Wednesday, October 1, 2008

Touch Not My Anointed

Touch not my anointed! by letusreason.org

I challenge all who say this phrase to read this whole article through prayerfully and with an open mind and heart.

Loyalty is a good thing if it is for the right purpose and for truth. One certainly does not want to be loyal and find they have pledged their allegiance to something that is false.
“He who justifies the wicked, and he who condemns the just, both of them alike are an abomination to the LORD” (Proverbs 17:150
But for one to find out what is true or false they must look into matter and hear both sides before they make a final judgment. “The heart of the prudent acquires knowledge, and the ear of the wise seeks knowledge” (Proverbs 18:15).

In a time of catchy phrases and clichés', Christians can be no different. What does the Bible mean when it says not to touch God’s anointed? It’s not my opinion or yours that matters; but what God’s Word have to say about this that really counts? I certainly wish the people that repeat this phrase would read it in its context, 'the Lord's anointed', is a reference to the kings of the nation of Israel (1Sam. 12:3,5; 24:6,10; 26:9,11, 16,23; 2 Sam. 1:14,16; 19:21; Psalm 20:6; Lam. 4:20).

The mention of prophets, is a reference to the patriarchs (Psalm 105:8-15; 1Chron. 16:15-22). It is used exclusively in the Old Testament. Ps 105:11-15 Saying, “To you I will give the land of Canaan as the allotment of your inheritance,” When they were few in number, indeed very few, and strangers in it. When they went from one nation to another, from one kingdom to another people, “He permitted no one to do them wrong; yes, He rebuked kings for their sakes, Saying, “Do not touch My anointed ones, and do My prophets no harm.” Notice in this Scripture that God protected His anointed (who was Israel) and His prophets from the enemies of Israel to bring physical harm.

The first thing one should notice is that the word touch actually means physical harm. What it does not mean is saying something about another person publicly that is true. How do we know this? Because that's exactly what David did about Saul. It was David who said he would not harm God’s anointed, who was King Saul at the time but He spoke out publicly about him.

Not only David, but Samuel “touched God's anointed,” as he spoke out against the kings disobedience. God told Saul to “Smite Amalek, and utterly destroy all that they have, and spare them not...” (1 Sam. 15:3). But instead, he spoke a half truth and “spared the best of the sheep and of the oxen, to sacrifice unto the Lord...” (v.15). Samuel said it was rebellion like witchcraft and idolatry (v.24). Because he did not obey the Word of the Lord he would be removed being king. Saul admitted he feared the people and obeyed their voice. What a crucial thing to learn of Saul who was God's anointed.

In 1 Sam.16:13-16 we find David who was shepherd boy was anointed before God took away Saul’s position. David refused to touch Saul physically but it didn’t stop him from telling everyone the truth about him publicly.
David not raising his hand to touch (harm physically) God’s anointed is used in 1 Sam.26:9,11,23. Look at 1 Sam.26:11: tells us that David would not stretch his hand out to touch him (harm him); instead he sneaked up and took Saul’s spear and water jug. In verse 15 David rebukes Abner for not guarding Saul and says he deserved to die. Saul hears the commotion and comes out, and David rebukes Saul before all his troops, asking why he is pursuing David’s life since he is innocent -- that the king has come out to seek a flea. Saul then repented for his rash behavior and called himself a fool. David returned Saul’s possessions and said, “For the Lord delivered you into my hand but I would not stretch out my hand against the Lord’s anointed.” Notice what this means, not to bring physical harm.

1 Samuel 24:10 “Look, this day your eyes have seen that the LORD delivered you today into my hand in the cave, and someone urged me to kill you. But my eye spared you, and I said, ‘I will not stretch out my hand against my lord, for he is the Lord's anointed.” “And David said to Abishai, “Do not destroy him; for who can stretch out his hand against the Lord's anointed, and be guiltless?”(1 Sam. 26:9)

Saul was anointed as King over Israel he had a position of rulership that was soon to be over. Knowing he was next in line David refused to physically touch the king as God’s anointed and remove him from his position prematurely. It was God, not David who would remove Saul from his position (26:8-10). We should notice an important part in this story, it was Saul who was pursuing David, hunting him down and trying to kill him. The Bible story has Saul whose position was threatened, pursuing to kill David who was innocent.

Isn’t this what we see today? Those who are in a greater position of leadership going after people who are anointed that are challenging them in what they are saying and doing as wrong. From their position they have trained people to listen to them and willing to silence their challengers. They do this by going after them with Bible threats such as “don’t touch God’s anointed” or you are committing the “blasphemy the Holy Spirit” when you speak against another “man of God.” Ignoring the fact that blasphemy meant one is saying that Jesus’ miracles were done by an unclean spirit, not about questioning another mans alleged miracles. Those of the flesh are pursuing those who are of the Spirit, just as Saul did to David. Those who are following the Spirit of the Lord go to His Word to keep themselves in the truth no matter what the opposition may say.

