Truth That Works: June 2012

Tuesday, June 19, 2012

Don't forget to register for the COOPERATING WITH HEAVEN INTERCESSORY PRAYER SEMINAR. It will be held June 29th-July 1st. Hope you can attend.

Friday, June 15, 2012

LIVING IN A VISUAL GENERATION

Acts 2:16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel; 17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams: 18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy: 19 And I will show wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke: 20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before that great and notable day of the Lord come: 21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved. (Joel 2:28-32) .

Surrounded by a nearly constant mush of visual stimuli, Christians face a real challenge in sorting through the jumbled fusion of worldly eye candies and spiritual eye sores. Moreover, the Church generation emerging out of the human development of technological advancements has acquired a consuming appetite to see and feel, above believe and trust. Consequently, there is often pressure upon ministries to use the most recent visual technology so that believers will "feel" entertained by the minister and the message. But do these man made visual treats produce lasting deep fruit and spiritual impact? That question is yet to be answered and seen.

I don't believe it is therefore merely coincidental that Peter's great Acts 2 sermon predicted that before the return of the Lord, signs and wonders would for the most part be visible, instead of audio. Even so, the Scriptures reveal that when sight and seeing became the basis for belief and decision, the results were almost always short lived. Seeing seldom produces lasting faith. On the other hand, perhaps one of the reasons God will go "visual" before the second coming is because the time element will be such that it will not be necessary for long term results. Consequently, these spiritual visual expressions must be understood so that we can differentiate between what is man made visual influence and what is sovereign, Divine visitation.

I have attended a variety of conferences and meetings over the course of the last 10 years and have listened to various spiritual leaders emphasize how God is now frequently visiting His people in visions. In those meetings, the pursuit of visitations, visions, trances and spiritual seeing were excessively and strongly endorsed while the foundations of the Bible seemed to be dismissed as non-essential. This has caused me great concern. I know God speaks in visions, dreams and other visual manifestations. However, the appetite for experience is dangerously pressing people to feel that if they see something in the Spirit, they don't need the Word. This unhealthy unbalanced drive will eventually end in serious error, spiritual confusion, emotional and mental problems. There needs to be great wisdom when approaching this matter.

I do not doubt that God will be manifesting Himself and His truth by the Spirit in the times to come. He's already doing that in amazing ways. However, the frequency I see exemplified in the Scriptures, is not nearly as often as what I hear being touted as what should, and, may be happening. In fact, the number of visions various individual ministers actually had in the Bible were rare, except in the case of those things related to the inward witness and revelations. So what should our posture be concerning this?

FIrst of all, just as a reminder, there are several different categories of vision/ visions identified in the Bible.

Review the list below.

1. There is the type of vision that God’s Spirit inspires in truth that produces a goal, a dream, a purpose, a hope and direction for life. People who lack such become lawless and aimless. They are like wandering, lost little children in adult bodies.

2. The second type of vision is a revelation.

3. The third type of vision frequently described in Scripture is something theologians have termed as a “theophany”. A theophany is a spiritual sight of God, His beauty, His plans displayed in spiritual patterns and templates, His power, His glory and things of Heaven.. This manner of vision might come in a variety of forms. Those expressions are as follows.

A. Open visions are visions, although rare, are generally associated with both the apostolic and prophetic ministry and callings.

B. Trances are another type of vision related to theophanies.

I believe it would be extremely helpful to us to understand what the Bible says about how these visions will occur. How is God going to do this?

One of the greatest misnomers of spiritual revelation, and especially seeing open visions and trances, is that we can make it happen. Ugh. Let me say this once loud and clear. You cannot make a vision occur, especially those identified as open visions, trances and spiritual revelations. However, there are conditions that may on occasion foster an environment where God may speak.

GOD GRANTS VISION BY THE SPIRIT IN THE FOLLOWING WAYS

GOD WILL OPEN THEIR EYES

2Kgs. 6:14 Therefore sent he thither horses, and chariots, and a great host: and they came by night, and compassed the city about. 15 And when the servant of the man of God was risen early, and gone forth, behold, an host compassed the city both with horses and chariots. And his servant said unto him, Alas, my master! how shall we do? 16 And he answered, Fear not: for they that be with us are more than they that be with them. 17 And Elisha prayed, and said, LORD, I pray thee, open his eyes, that he may see. And the LORD opened the eyes of the young man; and he saw: and, behold, the mountain was full of horses and chariots of fire round about Elisha. 18 And when they came down to him, Elisha prayed unto the LORD, and said, Smite this people, I pray thee, with blindness. And he smote them with blindness according to the word of Elisha.

