Heralds Digest

  “ Now while Paul waited for them at Athens, his spirit was provoked within him when he saw that the city was given over to idols.” Acts 17 : 16 NKJV The primary purpose of worldliness is the breeding of settled spirits; but those who must pursue godliness are rather stirred up than get settled down. Either by getting provoked by the Holy Spirit or by getting persecuted by the evil spirit through envy, the penalty for godliness is well laid out. For example, apostle Paul had just narrowly escaped persecution from unbelievers in Berea; but he immediately got arrested by the Holy Spirit on arrival in Athens. It implies that godliness is only possible by the indwelling Holy Spirit in the life, ministry and affairs of true believers, with evident manifestations including (1) conviction against worldliness; (2) confession of waywardness; (3) conversion into watchfulness; (4) consecration for winsomeness; and (5) conservation against wastefulness. When a soul is consistently stirred...

  “ This girl followed Paul and us, and cried out, saying, “These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation.” And this she did for many days. But Paul, greatly annoyed, turned and said to the spirit, “I command you in the name of Jesus Christ to come out of her.” And he came out that very hour. ”  Acts 16 : 17 - 18 NKJV Without the help of the Holy Spirit like with Paul, no one can escape the unrighteous followership of the girl with the spirit of divination. Unfortunately, our religious houses and assemblies are filled with unrighteous followership of “ These men are the servants of the Most High God, who proclaim to us the way of salvation ”-plated prophets, praise-worshipers, pastors and prayer warriors. Obviously, the minds of people who are moved by emotions and appealed by recommendations or rewards are easily manipulated by deceits and unrighteousness. But Paul, greatly annoyed by the unrighteous followership rebuked the evil ...