It’s interesting that in Rev. 6:9 John writes “When He opened the fifth seal, I saw under the altar the souls of those who had been slain for the word of God and for the testimony which they held.” They were killed because they held to the Word against the opposition and so they became martyrs. Those who apostatize from the Word always hate those who keep it.

We find the story of Saul ends with David kept from the Battle that Saul and Jonathan lost their lives in, instead he fought the Amalakites. An Amalakite messenger came back with torn clothes and dust on his head showing he was in mourning, David inquired of him and he told David he killed Saul. “So David said to him, “How was it you were not afraid to put forth your hand to destroy the LORD's anointed?” Then David called one of the young men and said, “Go near, and execute him!” And he struck him so that he died. So David said to him, “Your blood is on your own head, for your own mouth has testified against you, saying, 'I have killed the LORD's anointed.’”(2 Sam 1:13-16)

Again it is clear, to touch the anointed means to bring physical harm, most often death. But if you spiritualize it, it can mean anything you want. 2 Sam 1:17-19 David took up this lament concerning Saul and his son Jonathan, and ordered that the men of Judah be taught this lament of the bow (it is written in the Book of Jashar): “Your glory, O Israel, lies slain on your heights. How the mighty have fallen!” Each time is about those who were killed. David did not relish the fact that God's anointed was apostate and met his end, he wept.

Since most of these so called anointed teachers that come under their follower’s protection teach the Word out of context, its not surprising that they would quote a verse of Scripture removed from its correct meaning for their own self- protection. Those who shout don’t touch God’s anointed think they are doing God’s work, but they rarely ever look at the facts presented.

They listen to their teachers and do not want to hear the other side of the story. They cut themselves off from hearing the truth. And some, even when they are shown false teachings and prophecies do not care, but look to some personality who captured their loyalty. They become enemies of all reason, their own worst enemy. They do not realize they have been trained well, and like Pavlov’s dogs, react the same way each time. It's time to break free!

What are we supposed to do?

Its easy not to confront falsehood today, but it has become easy to confront those who point it out. How many people tell others not to touch the so-called anointed ever check out the claims from someone who has real concerns, and is trying to get them to read about it? I can tell you from experience, very few. Why is this? Because for the most part they can’t read the material, or should I be more specific and say, they are not allowed to. Again I ask why?

It was an apostle named Paul who called the Berean’s more noble than the others. For what reason? They looked to the Scripture to see if what Paul was teaching was accurate. Today those who protect their favorite teachers say don’t touch God’s anointed for doing this. Paul never said, “Touch not God’s anointed” or “do my prophets no harm”; you will never find an apostle teach this, nor is this found ONCE in the whole New Testament. I ask again why not?

Paul was questioned, why didn’t he say this? The apostle Paul called those who checked out what he said as noble, meaning they were a better stock than the others. How noble are you? Do you go wherever the tide goes? Are you willing to take a stand for the truth of the Word of God despite what people say, or will you follow the rest of the sheep off the cliff.

To tell people not to search the Scriptures and expose false teaching as David exposed King Saul is to be touching God’s anointed. You are stopping people who have God’s anointed word from using it correctly! Even David later on in his ministry as King accepted rebuke and correction from Nathan the prophet. He did not say, “don’t touch God’s anointed” to protect himself, and neither should those who follow their leaders do the same.

Who are the anointed?

John 17:17 “Sanctify them by Your truth. Your word is truth.” Unless someone is speaking the word correctly they are not teaching the truth and it doesn’t matter if they call themselves anointed, or how big or successful a ministry they have, they are WRONG.

What do the anointed man and women of God act like? Do they stop you from going to check their teachings or anyone else’s by the Word? Of course not, Titus 1:9 “holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict.”

No apostle ever said they were anointed, they did not speak in this manner; “don’t touch me I’m God’s anointed.” If someone is truly anointed, they would want to encourage the people to discern what is true and what is not. They would encourage people to pursue truth no matter where it would lead. They would love the sheep enough to protect them from falsehood and want to see them grow. They would allow the sheep to learn and think for themselves. The anointing, who is the Holy Spirit is the Spirit of Truth and someone who has the Spirit of Truth will never run from seeing error but will confront it when necessary. He will give someone the truth from the Word, subsequently leading us away from error.

