10 Questions with Mike Winger (Episode 11)

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference:
0:00 - Intro
1. 1:32 {Discerning the Spirit’s Voice} Is the confirmation of the Holy Spirit distinguishable from an evil demon or psychological self-deception?
2. 29:50 {Do We Give Off “Energy”?} Is “energy” in the esoteric form of the word biblical? I was recently told in a Christian forum that I was “giving off [blank] energy.” Is this biblical?
3. 36:36 {Who will Sit on the Thrones?} In Matthew 19: 28, Jesus states the 12 disciples will sit on 12/24 thrones in the regeneration. In Revelation 4:4, 24 elders are sitting on the thrones. Who are the other 12?
4. 39:08 {Proof of Transubstantiation?} If Jesus identifies Himself as “the Word” and Ezekiel literally ate the Word of God (Ezekiel 3:1-3), is this a good case for Ezekiel being an analogy to the Catholic transubstantiation of the Eucharist being true?
5. 47:28 {Tongues/Prophecy for Believers or Unbelievers?} Can you please explain 1 Corinthians 14: 22-24? Verse 22 states that tongues are a sign for unbelievers, and prophecy is for believers. But vv. 23 and 24 then go on to, seemingly, describe the exact opposite.
6. 50:57 {God’s Name in Vain} What does it mean to not mention God's name in vain?
7. 56:13 {The Spirit With, In & Upon Us} When David is anointed in 1 Samuel 16, the Bible says that “the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day forward.” How would this be similar or different from us receiving the Spirit now?
8. 1:00:32 {Can a Pastor’s Wife be an Unbeliever?} Do the qualifications for pastors/elders in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9 disqualify a man who has an unbelieving wife?
9. 1:09:56 {About OT Quotes in the NT} How should we understand inerrancy for New Testament passages that appear to quote the Old Testament, but no clear reference can be found? (e.g., James 4:5, Matthew 2: 23).
10. 1:14:49 {Grieving our Loved Ones when Not Sure of Salvation} My mom just passed away and I am unsure of her salvation. I know she prayed with the hospital's chaplains. My kids ask if they will see her in Heaven. How do I talk to them about this?
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Why I don't think infant baptism is biblical • A Biblical Analysis of...
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Welcome to the new weekly stream! 10 questions every Friday at 1pm Pacific time.
I’m Mike Winger and my goal is to help people think Biblically about everything. My website
BibleThinker.org

[@sarahfaith316]

Question Time Stamps for Quick Reference: 0:00 - Intro 1. 1:32 {Discerning the Spirit’s Voice} Is the confirmation of the Holy Spirit distinguishable from an evil demon or psychological self-deception? 2. 29:50 {Do We Give Off “Energy”?} Is “energy” in the esoteric form of the word biblical? I was recently told in a Christian forum that I was “giving off [blank] energy.” Is this biblical? 3. 36:36 {Who will Sit on the Thrones?} In Matthew 19: 28, Jesus states the 12 disciples will sit on 12/24 thrones in the regeneration. In Revelation 4:4, 24 elders are sitting on the thrones. Who are the other 12? 4. 39:08 {Proof of Transubstantiation?} If Jesus identifies Himself as “the Word” and Ezekiel literally ate the Word of God (Ezekiel 3:1-3), is this a good case for Ezekiel being an analogy to the Catholic transubstantiation of the Eucharist being true? 5. 47:28 {Tongues/Prophecy for Believers or Unbelievers?} Can you please explain 1 Corinthians 14: 22-24? Verse 22 states that tongues are a sign for unbelievers, and prophecy is for believers. But vv. 23 and 24 then go on to, seemingly, describe the exact opposite. 6. 50:57 {God’s Name in Vain} What does it mean to not mention God's name in vain? 7. 56:13 {The Spirit With, In & Upon Us} When David is anointed in 1 Samuel 16, the Bible says that “the Spirit of the Lord rushed upon David from that day forward.” How would this be similar or different from us receiving the Spirit now? 8. 1:00:32 {Can a Pastor’s Wife be an Unbeliever?} Do the qualifications for pastors/elders in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9 disqualify a man who has an unbelieving wife? 9. 1:09:56 {About OT Quotes in the NT} How should we understand inerrancy for New Testament passages that appear to quote the Old Testament, but no clear reference can be found? (e.g., James 4:5, Matthew 2: 23). 10. 1:14:49 {Grieving our Loved Ones when Not Sure of Salvation} My mom just passed away and I am unsure of her salvation. I know she prayed with the hospital's chaplains. My kids ask if they will see her in Heaven. How do I talk to them about this?

[@deewitt3746]

Another great session, thankyou Mike, regularly praying for you and your family, staff.🎉

[@phlegmbuoyant]

Yeah 👍🏿👍🏼👍🏻What a great Scriptural Proof Text, that He will preserve us, and move in and thru us to have us Stand Firm in Christ, and Be COMPLETELY Saved ❣️ "Now it is GOD who makes both us and you Stand Firm in Christ. He anointed us, set His Seal on us, and put His Spirit in our hearts as a deposit guaranteeing what is to come."

[@majose7787]

For question 6, what is Mike's view on the idea of God's name being taken in vain meaning to live an ungodly life and therefore bring His name into disrepute? This is the view of Carmen Imes.

[@trishk.4669]

Can some one help me regards to the first question please

[@br.m]

You speak against infant baptism? Sir, that is dangerous territory. What do you know about blasphemy against the Holy Spirit? I was baptized as an infant. I received the gift of the Holy Spirit. I do not need to be baptized again I can assure you. Therefore you must stand corrected and repent of your sin.

[@b1gpapan3cr04]

My wife is not saved. She tunes in for Bible study with us (my immediate family), we read the Bible together, and she sees the change in me since I surrendered to Christ and His will. I have faith that God is working on her heart. As her husband, I am responsible for her. We are one flesh. As her neighbor I am responsible for showing her love, mercy, faithfulness, kindness, patience. It is a difficult situation at times. Any insight into scriptures or extra-biblical resources pertaining to my situation are most welcome. Thank you in advance for taking the time

[@fh1980ram]

Make sure your talk matches your walk. Otherwise, you'll turn her away.

