Question:
42.1—Being “slain in the Spirit” is becoming a more and more common/popular thing. We discussed this a little bit at camp and I came back confident it was wrong. Then I talked to a friend of mine who believes it’s right. She used the verse in Revelation that says that God would rather that we be hot than lukewarm. Can we discuss this? Is it right? It seems weird, uncomfortable in my soul.
Answer:
42.1–What spirit would invite people to come see its own supernatural manifestation today? We know from Ephesians 1:13 that the moment we believe on Christ, we are SEALED with the Holy Spirit. The experience some claim to have today (including tongues, healing, etc.) has all the symptoms of “another spirit” whom we have not preached. Those who look for manifestations of the Spirit as in evidence of His existence are usually easily fooled into thinking that this is the Holy Spirit sent from God. I believe it is not the true Holy Spirit that would lead people to be “slain.” For the work of the Spirit is to glorify Christ, not to exalt Himself. “Howbeit when He, the Spirit of truth, is come, He will guide you into all truth: for He shall not speak of Himself; but whatsoever He shall hear, that shall He speak: and He will show you things to come. He shall glorify Me: for He shall receive of Mine, and shall show it unto you” (John 16:13,14).
Where is the glory focused toward and how is the truth manifest in people getting knocked unconscious when the preacher punches them in the forehead? What does it mean to be “slain in the Spirit?” Is this scriptural? I have had trouble finding reference to it. I find no Scripture for this activity. Where in Scripture does this ever occur? YET CHRISTIANS ARE PRACTICING SOMETHING NOT TAUGHT IN SCRIPTURE.
“Truly the signs of an apostle were wrought among you in all patience, in signs, and wonders, and mighty deeds” (2 Corinthians12:12). We have no Apostles today! Be careful as to who and what is leading you and those who teach you.