Monday, September 5, 2016

God Talks?

Through the Scriptures God has spoken! Does He still speak to individuals today with actual words in our language? For some in the Charismatic movement that has been true and is still true. However, recently Priscilla Evans Shiver insists she literally hears God talking to her. She insists God gives “fresh words” and ”insider” information to her (See the lead definitive article in The Quarterly Journal, September 2016 issue).

Does God really tell us the kind of bread, fruit, ice cream, etc. to eat or not to buy and eat? I think not and Mrs. Shiver does not say God tells her what she should do or not do in these matters.However, how far should we go in such areas? Does God speak to His people in audible words? I think not.

I believe God has given us His Word and that is far more than we deserve. He has also given us His Holy Spirit who will lead and guide as He has promised in His Word. Rather than listen for Him to speak words to us, we need to follow His recorded words of Scripture. I see no benefit for God’s people to strive to hear God’s words in my language. Dr. Charles Ryrie tells us the Holy Spirit of God guides His children by means of His Word: Acts 8:29; 10:19-20; 13:2, 4; 16:6-7; 20:22-23 (Charles C. Ryrie, The Holy Spirit, Moody Press, p. 171).