fasting? Fasting refers to the practice of intentionally and willingly refraining/abstaining from food, beverages, or both for a determined amount of time to instead focus on, work towards, or achieve a desired result, outcome, or goal.
What is not included in the biblical definition or meaning of “fasting”?
The call to Biblical fasting is not about refraining from using the internet, social media, television, video games, electronic devices or any other sort of entertainment, routine, or fun activity. Escaping, refraining, or abstaining from these other things for a period may be helpful to one’s spiritual health and growth, however this is not the same as the call to biblical fasting; these actions are in the biblical category that include the call to “deny” self (Luke 9:23; Mark 8:34; Matthew 16:24) and the call to “lay aside every weight” (Hebrews 12:1-2).
May we not make the mistake of confusing the meaning of biblical fasting with the meaning of these other actions or spiritual disciplines. Biblical fasting specifically involves the abstaining from food and beverages; these other acts of self-denial are also very important and can be helpful additions to or work in conjunction with the practice of biblical fasting, but they must not be defined as the discipline of biblical fasting.
If you are led by the Lord to also deny yourself from music, television, social media, or any other thing, then let it be specifically a refraining from those types of entertainment and activities that are not of God. The Bible teaches us that: “All things are lawful for me,” but not all things are helpful. “All things are lawful for me,” but I will not be dominated by anything” (1st Corinthians 6:12). Ungodly entertainment and activity distract and deter our hearts and minds away from the Lord and they prevent us from being sensitive to or even hearing clearly from the Lord. Especially while participating in a time of fasting led by the Lord, the type of entertainment that we enjoy, read, listen, watch, and participate in should be about and honoring to the Lord ( The goal is not to tune the world out or turn the world off, but to cultivate and nurture an environment in your life and activity that enables you to better hear from the Lord, through His word and through prayer. The Bible, Christian worship/praise songs, Christian books, etc.. are important resources to utilize to grow and strengthen our relationship with the Lord. May we be reminded: “ Finally, brothers, whatever is true, whatever is honorable, whatever is just, whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, whatever is commendable, if there is any excellence, if there is anything worthy of praise, think about these things. (Philippians 4:8)”
What are Four Main Types of Fasting found in Bible?
(Please Note: it is recommended that you please seek a medical professional/physician if you are uncertain about starting a fasting journey)
1. Full/Complete/Comprehensive Fasting
This type of fasting involves the intentional refraining/abstaining from both food and beverages for a prolonged amount of time (for days or weeks). This fast includes no foods or beverages.
Biblical Examples : Nehemiah 1:4 // Ester 4:1-17 // 1st Samuel 31:13 // 2nd Samuel 12:15-23 // 1st Chronicles 10:12 // Luke 2:36-38 // Acts 9:9-19 // Acts 13:1-3 // Acts 14:19-23
For those who are medically healthy and able to participate in a Full Fast (from all foods and all beverages), this is the suggested plan for fasting. The only beverage that may be allowed (if needed) is water; it is NOT biblical fasting or a biblical approach to drink any other fluid or beverage or mixture besides plain and clean water.
2. Partial/Selective/Specific Fasting
This type of fasting involves the intentional refraining/abstaining from specific/certain types of food and beverages for a determined amount of time (for days or weeks). This fast includes only vegetables and water , but no other foods or beverages.
Biblical Examples : Daniel 1:8-21 // Daniel 10:2-3
For those who are beginners to fasting, those who are still nursing, those who have severe medical conditions, or those who have dietary restrictions, or those who are elderly, this Partial Fast is the suggested or recommended plan for fasting; this is a lighter strenuous course for fasting. The only beverage that may be allowed is water; it is NOT biblical fasting or a biblical approach to drink any other fluid or beverage or mixture besides plain and clean water.
To provide more specific guidance regarding the Daniel Fast : All meats and animal products are prohibited (meat, eggs, fish, dairy, etc), as are sweeteners prohibited (any added sugar, natural sweeteners like honey or agave, etc), no caffeine, no alcohol, no solid fats, no yeast, no additives, and no processed foods. The Daniel Fast generally includes vegetables, whole grains, fruits, legumes, seeds, nuts, and water.
3. Intermittent/Alternating/Occasional Fasting
This type of fasting involves the intentional refraining/abstaining from both food and beverages for a determined amount of time each day or for specific days out of the week. Intermittent fasting , for example, includes consuming one meal a day.