Many years ago, as a child, I remember watching a late night summer Billy Graham meeting on our black and white television. His taught that God does not give His people fear and He wants them to believe in Him and not be afraid of anything. Dr. Graham shared that many times when we need to believe, we may be faced with great and visible adversaries that threaten our trust in God. He read an amazing account from 2 Kings 6:14-18. To this day those words are burned into my spirit. The events of that passage explain that the servant to the prophet Elisha was terrified because he could see the armies gathered, surrounding the city where they abode. He knew that these armies were sent to do the prophet harm. The man did not realize that God's armies were there as well protecting the prophet. Elisha simply said, "Don't be afraid. For they that are with us are more than they that be with them." This alone is an amazing statement. Elisha had prophetic eyes and knew there was no real danger. But his servant didn't have that same revelation. A marvelous, merciful act of God occurred as Elisha prayed for the distressed man and I love what happened because of of this prayer. "Lord, open his eyes!" Instantly, the servant saw the nearby mountains filled with Heaven's horses and chariots of fire! Imagine his shock and the relief! Yet, just a short while later, Elisha, who'd previously prayed for eyes to open, prayed that the enemy soldiers would be blinded and unable to find and harm him. Astounding!

John 20:29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed.

God wants you to KNOW that He is UNDENIABLY, INEXORABLY, ABSOLUTELY real! That kind of knowledge is born in lots of ways, mostly though, because of a healthy, dynamic intimate prayer life. Moreover, like the prophet's servant, this generation does not widely possess a revelation of the manifest present working of God's power. They need a radical introduction to the reality of the God of the Bible. That's why visual manifestations through the Spirit of truth are critical for this time. Truthfully, He would much rather that you believe the truth of His word, than pursue a visual event. In actuality, faith is much greater when it's a product of the revelation of the Scriptures. Nonetheless, He does not scorn the need for evidence, when it's truly required. It just takes a miraculous intervention for it to occur.

HE’S THE ONE WHO OPENS THE EYES OF THE HEART!

Prov. 20:12 The hearing ear, and the seeing eye, the LORD hath made even both of them.

A great deal could be written about this subject and I've addressed the matter in several previous posts. But we must accept this fact! He is the one who makes and gives the hearing ear and the seeing eye! The question is: How does He do it?

UNDERSTANDING HIS WAYS!

EYE OPENERS

Acts 26:17 Delivering thee from the people, and from the Gentiles, unto whom now I send thee, 18 To open their eyes, and to turn them from darkness to light, and from the power of Satan unto God, that they may receive forgiveness of sins, and inheritance among them which are sanctified by faith that is in me. KJV

KEYED IN WITH THE APOSTOLIC AND PROPHETIC MINISTRY
Paul the apostle, preacher and teacher was an amazing man. His gift and calling were unusual in that he was sent by God to open the eyes of the people! God may use individuals, anointed and capable of opening spiritual eyes. There are a variety of ways he was used to do so that cannot be replicated or imitated without the accompanying grace gifts from God. His preaching, teaching, lifestyle, ministry expression and miraculous works were not just testimonies of God's power. They were keys; keys that would unlock blind eyes to see truth!

Similarly, the prophet Elisha prayed a prophetic prayer and the eyes of his servant were opened in the passage we've already ready. (2 Kings 6:14-18)

THE POWER OF ENCOURAGEMENT

Isa. 35:1 The wilderness and the solitary place shall be glad for them; and the desert shall rejoice, and blossom as the rose. 2 It shall blossom abundantly, and rejoice even with joy and singing: the glory of Lebanon shall be given unto it, the excellency of Carmel and Sharon, they shall see the glory of the LORD, and the excellency of our God. 3 Strengthen ye the weak hands, and confirm the feeble knees. 4 Say to them that are of a fearful heart, Be strong, fear not: behold, your God will come with vengeance, even God with a recompense; he will come and save you. 5 Then the eyes of the blind shall be opened, and the ears of the deaf shall be unstopped. 6 Then shall the lame man leap as an hart, and the tongue of the dumb sing: for in the wilderness shall waters break out, and streams in the desert.

Fearful, discouraged people seldom see life clearly. But when God strengthens and encourages toward faith, and the promises of His word announce hope to the human spirit, the spiritual eyes are opened and vision may come. You have no idea how much difference you can make by being encouraging in the right way.