[@2023_Kassi]

There’s a lot of love in your comment ❤❤ keep praying, the Holy Spirit is awesome 😊

[@garywhitt98]

Until Mike answers, I would recommend that you love her deeply, pray for her, help her. The Holy Spirit invites and is inviting her.

[@renaldomusto]

Maybe try presenting the evidence for the ressurection. Show how it is the only thing that makes sense of the data. I recommend inspiring philosophy's videos on this topic. If she sees that this all actually did happen the way it is written that could remove a massive mental roadblock at least it did for me. I will pray for you and your family brother.

[@aaronadamson7463]

@b1gpapan3cr04 As always, God's word is where we should look first. 1 Corinthians 7, starting in verse 10 addresses this a bit. I recommend you look at it yourself and read through it. Let God reassure you with His word.

[@dominusalicorn3684]

4:50 "but they were all of them deceived" I love when Mike can't help making a LOTR reference

[@naomispencer3246]

@dominusallcorn3684 - what does "LOTR" stand for?

[@jld4063]

@@naomispencer3246 Lord of the Rings

[@WaterBug46]

I went to say the same! Just love when he does that

[@LitteLoneSparrow]

I love his playful side.

[@brennenspeal3084]

Thank you for answering my question, Mr. Winger! I’ve always been told “be discerning,” but not how to be discerning- notably to the degree you explained it. Your videos have greatly been helping me along my path of following Christ and I’m extremely grateful for both you and the Holy Spirit communicating this to me. God bless your ministry!

[@Misleadingsimpleton]

Praise be

[@chessversarius2253]

Amen!

[@shreddedWheatz]

"This kind of stuff (supernatural happenings) is super rare in my life" A refreshing thing to hear from a pastor.

[@Bri-ss7zo]

I have been specifically asking God this week to help me discern the difference between God’s voice, false prophesy & self deception. This is so timely..I’m very thankful for this ministry.

[@b1gpapan3cr04]

One might say He is speaking to you through another brother in Christ. Iron sharpening iron

[@Jaxmusicgal23]

I’ve had the same concern based on dreams and words of knowledge and visions of sometimes had… I’ve always tried to return to scripture and pretty much a times I’ve definitely thought it was God it was, and he proved it by allowing those things to come to pass or confirm it because it came to pass for them or they didn’t need the warning and the consequence happened… Some people will claim its from God and then other people (sometimes the people it’s for or upsets them) will claim that there’s no way it’s from God and I’m making it up. I’ve been doing a lot of fasting and praying the past couple years about this recently because I had some dreams a couple years ago that were recurring from even a decade ago; they feel like the same vibe and they don’t break any of God‘s laws, but it is about my life and something that will happen in the future and it kind of brings a lot of up but in the end the outcome glorifies God and brings restoration to many many people but it involves someone uncomfortable losses and sacrifice that will affect my family… so it’s been very hard to determine if it’s from God or my own idea. I’ve ruled out that the dreams are of demonic nature because there’s no way a demon would want to see the positive and results that occur in these dreams- restoration of people and God getting the glory for doing all of it and it have nothing to do with us other than us obeying the Lord… I’ve never heard of anybody having a demon influenced dream or vision where those things happened… I’ve never claimed these same, reoccurring dreams in the past decade, to be prophetic, but it concerns me because some of the things are starting to happen and come to pass, but the main part of the dream hasn’t … the set up is coming to fruition and a lot of of it has… it didn’t make sense until a lot of things that happened. The past two years happened. I desperately want to make sure I’m not speaking against God’s will either buy claiming something is from him when it’s not or disqualifying something that is from him because it’s uncomfortable or in the natural doesn’t make sense… I’ve had to basically trust God and just leave it in the Lord’s hands… I have friends now the few that I talk to you about it now claiming that I’m a false prohpet when I never even claimed those were real prophetic dreams… I’ve said I am willing to accept that they might be and then if it is, God can do it if he wants to… but I will not 100% claim I don’t want to be wrong and dishonor God

[@sues3218]

Read your entire bible yourself, and test everything against what is says.

[@sues3218]

@@b1gpapan3cr04 You can't know that for sure unless it is tested against all the scriptures. That is the ONLY way to know if you are dealing with deception or not. The Holy Spirit will never contradict scripture.

[@davido3026]

1 Timothy 3:15! Look for the church where the Holy Spirit dwells since 33AD!!!

[@joannetompkins7833]

I am a missionary in a Muslim majority country working with a highly resistant people group. I have to comfort myself regularly as friends here die and I'm pretty sure they died without Christ. I remind myself of God's love for them, His goodness and his justice. I trust Him to do what is good and right.

[@jrxl556]

I was praying in my car on my way to pick up my kids and I was crying out to God and asking him for something and saying I’ve been waiting x amount of years. And I needed this or that and that I couldn’t understand why it was taking so long and the a song (my Savior, my God Aaron Shust) came out “I am not skilled to understand what God has willed, What God has planned…” I instantly stopped complaining while praying and just started to trust more in Gods plan and the time I had to wait.

[@daltonbrasier5491]

And that's the whole point of prayer. It's not to ask for what YOU want, it's to align yourself with God's will.

[@vinodhnoel5739]

God Jesus will always answer immediately, try to understand his voice. It's like this, A person was traveling in a car saw a beautiful apple Tree, he liked it soo much he went to the land lord and tried to buy it, the land lord said currently its not for sale. This person is so much desperate, he started asking God Jesus in prayer. God Jesus replied, behind this land is a huge valley of Apple Tree I want to give you that, go and get it. As this person is so focused on this single Tree, he is unable to listen to God Jesus voice.

[@simone-a-mil]

Maaan, "waiting x amount of years" is my middle name.😂 It's hard. But I'm happy for you that have found your resolve. 🙌🏽

[@v.k.mensah2093]

​@@daltonbrasier5491 But He does allow and encourage us to ask. "Worst" case scenario is what you're asking is not in God's Will or timing but that only means there's a greater blessing coming your way ;) So we trust in Him because we know He'll always provide what's in our best interest, even when we can't see it yet.