Biblical Examples : 1st Samuel 7:6 // 2nd Samuel 1:11-12 // Judges 20:26 // Luke 18:12 // Acts 10:30
Please note : the portion size for this one meal per day must be the typical and regular portion size that you would normally eat for that meal. Water is the only beverage that is recommended for this fasting plan.
4. Supernatural/ Miraculous Fasting
This type of fasting involves the intentional refraining/abstaining from all foods, beverages, and water for a prolonged amount of time ( for weeks ). This fast includes no foods, water, or beverages.
Biblical Examples : Deuteronomy 9:9 // 1st Kings 19:8 // Matthew 4:1-2
(Please Note: this type of fasting is NOT being recommended)
What are some reasons for Fasting?
There are two main reasons why people may decide to practice fasting. People may practice fasting for religious (spiritual) reasons/purposes or for non-religious (non-spiritual) reasons/purposes. An example of a non-religious reason why people may practice fasting is to seek after physical health benefits: weight loss, body detoxification/cleansing, etc. However, in this article we will discuss the practice of fasting for religious (spiritual) reasons/purposes. Many people practice fasting for religious reasons; however, for a follow of Christ, it is very important for us to approach fasting from a Biblical perspective by going to the Bible to help us understand and participate in this spiritual discipline and practice in a way that brings honor, praise, and glory to the Lord.
The practice of fasting in the Bible is often accompanied by prayer and is usually associated with times of worship ( Luke 2:36-38 ), mourning (2nd Samuel 1:11-12; Nehemiah 1:4; Ester 4:1-3; Joel 2:12-17), repentance (1st Samuel 7:6; Daniel 9:1-19; Jonah 3:1-10), deep spiritual need (2nd Samuel 12:15-23; Psalm 69:10; Matthew 17:21; Mark 9:29; Acts 9:9) or seeking the Lord for wisdom/guidance/direction/strength/confirmation regarding an important decision, situation, event, or journey (Ezra 8:21-23; Ester 4:4-17, Matthew 4:1-2; Acts 13:1-3; Acts 14:19-23)
Should believers practice Fasting Today?
To help us in our journey to gain a better understanding about Biblical Fasting, a very critical point must be introduced into our discussion. In Matthew 6:5-15 , Jesus gives instructions for praying in a way that brings honor, praise, and glory to the Lord. In this passage, Jesus uses a specific phrase that is so instrumental and vital to our understanding of this entire portion of Scripture regarding prayer; Jesus uses the phrase “ when you pray ” three times (in verse 5, verse 6, and again in verse 7). Jesus did not say ‘If you pray’ or ‘just in case you pray’ or any other phrase such as these, but instead he said: “ when you pray ” . By using this phrase, Jesus is teaching us that prayer should be an expected, a normal and a regular part of our life as followers of Christ; a life of prayer is not to be rare and optional in the life of a believer.
This idea is not new or foreign to the teachings of Jesus, it was included in what is known as his ‘Sermon on the Mount’ (Matthew 5, 6 and 7); In this teaching, Jesus also uses the phrase “ when you give ” twice (Matthew 6:1-4) and “ when you fast ” twice (Matthew 6:16-18). The healthy practice of giving, prayer and fasting should be an expected, a normal and a regular reality and discipline in the life of a follower of Christ. Jesus gives instructions, helps us understand, and provides us with guidance on how we must exercise these lifestyle spiritual disciplines in a way that brings honor, praise, and glory to the Lord.
When should we Fast?
Fasting is not to be viewed as a rare occurrence or an optional practice in the life of a believer in Christ. An awesome portion of Scripture that points to the necessity of the spiritual discipline of fasting in the life of the believer is found in Matthew 9:14-17; the disciples of John the Baptist came to Jesus and asked him “Why do we and the Pharisees fast, but your disciples do not fast ?” (Emphasis added). Whether these men knew it or not, they were making a very insightful and perspective observation; as they watched, examined, and studied the behavior and lifestyle of the disciples that were devoted followers of Jesus, they noticed and realized that Jesus’ disciples did not engage in the spiritual discipline of fasting at all. Jesus’ response to them was a lesson for them and is a very important reminder for us today as well. Jesus replied: “Can the wedding guests mourn as long as the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast ” (emphasis added). Jesus’ disciples had no need for fasting because He (the Christ, God present in human form) was physically there with them and all they needed was physically present, available, and accessible within and through Christ.
