Do Prophetic Dreams Still Happen?

For the video version of this article go here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Un9hp6_FsEM

Yesterday I made a video that touches in the realm of prophetic dreams and the varied response brought to my attention how there is a large ignorance gap in the church as it relates to the function, nature, and approach we should be taking when seeking to interpret dreams that appear to come from the Lord. Firstly, if you are a Cessationist (believing most spiritual gifts have ceased) then you have started from a place that fully excludes the possibility of God speaking through dreams in modern times because you ultimately believe it may undermine the authority of scripture. I can understand this reservation. However, scripture is meant to guide us in the process of hearing from God not prohibit the process entirely.

If you are a Continuationist (believing all spiritual gifts still operate) like myself then the challenge becomes two-fold. 1.) How do I initially discern the difference between a carnal dream, a demonic dream, or a dream from the Lord. 2.) If I have determined the dream is from the Lord, how do I interpret it properly?

As it relates to the first challenge of discerning the difference between a carnal dream, demonic dream or prophetic dream I have a few tips. I say these things from the place of someone who has had prophetic dreams, discerned the interpretation, and observed the dream coming true. I would first point out that carnal dreams are often hard to remember afterward, have no linear progression to them, appear to be full of random attributes with no significant relevance. When you have a carnal dream you often wake up without any real compulsion to remember or reflect on the dream.

Demonic dreams are obvious. The are much more memorable than carnal dreams and invoke terror, fear, and paralysis. They often include events which would cause you to be hopeless, feel enslaved, and full of despair. I have found them to include the distinct attribute of wondering "where is God as I suffer through this?" My response to demonic dreams is to ignore and not share. This works to diminish the work of the enemy and deprive him of receiving any attention as a result.

Prophetic dreams are distinct. We understand from scripture that they include lots of memorable and vibrant imagery which contain symbolic meaning for current or more often future events. There are also some components of the dream that are not meant to be taken symbolically so this is where we must pray for discernment from the Holy spirit. They are meant to help you prepare from what is coming and to know that God is not surprised by it. Sometimes they also include hints on actions you can take to draw close to God in the present. Prophetic dreams will also repeat sometimes so keep that in mind. The feeling you get in a dream that is from the Lord is exhortation, edification, and comfort. It may reveal things of great concern but will also direct you to God as the ultimate solution.

This is only a cursory review of the topic of prophetic dreams but I hope it helps those who have been confused by this topic in the past. The Bible instructs us to eagerly desire spiritual gifts and one way that the gift of prophecy can manifest is through a dream. If you receive a dream that you think may be from the Lord make sure you bathe it in prayer, write it down, and ask for the interpretation. God also may have people in your life who can help you discern it's meaning. If you did not see the video I posted yesterday in this realm you can view it here: https://youtu.be/tnOtgiRw938

Written by: Kyle Bailey, D.Min.

phot credit: https://www.livescience.com/62703-why-we-forget-dreams-quickly.html

Israel, Gaza, and the Church- How should we respond?

Daniel 12:1- "At that time shall arise Michael, the great prince who has charge of your people. And there shall be a time of trouble, such as never has been since there was a nation till that time. But at that time your people shall be delivered, everyone whose name shall be found written in the book." The only Nation in the Bible that has an Archangel from Heaven appointed for its protection is the Nation of Israel. This reality reminds us of the extent to which God has gone in order to ensure that His covenant promises to the Jewish people are fulfilled, and also that the conflicts we are seeing in the earthly realm originate in the spiritual realm. God’s unwavering commitment to preserve the Jewish people is not based upon their “deeds of righteousness” but rather upon His covenant promises given to their forefathers Abraham, Isaac and Jacob. Therefore, we must understand that there is a war in the spiritual realm against the covenant promises of God that is manifesting in

The Storm on Your Phone: learning to fix our eyes on Jesus in the age of social media.

Matthew‬ ‭14:25‭-‬31‬ ‭NIV‬- “[25] Shortly before dawn Jesus went out to them, walking on the lake. [26] When the disciples saw him walking on the lake, they were terrified. “It’s a ghost,” they said, and cried out in fear. [27] But Jesus immediately said to them: “Take courage! It is I. Don’t be afraid.” [28] “Lord, if it’s you,” Peter replied, “tell me to come to you on the water.” [29] “Come,” he said. Then Peter got down out of the boat, walked on the water and came toward Jesus. [30] But when he saw the wind, he was afraid and, beginning to sink, cried out, “Lord, save me!” [31] Immediately Jesus reached out his hand and caught him. “You of little faith,” he said, “why did you doubt?” During one of the most climactic moments of Jesus' ministry, the Apostle Peter demonstrated a dazzling expression of faith and power. Moments after stepping on to the water, his courageous efforts fizzled in defeat. He found himself in a dangerous duel with the depths of the sea. What was it tha

A Review of: "Calvinism, Arminianism & The Word of God: A Calvary Chapel Perspective" By: Chuck Smith

Recently a Pastor friend of mine shared with me an article written by the founder of the Calvary Chapel Denomination Chuck Smith. It was written with the intention of addressing the Calvinism vs. Arminianism issue for all of the Calvary Chapel Churches. To see the article CLICK HERE . First of all I like the format of the paper in which he clearly set out to address both views and then clarify the Calvary Chapel stance. A couple of things that I noticed I want to point out below: Overall he did a fair job conveying the Arminian view, however I am not sure why he seemed to be confused on a couple of things he said. Over the year Arminius’ beliefs have been misrepresented and demonized by Calvinists so I can see why he made a few false assumptions regarding their beliefs. 1. He stated, “Arminius believed that the fall of man was not total, maintaining that there was enough good left in man for him to will to accept Jesus Christ unto salvation.” This is actually a descript

BiblicalQuestions.net

Search This Blog