THE SOVEREIGN VISITATION OF THE SPIRIT

Ex 3:1 Now Moses kept the flock of Jethro his father in law, the priest of Midian: and he led the flock to the backside of the desert, and came to the mountain of God, even to Horeb. 2 And the angel of the LORD appeared unto him in a flame of fire out of the midst of a bush: and he looked, and, behold, the bush burned with fire, and the bush was not consumed 3 And Moses said, I will now turn aside, and see this great sight, why the bush is not burnt 4 And when the LORD saw that he turned aside to see, God called unto him out of the midst of the bush, and said, Moses, Moses. And he said, Here am I. 5 And he said, Draw not nigh hither: put off thy shoes from off thy feet, for the place whereon thou standest is holy ground.

6 Moreover he said, I am the God of thy father, the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob. And Moses hid his face; for he was afraid to look upon God.

KJV

Moses was out in the wilderness taking care of sheep, minding his own business when God showed up. Throughout the Bible that is simply how God did it. He gave vision in His time, way and uniqueness. The sovereign visitation and vision of the Lord, especially in the case of a theophany, generally occurs when you least expect it. It's not convenient and it's up to Him, not you. The question is: Will you turn to see what He is doing when He does it?

THE POWER OF TRUTH FROM THE SCRIPTURES

Obviously, the truth of the Scriptures can open the spiritual eyes so that vision may be seen. In fact, you could say that biblical truth is a spiritual trigger.

THE GIFTS OF THE SPIRIT- WORD OF KNOWLEDGE, WORD OF WISDOM, DISCERNMENT OF SPIRITS, AND PROPHECY

On occasion, various gifts of the Spirit enable an opening of the eyes so that the individual may receive a vision. The discernment of spirits, for example, includes the discernment, sight and perception of both spiritual realms. So we should not be surprised that visions may occur when these gifts manifest.

BEING IN THE SPIRIT (FULL OF THE SPIRIT)

Isa 6:1 In the year that king Uzziah died I saw also the Lord sitting upon a throne, high and lifted up, and his train filled the temple KJV

Ezek 1:1 Now it came to pass in the thirtieth year, in the fourth month, in the fifth day of the month, as I was among the captives by the river of Chebar, that the heavens were opened, and I saw visions of God. KJV

Acts 7: 55 But he, being full of the Holy Ghost, looked up stedfastly into heaven, and saw the glory of God, and Jesus standing on the right hand of God, KJV

Revelation 1:10 I was in the Spirit on the Lord's day, and heard behind me a great voice, as of a trumpet, KJV

The concepts of being in the Spirit and full of the Spirit are key to how God speaks in vision. The Apostle John, while on the Isle of Patmos, saw the vision of Revelation because he was in the Spirit. Being in the Spirit, or full of the Spirit, should not be compared to a feeling or an emotional hype. It is the state of cooperating with the truths of God, the submission of one's feelings and thoughts to God's word, and a love for God that overlooks any circumstance and condition. The Isle of Patmos is virtually nothing more than a rugged remote pile of volcanic rock. There were no natural reasons for John to be in the Spirit. He had, however, learned how to live above his circumstances and conditions. This was an amazing man. The Roman emperor, Domitian sentenced John to be boiled in oil in the site of a massive crowd in the Colosseum. Miraculously he was not harmed, and did not suffer from the unusual tortuous punishment. Tradition states that the entire audience converted to Christianity after witnessing the miracle! So the dismal environment of Patmos was insignificant to him. He was in the Spirit and saw the Revelation.

PAIN CAN BE A TRIGGER

The young deacon, evangelist, Stephen saw a vision of heaven while being stoned to death for his faith. Throughout history accounts are described where people facing painful situations saw a vision of the Lord, Heaven or spiritual things in the midst of their pain.

PRAYER AND NATURAL HUNGER COMBINED CAN BE A REASON A VISION OCCURS

Peter the evangelist apostle was hungry. He also had a significant issue. He didn't think that the Gentiles could be saved without adhering to the Jewish standards for faith. So, while waiting to eat one day, he was praying up on the roof of the house, when in a moment he wasn't suspecting, he fell into a trance and saw a vision. Now, I'm not referring to the New age, occultic kind of trance. The Bible refers to trances on a variety of occasions, generally in reference to the prophetic ministry. Furthermore, a trance involved being more aware of the spiritual realm than the physical, as the physical senses are essentially suspended. This is what happened to Peter. But there may be a third factor involved in why he saw. Cornelius, the Roman soldier had prayed to God. Visions may occur in your life not because of anything you have done, but simply because someone else is praying and God wants you included in the drama. Don't ever underestimate the prayers of others.

WHEN????

At this point I think it bears mention that visions generally occur when you least expect them. People who purposely try to set the stage for a heavenly visitation by being in "sacred place", or being with the right people, or something else, miss it entirely. God makes Himself known on His terms and in His timing. We don't tend to think this way. So stop trying to force His hand.