A parallel account of this event is found in Mark’s Gospel (Mark 2:18-22) where Jesus’ reply to the same question was made even clearer : “ Can the wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? As long as they have the bridegroom with them, they cannot fast . The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in that day ” (emphasis added). Therefore, Jesus prepared and provided them with the understanding that when He would no longer be physically present with them, then and only then will they have need for the spiritual discipline of fasting as a regular and normal part of their life and ministry.
We find a third account of this event in Luke’s Gospel (Luke 5:33-39) and we find another observation regarding the disciples of John the Baptist. Luke 5:33-34 says: “ And they said to him, “The disciples of John fast often and offer prayers, and so do the disciples of the Pharisees, but yours eat and drink. And Jesus said to them, “Can you make wedding guests fast while the bridegroom is with them? The days will come when the bridegroom is taken away from them, and then they will fast in those days ” (emphasis added). They were coming to examine and investigate to see if Jesus was the true Messiah and the one that John the Baptist had been preparing them for. It appears that the disciples of John the Baptist (who along with John the Baptist had been awaiting and preparing for the arrival of Christ’s 1st Coming) were taught that fasting was to be an expected, a regular and a normal part of their life and lifestyles. May I be so bold as to suggest that we (The disciples of Christ of today ) should have lives and lifestyles where we “ fast often and offer prayers ” as we await and prepare to meet the Lord, Christ, and King at His 2nd Coming.
What is the Main Purpose of Biblical Fasting?
The Bible teaches that: “Every way of a man is right in his own eyes, but the Lord weighs the heart.” (Proverbs 21:2). Furthermore, the Bible explains that: “There is a way that seems right to a man, but its end is the way to death” (Proverbs 14:12; Proverbs 16:25). Left only to ourselves, with our plans, our will, our way, etc.. (without God) leads only to wrong decisions, harm, destruction, and death. We are all called by Scripture to: “ Trust in the Lord with all your heart, and do not lean on your own understanding. In all your ways acknowledge him, and he will make straight your paths. Be not wise in your own eyes; fear the Lord , and turn away from evil. It will be healing to your flesh and refreshment to your bones.” (Proverbs 3:5-8) . When we hear the admonition and warning to “turn away from evil”, we rarely realize or receive the understanding that in God’s sight: engaging in our own decisions without Him, our activities without Him, our deeds without him, our plans without Him, our ideas without Him, our will with Him, and refusing to “acknowledge him” in all our ways is seen by God as ‘sin’ and as “evil.” The spiritual discipline of prayer is so beneficial in helping us navigate through our decisions; but we must not forget that God has also given us the spiritual gift of fasting to equip and prepare us as well.
The main purpose for participating in the spiritual discipline and practice of biblical fasting is for it to be an act of complete surrender to Lord and humbling of self to seek after the Lord’s heart, His thoughts, His mind, His purposes, His perspective, His will, and His plan in any situation and through any circumstance. The Bible teaches us that “God opposes the proud but gives grace to the humble” (James 4:6; 1st Peter 5:5; 2nd Samuel 22:28). We must always remember the Lord’s declaration, He proclaims: “ For my thoughts are not your thoughts, neither are your ways my ways, declares the Lord . For as the heavens are higher than the earth, so are my ways higher than your ways and my thoughts than your thoughts” (Isaiah 55:8-9).
The Bible teaches us that “ Food will not commend us to God. We are no worse off if we do not eat, and no better off if we do” (1st Corinthians 8:8). Therefore, fasting is not a way for us to earn or pay for anything from God. Fasting is not about trying to manipulate or control God. Fasting will not make God to do anything that is outside of His will or His character. Biblical Fasting is about surrender, being changed by God and coming into agreement with God’s plan; it is about being spiritually prepared, equipped and empowered to carry out your role in His divine plan and purposes. The spiritual discipline of Fasting is a gift from the Lord; He has given us this as way to help us in becoming spiritual prepared/positioned, in humbling ourselves, focusing our attention on the Lord, enhancing our sensitivity to spiritual truths/realities for any situation, and empowering us to come into agreement with God’s Will with the right motives and perspectives from the heart. (Ex: Ezra 8:21-23; Psalm 35:13; Romans 6:12; Romans 8:12-17)
How should we be Fasting?