We also need to ask the question who is anointed? The Bible tells us the whole body of Christ is, not just some certain people in the body. 2 Cor. 1:20-22 “Now He who establishes us with you in Christ and has anointed us is God, who also has sealed us and given us the Spirit in our hearts as a guarantee”

Let me ask those who use the phrase “touch not God’s anointed”, do you believe that only a certain teacher is anointed or can you admit that the whole body is anointed? If so, stop using this Scripture from the Old Testament as if there are only certain people anointed, like prophets or kings. Are there only a certain few leaders who are the anointed of God? Use it correctly.

The New Testament view identifies the anointed as all those who have received Jesus into their hearts and baptized into the body (1 Corinthians 12:13). It is not a certain church or group of people who are supposed leaders over the Church like the kings or prophets in the Old Testament; the whole body of Christ is anointed.

When someone insists for people not to say anything when they see something wrong, it is THEY that are coming against the anointed. For everyone shares the same anointing. Before one gives the standard cliché to protect a favorite teacher with “don’t touch my anointed” to someone who is searching what the Scripture actually says, you should think this through. It just may be that it is you who are touching the anointed Jesus, the author of truth, His Word.

The New Testament teaching is that all Christians have the same anointing, the same Holy Spirit. I Jn. 2:27 “But the anointing which you have received from Him abides in you, and you do not need that anyone teach you; but as the same anointing teaches you concerning all things, and is true, and is not a lie, and just as it has taught you, you will abide in Him.”

How does he teach? By the Word of God, by this we know what is true and false. Prior to this John wrote “But you have an anointing from the Holy One, and you know all things. I have not written to you because you do not know the truth, but because you know it, and that no lie is of the truth” (I Jn. 2:20-21). So if someone speaks something false about Christ (which is what John is concentrating on) or His word they are not speaking by the Spirit and not presenting truth. This is made simple enough for everyone to understand. John says they already know the truth; this was by being born again, by His teaching and the New Testament being circulated throughout the whole church.

We need to ask are they teaching the Bible from the Bible or are they teaching the Bible by another outside interpretation leading you into an experience, or possibly a spirit they think is the Holy Spirit? Doctrine keeps us in communion with Jesus. If they tell you to not bother with doctrine and all you need is love or an experience, run from this because it is a lie. The Bible states “Whosoever transgresses and abideth not in the doctrine of Christ, HATH NOT GOD. He that abideth in the doctrine of Christ, he hath both the Father and the Son” (2 John 1:9) “That you may charge some that they teach no other doctrine” (1 Timothy 1:3). Where is the doctrine found? In the Scriptures of course.

Ps. 105:14-15 “He permitted no one to do them wrong; yes, He rebuked kings for their sakes, Saying, “Do not touch My anointed ones, and do My prophets no harm.” He permitted no one to do them wrong. Who is he? God. The whole people of Israel were appointed to be a kingdom of priests and kings unto God; they were set apart to his service, it was God who protected them from physical harm. We know this is the context because v.13 states they went from nation to another, from kingdom to another people.” Prophets and the kings of Israel did not care too much about what others said about them, but they did care about what the enemies said of God. In the same sense, those who are saying this phrase today: are you protecting God’s word or a person?

It is God who protects His anointed, “Now I know that the LORD saves His anointed; He will answer him from His holy heaven with the saving strength of His right hand. Some trust in chariots, and some in horses; but we will remember the name of the LORD our God” (Psalm 20:6-7). “The LORD is their strength, and He is the saving refuge of His anointed” (Psalm 28:8). If you are anointed you don’t have to make threats, “You will keep him in perfect peace, whose mind is stayed on You, because he trusts in You” (Isa. 26:3). Could these anointed men who threaten others be reacting in the flesh and not in His Spirit? Apparently so!

First: we are not to judge a man and his eternal destiny which is left up to God, but if we see their teachings as destructive, the Bible tells us to judge, it is a command. So if you are telling people not to judge by repeating the Scripture “touch not my anointed” you are telling them to be disobedient to God's command. That’s the clear and simple answer to this matter. So it has absolutely nothing to do with this cliché touch not my anointed. To hold to this shows ones immaturity in the Word.

Looking at the purpose of touch not God’s anointed, excludes the concept about judging. Most people who say don’t judge will go ahead and take apart everything someone presents as they explain that we are told to judge according to the Bible. For them to say don’t judge is a judgment in itself. But they cannot see the inconsistency in what they are actually doing.
It is the word of God that we use to Judge someone’s teaching and that is not My personal judgment, but God’s, so by obeying this we are doing EXACTLY what Jesus said, to JUDGE righteously.