WE MUST ASK AN IMPORTANT QUESTION. WHO DOES GOD DO THIS FOR? WHOSE EYES DOES HE OPEN TO SEE?

Number one. He does not open the eyes of those who seek for signs! He opens the eyes of those who simply want Him involved in every aspect of life! We'll delve into this more in the next article.

Number two. He opens the eyes of those who want and need God to prove his reality to them. Thomas needed proof, as does this current generation. God's going to grant that as the times for the Second coming get closer.

Number three. He opens the eyes of those who have quit trying to see in their own strength and run away imaginations. He looks for people who want to simply believe and don't feel they need a vision to accomplish that. Your eyes will generally not be opened until all you want is Jesus. Chasing after visions only produces run away imaginations and eventual disappointment. If your faith is dependent on a vision, then your faith is bound to be shallow and temporary. Let go and let him be God.

THE GENERATION WHO HAS PUT GOD ON TRIAL

John 20:19 Then the same day at evening, being the first day of the week, when the doors were shut where the disciples were assembled for fear of the Jews, came Jesus and stood in the midst, and saith unto them, Peace be unto you; 20 And when he had so said, he showed unto them his hands and his side. Then were the disciples glad, when they saw the Lord. 21 Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. :22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and saith unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost: 23 Whose soever sins ye remit, they are remitted unto them; and whose soever sins ye retain, they are retained. 24 But Thomas, one of the twelve, called Didymus, was not with them when Jesus came. 25 The other disciples therefore said unto him, We have seen the Lord. But he said unto them, Except I shall see in his hands the print of the nails, and put my finger into the print of the nails, and thrust my hand into his side, I will not believe. 26 And after eight days again his disciples were within, and Thomas with them: then came Jesus, the doors being shut, and stood in the midst, and said, Peace be unto you. 27 Then saith he to Thomas, Reach hither thy finger, and behold my hands; and reach hither thy hand, and thrust it into my side: and be not faithless, but believing. 28 And Thomas answered and said unto him, My Lord and my God. 29 Jesus saith unto him, Thomas, because thou hast seen me, thou hast believed: blessed are they that have not seen, and yet have believed. 30 And many other signs truly did Jesus in the presence of his disciples, which are not written in this book:31 But these are written, that ye might believe that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of God; and that believing ye might have life through his name.

Has this generation put God on trial? Is it demanding that He prove Himself without believing His word? Is this generation arrogant, thinking it can command God to do what it wants? Very possibly, YES!

In many ways, our current generation of Church, and the world, have become like doubting Thomas. Without a sign, and seeing what it thinks it needs, it won't believe. Even so, Jesus met Thomas where he was at. Furthermore, if God did it once, He will possibly do it again.

The next article in this series on the Spirit speaking truth through vision will consider and address the generation like Thomas and the dangers it will face. But until then, endeavor to walk and be in the Spirit. Make yourself available to Him to do what He desires when He wants to do so. Who knows what you will see when you wait upon Him?

Friday, June 8, 2012

BE THOU MY VISION- The Spirit speaks truth through Vision

Before humanity received God’s written Word, He communicated His truth to people who had a heart after him using a wide range of expressions. We’ve been taking a look at as many of those, as reasonably possible, attempting to make sense out of some very complicated, and sometimes, controversial manifestations. The Holy Spirit conveys truth to the believer in many different ways. Therefore, I want to continue to investigate how the Spirit speaks truth in this article through the vehicle of vision.

Biblically, the subject of vision is complex, and in order to remain accurate, as well as practical, I want to take some quality time and explain, to the best of my ability at this time, this wonderful, but often difficult means of spiritual expression. Let’s begin!

Many Christian leaders have been setting forth the idea that we are in the time, or very near the time, prior to the second coming of Christ, and what the Bible refers to as the Last Days or the end of all things. (1 Peter 4:7) I would love to believe that the Lord’s return is soon upon us, but I reserve my opinion as to where are at in that time line for numerous reasons which for now must remain unshared for the sake of space, context and time. Nonetheless, we are closer today than we were one hundred years ago. And, if we are nearing that epoch, there are some crucial things we need to understand concerning how the Spirit will speak Kingdom truths before we see Jesus face to face.

Quoting from the prophet Joel, Peter’s Pentecostal sermon revealed that in the Last Days the Spirit will cause various spiritual manifestations to occur in the people of God. They will prophesy and see great wonders in the sky and earth, but most notably, they will experience visual encounters and expressions of the Spirit of Truth over and above the frequency of verbal spiritual expression. Notice this. They will see visions and dream dreams, which in truth is just another expression of a vision, with the exception that it occurs when one is asleep. Furthermore, the percentage of visual experiences radically outnumbers the audio encounter and expression. This should not be ignored.