Jesus teaches us that when we fast, it can be a challenging journey, but it should not be viewed by the believer as a burden or duty. Fasting is a privilege that we get to experience and participate in as a form of worship in spirit and in truth to the Lord. In the passage that we discussed above (Matthew 6:16-18), Jesus explains to us that we must not let how we practice the discipline of fasting be physically or outwardly obvious in such a way that it shows any attention seeking behavior or is being done to “be seen by others”. We are not called to fasting so that we can get approval, recognition, respect, or praise from other people. Also, Jesus teaches us that when we fast , we must do so in such a way that it is honoring and pleasing in the eyes of our Heavenly Father. We must be mindful of the motive and condition of our hearts and let that be reflective in the quality care that we have for ourselves (both inwardly and outwardly) during our time of fasting. God will reward those who practice fasting in a biblical way that honors Him and brings glory to His Name.
We invest a significant amount of time each day on the activity of eating and drinking. We spend a considerable amount of time making choices about food and beverages, in the purchasing, moving, deciding, planning, preparing, sharing, enjoying, distributing, partaking, eating, drinking, packing, storing, and everything else that is involved with activity of eating and drinking. Biblical Fasting provides us with the opportunity to redirect and use our desire to satisfy our physical hunger as a catalyst or internal heart cry to choose instead to satisfy our spiritual hunger and desire for the Lord. Instead of receiving your physical energy and strength from eating and drinking, chose instead to seek spiritual energy and strength from the Lord.
Moses teaches us about the Lord, reminding us by saying: “ And he humbled you and let you hunger and fed you with manna, which you did not know, nor did your fathers know, that he might make you know that man does not live by bread alone, but man lives by every word that comes from the mouth of the Lord ” (Deuteronomy 5:3). Moreover, Jesus proclaims that: “It is written, “‘Man shall not live by bread alone, but by every word that comes from the mouth of God.’” (Matthew 4:4). The act of fasting is a physical, mental and a spiritual journey. During your time of fasting, instead of choosing to fill up your stomach with food and beverages, you will choose instead to be filled with the Spirit (Ephesians 5:17-21) and fill up on the Word of God (Colossians 3:16-17). The goal is to focus and seek the Lord when your physical body feels hungry. Jesus reminds us that we are to “Keep watch and pray, so that you will not give in to temptation. For the spirit is willing, but the body is weak!” (Matthew 26:41). Do not surrender or cave into the temptation of the physical food, but instead enjoy and consume more of the spiritual food/nourishment that flows from God’s word. When you fast , physical hunger can be overcome and satisfied by letting your spiritual hunger be satisfied and fulfilled in the Lord.
When you fast, prayer is key and plays an important role in helping you remain faithful, strengthened, and consistent with the decision and conviction that Lord impresses upon your heart before, during and after your time of fasting. The spiritual disciplines of both Prayer and Fasting are especially amazing when practiced together. Biblical fasting helps to focus our prayers, cultivate an undivided heart/mind, strengthen our confidence/faith in God and intensify our determination to seek the Lord with all our heart, mind, soul, and strength. Biblical fasting helps to renew our reliance and dependance upon the Lord and His Word. Jesus reminds us to: “ ...seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you” (Matthew 6:33).
May we never forget: “Jesus said to them, “I am the bread of life; whoever comes to me shall not hunger, and whoever believes in me shall never thirst.” (John 6:35)
May we proclaim with the Lord Jesus: “My food is to do the will of him who sent me and to accomplish his work” (John 4:34).
“So, whether you eat or drink, or whatever you do, do all to the glory of God” (1st Corinthians 10:31).
At all times, but especially during the time of fasting, may we be mindful to rely on Christ to fulfill all our needs, now and forevermore. Amen (Philippians 4:19 ).
What is the will of God for you?
What is the will of God for you in this season of life or what is the will of God for your work, relationship, finance, and so on? Especially when you have to make a decision or plan things out in life. Many believers are wanting to know what is the will of God for me ?
We know what Jesus said about the greatest commands or two great obedience we must do, “Love God and love your neighbor” ( Matthew 22:34-40 ). We also know the desire of God, “For God so loved the world, that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should not perish but have eternal life” ( John 3:16 ). We also know that God has given every follower of Jesus the “Great Commission” or the highest priority of assignment above all other assignments, “Go therefore and make disciples of all nations …” ( Matthew 28:18 ).
What then is the will of God?
“Not everyone who says to me, ‘Lord, Lord,’ will enter the kingdom of heaven, but the one who does the will of my Father who is in heaven” (Matthew 7:21).