John 7:24 Jesus said: “Do not judge according to appearance, but judge with righteous judgment”, so we see Jesus did tell us to judge. Also if one examines Mt.7:1-5 in context they find that Jesus says if you have removed the same stumbling block from your eye and can clearly then go ahead and help your brother.

2nd it appears many have listened to men more than God, for the Bible scriptures that they are quoting need to read it in context. It is the self appointed leaders have trained people to think this way and by calling themselves anointed, they have made their followers go after people who say anything about them for their protection. The problem is evident; they can only quote a few certain verses that tell people not say anything about anyone.

Peter, Paul and John did a lot of judging the Biblical way. Every second epistle written is a judgment on false teaching explaining the truth by refuting the error. In 2 Timothy 2:17 he warns of the heresies of two men by name. Later in the same epistle (4:10), Paul judges by warning them about a man named Demas. Paul did a lot of judging and evaluating when it came to false teachers. Remember this is inspired by the Holy Spirit; therefore we have a mandate to judge false doctrine.

In the epistle to the Hebrews 5:14 tells us that mature believers, those who are of “full age,” are those who by reason of use have their senses exercised to discern (judge) both good and evil.” It takes time to learn and grow in discernment; it is those who are babes, immature hold the position that we can’t judge. Think about it.

We are not to sit idly by when we see personal spiritual revelations change God’s Word. If men and women cannot hold to the core doctrines and instead make up new revelations or interpret the Scripture from their dreams, visions, visitations from angels or saints we are to point out this is unbiblical teaching. This is what the Bible says, “holding fast the faithful word as he has been taught, that he may be able, by sound doctrine, both to exhort and convict those who contradict” (Titus 1:9).

It's not opinion, its not chasing down a certain person because of any dislike, its a Bible doctrine that we are to practice. Those who see the error are to remove themselves from those who teach it. “Now I urge you, brethren, note those who cause divisions and offenses, contrary to the doctrine which you learned, and avoid them” (Rom 16:17). If you say you love the Lord lets see it by obeying Him on this matter.

God has given us objective truth to live by. He has not made the truth so vague and open ended that it becomes a matter of anyone’s interpretation, the bible is not an open-ended book. He has given us clear-cut instructions that are valid and applicable today. God gave us an objective means to know and walk with Him, by living out His written Word. The sheep hear the voice of the Shepherd found in the Word, not in new words that men claim God gave them. The sheep will be drawn to the Word if they have any questions.

When someone says they are “anointed” or “led by the Spirit” but consistently teach contrary to the Word in its accurate context, you can be assured that they’re not being led by His Spirit delivering truth. This is especially important on the core doctrines. This of course does mean we must be able to teach perfectly every time. What I’m trying to convey is that it takes time to study, labor and gain spiritual understanding of the Word correctly, that is our goal.

When someone distorts and butchers the word, changing or discarding its meaning, then we can safely assume they have not spent time in the word, they do not care, or should not be teaching . When it gets bad enough, harmful enough, its time to speak up to protect the babes, the immature and the naïve from eating poison food. The only alternative is to address the public of already circulated false teaching that is undermining foundational tenets of our faith. We are supposed to be our brother’s keeper, some are to watch over the Church.

To ignore this is to have their blood on our hands (Acts 20:26), to warn them shows the same love and concern that Christ has. It's a matter of love and truth that people do the research to see if what is said is so.

16 comments:

Anonymous said...

Thank you for this article. It really clears the air about this phrase, "Touch Not Mine Anointed," which is now being mis-used by Calvary Prayer Tower in prayer against the TT crew & their supporters.

TT crew & supporters have to be careful to put on the 'whole armour of God' as Prayer Tower Intercessors are praying against us. May God have mercy on us all!

Vijay said...

By the grace of God, the Lord had permitted me to experience in three separate occassions conflicts between the leadership and the members of the churches. In each of these occassion, there was divided opinion between those who supported the leadership and those for the congregation. It is during these times that one will notice the ugly side of power - power does corrupt and its ugliness spills out from both the leadership and the members of the congregation.

BUT each group must understand the WORD and discern what the Spirit is saying. Nevertheless, those who abide in the Truth and do not have any personal agenda but the salvation of the church must push on and not get give up because TRUTH will alway win in the end.

They should not 'fear' the prayers of those who place blind loyalty because God only answers prayers that are according to HIS WILL and PURPOSES. Any prayer that is not inspired by the Holy Spirit is just empty prayer and wasted effort. This is my observation in the previous occasson when the prayer groups of the churches that had conflict between the leadership and the congregation had prayed and fasted for the downfall of those who were of the minority. The evidence is TRUTH always prevails. It does not matter whether it is the leadership or the members - GOD IS ALWAYS ON THE SIDE OF TRUTH!