1 Kings 18:21 And Elijah came unto all the people, and said, How long halt ye between two opinions? if the LORD be God, follow him: but if Baal, then follow him. And the people answered him not a word.22 Then said Elijah unto the people, I, even I only, remain a prophet of the LORD; but Baal's prophets are four hundred and fifty men. 23 Let them therefore give us two bullocks; and let them choose one bullock for themselves, and cut it in pieces, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: and I will dress the other bullock, and lay it on wood, and put no fire under: 24 And call ye on the name of your gods, and I will call on the name of the LORD: and the God that answereth by fire, let him be God. And all the people answered and said, It is well spoken. KJV

1 Kings 18:37 Hear me, O LORD, hear me, that this people may know that thou art the LORD God, and that thou hast turned their heart back again. 38 Then the fire of the LORD fell, and consumed the burnt sacrifice, and the wood, and the stones, and the dust, and licked up the water that was in the trench. 39 And when all the people saw it, they fell on their faces: and they said, The LORD, he is the God; the LORD, he is the God. KJV

I have often wondered, and believe that the evidence pertaining to our time and generation may require more visual proof and communications from God than previously essential. The reasons for this could be many. Much of the world, linked by computers and Internet, is becoming increasingly visually driven and stimulated. It is also no coincidence that the condition of the human conscience in the general population, from what I’ve observed, has become so indecisive and passive, that it will take a visual proof of God’s power to rock their world. Remember the account of Elijah and the fire that fell to consume the water-soaked sacrifice on Mount Carmel? The people were initially indecisive concerning who they would follow: Baal or The LORD God. Their conviction of conscience was passive and the people refused to commit to God without proof of His greatness. Hence, after praying, Elijah called out to the Lord and fire fell from the sky displaying visible, undeniable proof of God’s sovereignty! As a result the people, influenced by a visual exhibition, chose to follow God, albeit temporarily. I’m convinced we live in a similar time and the doubting Thomas generations will need to see visible confirmation of God as God! Regrettably, in an attempt to facilitate this visual appetite Church leaders could come to the conclusion that if they use visual stimuli and media resources, those things will suffice. But, No! The things Peter preached of are not of human origin. Before Jesus returns the spiritual knob for visual manifestations will be cranked up to high levels so people can see. Regrettably, this increase of vision will occur in both spiritual kingdoms: God and Satan. Therefore, we desperately need to be instructed in what it means to receive truth from God, by His Spirit, through vision, a vision and visions.

The subject of vision is multi-faceted and because of the wide range of definitions for the word, needs clarification so we can understand what Peter was referring to.

THEY SHALL SEE VISIONS

DEFINING VISION, VISIONS AND A VISION ACCORDING TO DICTIONARY AND THESAURUS

Various dictionaries reveal that the English word “vision” originated in the 14^th century and could be defined several different ways.

Number One, it can mean to be something seen in a dream, trance, or ecstasy, especially: a supernatural appearance that conveys a revelation. It could be a thought, concept, or object formed by the imagination, as a a manifestation to the senses of something immaterial.

Number Two, vision can also mean the mode of seeing or conceiving.

Thirdly, vision may be defined as an unusual discernment or foresight, such as a referring to a person of vision. This would include a direct mystical awareness of the supernatural usually in visible form.

Fourth, vision is the act or power of seeing, as in sight pertaining to the special sense by which the qualities of an object (as color, luminosity, shape, and size) constituting its appearance are perceived through a process in which light rays entering the eye are transformed by the retina into electrical signals that are transmitted to the brain via the optic nerve

The word and concept of vision is also synonymous to revelation, apocalypse, oracle, prophecy, apparition, phenomenon, presence, daydream, dream, fantasy, imagine, realize and visualize.

Biblically, there are 10 Hebrew and 10 Greek words that can be translated as the word vision, with quite a wide assortment of definitions and components. In order to simplify these words and their definitions and to provide you a somewhat more practical approach to the matter, I have condensed and merged the various definitions of these 20 words in the following description.

A VISION, VISION OR VISIONS, ACCORDING TO THE BIBLICAL LANGUAGES COULD BE DEFINED AS FOLLOWS. ( Please take a look at the chart on Vision)

1.The act or power of seeing, as in sight, where one is gazing, looking, beholding, staring at an appearance of something whereby one may see with the intelligence, by experience & or with the human spirit, in which one may observe, inspect & dissect what is seen with wisdom and understanding. Persons involved in such, regard, take heed to, consider, and learn about what is seen, in order to form a thought, concept, or object formed by the imagination. It may include the act or power of positive and negative imagination.