So, another way of saying this is, “Not everyone who says, ‘Jesus, Jesus,’ will enter the God’s kingdom but the one who ‘does’ or ‘obey’s’ the will of God , desire, or plan of God will enter heaven.” There is much to unpack just within this one verse and in the entirety of 21-23, because these same people have also prophesied in Jesus name, and cast out demons in your name, and do many mighty works in your name (v. 22) but will not enter the kingdom of heaven. These people did supernatural works in Jesus’ name, yet Jesus himself says, “And then will declare to them, ‘I never knew you ; depart from me, you workers of lawlessness.’ (v. 23) and continues with, “Everyone then who hears these words of mine and does them will be like a wise man who built his house on the rock” (Matthew 7:24).
The word, “knew you” means a deep relationship or intimate relationship, meaning these people did miracles under Jesus’ name, but they didn’t have a deep relationship with God. Jesus’ will is for us to have a deep relationship with Him above ALL else and Jesus knows you personally when you “obey” His words. When you “obey” His words, then your house will be built upon the rock.
The parable of the Two Sons in Matthew 21:28-32 , gives us a clear picture of what it means to do the will of God.
28 “What do you think? A man had two sons. And he went to the first and said, ‘Son, go and work in the vineyard today.’ 29 And he answered, ‘ I will not ,’ but afterward he changed his mind and went . 30 And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, ‘ I go , sir,’ but did not go . 31 Which of the two did the will of his father ?” They said, “The first.” Jesus said to them, “Truly, I say to you, the tax collectors and the prostitutes go into the kingdom of God before you. 32 For John came to you in the way of righteousness, and you did not believe him, but the tax collectors and the prostitutes believed him. And even when you saw it, you did not afterward change your minds and believe him .
This is a very powerful illustration of the will of God. The Father gives the first son a command “ go and work in the vineyard ” but like many of us in the beginning, we don’t follow God’s command initially like loving God with ALL our heart, soul, mind, and strength as Jesus commanded. So, the first son says, “ I will not ” which means he is rejecting God’s Words and rebelling against God. In essence, he is sinning against God.
What is very interesting is in Matthew 4:17, Jesus comes on the scene and delivers his first message to the Jews, declaring, “ Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand.” The word “ repent” means “ change of mind ” and the first son eventually repented before his father and “ went ” meaning he eventually “ obeyed ” his father’s word.
Many of us associate the word “repent” with being “sorry” and because of guilt or shame, or that we sin (rebellion against God), we “repent” and we “repent” each time we sin, but God is not asking us to say, “sorry,” He is wanting us to change our mind.
Why? and What is the difference?
When we apologize or say sorry, it impacts one particular behavior or instance, but when we “repent,” or “change our mind,” our entire perspective of all sins changes direction. Our projection and direction of our soul (identity) heads towards heaven and the Holy Spirit helps us to overcome all obstacles when we truly change our course of direction. Remember, what controls all of our body, including our emotions is our mind. When we just say, “sorry” or “apologize” we will just face another or different issues, and it becomes an unending cycle of saying, “I’m sorry.” We don’t overcome or change, but “change of mind” takes us on a new perspective because our mind is headed in a new direction.
When we “ change our mind ” we’re able to move our entire mind towards the light. We were projected towards darkness, but with the true heart of “repentance” God helps us turn to the light “and you will know the truth, and the truth will set you free” (John 8:32). Changing our mind helps us to see the mind of Christ, which would in turn help us see God’s truth. This is how repentance works, by changing our mind, we change the direction of our walk, and as more steps are taken towards God, we see more of Him. The more we see God, and as we walk closer to Him, we can hear God’s voice clearly.
Thus verse 30 makes sense about the condition of our heart in doing God’s will, “And he went to the other son and said the same. And he answered, ‘ I go , sir,’ but did not go .” The other son clearly did not move or obey on the father’s command. In other words, we can say with our lips, I believe in Jesus and even read the bible, but don’t actually follow or do what God says, then we will never understand the will of God. Moreover, James 1:22 tells us, “But be doers of the word, and not hearers only, deceiving yourselves.”
Once we “change our mind” through God’s working in our hearts, we desire and want to seek, follow and obey His words. “And this is the confidence that we have toward him, that if we ask anything according to his will he hears us” ( 1 John 5:14 ).
The only way we can know God’s Will is for us to repent to God and have the confidence and assurance through our prayers that heaven will hear us.
So, in closing of knowing God’s Will
1 Thessalonians 5:16-18
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you.