I have 'paste' below my concern regarding events at your beloved church elsewhere for you reading.

***********************************
Dear Bro & Sis in Christ.
I am a member of a Christian research commission. I am in deep sorrow in reading of events that has been discussed in the blog regarding an historical church, Calvary Church Malaysia. I too suffer with the church because when a member suffers, the Whole body of Christ suffers with it. I surely don't want to see events that has been mentioned in the blog to happen to any other churches.

Furthermore, I also pray that the sole purpose of the blog as mentioned in the purpose and objective statement is strictly maintained. Otherwise, the blog that started positively with clear objectives will lose its perspective and end up in ruin because of comments outside the objective. Those who comment must make sure what they write is within the objective and in the spirit of love, truth and accountability.

It appears there is indeed a split within the body of Calvary Church, Malaysia and there is urgent need for inner healing. Yet, who can bring forth that inner healing that will bring true union once again. The only one who can do this perfectly is the Head, that is our Lord, Jesus Christ and it is my declaration by faith that He will do this. How and when, only He knows.

From my understanding of the ways of God, the events that took place at Calvary was meant to happen. They are not by chance or because of second course etc. They were permitted for a purpose which only He knows, but it will turn out to be a blessing to many so that the whole body of Christ is blessed. God always means evil for good as nothing can happen outside His predetermined counsel and foreknowledge. (See Genesis 50:20, Isaiah 10:5, Isaiah 53:10-11, Job 2:3, Job 12:16, Deuteronomy 8:5, John 19:7, Acts 2:23, Acts 4:26, 1Peter 2:21, Romans 8:23, Romans 8:36 and Jeremiah 25: 9-12 & 14 from the Books "God Means Evil for His Good Purposes" and "God Unlimited" Sylvia Pearce and Norman Grubb)

As a member of the Christian research commission, it is my humble opinion that there is a serious need to educate the congregation of churches in Malaysia on church governance. It appears there is a need for a 101 Church Management and Governance guideline provided to both leaders and members on basic function and duties of the the Board of Directors (BOD)the leadership and the rights of the congregation. It should cover the selection of the BOD and the conduct of the senior pastor and other leaders, treasury function, internal control and audit, management of projects, the remuneration and welfare of church employees, the daily administration of the church etc. Such a guideline will enable the leadership and the congregation to benchmark their church against best practise.

I shall continue to believe that the Lord will bring together the necessary experts that such a 101 can be timely produced and freely made available so that each Christian can benchmark his/her church to the best practice in church management and governance. I humbly volunteer my services.

Vijay.
NOTE: THESE ARE MY PERSONAL VIEWS AND NOT NECESSARILY THE VIEWS OF THE CHRISTIAN RESEARCH COMMISSION I REPRESENT.

October 1, 2008 6:24 PM

Anonymous said...

Dear Vijay,

Tears flowed even as I read your post. How did the devil gain this foothold in Calvary Church, to do his work of stealing, killing & destroying? I weep for this church, the pastors, the BOD, the congregation of the righteous, the young people, the children. I weep for the lost innocence of our 2nd generation, the broken hearts & the confused minds of those who have been stumbled. I weep for our betrayed confidence.

Vijay said...

Dear True Story

I too weep with you. My heart is broken and I understand all your pain as my wife and I have been there before. All I can share with you is your are standing on victory ground. Have FAITH. He did deliver us and we have become stronger in our faith through such testings. All I ask you is to have FAITH IN GOD. He will make a way where there seems to be no way. You too will look back one day and rejoice in His POWER and GLORY. You will become a blessing to many.

I plan to bring up the urgent need for Christian guideline on the subject of church governance at the next meeting of the Christian Research Commission. I strongly believe that such a guideline should be made available to all Christians so that they may be able benchmark their church against best practices. Any shortcomings may than be brought to the knowledge of the church leadership so that internal controls may be established to prevent what has happened in a great church like yours.

As this is a sensitive area, not every one even within the Christian Research Commission may support my views. Some are of the opinion that these issues should be addressed by the AOG as Calvary Church is a member of the AOG. However, I would like to hear from those who suffer like you, including members of your congregation. It would greatly help me if I could hear from you your opinion on the need for a 101 on church governance and the subject matter it should touch (example: treasury function, employment, use of church fund etc as already detailed in my blog above). Your support will enable me to build a stronger case for the need for such guidelines.

My wife and I will continue to uphold all those who are currently deeply suffering and also the leaders and congregation of Calvary Church.

You may contact me at vijay.newdawn@gmail.com. Matters discussed and shared will be strictly confidential.

