Kris Vallotton, Senior Associate Leader at Bethel Church and co-founder of Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry, dives deep into the importance of discerning spirits. He illustrates how spiritual insight can empower the Church, drawing on biblical figures like Abraham and Moses. Vallotton emphasizes that our struggles extend beyond the physical realm, urging listeners to adopt a third Heaven perspective. He shares practical applications of discernment in relationships and highlights the critical role humility plays in distinguishing true divine guidance.
The necessity for the Church to grow in the discernment of spirits is emphasized as crucial for spiritual understanding and leadership.
Kris Vallotton draws parallels between historical figures like Hezekiah and Peter to illustrate that failures can lead to redemption and empowerment.
The podcast encourages the practice and impartation of discernment as a means for individuals to navigate spiritual complexities and support their communities.
Deep dives
The Zeal of Hezekiah
Hezekiah is highlighted as a king who demonstrates unwavering zeal for the Lord by dismantling high places and rebelling against the oppressive Assyrian king. Despite his efforts, Hezekiah finds himself in panic when threatened by the Assyrian army, leading him to try to appease the enemy by offering treasures from the temple. His story serves as an analogy for individuals facing spiritual attacks after making personal commitments to God. The message emphasizes that such challenges are not meant for destruction, but rather for growth and the eventual defeat of spiritual enemies.
Restoration and Redemption
The narrative compares the experiences of Hezekiah and Peter, who both faced moments of betrayal and failure. While Peter denied Christ, he was forgiven and reinstated by God, contrasting with Judas, who took his own life after his betrayal. This illustrates that what appears to be disqualification can actually lead to redemption and empowerment within one's spiritual journey. The message encourages listeners to embrace their restoration, reinforcing that God can transform their perceived failures into opportunities for leadership and increased faith.
The Gift of Discernment
The gift of discerning spirits is presented as crucial for the modern church, surpassing even prophetic gifts in its importance. Understanding that humans coexist with both heavenly beings and dark forces, this gift helps individuals recognize the motivations behind various situations and relationships. Paul emphasizes that spiritual discernment allows the faithful to learn and relate to one another beyond mere human understanding, encouraging a deeper connection with both oneself and others. The call is made for believers to enhance their spiritual intelligence through this gift.
Understanding Demonic Influence
The podcast discusses the nature of spiritual discernment, especially concerning demonic influences and how they can affect individuals' moods and perceptions. Experiences are shared about recognizing when unsettling feelings or thoughts arise in context to discerning someone's spiritual state or external influences. The importance of understanding that not every negative feeling equates to a personal flaw is emphasized, suggesting that spiritual problems often require spiritual solutions rather than mere physical or medical interventions. This awareness aids in effective ministry and supports the premise that many people could possess the gift of discernment without realizing it.
Impartation of Spiritual Gifts
The impartation of spiritual gifts, specifically discernment, is addressed as a process where individuals can receive and subsequently share these gifts within their families or communities. By encouraging members to practice this gift, the message highlights the collective growth and empowerment that can follow. Followers are led to believe that through receiving discernment, they can better navigate complex spiritual scenarios and support others in their families through spiritual growth. The podcast concludes with a prayer for listeners to receive and effectively manage these gifts as they seek to enhance their understanding and experience of spiritual matters.
In this compelling sermon delivered on March 10th, 2024, at Bethel Church in Redding, California, Kris Vallotton presents a powerful message on the necessity for the Church to grow in the discernment of spirits, drawing upon the lives of Abraham and Moses as examples. He emphasizes that our battle is not against flesh and blood, but against spiritual forces, and reminds us that we are seated with Christ in Heavenly realms. Vallotton highlights how discernment enables us to perceive challenges from both the first and second heavens through the lens of a third Heaven perspective.
Connect with Kris Vallotton:
Website: https://www.krisvallotton.com/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/kvministries/
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/kvministries/
Twitter: https://twitter.com/kvministries
Additional Resources by Kris Vallotton: https://shop.bethel.com/collections/kris-vallotton
About Kris Vallotton:
Kris Vallotton is the Senior Associate Leader of Bethel Church, Redding, and is the Co-Founder of Bethel School of Supernatural Ministry (BSSM) and Spiritual Intelligence Institute. He is also the Founder and President of Moral Revolution and a sought-after international conference speaker. Kris and his wife, Kathy, have trained, developed, and pastored prophetic teams and supernatural schools all over the world.
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