[@Sean-mk8pw]

One of the biggest helps in my faith was during a time when I felt a huge longing for a confirmation from the Lord and after years of trying to feel closer I felt like the Lord helped me realize that because he seemed distant it made me pursue him more. If it had been easy, I wouldn't have fought so hard to find him. Growth always comes through struggle. It may not make the struggle easier to know that, but it has given me the confidence to keep pushing regardless of how I feel. I'm glad for your newfound hope, keep pursuing him and you will find him. And he's always right there with you even if you don't feel it.

[@JustBethTrying]

Re:Q1: Years ago, a friend and his wife were praying about a major life change. At each step along the way prayed about it and asked God if they should continue. As things fell into to place easily and smoothly, they took it to mean they should continue on that trajectory. They were at the most crucial, pivotal point. This step was going to be hugely expensive and very difficult to change course after that. They were praying to know what God would have them do. One morning they were in McDonalds (of all places) and noticed that a man kept looking at them, then looking away and whispering to lady at his table. Finally the man approached my friend’s table and said, “You’ll probably think I’m crazy, but God wants me to tell you to continue.” Then man went back and ate his Egg McMuffin. He did not expand or speculate or question. My friend and his wife continued. And it was a good thing. 😊

[@LitteLoneSparrow]

I love this, but still very scary. I just know if that were me I would take it as a sure sign when the guy who approached could have been a Satan worshipper!

[@TylerJMusic]

Know you've been dealing with a lot of warfare lately brother, praying for you and your ministry! Just wanted to let you know you're appreciated! Keep going! Much love!

[@LB-ec4uf]

Thank you, Mike. You are loved and appreciated. God bless you, my friend. After years of being a lukewarm Christian who dabbled in new age nonesense and the Bahai faith, you helped me after I returned to Christ a few years ago. I study my Bible daily and am so thankful the Lord was still there for me. God is good. 😊

[@kgebhardt1187]

Great is His faithfulness ❤✝

[@cpollner]

I was going to hike one day and I asked God to show me any snakes. I had never asked him before but that day I had fear in my heart. I started hiking and forgot about the prayer. On the way back to my car I looked down and there was this tiny snake across my path. I started laughing because I felt that was God and his humor. I can’t declare it was Him but it surely felt like it to me. I sure got a good laugh at of it.

[@fraukesandys9370]

I believe that God loves to do those kind of things for us, because He loves it when we talk to him and he has a great sense of humor.

[@AlwayLime]

I totally relate to getting addicted to “getting a word” and evenfeeling jealous or inferior if other people “get a word” and I don’t. Thank God, by His grace and in His compassion, he slowly brought be out of that environment. I didn’t even know I need to be brought out and that’s what he was doing the whole time. God is SO good!

[@Mumoffive2023]

Same here I remember so vividly seeking a word as a teen but thankful he bought be out and now speaks to me through his word even more.

[@marstothestars33]

The thing is that God speaks to us numerous ways. As the body of Christ, we are all different parts of that body. This means we will see and hear God in different ways. But a thumb is no less important than an ear. Don’t be discouraged, or think that receiving words is unbiblical either. Hope this helped. 🌸

[@lookingatdaisies9901]

Me too constantly looking for a word as a teen, "prophets" would come and be calling out other people and I'd be there for years imagining my own turn ... Nothing... Turns out I was hearing directly and God was most likely trying to remove me from these places. (Prosperity, word of faith type places)

[@mable552]

I love your answer for question 10. I also error on the side of hope when someone asks me about love ones being in heaven. We don't know what happens the last moments of death and if they cry out to Jesus in their last breath as the man on the cross did, God is faithful to receive them. But we must remind them that it is only through faith in Jesus that one is saved. He is the only way to the Father. Accept it or reject it but there is no other way and to believe otherwise is self deception.

[@gillianwright356]

Dear Pr Mike, your videos are very helpful and a blessing to so many. Only PLEASE have subtitles for deaf folk like me!

[@samuelllakaj5439]

Sam see thumbnail... "Easy topics today"... Sam click... Sam immediately blown away by this verse Mike showed us... I should read more of the Bible then 😅. Thanks mike for your ministry!

[@chessversarius2253]

Glad you're here Sam 😄

[@2EdgedSword77]

Greatest nugget of wisdom from Mike: "Don't be weird". LOL so awesome.

[@michelleb9277]

Taking the Lord's name in vain - I was recently exposed to a teaching that claims the original text in Hebrew for 'take' meant as in 'taking someone's name' - almost like a marriage covenant, in the context of taking their surname and joining their family. Through this meaning, to take His name in vain would be to claim to be a Christian - a child of God's, and in God's family - and yet not truly be one in all honesty. It's about false representation - not simply blasphemy. (This interpretation helped me reconcile its importance at being included in the 10 Commandments) Thank you for your service Mr. Winger!!

[@RKay-ku1ni]

That's actually what I've learned from ancient hebrew. Because the name wasn't the name. It is the character. When the Father says my name is in him he means I am the I am and he is the I am. They are both Yahweh. (And what is more important here - the word "god" is not his name. It's the tetragrammaton YHWH. This is actually something not all of believers seem to be aware of.)

[@lookingatdaisies9901]

Yes, I was reading some translation recently and instead of a a normal "oh my God" , I seem to me like it was about doing false things in the name of God. For example false preachers and prophets started popping up in my head with that translation.

[@kgebhardt1187]

Thank you Mike Winger for helping us to think biblically! For Mike and staff and all the believers reading this-May the Lord bless you and keep you! May He strengthen you and draw you ever closer! To any unbelievers reading, I urge you to repent and believe the Gospel, for the Kingdom of God is at hand! ❤✝ His love for us is beyond comprehension -praise the Lord!

[@kaymojil7669]

Boom! Out the gate with good news! Thank you Lord Jesus!