Repentance will change the course of your direction, and it will change your life. Once you begin your journey of obedience to His will through God’s Words, you will hear His voice and you will have freedom to do His will.
Palm
Sunday to Resurrection Sunday is called Passion Week or Holy Week. Each
day leading up to Jesus’ crucifixion, “Good Friday” and to Christ Resurrection
is very important for all followers of Jesus.
During this week, every step, action, and Words of Christ is important to know why Jesus did what He had planned before the foundation of the world. Reflecting upon “Passion Week” helps our own identity with God and our search for meaning and purpose in life because everyone suffers and every person will go through emotions that reflect those sufferings and challenges in life.
In the King James Bible, “To whom also he shewed himself alive after his passion by many infallible proofs, being seen of them forty days,
…” (Acts 1:3), in another word “his passion” means “his
suffering.” Jesus, who is God intentionally and with a willing heart, was willing to suffer for our iniquities, our gross immorality, injustice, wickedness and our rebellion against God. Jesus was passionate to fulfill God’s plan and to die for the sins of this world, and He took “our sins” upon His own shoulders to save us and to give us the free gift of salvation for those who would accept it. When we think of the word “passion” we connect it to a very strong emotion, a strong focus and determination to finish and to complete the task. In Latin “passio” refers to an “enduring suffering” and “Passion Week” encompasses both the strong emotion and suffering of Christ.
Each day of the “Passion Week” directs us to Jesus’ passion (his emotions) to fulfill His suffering on the Cross. It is this journey of suffering of Jesus on the cross helps us to understand our own suffering. It is when we connect with Jesus’ journey, we understand
this scripture: “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me. And the life I now live in the flesh I live by faith in the Son of God, who loved me and gave himself for me” (Galatians 2:20).
On Resurrection Sunday, we end the suffering, because Jesus rose from the dead to give us life and victory. Praise the Lord! We now have victory over sin and death, “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy. I came that they may have life and have it abundantly ” (John 10:10). My friends, the devil only wants to keep you under depression and darkness, but Jesus came to give us life and to conquer over our sin. We no longer need to live in spiritual suffering and walk this journey by ourselves because “I have been crucified with Christ. It is no longer I who live, but Christ who lives in me.” Isn’t this the good and greatest news ever told! When we accept Christ with a true repentance, we no longer need to walk this journey by ourselves, but with Jesus who will be our friend and will never leave you nor forsake you.
This is why we need to take the time out of our busy lives and process and contemplate Jesus’ emotions and suffering during the “Passion Week.” When you take the time and investment to understand Jesus’ emotions and His suffering, this will help you reflect on your own emotions and sufferings in life. Let’s be honest with ourselves, every person will go through testing, challenges and certain levels of suffering in life and it is very depressing to walk this journey in mind and heart by ourselves. When we walk by our own emotions, we will fall with no one to give us a lending hand, but Jesus has already walked this journey and now gives us the victory path for us to walk across.
Questions to Consider:
• Can your emotions and suffering be surrendered to Jesus?
• How do you allow The Holy Spirit to take control and give you victory over our sins?
• What would this victory look like in your daily life?
May you be blessed and take each journey of emotions to be captive to Jesus.
Passion Week Bible Reading “Following His Emotions” Palm Sunday: Jesus Enters Jerusalem
• Matthew 21:1
• Mark 11:1
• Luke 19:29
• John 12:12
Monday
• Matthew 21:12
• Mark 11:22
• Luke 19:45
Tuesday
• Mathew 21:20
• Mark 11:20
• Luke 20:36
• John 12:20
Wednesday
• Jesus prepares for last supper
• Judas and Sanhedrin prepare for Jesus’ arrest
Thursday
• Matthew 26:1
• Mark 14:1
• Luke 22:1
Friday “The Trials of Jesus”
• Matthew 26:1
• Mark 14:53
• Luke 22:54
• John 18:13
Saturday
• Mathew 27:66
Sunday “Jesus Rises from the Dead”
• Matthew 28:1
• Mark 16:1
• Luke 24:1
• John 20:1
What is a prophetic music ministry?
Why do churches do praise before the message or sermon?
1 Chronicles 25:1
David and the chiefs of the service also set apart for the service the sons of Asaph, and of Heman, and of Jeduthun, who prophesied with lyres, with harps, and with cymbals .
