Has anyone noticed that when Christians say "God wants (X)", they really mean "I want (X)?"
Particularly when it comes to political ambitions, obedience to a particular code of behavior, or judging other people? I have yet to hear a preacher talk about something that God supposedly wants that doesn't reflect their personal politics. I don't think it's God talking to them at all (though I'm sure they might think so). I think they are proclaiming their agendas as synonymous to Gods', and I think they are using their position of leadership for their own ends. That goes for everyone from the Pope to Falwell to Graham tp Popoff.
I've asked this question before, but it was very late at night and I got few answers. I'm trying again with a much busier board.
Anonymous2006-09-06T11:32:51Z
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Yep, you've got it in one. Once people align themselves with a (supposedly) infallible being, they assume that they themselves are now infallible; and since they are now "God's instrument" anything they want, they must want because the biblegod wants it as well!
Mr. T, formerly known as Shadow.2006-09-06T18:35:13Z
I think that many people use God to forward thier own ends. But I know some people who say that God wants such and such, and they want the exact opposite. Personal experience: I wanted to kick the living sh!t out of someone, even if (for the most part) I am a pacifist. I wanted to do this, but I know that violence is wrong. I listened to God, and regret that I could not hurt him like he deserved. But I am glad that I did the right thing. He is now suffering his own personal hell.
Unfortunately, some Christians can be misled by their emotions and believe they speak on God's behalf. I think there are also non-Christians who claim that they are Christians for the very purpose of deceiving others. This said, God does speak to His people. Words of prophesy are usually confirmed through several people and are always in line with God's Word.
Also, if by Graham you mean Billy Graham, I do consider him a modern-day apostle.
The small Church I belong to lets me read the Bible for myself and decide for myself what God wants. Of course if I have questions the Pastor or other members are usually willing to tell me what the Bible is saying to them.
You're right that many millionaire spirtual leaders lose track of God.
Well when it comes to the political arena, just remember God has no ambition for the highest elected spot in the land. God tells us exactly what He wants in His Holy Bible