[@Bigfoottehchipmunk]

Mike, I want to thank you for hearing God's encouragement to change your format. I know it works better for you. Also, I, and I imagine I'm not the only one, find myself listening in more consistently, rather than saving it for when I have more time, or listening to half and then not finishing because I forgot. Not that I have to listen to your Q & A, but it is always time well spent and good food for thought. God bless you, sir, and I mean that ❣

[@koinonianessify]

Q10 As someone who literally just lost her very procrastinating prodigal father a mere hours before watching this Mike Winger video I can attest that God is so good in confirming with his Holy Spirit where his sheep are at, he doesn't lose even one. All this week the Lord was confirming to me what was coming and every moment worked out in a way only God could have worked it out. I'm praying this for this dear lady! Jesus come and be our comfort in this time, please bring this lady who asked question 10 peace in her heart in regards to her mother's salvation. As I told my niece, "Grandpa is moving in with Jesus" and she enthusiasticly responded with "Yeah!" May we all respond with such childlike faith and joy to the hope that we have in Jesus's salvation and his kingdom. Thank you so much Mike for your wisdom as always.

[@Leo_Wadsworth]

Regarding "taking God's name in vain" -- I agree with both of your thoughts on this. I would add one more. I originally heard this from Dennis Prager, but since then have heard it from others as well. The word that gets interesting is the one translated as "take." It is different than just "use." Dennis Prager points out that it is more like "carry" than just "use." As such, this becomes a warning for people who "carry" the name of God - i.e. the "Children of Israel", or for us "Christians." Our actions can impact God's reputation -- the way He is viewed by other people. We need to do everything we can to protect God's reputation. This goes along with many other scriptures that show that God is very concerned about His reputation. A sullied reputation can keep people away from God. This can also help us to understand why God talks about this being unforgivable in the 10 commandments. The casual use of a name of God (such as Jesus) or even a title (such as God) can also be addressed in the proscriptions against coarse speech in general.

[@julieredmond5192]

I wanted to write a comment about what Dennis Prager shares on this as well. But you did it for me. Thank you! I agree with him that this is the main thing that this commandment means. Many say “Lord, Lord….” Also it’s a no brainer not to curse using God’s name. I hate that. I wish Jordan Peterson would stop with that! May God reveal that to him.

[@Ravens_and_Lilies14]

Thank you for answering my question! The with/ in/ upon distinction of the Spirit is new to me and I find that fascinating. Love the work you do in the Lord’s name, God bless you brother!

[@DarrenRoy]

There are three tests which I use. 1. The written Word. God will never tell you to do something against His revealed word in Scripture. 2. The inner witness of the Holy Spirit. His Spirit bearing witness with ours. 3. The peace of God which acts as umpire in our hearts at all times.

[@jameswelsh3433]

Thank you, Mike, for your wonderful ministry and service! May God’s blessings always be with you!

[@new_comment]

We love you brother, Mike. May God bless you and your ministry.

[@ShyAnny]

Thank you for sharing that encouraging verse from Jude at the beginning.

[@rutherfords8019]

My dad very suddenly and unexpectedly passed away a few days ago...he had just re-memorized this verse recently. He shared it alot with us as he was working on it. I'm not superstitious, or thinking he's reaching out from heaven with it...but hearing you say it just stopped me and made me smile (and cry a little too).

[@daveandellenbartlett8725]

Thank you , Mike, for the opening word of encouragement. It reminded me again that all the things of my past that attempt to bring shame are forgiven and in that final day I will stand blameless before my savior. I really needed to hear that this morning.

[@ChipsAplentyBand]

