“You should not preach about unreached, missions, sacrifice, cross and suffering. Preach only about blessings. This is Christmas season.” One guest preacher was advised by the leaders of the local church. In fact, they were ‘allergic’ to God’s will, purpose, heart, mission and passion.
Mistaken Mission: This phenomenon dictating what God should do is not new. The Nation of Israel said: Let not God speak with us, Moses speak with us. (Exodus 20:19) “Do not preach”—thus they preach- “one should not preach of such things; disgrace will not overtake us.” (Micah 2:6) (Acts 24:25) Amos was forbidden from preaching in Bethel as it was Amaziah’s sanctuary and temple of the Kingdom. (Amos 7:14,15)
Mighty Mission: True prophets continue to speak the truth and will joyfully face opposition, harassment, even violence and death. When Paul spoke about righteousness, self-control and coming judgement. Felix was alarmed.
Merry Mission: People look for preachers who effectively speak false promises. Prophets prophesize lies in God’s name. (Jeremiah 14:14) Micah vividly describes: “If a man should go about and utter wind and lies, saying, “I will preach to you of wine and strong drink,” he would be the preacher for this people!” (Micah 2:11)
Money Mission: “Its heads give judgment for a bribe; its priests teach for a price; its prophets practice divination for money; yet they lean on the Lord and say, “Is not the Lord in the midst of us? No disaster shall come upon us.” (Micah 3:11) Prophecy, judgement, teaching and counselling are provided in discounted price or on easy instalment basis.
Myth Mission: Paul warns about end time when people do not endure sound teaching but accumulate teachers for their tingling ears that would suit their passions, going astray into myths. (II Timothy 4:3,4) Myths could be cooked up fantasies/imaginations of a preacher.
Fire and brimstone preachers are hated while winds and lies preachers are well received. Truth is rejected while lies are gulped in haste.
Am I humble to receive His words that are truth?