2. Vision may also be defined as to perceive or a perception with an unusual discernment, perception or foresight of something spiritual or character attributes of man. Prophesy, to prophesy are directly related to the definition.

3. Vision may also be something seen in a dream, trance, or ecstasy; especially a supernatural appearance that conveys a revelation. It may be a direct mystical awareness of the supernatural usually in visible form and a manifestation to the senses of something immaterial

4. Vision may also be a goal, purpose, hope or desire, hence a vision of the way to go or do i.e., an expectation!

So then, how do these things apply to our subject in learning how the Holy Spirit of Truth speaks through visions?

In order to keep this as simple as possible, at first, let me give you a very condensed list of types of vision, that pertain to our subject biblically.

Prov 29:18 Where there is no vision, the people are unrestrained, But happy is he who keeps the law. NAS

This type of vision, or purpose, may also involve a calling, and since it’s fulfillment is conditional on many factors, it’s fulfillment is generally quite flexible and fluid. That however is not the case for all types of vision, depending of course on how the vision comes and how the Spirit communicates it. Visions of this sort are also often born out of a burden, concern, crisis or bothersome need.

1 Corinthians 14:6 Now, brethren, if I come unto you speaking with tongues, what shall I profit you, except I shall speak to you either by revelation, or by knowledge, or by prophesying, or by doctrine? KJV

1 Corinthians 14:26 How is it then, brethren? when ye come together, everyone of you hath a psalm, hath a doctrine, hath a tongue, hath a revelation, hath an interpretation. Let all things be done unto edifying. KJV

1 Peter 4:8 And above all things have fervent charity among yourselves: for charity shall cover the multitude of sins. KJV

2. The second type of vision is a revelation. The concept of a “revelatory” vision is derived from the Greek word, apokalupsis, or apokalupseoos, that is defined as an uncovering. It is a manifestation of the Spirit to lay bare and disclose a truth concerning divine things before unknown. This uncovering, however, is not malicious or suspicious in nature. It unveils something hidden for the benefit of those receiving it without dishonoring someone in a derogatory manner. It works hand in hand with love and may also inspire intercession and compassion, rather than cruelty, self-righteousness and condemnation. Love covers a multitude of sins.

This form of vision, or revelation, may or may not involve seeing something in the Spirit, and if the person receiving this revelation does see something, that image or picture could be compared to a slide show or flashed image in the inner man. It generally happens quickly, in a matter of a split second and can be challenging to test and sometimes is easily dismissed as an imagination. These visions or revelations may also include a sense of perception accompanied by an inward witness or knowing. This type of vision is, and should be common, in the walk of the spiritually minded believer, but, even so, should always be weighed and discerned against Scripture, God’s character, wisdom and of course the fruit of the Spirit. Its accuracy, however, will be greatly affected by the condition of the conscience and the character of the believer.

1 Samuel 3:1 And the child Samuel ministered unto the LORD before Eli. And the word of the LORD was precious in those days; there was no open vision.KJV

Open visions are visions, although rare, are generally associated with both the apostolic and prophetic ministry and callings. This manner of the Holy Spirit’s communication enables the human being to operate in several realms at the same time. The person seeing such a vision will cognizant of both his or her natural and spiritual surroundings and is allowed to see the things of the unseen spiritual realm, such as seeing Jesus as real as the rest of the surroundings. These visions are rare, but still relevant. It is highly probable these will increase as the need for greater revelation and comfort is necessary for the types of times Jesus predicted would occur before His second coming. This type of vision cannot be manufactured or forced to happen, and anyone who dares to do so is in extreme danger. In fact, this type of vision frequently occurred in the Bible at a time the visionary least expected.

Numbers 24:4 He hath said, which heard the words of God, which saw the vision of the Almighty, falling into a trance, but having his eyes open: KJV

Acts 10:10 And he became very hungry, and would have eaten: but while they made ready, he fell into a trance, KJV

Acts 11:5 I was in the city of Joppa praying: and in a trance I saw a vision, A certain vessel descend, as it had been a great sheet, let down from heaven by four corners; and it came even to me: KJV

Acts 22:17 And it came to pass, that, when I was come again to Jerusalem, even while I prayed in the temple, I was in a trance; KJV

Trances are another type of vision related to theophanies. I use the word trance cautiously fully aware that the word has gotten a bad rap because the New Age movement uses it in their vocabulary. Nonetheless, it is a biblical word and one of significant importance. A trance is a manifestation of a vision when the person’s physical senses are suspended and he or she is more aware of the spiritual unseen realm than the natural. In fact, when a person falls into a trance, she or he may be oblivious to what’s going on around them. There are numerous examples of godly trances in the Scriptures. Peter the apostle fell into a trance while on the rooftop of the house. He was not expecting it, but the Spirit of God came upon him to reveal a truth of heaven for the purpose of jolting Peter into how God loves humanity.

