In almost every setting, whether corporate, educational or community it seems the traditional individualistic and hierarchical cultures continue to haunt us and block the growing process. In a day of such compromise and terrible exploitation, integrity has almost become a thing of the past. The rich are getting richer, but the poor a getting poorer. A small minority luxuriates in the lap wealth and affluence. The vast majority suffer want at the whim of the privileged. Unfortunately, this system works just fine because it is being sanctioned by the Church. The status quo is being upheld by the Church’s Amen. This bears a striking resemblance to Israel, 8th Century B.C. The ruthless, tyrannical and hypocritical nation was under the control of Jeroboam and his preacher-for-hire Amaziah. Yes, Church and State hooked up to sanctify the diatribe. All oppressive regimes have religious underpinnings. Israel is riding high on the backs of the oppressed and her behavior is being approved by the Church. But then without warning, in walks a herdsman from Tekoa. He’s ready to battle spiritual wickedness in high places. Somebody shows up whose allegiance is to another KING from another KINGDOM! His name is Amos. He goes to Church in the capital City and tells them, “Your worship is worthless!”
He came as a prophet of righteousness but he encountered great opposition. Amaziah (preacher-fo- hire) was sent to silence Amos. He tells Amos, “Go back to Judah where belong and prophesy there. This is the King’s Chapel and the King’s Court.” Amos has no idea what protocol is; he’s free, unshackled, unbridled and fearless. He answered Amaziah “I was not a prophet; neither the son of a prophet. I was happy as a herdsman and a gatherer of sycamore fruit. The Lord took me while I was following the flock and said, ‘Go prophesy unto my people Israel. Now therefore, hear the word of the Lord.”
What a distinction we have here. Amaziah was on a joyless job. Amos was on a joyful journey. Are we puppets or prophets? Puppets are parading as preachers always trying to define preaching, prophecy and it limits. By avoiding the main issues of the Apostolic and Prophetic reformation and denying the gifts of the Spirit, they hope to keep the masses captive by large gatherings and powerless performances. They are pup-pets. Ever look at the word Puppet? Pup a little canine with possibilities. Pet something to play with (not taken seriously). Puppets are handled by human hands prophets are not. Therefore, puppets have not place in pulpits. God is wrestling his people out the hands of puppets and putting them into the company of prophets. To Be Continued…
Prayer Father, I thank you that I am no man’s puppet. Make me your prophet. In Jesus Name, Amen.
Go Deeper? The Book of Amos; Acts 3:1-26; Acts 4; 1 Cor. 15:8; 2Cor. 1:1