Re: Question 1--Discerning the Spirit's Voice I sincerely wonder if believers who are non-prophets are to except God/The Holy to 'speak' to them at all. Where a supernatural gift of prophecy is in play the biblical tests for true/false prophets can and should be applied to see if the person is God's prophet or not. The Bible not only gives such tests (Deut. 13 & 18, Matt. 7, 1 John 4) but warns repeatedlly about FALSE prophecy. Naturally, the issue of charismatic gifts enters the picture because many charismatic groups promote the idea that all believers receive direct revelation from God on a regular basis, offer personal testimonies of it occuring with themselves, etc. But many noncharismatics/evangelicals make the same or similar claims too: They say things like 'God definitely showed me,' 'God laid it on my heart that…,' or 'The Spirit led me to…' The question or determinant I always raise when such expressions are involved is whether or not NEW INFORMATION is claimed to have been received from God. Someone repeating a passage of scripture is not 'new information.' Likewise, following a biblical principal which someone sees application for is not really new information but an application of existing information already presented in the Bible. But 'God told me to go witness to two teenage girls I would bump into in the mall at 3:35 p.m.' is definitely 'new information' that's not contained in the Bible. Why is this important? I'm not even talking here about God allegedly giving contrabiblical instruction (He does not contradict Himself) which some people and often herectics will claim. And I'm not talking about people having hunches, intuitions, or thoughts-from-out-of-the-blue, something which unbelievers also will claim ot have from time to time. Psychics often claim to have those things most of the time. And of course there are unbelievers who claim to have 'spirit guides' who tell them 'new information.' The Bible is pretty circumspect about warning believers about the occult, contacting the dead, and so forth and forbids these kinds of activities. But what about the everyday, Bible-beleiving layperson who does not experience angelic visitations, prophetic visions or dreams, or some other supernatural manifestation which attends PROPHETS, then I wonder what believers are doing telling each other that 'God showed me' or 'God told me.' Many affirmative notions along these lines source their validty from the gospel of John, especially in the chapters where the Lord is speaking to His disciples/apostles at The Last Supper. Phraseology such as 'He will guide you into all truth' and 'My sheep hear my voice' are typical citations but the former applies to the apostles (as opposed to all Christians living in all eras) and the second pertains to HEEDING JESUS' TEACHING when you look at their contexts. 'The still small voice' sourced from the life of Elijah is completely divorced from its context and for reasons that I cannot fathom is adopted by many Christians as flimsy proof for the idea that God speaks to ALL believers all the time in a 'peaceful, quiet voice' when exegesis of the context of that phraseology indicates that it was something descriptive which occurred to Elijah. Of course, believers talk in terms of 'getting closer to the Lord' and 'living ffor Jesus' and 'getting to know the Lord' which sounds very firsthand. But, frankly, most believers do no SEE Jesus bodily, do not carry on actual conversations with Him, and do not get VERBAL answers back to their prayers. What we do get is changed circumstances back in answer to our prayers. Again, claims of direct revelation can--and shoiuld---be evaluated as true/fales by applying the biblical tests. Another bit of phraseology we believers use which encourages the idea of personal direct revelation for all believers is that we say we 'have a personal relationship with Him.' Well, that's modern-day evangelistic talk, but I think it can too easily give others the misimpression that Jesus 'walks with me and talks with me and tells me I am His own' every day in every way, when in reality we DON'T YET have the experience of carrying on direct conversation--exchanging conversation and receiving new information from Jesus Himself--with the Lord. How about the Holy Spirit? Do we carry on conversation or hear whispers in our ears from the Spirit? It's interesting to me that in John's gospel (3:8) Jesus says this about the Holy Spirit: "The wind blows where it wishes and you hear the sound of it, but you do not know where it is coming from and where it is is going; so is everyone who has been born of the Spirit." Notice that this describes the life of born-again people on analogy with human experience of the wind: John says we "do not know'--DO NOT know--where it is coming from and where it is going (new information) even though while it is at work in our presence we 'hear the sound of it.' Here, the wind has a sound but NOT A VOICE SPEAKING WORDS. The Holy Spirit is described in this passage as essentially invisible like the wind is invisible, but it causes some tangible indications ('you hear the sound of it) plus of course people can FEEL the movement of actual wind against their skin, but the wind doesn't impart new information about its history or future plans. If I understand Jesus' teaching here, the Holy Spirit's activity is subtle, invisible, and mainly detectable via its tangible effects. I've often wondered if the believers who claim 'direct contact and communication' with the Holy Spirit have some sort of mysterious, built-in 'Holy Spirit detector' built into them. I don't have one! I can't see, smell, taste, touch, or hear the Holy Spirit speaking specific words which can be quoted and using an audible or telepathic voice. The idea of telepathy perhaps is closest to what many believers claim regarding their experience with the Holy Spirit, but it also raises questions and concerns for me. For example, all of us don't even know where our own next thought comes from or what it's going to be in advance. Our thoughts seem to related in logical or associative trains and connections but are also interruptible when emotions or external stimuli interrupt or distract us. But just about anything in my own life experience might pop up into my daily thoughts, or my very next thought. Can spirit beings--both good and bad-access our brains/minds and interject THEIR thoughts into our minds? And can they do so without our necessarily being able to detect them as the source of such thoughts? I'm not sure. Demonic possession is an extreme exampe where a person's entire mind is subsumed by a spirit being, and perhaps spirit INFLUENCE (in that case, even on believers) can happen to anyone just as the other people, both good and bad, are capable of influencing us too, although they do it uusing sight, sound, taste, smell, and touch. Spirit beings who do not put in a physical appearance of some kind (angels seem to do so frequently) are presumably operating 'behind the scenes' where we cannot detect them using our five physical senses. And yet our minds are not limited to experiencing sensory input; we use our minds for imagination and we carry about various mental tasks while using our senses but focusing on the tasks instead of the senses themselves. Because we do not even know where our own next thought comes from, or why, or what it will be, these are perhaps reasons to be a bit watchful and wary about TESTING ideas against the scriptures when necessary, just as we would claims of true/false prophecy, to see if they agree with God's will or not. Should belieers EXPECT God/The Holy Spirit to be communicating new information to each of us, individually and directly (i.e., not by our reading it in the Bible where it's not actually new, but only new-to-us), on some kind of regular basis? I don't know that we should. Should we heed our consciences? I think we should probably NOTICE our consciences and, when necessary, check the reactions we get from them against biblical truth. Are our consciences a part of our own minds or are they the 'voice' of the Holy Spirit? I frankly don't know, but many unbelievers alrso report having convictions of conscience and then the question is Do unbelievers receive new information from the Holy Spirit? Perhaps yes; perhaps (and likely) not, unless God is doing something extraordinary of a revelatory nature. Does the Holy Spirit convict of sin? Yes, scripture says so. How does He do it? By speaking to our ears or to our minds using words? Or by gripping our emotions with some hard-to-define means? Are our emotions themselves 'the voice of the Holy Spirit?' Or are they merely AFFECTED BY the Holy Spirit, when that's appropriate? Does the Holy spirit assume control of our minds and mouths so that we're 'off to the side' somewhere inside our own minds the way demon-possessed people seem to be? I tend to think now because Paul in 1 Cor. 14:32 tells us "the spirits of prophets are subject to prophets." This apparently teaches that godly/holy spirits--and presumably also the Holy Spirit as well--work in fellowship with us rather than by taking control of us. These are my thoughts here. If others agree or disagree, please cite scripture where you can. Thanks.

[@CakesDontLie]

Thank you Mike for your ministry. I am praying for you and for Benny Hinn to repent. Thank you for the intro and the verse in Jude. This week, I’ve had massive delusions and I struggle a lot with perfectionism. I live in terror of judgement sometimes which is incoherent to the good news of Jesus. I just want to live right before the Lord and always get so scared when He judges me, that He will be disappointed with the works I give Him. Not that I’m saved by works, but almost like disappointing a parent with your report card. Thank you for reminding us that it is Jesus who presents us faultless before the throne. Praise the Lord for His goodness and mercy❤️✝️ God bless you Mike

[@deewitt3746]

He is the Good Shepherd.

[@kgebhardt1187]

@@deewitt3746 Amen!

[@PeterTryon]

Great start - what a wonderful encouragement! He keeps us and can present us faultless. Amen!

[@uncanny5954]

As someone who the Holy Spirit has chosen to speak through, I have genuinely prophesied in my life. Well, I didn’t do anything, God is the real miracle worker. I know these are genuine because the events actually happened. Both were not good news. Both were specific to me. God told me because he knew I needed to be prepared. I asked him for more information, begged him to change his mind, he said no. This was right as I was falling ill and my life was about to change drastically. I’ve told God that I desire to walk with him, and I think him telling me that I was about to be hospitalized (the next day) and that I was going to miss a school trip my parents had payed thousands for (weeks in advance) helped me feel at peace. He told me things were about to get really difficult and they did, and they still are. But I know God is right there with me. Anyway, that’s my experience with prophesy, my biggest advice is to be worried about any good prophesies, those are much more likely to be from the heart. Don’t expect prophesy. I don’t claim to be a prophet, I’m just a servant. I just desire to walk with God.

[@RobertMurray-ht4jl]

That sounds very sketchy. That it could be your mind telling you .