Vijay
NOTE: THESE ARE MY PERSONAL VIEWS AND NOT NECESSARILY THE VIEWS OF THE CHRISTIAN RESEARCH COMMISSION I REPRESENT.

Vijay said...

FOR YOUR INFORMATION

ECFA (Evangelical Council for Financial Accountability) is an accreditation agency dedicated to helping Christian ministries earn the public’s trust through adherence to seven Standards of Responsible Stewardship. Founded in 1979, ECFA provides accreditation to leading Christian nonprofit organizations that faithfully demonstrate compliance with established standards for financial accountability, fund-raising and board governance. Members include Christian ministries, denominations, churches and educational institutions

ECFA’s Standards of Responsible Stewardship focus on board governance, financial transparency, integrity in fund-raising, and proper use of charity resources.

Please visit the ECFA website at:
http://www.ecfa.org/Default.aspx

You will have FREE ACCESS to hundreds of documents including policies, procedures and a wealth of research on topics such as charitable gifts, expense reimbursements, board governance, fringe benefits, and much more.

Accountability to God is vital as people form their impressions of both leadership and the church by looking at the outward appearances. The basis for establishing ECFA was to provide guideline on Standards of Responsible Stewardship as stated clearly by the Apostle Paul in 2 Corinthians 8:21 (NIV): “For we are taking pains to do what is right, not only in the eyes of the Lord but also in the eyes of men.” Or, as the New American Standard puts it in verses 20 and 21, “taking precaution that no one should discredit us in our administration of this generous gift, for we have regard for what is honorable, not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in the sight of men.”

The above information is taken from the ECFA website but edited for publication purpose.

Vijay
NOTE: THESE ARE MY PERSONAL VIEWS AND NOT NECESSARILY THE VIEWS OF THE CHRISTIAN RESEARCH COMMISSION I REPRESENT.

Anonymous said...

God bless you, Vijay.
What you & your group are doing is very relevant and necessary. Maybe Assemblies of God churches in Malaysia really need to re-think their present set-up of church governance, administration, financial transparency & accountability, and work towards adopting these Christian Stewardship Standards into their church constitutions. For the sake of the gospel, and for the good Name of our Lord.

What S.P. and the BOD are doing in Calvary Church have made us a laughing stock in the eyes of the nation and the world.

"Thou therefore which teachest another, teachest thou not thyself? thou that preachest a man should not steal, dost thou steal?"
Romans 2:21 (KJV)

Vijay said...

THANKS FOR THE SUPPORT

pshn said...

Touch not God’s anointed

In the old testament days two significant leaders were specially anointed – the kings and the priests (in 1Sam.10:1; Exo.40:12) Saul is God’s chosen and anointed King.

On two occasions, once in the Caves of Adullam and another time at the Hill of Hakilah, David had the opportunity to kill Saul but he did not do so. He felt convicted trying to harm (other versions use attack, destroy, lifting a hand against) Saul.

Why was this so? It was because the king is God’s anointed leader. David was certain that it was GOD that place him there and so God Himself knows when is the right time to remove him.

In today’s context there are no more kings and there are no more priests. The last king and high priest is Jesus Christ. He is the Lord of lords and the King of kings (Rev 19:16)

Through Jesus we have ALL become CHILDREN OF GOD (Joh.1:12).

Today WE are ALL ANNOINTED.

We ALL receive the Holy Spirit when we were saved.

We ALL have been BAPTISED IN THE HOLY SPIRIT.

And we are ALL ANNOINTED with one of several GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT to serve the Almighty God (1Cor.12: 4 – 11) and minister to the body of Christ.

NOBODY has ALL THE GIFTS so that no one will puffed up with pride.

So accusations that is oft shouted over the pulpit i.e. “DO NOT TOUCH THE LORD’S ANNOINTED” has more often been a MISUSE and/or a absolute ABUSE of the Word of God. It is sinful to do that.

It is a Jezebellic manipulative tool to keep the sheep in guilt-filled bondage and in fear so that everyone becomes gagged.

In future, if it happens again respond correctly and fearlessly.

Shout back and say, "You, do not touch us, the Lord's annointed!!"

pshn said...

pahN

Touch not God’s anointed

In the old testament days two significant leaders were specially anointed – the kings and the priests (in 1Sam.10:1; Exo.40:12) Saul is God’s chosen and anointed King.

On two occasions, once in the Caves of Adullam and another time at the Hill of Hakilah, David had the opportunity to kill Saul but he did not do so. He felt convicted trying to harm (other versions use attack, destroy, lifting a hand against) Saul.

Why was this so? It was because the king is God’s anointed leader. David was certain that it was GOD that place him there and so God Himself knows when is the right time to remove him.

