Ministry Time

Dear Pastors

Ministry Time

As trinitarian believers we believe that the Holy Spirit is 1) always present and 2) always at work. That we can pretty much agree on. Where we often differ is how He works. In other words views around the baptism in the Holy Spirit, healing, speaking in tongues, the anointing and the gifts of the Spirit to mention a few can differ even amongst charismatic and pentecostal believers.

I am a charismatic through and through. I have been since very early days of my Christian life. The New Testament Greek word ‘charism’ simply means divine gifts or favour. The Apostle Paul uses the word for example in 1Corinthians 12:7-8. Charismatic’s believe in miracles and the supernatural working of God.

I say that to say this. In our church services we are terribly at risk to be dictated to by run sheets and strict order of services these days. And please hear me I am not against that per se. But here is our challenge I think. When do we intentionally allow time for the Holy Spirit to move and minister? In fact as charismatic pastors are we confident to lead in that context?

Let’s be honest pastors. Four or five contemporary songs with a few folks raising their hands isn’t quite what I am talking about.

I’m sure you agree with me that so many Christian people that faithfully attend our churches are struggling with life. People are troubled, heavy hearted, confused, burdened and sick. You know this is true because you personally have experienced all of this yourself and then some probably, loved ones may be suffering as you read this piece and a few moments thinking about your congregation will definitely confirm this.

Given that, I am a great advocate for three things:

1. Teaching your people how to be open and receive from the Holy Spirit.
2. That we give some intentional time for the Holy Spirit to move in our Sunday morning services. We know that He is present when we meet but giving the Holy Spirit some ‘space’ from time to time to do what He alone can do is very important.
3. Plan a few ‘special services’ that are for this purpose only. You could run them on a Sunday night once a month or a Wednesday night.

When we intentionally step into this arena of ministry, we talk and teach about it carefully and we see this as an essential part of our pastoral ministry then good things will follow. God will reveal himself, people will experience Jesus in profound ways and testimonies of healing, deliverance and freedom will emerge.

Preaching is important, worship through song is important, fellowship time is important but so is ministry time.

Blessings
Alan

Brian Houston. Here is a 9 minute TV interview with Brian Houston about Carl Lentz and the culture of Hillsong. Worth a watch.