[@marstothestars33]

@RobertMurray-ht4jl Is God so powerless that he cannot speak through us? I’d be careful of your skepticism. Too many deny the supernatural of God.

[@uncanny5954]

@@RobertMurray-ht4jl The thing is, both of the things God told me would happen, happened. I repeatedly begged him not to do these things (I did not want them to happen) but I told him I’d trust him anyway. When I pray, (especially in this season when I was ill) I block out all other distractions. I focus on nothing but God. There is a difference between my voice and Gods. When I “hear” Gods voice, it brings with it a feeling of peace and joy and warmth that I cannot replicate any other way. My thoughts cannot comfort me in this way. And yeah, maybe that does sound sketch, but it’s true. And it’s so… beautiful. It’s not like one day God randomly decided to speak to me. He spoke to me after I spent months trying to draw near to him. Building a relationship. Learning to just be in the presence of the Lord through prayer. I’ve spent hours in that kind of state. This didn’t happen out of the blue, it happened after I built a strong foundation on God. Besides, I am a person highly skeptical of emotions. Emotions are unreliable and full of lies. They’ve lied to me time and time again. The chemicals in my brain don’t work right meaning I’ve spent seasons of my life stuck in depression for seemingly no real reason. I have to take every thought captive, manually separate truth from the lies of the enemy. I don’t trust my gut or my heart because my heart is an idiot who wants what I ought not want! You can call me delusional, but I know the presence of the Lord. I cannot replicate that presence. And that presence doesn’t do what I want it to. I don’t control it, I don’t expect it, even when I do expect it, I can’t make it show up without turning all of my attention to God. Without going to Him. The mind is very, very powerful. Placebo effect is a very real phenomenon. But I know peace that surpasses all understanding. Read Philippians 4:6-7 That is what I am talking about. “A sense of Gods wholeness”

[@HPIBWC]

WOW Mike. Thank you for your description of how we need to view God's name. This was powerful for me!! And, I will share the facts with my youth group!!! Appreciate you!!!

[@violet.r7286]

Thank you sooo much for taking the time to explain your responses to question 1... this was exceedingly helpful to me. Struggling with attacks from the enemy and your points were super helpful- GOD Bless you, Mr Winger!!!

[@cindythompson7467]

Thank you Mike I needed to hear that verse today.

[@cephas888]

You're such a blessing to the body brother

[@ostenbelew6499]

I would love to meet you one day Mike! Whether on earth or in heaven i look forward to meeting you!

[@laurenstell8087]

Thank you for that reminder from Jude. I have really struggled with trusting that I am held in the palm of God's hand. This is so encouraging to remember that my salvation is by God's power. Thank you, Mike!

[@dove4108]

Can’t thank you enough pointing out the verse from Jude that is completely encouraging

[@pilgrim957]

Oh my goodness thank you for clipsearch. I listen to you all the time and this just made it sooo much better.

[@KevinEDF]

Love you humility and willingness to confess when you don't know or if there are other viable answers. You are a blessing.

[@antonmeyer7369]

Mike thank you for creating community for people that don't often get to church, also because it is so difficult to find a teacher in local churches that don't clearly stray from biblical truth.

[@markhaszoe-life6337]

Thank you Brother Mike, always enjoy your Friday Q & A

[@melissasmith8482]

Thank you so much for all your helpful content. I am a believer that believes in the power of the Holy Spirit but I also believe today we have so many “pastors “ teaching VERY BAD THEOLOGY! You are a unique blessing and I so appreciate your service to the Lord. Thank you thank you thank you!

[@marye.2018]

Praise our God, who is mighty to save!

[@Cellocurve]

I feel so seen. God keeps me. Thank God and thank you to everyone for these questions and Mike.

[@Dan-lw7bx]

Yes, this passage is encouraging to all of us who love the Lord and obey his will! Being in his Word so that we know him is the way to remain faithful to him and not lose our salvation. "If we deliberately keep on sinning after we have received the knowledge of the truth, no sacrifice for sins is left, but only a fearful expectation of judgment and of raging fire that will consume the enemies of God." Hebrews 10:26-27

[@patchworkfarms5327]

This is something I've been wrestling with! Thank you so much for covering this topic!

[@TotalGodThing]

When reading the questions a lot of the people submitted in the chat, it is VERY apparent there is Scrupulosity (Religious OCD) and this is something I definitely have struggled with. I know Mark DeJesus does really well at discussing this topic and I hope to talk about this as well since I am a therapist who is also Christian. I have been saved for almost 6 years so I am still fairly new to understand the spiritual influence over our thoughts. It is quite a fascinating subject and I hope to speak to it someday.

[@__.Sara.__]

Thank you for being you, Mike!

[@SeanAdams-di1qz]

Thanks Mike, I'm taking a trip with my family next week to spread my dad's ashes. I feel tormented with the thought that he might not be in Heaven. I appreciate your thoughts and your ministry.

[@debrajabs9523]

Mike I watch at least once a week for your deeper reach into scripture and all of your diligent research. I like that you try your best to address controversies regarding interpretation and explain how some of these started. My family is spread across different denominations and stages of growth and commitment. This can make discussing scripture a bit of a challenge at times. I come to you for balance and your fearlessness in presentation yet you are meek and humble. You say you are not a pastor at the moment but you are our shepherd. You love us and sacrifice a great deal of your time to care for us. I thank you for that. God is using you. On another note. I remember being taught that the 24 elders are the 12 sons of Jacob and the 12 apostles. I am not saying that is correct but had not heard different until today. May God bless you as you have blessed us.

[@beckygleason2002]

Thank you for helping to bring God's word alive to me every time!

[@fleshanbones1550]

Wow. I really needed this. I just went through over spiritualizing everything like you with the radio. Thank you Mike!

[@heartofmythril]

Err on the side of hope. That's a great way of thinking. My papaw was an atheist, the first one I ever met. (He was my step father's step father) and when we left my step father we had no contact with his family because we didn't want to be drawn back (it was an abusive relationship) and I found out in my early twenties that he died. I was devastated. My mom told me he accepted Christ on his death bed, but I always thought she was lying to ease my mind. But I will err on the side of hope. I hope I see him in heaven, because he was very important to me.