In today’s context there are no more kings and there are no more priests. The last king and high priest is Jesus Christ. He is the Lord of lords and the King of kings (Rev 19:16)

Through Jesus we have ALL become CHILDREN OF GOD (Joh.1:12).

Today WE are ALL ANNOINTED.

We ALL receive the Holy Spirit when we were saved.

We ALL have been BAPTISED IN THE HOLY SPIRIT.

And we are ALL ANNOINTED with one of several GIFTS OF THE HOLY SPIRIT to serve the Almighty God (1Cor.12: 4 – 11) and minister to the body of Christ.

NOBODY has ALL THE GIFTS so that no one will puffed up with pride.

So accusations that is oft shouted over the pulpit i.e. “DO NOT TOUCH THE LORD’S ANNOINTED” has more often been a MISUSE and/or a absolute ABUSE of the Word of God. It is sinful to do that.

It is a Jezebellic manipulative tool to keep the sheep in guilt-filled bondage and in fear so that everyone becomes gagged.

In future, if it happens again respond correctly and fearlessly.

Shout back and say, "You, do not touch us, the Lord's annointed!!"

Anonymous said...

"Touch not the Lord's anointed" ... inaccurately presented. When you lust over a woman in your mind you have already "touched" the woman. Jesus taught us that. Was there anytime that David spoke against Saul publicly? Was there ever an occasion where David intentionally punished Saul by causing division amongst the brethren? You used the Scriptures to state your opinion. You'll need to account for that eventually.

I am not a Calvarite. For those of you who are set on opposing the leadership of the church, my advice is to take the high road and "flee" just as David fled. You need not "fight" for God. If the leadership is wrong God will deal with it. Find some other church where you can worship God. If you are right about the leadership of Calvary, God will manifest the truth. If you are wrong, then you have have been opposing God all these while.

Take the high road for the sake of the Body of Christ. I see lots of anger, hatred, discontentment, like in the fruits of politics. Don't help God "carry the Ark of Covenant". Find another church where you can find peace in worshiping.

Another things, this blog ... can be a useful tool for edification. Sadly as it is, it's a stumbling block.

Anonymous said...

Sorry anonymous,

I beg to differ from you in opinion here. Too many people have taken the easy way out and "fled". That's why the church has become "a den of thieves" for many con-pastor. The will continue to be the "thieves" haven becoz of people like you.

The church where God has placed us id our Heavenly Father's house. If we His children do not stay and get back what rightfully belongs to our Father, then we would have failed to be the filial children of God. We Asian have been taught from young to protect that which belongs to the family. We being an Asian church will stay to protect our Father's property.

It is quite surprising that since you are not a Calvarite, why did you log in to read the contents here. I hope you will read all the articles here carefully. Pastor Rick Warren has good encouragement for us in more recent posts. You mean to say that his devotions are a stumbling block? The cartton on "heavy cross" is quite enlightening. By your comment, I really believe you are our SP's good friend and supporter trying to discredit this blog's contents.

Sorry, my personal view is, a person who is not acquainted with us would not have made that comment.

Anonymous said...

Without God we can't
Without us God won't

If we don't correct a wrong, God won't simple as that!

Open your eyes. Don't run like a scared dog with tails between its legs.

Anonymous said...

If a family earning 1000 tithes 100 every month and this money is put to use in the kingdom of G D, it will multiply 10 times, 20 times and maybe a 100 times.

If this 100 rinngit is put in a bank account and to be used by a pastor to fly first/business class then something is wrong!

If the 100 ringgit is put to a bank account and use discretly by a pastor without any accountability, then is is worse!

If the 100 ringgit was taken without the knowlege of the body of the Church, put into a bank account and to be used discretly by the pastor, then it is terrible.

Do something, anything but don't run.

Bamboo Conspiracy said...

What is Spiritual Abuse?

Spiritual abuse occurs when a person, who has been given authority within a spiritual or religious context, misuses that authority and abuses those who gave him or her such authority. Similar terms include authoritarianism, manipulation, intimidation, legalism and elitism.

The following comments are excerpted from “Healing Spiritual Abuse” by Ken Blue.

Abuse of any type occurs when someone has power over another and uses that power to hurt. Spiritual abuse happens when a leader with spiritual authority uses that authority to coerce, control or exploit a follower, thus causing spiritual wounds.

People who “survive” spiritual abuse often wander in a kind of limbo; they are confused, hurt and angry … They had been intensely dedicated to Christ at one time … The most committed believers are often the most vulnerable to abusive religion.

