"And when He has come, He will convict the world of sin, and of righteousness, and of judgment....(John 16:8)
Literally, the Holy Spirit will convict of the "ignorance of the real nature" of sin, righteousness, and judgment (Vincent's Word Studies). And if you read the succeeding verses, Jesus dispels some of the ignorance. Jesus says that sin is rejection of and disobedience to Himself, and righteousness is the Presence of Himself, not only in a person, but also in a nation. And judgment?-- "the ruler (evil genius, prince) of this world [Satan] is judged and condemned and sentence already is passed upon him" (Ampflied Bible). Understanding of our text alone would usher in a great revival!
Yesterday, during our Pittsburgh Prayer Network meeting, I found myself praying our text concerning the upcoming Homosexual "Pride Week" in Pittsburgh. It is a prayer not only for the homosexuals, but also the Church. Could it be that the "ignorance of the real nature" of sin, righteousness, and judgment in the religious community is the reason we have the increase of sin in the streets-------------------- and, in the church? Perhaps in these perilous times, when Church leaders in a community call a solemn assembly, they should place greater emphasis on prayer for understanding "the real nature of...."
Father, in Jesus' Name, I ask for greater understanding of "the real nature of." Amen.
************************
New, Commentary: www.antipasprayerforce.blogspot.com
Vote for your city's best dining and nightlife. City's Best 2008.