[@rebekahearly1144]

Your answer to Question 10 was beautiful. It made me think of the verses about how our afflictions get used by God to shape us for the benefit of others.

[@guestaccess3307]

This video came at the perfect time. Thank you.🙏🏾

[@bulelwandaba4376]

Thank you. This was great, I appreciate how you responded to these questions

[@chelseabarker2250]

Thank you for your point at the end about those of us soaking these things in becoming resources for others. That is my lifes mission, to be a vessel for the gospel and all good information that points people that direction. Thanks as always for your thoughtful answers and good encouragement. Keep up the good work brother! 😊

[@johannaquinones7473]

What a blessing this ministry is❤

[@JustAGuyWithABible]

Thank you. I REALLY needed to hear that verse at the intro today.

[@DaysOfNoah17_15]

Question #6 Very well said! I wholeheartedly agree, it's absolutely both and not one or the other. God bless you and keep you always! 🙂

[@nicho273]

You are doing an edifying work. I have really found you to have a sound analysis and easy to understand what you are standing for. Sound doctrine ❤️ Keep it up brother

[@cbak1819]

Someone sinned against me and I was so angry at the lies.. God said. Vengeance is mine says the Lord of hosts. It comforted me in my time of stress.

[@donnafloridia-qx8jx]

Thank you! I’ve delved into your recent videos due to my concern for a loved one who has decided to attend Jesus School and also with how this person is hearing from God. I’m praying about sending this video.

[@crystalb1845]

I've been waiting so long for a video like this. Thank you for sharing.

[@simonbaah1099]

We thank God for your life. May the Lord strengthen and meet all your needs as you do His bidding.

[@churchindangerberean3518]

Thank-you for your very special intro today--I really needed that today!

[@libertylarochelle8517]

Thank you Pastor Mike. ❤Australia 🇦🇺

[@hyperfocus1963]

Loved that point toward the end about working yourself out of a job! I've used what I've learned from Mike about thinking Biblically with those I'm discipling and it's been so cool to see how much easier understanding scripture has been! Also great point at the start of this video!

[@dangeroso121]

Thanks for your video ministry Mike.

[@Gutslinger]

I've been struggling with this question, especially this past 2 years. To the point of mental exhaustion. And starting in March, for some reason every time an impure thought enters my mind, I keep repeating in my head, "I rebuke all evil in the name of Jesus Christ, my Lord and savior. I love God. I love Jesus. I love Holy Spirit." And I repeat it in my head constantly through the day as a reflexive thought. Probably 50-100 times a day.. While it's a good thing to think and say, my mental exhaustion becomes even more severe my how often I repeat it. I'm desperate for peace of mind and mental calmness.

[@MikeWinger]

I wouldn’t worry about it. Just set aside the thought as wrong and don’t worry about what involvement Satan has in it. The trouble it’s causing you isn’t worth it. Better to say “God, I don’t know where that came from but I reject it.” And move on without another thought about it.

[@Gutslinger]

@@MikeWinger I'll do my best.. Thank you for the advice, Mike.

[@EmilyTodicescu]

I strongly sympathise with intrusive thoughts, and I also have a tentative theory why your attempt to combat them with that particular repetition is exhausting for you. By opening with, “I rebuke…” you are declaring YOUR engagement with the powers of darkness. Instead of forefronting your relationship with Jesus. Jesus who, not so incidentally, has all power over heaven and earth, and the powers of darkness know this. For this reason, perhaps consider replacing your habitual response to impure thoughts with the simple “Jesus Prayer”. That way you are forefronting your relationship with Jesus, and the powers of darkness will have no claim over you. In its simplest version, the Jesus Prayer is described in The Way of a Pilgrim, in which the pilgrim advises, "as you draw your breath in, say, or imagine yourself saying, 'Lord Jesus Christ,' and as you breathe again, 'have mercy on me.'" But instead of waiting for an impure thought to strike, perhaps set some time aside each day (e.g. upon waking and going to sleep at night). I feel certain that this will help you. ❤

[@jillthereckless5949]

It sounds like the “word of faith” has failed you. Perhaps you are a sinner, struggling with temptation, powerless to save yourself. Praise God that He saves sinners like us! Rest in His word, He is faithful and His burden is light :)

[@kgebhardt1187]

I struggle with intrusive thoughts, and it can be hard when I don’t understand where it is coming from…even more difficult if I automatically imagine the dark powers of this world behind the thought. I would get so upset-still do sometimes. I noticed it is much worse when I am not caring for my physical needs in the ways I ought to-good sleep, nutritious food, plenty of water, exercise. I also started to memorize verses that can calm me and simultaneously push the thought away. Like the Word is the sword, and I say a verse in my mind like I’m slicing right through it. Verses that help in the moment grab onto God’s mercy, love forgiveness, and righteousness. Just today, in fact, I was having anxiety and weird thoughts, and I recited the first few verses of Psalm 23 multiple times. It comforts me in a way that trying to wrestle with the thought does not. When I wrestle the thoughts, it makes it more intense or urgent somehow. When I reach for God in my mind right away, He sends a life preserver. Praise God! I also repeat verses or refrains from Biblical hymns in those moments. Another believer mentioned the Jesus prayer, which is helpful and calming, and I learned a lovely version of the Kyrie to sing aloud or sing in my mind for those moments. I don’t know if any of this is helpful for you. I sympathize with you, and I am sending you a big hug. Never ever let go of Him ❤✝ He loves us so much, and He knows our hearts better than we do, and no intrusive, unwelcome thought will change what is inscribed on your heart. I urge you to try to refrain from the rebuking method for a bit because it sounds like that approach is worsening and not improving your spirit in those situations. I write this message with care and love, no judgment at all. I understand the exhaustion. May God bless you and strengthen you. With and peace and love through our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ, may you rest in Him

[@Jaymastia]

I have been looking for this topic across all realities. This is a life saver. I am so stressed from trying to filter between demonic|worldly| self conscientious conscious correcting thoughts and God's spirit prompts

[@305boysteve]

Thanks Mike, God bless you

[@gohawks3571]

I really appreciate these videos! Especially long ones, so I can listen while I do yardwork/housework/etc. Entertainment is so hard these days anyway. I appreciate people like you going straight for the truth, instead of face saving, meaningless words. I pray for you to stay humble, ficused, and God helps you understand more so we can too!🙏🙏🙏✌️😊

[@drewstrong7289]

I needed that opening verse so much. Thank you.