4. Finally there are numerous references and examples of false and ungodly vision warned of in the Bible. They are identified as vain visions, lying divinations, visions of their own heart, false visions of peace and seeing things in their own spirit. The false prophets identified in the Scriptures demonstrated many of these false visions. However, people with good intentions and wanting to comfort others, yet void of a Word from the Lord, or divine encounter, may see something in their imagination and call it a vision from God. These things must all be considered and tested with great wisdom.

I have included a list of types of vision and vision for you to consider on your own in depth, along with the Bible references for your personal study. Hopefully this will be of help to you. In my next article I will address how the Spirit actually works to manifest the godly visions that instruct us and guide us into truth. Until then, check out what the Bible has to say for each of these categories.

TYPES AND CATEGORIES OF VISION AND VISIONS

A. OLD TESTAMENT-

1. Specifically related to godly visions about, from and of God-

a. Trance- Num 24:4,16

b. Spiritual sight of God-

i. Theophany- Gen. 15:1; 17:1; 18:1,2; 26:2,24; 32:30; 35:1,9; 48:3; Ex. 3:2,16; 4:1, 5; 6:3; 24:11; 33:20, 23; Lev. 9:4. 5:24; 16:2; Numb.9:15; 12:6, 8; 14:10,14; 1 Sam. 3:21; 13:15; Ps. 89:19; Isa. 6:1, 5; Ezek. 1:1, 4, 13-15, 27-28; 8:2,3; 40:2; 43:3; Amos 7:1,4,7; 8:1; 9:1; Dan. 10:7, 16; Joel 2:28; Zech. 9:14; Mal. 3:2; 1:2;

ii. Beauty of the Lord- Ps. 27:4

iii. Power and glory- Ex. 16:7, 10; Numb 14:10,14,22; 16:19,42; 20:6; Deut. 5:24; 31:15; Ps. 63:2; 97:6; 102:16; Isa. 26:10; 40:5; 60:2; 66:18-19; Eze. 3:23; 44:4-5;

c. Spiritual patterns- Ex. 25:9,40; 26:30; 27:8; Num. 8:4;

d. Spiritual sight and revelation- a vision- Gen. 12:7; 16:13; 22:4,8,13,14; 26:28; 31:10,12; 32:2, 30; 41:19, 22,28; Ex. 3:3; 24:17; 14:13, 31; 33:10, 18, Num. 12:6; 22:23,25,31,33; 23:3; 24:1-2, 17,20; Deut. 1:33; 4:9, 12, 15,35; 7:19; 10:21; 18:16; 29:2,4; Josh 5:13; 6:12,22; 13:3,10, 19; Judg 13:6; 1 Sam. 3:15; 2 Sam. 7:17; 1 Chron. 17:15; 2 Chron 32:32; Job 4:16; 7:14; Pro. 22:3; Isa. 1:1; 13:1; 22:5; 29:11; 48:6; 52:8; Jer. 1:10-13; 13:20; 24:1-3; 30:6; Ezek. 1:1, 4, 13-15, 27-28; 2:9; 12:27; 19:5, 11,16-28; 8:2,4, 9, 12, 15, 17; 10:1,8, 9, 15, 20, 22, 22; 11:1, 24; 12:240:3; 40:4; 41:8, 21; 42:11; 43:3; 47:6; Amos 1:1; Micah 1:1; Dan. 8:1-4, 6-7, 13, 15, 20, 26; 9:21, 23, 24; 10:1, 5, 6, 7-8, 14, 16,18; 11:14; Joel 2:4, 28; Nahum 1:1; 2:4; Hos. 12:11; Obad. 1:1; Joel 2:28; Zech. 1:8,18, 20; 2:1; 3:1,4; 4:10; 5:1,5; 6:1,8; Hab. 2:1-3;

i. Saw the Word of the Lord- Isa. 2:1; Jer. 38:21; 2:31;

