A Full Spectrum Church

When Jesus said, “Truly I tell you, anyone who gives you a cup of water in my name because you belong to the Messiah will certainly not lose their reward.” With that statement, Jesus was telling His disciples there were more people doing the will of the Father in that moment than just their small band of disciples. In our context it is a reminder for those who see the ministry of the Church as only signs, wonders and miracles to believe for something more. 

Jesus also said, “And these signs will accompany those who believe: In my name they will drive out demons; they will speak in new tongues; they will pick up snakes with their hands; and when they drink deadly poison, it will not hurt them at all; they will place their hands on sick people, and they will get well.”  In this second statement Jesus was telling those present and those of us in the future, to believe for an ongoing, miraculous work of the Spirit and not settle for a ministry of only good works.

The key wording in both of these sections of scripture is - “in my name”. With these two statements Jesus illustrated the full spectrum of supernatural ministry in the Church.  We have a tendency to gravitate to either side of this spectrum thinking those in our particular camp are the only ones doing the will of the Father. Those uncomfortable with the messiness of miracles and supernatural manifestations will attempt to build a ministry around cups of water. Those who think a cup of water ministry is a sell-out will get so involved in contending for miracles that they ignore the instruction of the Lord to see a miracle in a cup of water.

As you prepare to enter 2016 ask the Lord to transform you into a full spectrum believer.  Approach the brokenness of culture with a cup of water in one hand and a bottle of healing oil in the other.  Listen for His voice to tell you which one is His will in the moment. You will be amazed what a cup of water or a drop of oil can do in His name when empowered by His Spirit.