[@shreddedWheatz]

Thanks Mike, that first verse hit me hard, I needed to hear that.

[@thecommonoutdoorsman6366]

Man how this has come in a timely manner. I have been seriously questioning and searching this type of spiritual discernment. There seems to be a lot of spiritual uncertainty and anxiety recently.

[@tracybarnes3076]

You’re such a blessing. Thank you. ❤

[@a_mustache_of_great_repute]

Thought about this a lot, very excited for this episode

[@liselbitsangravat]

"Don't be weird, Mike"😂 I can't tell you how much I enjoy, am blessed by, edified, and taught by your channel. Thank you!

[@ericaluna01]

Thank you so much for this video! 🙏

[@ckimsey77]

Your opening comment about us being presented faultless by Jesus etc was needed for me tonight, been in a rough place for a while. Appreciate your time brother

[@lizweekly1483]

Thank you Mike, May God Richly Bless you! Liz from Ontario, Canad

[@NatalieMoore-cf4zt]

Thank you for your teaching

[@jesusloveschad]

Love you brother Mike!

[@pinkglasses52]

#1 Such a struggle for someone with OCD and invasive thoughts. Thank you for sharing your wisdom on this.

[@robertdroner]

Thank you Mike!

[@katrinaszabo5697]

Thank you so much for your intro re Jude 24...as you said "amazing...God is so so good !" I am so grateful that He is presenting me faultless. Our Holy God provided a way (His Son Jesus Christ)for us to be able to come back into His presence.

[@cbak1819]

Love the Signature example Mike🎉

[@user-jt3ex9pl8s]

🐕‍🦺🐕‍🦺🐕‍🦺🐕‍🦺🐕‍🦺🐕‍🦺🐕‍🦺Please 🙏🏻pray for salvation for Chris, Pete and Nick who no longer believes in Jesus 😢

[@homewardbound799]

Praying now

[@kgebhardt1187]

Just said a prayer for them 🩷 God bless you

[@bethl]

And Erin also please

[@donnafloridia-qx8jx]

Thank you Mike. Your right. It’s been right there all along. But your in-depth teaching confirmed our gut feeling regarding Benny Hinderance. A close family member of mine is planning and making arrangements to get trained at Jesus School. Please keep Amber in prayer.

[@jameskubasu7720]

Thanks for the for the teaching on prophecy Pastor Mike. Been praying for discernment to know that I'm hearing the Holy Spirit's word correctly and not being deceived by my own heart. I've been blessed by this. PS: The LOTR joke at minute 4:55 absolutely cracked me up. I've rewound to that time stamp at least 4 times now 😂

[@VERNACROWTHERgrcf]

So glad u clarified that, Mike (re about taking God’s Name in vain). Absolutely!! It is definitely including cussing Him. How/why could /would any1 who loves God want to use His Name as a cuss-word?! How does that fit w/praising His “Name”? Anyone who wants to be able to take His Name in vain is just trying to justify doing that, & I say “SHAME” on them!

[@junk3996]

you can throw that definition in there if you want, but as for the original context no it absolutely did/does not mean that. of course it doesn't mean you should or can, but that isn't the meaning of taking the LORDs name in vain big part of context is understanding the text as the original audience would have

[@sakurafan000]

Man I really love your informative, thoughtful and bible based videos. I’m always able to learn something and deepen my knowledge about God. I’m a proud wingeling 😂

[@cynthiaharris5736]

Thank you I needed to hear this

[@deborahtoy2944]

I can’t begin to tell you how much I have learned from you. You make everything soooo clear! I have actually binge watched your videos. I’m so glad I found you on utube! Thank you for your wisdom and faithfulness. How do I support you???

[@robertdouglas8895]

"And the peace of God, which transcends all understanding, will guard your hearts and your minds in Christ Jesus." "And you will know the truth, and the truth will set free you." We know the HS by the peace that comes, not by the Bible which is all over the page.

[@elainedickinson7521]

As a believer, I would say that when we walk with God daily, we will hear from Him thru Holy Spirit, thru reading the Bible, etc. Many times, I hear Holy Spirit guidance even in my cooking. Just amazing. Also, one has to be sincere to seek God, not only for bad times. Do thank Him in good and bad times. This is my pilgrims journeys.. Long and narrow. ❤ Blessings to you, Mike.. We need teacher like you for use in this 21st century. Amen.

[@joshuacavender1536]

The Holy Spirit is here to guide us into all truth about Jesus, not our recipes. That's one way we can discern the voice of the Holy Spirit - it's all about Jesus and walking a holy life. God isn't here to help is pick out a wardrobe from our closet. Just google, " what is the purpose of the Holy Spirit". The answer is very different from what a lot of folks think. Also, He's not "Holy Spirit". He's THE Holy Spirit. Nowhere in Scripture is the "the" missing when referring to the Holy Spirit. That is a hyper-charismatic invention. Listen again to the first portion of the video on discernment, and Mike explained some of this. I'm not trying to insult you, just a minor rebuke, sister. Try to remember that God's Holy Spirit is our friend, but not in the sense of our human bff's.

[@elainedickinson7521]

@@joshuacavender1536 Isn't Holy Spirit is our Helper.. Obviously, you are not a passionate cook.. I involved God in all aspects of my live.. Big or small.. And He cares. God treat everyone the same yet differently because WE are DIFFERENT. I dare to say.. That I have been at Jesus's feet in heaven and saw the Miracle that was assigned to me for the healing of an u corn baby. I was humbled by that experience. Yes, heaven is REAL, and I was tranformed there, how long...I don't know. I can't even describe the whiteness or brightness around Jesus. No matter, what your comment to me having Holy Spirit as a human BFF.. Indeed Right.. Because Jesus is Our groom.. That's intimacy. Can't beat that. Didn't we address God, our Heavenly Father. That's all relationship and Not under law. New covenant with Jesus. Hallelujah.