"From that time Jesus began to show his disciples that he must go to Jerusalem and suffer many things from the elders and chief priests and scribes, and be killed, and on the third day be raised. And Peter took him aside and began to rebuke him, saying, 'Far be it from you, Lord! This shall never happen to you.' But he turned and said to Peter, 'Get behind me, Satan! You are a hindrance to me. For you are not setting your mind on the things of God, but on the things of man." (Matthew 16:21-23)
"He came to Simon Peter, who said to him, 'Lord, do you wash my feet?' Jesus answered him, 'What I am doing you do not understand now, but afterward you will understand.' Peter said to him, 'You shall never wash my feet.' Jesus answered him, 'If I do not wash you, you have no share with me.'" (John 13:6-8)
These two scriptures are great examples of how man can be ignorant of God's purpose beyond the apparent circumstances. Focusing intently only on the spoken word of God without discerning its spiritual meaning is Satan's greatest weapon, and the foundation of many churches' religion. Intense Bible study without intimacy with Christ through the Holy Spirit is faithless religion, resulting only in Biblical knowledge. There are a multitude of Christian leaders and pastors without spiritual discernment. The greatest efforts of these churches are to create and maintain a continuous busy schedule whereby the congregations are kept physically engaged and mentally entertained. Let it be known, this also is by God's sovereign control, the purpose of it belonging to His elect, including those He has yet to awaken from their slumber.
PJR
"Trust in the Lord with all your heart,
and do not lean on your own understanding.
In all your ways acknowledge him,
and he will make straight your paths.
Be not wise in your own eyes;
fear the Lord, and turn away from evil.
It will be healing to your flesh
and refreshment to your bones."
(Proverbs 3:5-8)
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