ii. Err in- Isa. 28:7

e. Burden-Isa. 13:1; Hab 1:1; Isa. 22:1

f. Open vision- 1 Sam 3:1

g. Night vision- Dan. 2:19; 4:5; 7:7,15

i. Visions by night- Dan. 7:2

ii. Visions of the night- Gen. 46:2

h. Grievous- Isa. 21:2l

i. Discernment- Malachi 3:18

j. Perceive—Jer. 23:18

k. Revelations-

i. In God’s appearance- Gen. 35:7

ii. Of spiritual things and persons- Num. 22:31

l. Visions of the head- Dan. 2:28; 4:9,13; 7:1,15

m. Visions of my dream- Dan. 4:9

2. SPECIFICALLY RELATED TO UNGODLY VISIONS NOT FROM GOD-

a. Vain vision- Jer. 23:16; Lam. 2:14; Eze. 13:6-8,23; 12:23-27; 21:29;

b. Lying divination

c. Err in- Isa. 28:7

d. False vision- Jer. 14:14, (Zech. 13:4 ?)

e. Vision of their own heart- Jer. 23:16

f. Deceits- Isa. 30:10

g. Failing vision- Eze. 12:22

h. Visions of peace- Eze. 13:1

3. VISIONS RELATED TO OBSERVATION AND CONSIDERING NATURAL AND SPIRITUAL CONNECTIONS

a. Observation of man’s life and actions- Ps. 142:4; Pro. 7:7; 22:29; 24:32; 29:16

b. Mirrors- Ex. 38:8

c. Seeing of natural things linked to spiritual things- Gen 3:6; 9:14; 13:10,14; 21:9; 31:2,5; 40:6, 16; 45:27; Ex. 2:11-12; 16:15; Deut. 28:34, 67; 34:1,4; Num. 24:20; 27:12; 1 Sam. 16:7; Pro. 6:6; 27:12; Isa. 11:3;Eze.. 37:8; Dan. 1:10,13,15; Hag.2:3; Hab. 3:7

i. Ungodly- Eze. 21:21

4. WHERE THERE IS NO VISION- Pro. 29:18; Ecc.1:8; Lam. 2:9; Micah 3:6

a. Seen nothing, following their own spirit- Eze. 13:3

b. Unable to see- Eze. 12:2

c. Observe not- Isa. 42:20

5. GENERAL AND UNSPECIFIED TYPES OF VISIONS- Pro. 20:12 22:3 24:32; 26:12; 27:12; Eze. 7:26; Dan. 1:17; Joel 2:28; Zech. 13:4

6. Natural seeing or sight

B. NEW TESTAMENT-

1. SPECIFICALLY RELATED TO GODLY VISIONS ABOUT, FROM, AND OF GOD-

a. Open- Matt. 17:3, 9; Acts 7:31; 12:9; Luke 9:36

b. Vision of God-

i. Theophany- Matt. 5:8; 24:30, 26:64; 28:7; Mark 13:26; 14:62; 16:7; John 16:16-22; 19:37; John 1:18; 5:37; 6:46; 8:38; 14:7,9; 15:24; 20:18, 20; 1 Cor. 9:1; 15:5-7; Acts 1:3; 9:10, 17; 13:31; 18:9; 26:19; 2 Cor. 12:1; Heb. 11:27; 1 Pet. 1:8; Heb. 9:28; 12:14; 1 John 3:2; Rev. 1:7; 22:4

ii. In glory- Luke 9:31; John 11:40; Acts 7:2

c. Spiritual sight and revelation- a vision- Mark 9:4;Luke 1:11,22; 9:36; 16:23; 21:27; 24:34, 23; John 8:57; 9:37; 14:7; John 1:51; Acts 2:3; 9:12; 10:3; Acts 16:9; 26:16; Rev. 11:19; 12:1-3; 9:17

d. Trance- Mark 5:42; 16:8; Luke 5:26; Acts 10:10, 17,19; 11:5; 22:17

e. Vision with a pattern- Acts 7:44

f. Revelations- Rom 2:5; 16:25; 1 Cor 14:6, 26; 2 Cor 12:1, 7; Gal 1:12; 2:2; Eph 1:17; 3:3; 1 Peter 1:13; Rev 1:1

g. General vision- Acts 12:9; 16:9-10; 22:15; 1 John 1:1-3; 3:6; Acts 2:17;

2. VISIONS RELATED TO OBSERVATION AND CONSIDERING NATURAL AND SPIRITUAL CONNECTIONS

a. Seeing of natural things linked to spiritual things- Luke 13:49; Acts 7:30-31, 35

b. Perceive- Human condition of spirit- Acts 8:23

c. Take heed- Matt. 16:6; 18:10; Mark 8:15; Luke 12:15

3. Not seen- Col. 2:18; 1 John 4:20; 3 John 1:11