And in verse 2, list the names and, “Asharelah, sons of Asaph, under the direction of Asaph, who prophesied under the direction of the king.” Through verse 4 and 5, it continues with names of those in service for the king and then in verse 6, “They were all under the direction of their father in the music in the house of the Lord with cymbals, harps, and lyres for the service of the house of God.”
For many years, I have read through scripture multiple times, but this time, God’s words captured my attention to the revelation that the musicians can serve in prophecy “ with
lyres, with harps, and with cymbals.”
Other versions illustrate the following:
- NIV “the ministry of prophesying, accompanied by”
- KJV “who should prophesy with”
- NASB "who were to prophesy with”
- NLT “to proclaim God's messages to the accompaniment of”
This is all “in the house of the Lord” for “the service of the house of God.” And, “in the house of the Lord” we are all to manifest our hearts in worship “who prophesied with the lyre in thanksgiving
and praise to the Lord” (verse 3). Our heart attitude to prophesy is with thanksgiving and praises for the service of the house of God.
What is the difference between “Prophe c y” and “Prophe s y?”
When I think of prophe c y (Noun: A prediction of a future happening), God wants us to prophe s y (Verb: To state that something will happen in the future). 1 Corinthians 14:1 reminds us, “. . . earnestly desire the spiritual gifts, especially that you may prophesy.”
To get a basic understanding of “Prophe c y” is a “message from God” and “Prophe s y” is to “proclaim a message from God” and the one who does or says it is a “prophet.” With that said, we have to keep in mind, since the Bible is complete, it is imperative to understand that God knows the past, present, and future. Any authoritative word about the future is already stated in the Word of God and man is to be His spokesperson, interpreting His Word properly.
2 Peter 1:21
For no prophecy was ever produced by the will of man, but men spoke from God as they were carried along by the Holy Spirit.
We have to keep a solid reminder that “The Bible IS the Final and Complete Revelation from God.” No man can predict what God had already spoken through His word. God is the creator and distributor of time of past, present, and future. It is our responsibility to decode what God has already encoded.
So, what does prophecy mean for today? The New Testament gives us a good picture and manifestation of this spiritual gift.
1 Corinthians 14:3 ( Amplified Bible )
But [on the other hand] the one who prophesies speaks to people for edification [to promote their spiritual growth] and [speaks words of] encouragement [to uphold and advise them concerning the matters of God] and [speaks words of] consolation [to compassionately comfort them].
So, what does all this mean, and how does “prophecy" relate to musical instruments? Let’s begin with few questions to help us process these revelations.
- How can we edify and promote spiritual growth through songs and musical instruments while giving thanks and praise to the Lord?
- How can we give encouragement and compassionately comfort others accompanied by musical instruments?
- How can we proclaim God's messages to the accompaniment of cymbals, harps, and lyres for the service of the house of God?
David is a good example of a prophet (Acts 2:29-31), who was filled with the Holy Spirit and wrote much of Psalms foretelling of the coming Messiah. David prophesied through Psalms and music: Psalm 2, 16, 22, 34, 69, and 110.
1 Chronicles 25:1-8 explains that David and the chiefs of the service set apart three family groups of Asaph, Heman, and Jeduthun to prophesy with lyres, harps, and with cymbals (verse 1). They prophesied with musical instruments. In other words, they wrote songs to proclaim God’s messages.
In 1 Chronicles 25:1 the word “prophesy” (Hebrew “naba” pronounced “naw-baw”) is a verb meaning “ under influence of the divine spirit
.” In other words to speak or sing by inspiration of the Holy Spirit.
So for those who are in a praise team or are Christian singers and musicians, this shows that “prophecy” is not always “a message from God” but under the influence of the Holy Spirit to sing songs and use instruments in thanksgiving and praise to the Lord.
What is very interesting is that this task of organizing and setting apart by David and the chiefs took much time and effort in developing the prophetic music ministry within the temple. The Hebrew word “sar” meaning chiefs, captains, rulers, governors, and leaders were mostly of military personnel. Praise and giving thanks through prophetic music were so important that even a king and his military generals were assigned and set apart for the house of worship. Who said, you can’t swing a sword and play the soft and peaceful lyre? Surely, David was a mighty warrior, and their leaders thought otherwise.
The prophetic music ministry was a well-planned and intentional strategic effort. This was of high importance to be “in the house of the Lord” for “the service of the house of God.” If this was very important to David then it meant that this prophetic music ministry was also important to God.