The authoritarian, narcissistic ecclesiastical abusers of our day are the modern equivalent of the Pharisees whom Jesus scolded. Jesus not only exposed and denounced the Pharisees as false shepherds but also offered himself as advocate for their victims … [Spiritual abuse was] the one social problem Jesus himself seemed to care about most.

How Can We Recognize Spiritual Abuse?

The following comments are excerpted from “Twisted Scriptures” by Mary Alice Chrnalogar.

If you have experienced any of these conditions in your church, it may indicate a misuse of Scripture and/or may represent the presence of abuse and excessive control:

•Church members are rebuked for actions that aren’t really sinful but which merely differ from the leaders’ opinions

•The leader uses verses such as “Touch not my anointed” to imply we can’t criticize leaders without being critical of God

•There exist a group of Church members who emphasizes trusting leaders, having faith in leaders, imitating leaders, and/or being loyal to them and not to question the leaders.

•The same group of Church members teaches people to obey even when it doesn’t feel right

•The leader teaches that the Bible says to stay away from those who have “fallen away”

•The leader teaches that “following Christ” means giving up all personal wishes, desires and goals

•The leaders [supposedly] can hear God and know God’s Will better than you can

•The gray and open areas of your life become narrowed, and absolute rights and wrongs are made very clear

•The group of Church members become extremely irritated when someone criticizes the leaders

•Those who disagree with, or openly challenge, leaders are "causing divisions"

•The group of Church members chose not to be associate with people who question the leadership.

•Your leader talks about being “unequally yoked” when discussing potential mates not in your group

•You are told examples of bad things that happened to people who left your group

•You feel guilty when you make your own decisions that go against the approval of your leader (in dealing with non-moral issues)

•The leaders publicly rebuke or discipline members for matters that are not necessary to expose to the whole church

•The leaders repeatedly and emphatically request money (and stress that a lack of financial giving is an indication of an unhealthy spiritual life)

People who suffer from spiritual abuse, as well as their abusers, are both victims of a faulty paradigm. Their warped understanding of God, the Scriptures, and the Church not only justifies the abuse, but also imprisons them. The only way to break free from this cycle of suffering is to adopt (or create) a new paradigm. However, this process is extremely painful and costly, because it requires the person to endure a complete mental breakdown as he moves from one paradigm to another.

The greatest power we can enlist against the evil forces of spiritual abuse is SPIRITUAL KNOWLEDGE & EDUCATION for it is through the open-minded consideration of other alternatives that the light of knowledge can eliminate the darkness of ignorance. This calls for spiritual maturity and discernment. God's people perish because of lack of spiritual knowledge.

FOR ADDITIONAL INFORMATION PLEASE CONSULT THE FOLLOWING REFERENCE BOOKS

"Boundaries" by Cloud & Townsend

"Churches That Abuse" by Ron Enroth

"Healing Spiritual Abuse: How to Break Free from Bad Church Experiences" by Ken Blue

"Recovering from Churches that Abuse" by Ron Enroth

"Releasing the Bonds: Empowering People to Think for Themselves" by Steven Hassan

"The Shack" by William P. Young

"The Subtle Power of Spiritual Abuse" by Johnson & Van Vonderen

"Toxic Faith: Experiencing Healing From Painful Spiritual Abuse" by Arterburn & Felton

"Twisted Scriptures" by Mary Alice Chrnalogar

"When I Say No, I Feel Guilty" by Manuel Smith

SOURCE:
For further information, contact David Clute or Nate Clute at:
http://www.aquilashouse.org/index.html

David and Nate were born into and gave 25+ years of their lives to a church in Omaha, Nebraska, that started out preaching the gospel of Jesus Christ to the best of its understanding. The church ended up pursuing an entirely different agenda that wounded many individuals and families, including David and Nate's family. The two brothers left the church in 2005 and have since found much healing, hope and happiness, which they love to share with other victims of abuse.

Vijay

NB: THESE ARE MY PERSONAL VIEWS AND NOT NECESSARILY THE VIEWS OF THE NECF, MALAYSIA.

I have shared this information for the purpose of educating and liberating Christians from spiritual abuse. If you are already a Christian who has gone through Spiritual Abuse and liberated by the power of the Holy Spirit, I would encourage you to make yourself available to other victims."
Dr. Paramsothy Vijayan
www.normangrubb.com

Anonymous said...

Without physically touching or harming a man of God but by harboring anger towards him, you have already committed murder. So says Jesus.

Anonymous said...

We do not hate any body especially if your are refering to our feelings for SP. We just do not want to see him fall deeper into sin by being greedy and taking money with out permission.

We do not know him well enough to hate him becoz he has never taken the trouble to get to know us.