Why? Why was this prophetic music ministry so important to David?
David viewed this prophetic music ministry as meant to be used with instruments and songs that praise and gave thanks to the Lord as a key vital life to the entire nation of Israel . The spiritual vitality of the temple required this prophetic music ministry. This made sense as to why many “who were skillful” was chosen and “trained in singing to the Lord” (1 Chron. 25:7). Even those who are “small and great, young and old alike, the teacher as well as the student, cast lots for their duties to worship in the house of the Lord.
- So, then the question would be, are churches today through praise giving thanks proclaiming God’s message?
- Are our songs proclaiming the gospel?
- Can Christian musicians today have the ability to play prophetically on their instruments in such a way as to release the anointing to the people?
"The prophetic musician sees further than the task of music because it is a ministry requiring knowledge beyond the physical task of playing notes in the right order. It is a music of divine appointment to comfort, encourage, strengthen, confront and stir people to higher goals, or take us to another level of worship" (Excerpt from "The Musician" by Kerry Wright).
In Closure
Now, I have a greater understanding as to why churches do praise and then a message in the house of the Lord. This is the prophetic music ministry and worship of the church in which leaders (small and great, young and old), sing by inspiration of the Holy Spirit and proclaiming God’s messages.
Then the following passages started to be more clear:
1 Samuel 10:5-6
5 After that you shall come to Gibeath-elohim, where there is a garrison of the Philistines. And there, as soon as you come to the city, you will meet a group of prophets coming down from the high place with harp, tambourine, flute, and lyre before them, prophesying. 6 Then the Spirit of the Lord will rush upon you, and you will prophesy with them and be turned into another man.
Now, even a harp played by David to drive the evil spirit away soothed King Saul’s soul, “Let our lord now command your servants who are before you to seek out a man who is skillful in playing the lyre, and when the harmful spirit from God is upon you, he will play it, and you will be well” (1 Samuel 16:16).
13 And Elisha said to the king of Israel, “What have I to do with you? Go to the prophets of your father and to the prophets of your mother.” But the king of Israel said to him, “No; it is the Lord who has called these three kings to give them into the hand of Moab.” 14 And Elisha said, “As the Lord of hosts lives, before whom I stand, were it not that I have regard for Jehoshaphat the king of Judah, I would neither look at you nor see you. 15 But now bring me a musician .” And when the musician played, the hand of the Lord came upon him (2 Kings 3:13-15).
After the musicians played, then Elisha prophesied about the “dry streambed full of pools” (2 Kings 3:16) and that “He will also give the Moabites into your hand” (verse 18).
This all started to make sense as to why music and singing were a major part of worship in the temple during David’s reign along with all small and great, young and old. David brought up, “. . . 4,000 shall offer praises to the Lord with the instruments that I have made for praise” (1 Chronicles 23:5). David was so passionate about this ministry that he even made his own musical instruments for the house of the Lord.
In essence, prophetic music ministry is prophesying through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. This is more than our natural talent and abilities. This is about our surrender to God so that the Holy Spirit can release His Spirit to proclaim God's messages to the accompaniment of lyres, with harps, and with cymbals. Under the divine inspiration and the revelation of His words, God will release His fulfilled purpose and the presence of Jesus will become a blessed reality. The prophetic music ministry will edify our spiritual growth, singing and using lyre, harp, and cymbals will encourage our souls, and His words will comfort us in the house of the Lord.
King Hezekiah Restores the Temple Worship
2 Chronicles 29:25-30
25 And he stationed the Levites in the house of the Lord with cymbals, harps, and lyres, according to the commandment of David and of Gad the king's seer and of Nathan the prophet, for the commandment was from the Lord through his prophets. 26 The Levites stood with the instruments of David, and the priests with the trumpets. 27 Then Hezekiah commanded that the burnt offering be offered on the altar. And when the burnt offering began, the song to the Lord began also, and the trumpets, accompanied by the instruments of David king of Israel. 28 The whole assembly worshiped, and the singers sang, and the trumpeters sounded. All this continued until the burnt offering was finished. 29 When the offering was finished, the king and all who were present with him bowed themselves and worshiped. 30 And Hezekiah the king and the officials commanded the Levites to sing praises to the Lord with the words of David and of Asaph the seer. And they sang praises with gladness, and they bowed down and worshiped.
May the spiritual vitality of the church come back to the House of God and edify, encourage and comfort all who seek our savior, Jesus. Amen and Amen.