Do I have my own "private prayer language"? 10 Qs with Mike Winger (Ep 50)
May 2, 2025
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The discussion kicks off with the intriguing concept of a 'private prayer language' and its biblical foundations. Listeners dive into the complexities of shame and pride, exploring whether they are intertwined. The importance of faith and doubt is highlighted, particularly in relation to personal struggles. The podcast also touches on the significance of choosing a denomination and whether it's essential for newcomers to faith. Lastly, it delves into progressive sanctification, questioning the nature of spiritual growth post-salvation.
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Quick takeaways
The podcast examines whether all Christians possess a private prayer language, particularly addressing the scriptural basis behind speaking in tongues.
The importance of accountability and character integrity in church leadership is emphasized to prevent abuse and maintain trust within congregations.
Discussions about sensitive topics like sexual orientation are encouraged to be approached with love and scripture-based compassion for effective communication.
Deep dives
The Role of Scripture in Addressing Church Abuse
Scripture is emphasized as crucial not only for establishing theological beliefs but also for shaping practical applications in church communities. The focus is on how adhering to biblical mandates regarding leadership and church governance can significantly reduce incidents of abuse within charismatic churches. The insistence on character qualifications over skills for leaders highlights the importance of integrity and humility, aiming to eliminate elitism that fosters abuse. Additionally, the proper handling of accusations against elders, as prescribed in scripture, is presented as essential for maintaining a healthy church environment.
The Debate Around Private Prayer Languages
The idea of having a personal prayer language, particularly in the context of speaking in tongues, is scrutinized through biblical examination. Early teachings often suggested that every believer should possess their own private prayer language, but a closer inspection of Romans 8 reveals a different understanding. The passage discusses the Holy Spirit's intercession in times of weakness, emphasizing that this assistance does not necessarily equate to speaking in tongues. The risk of creating undue pressure on individuals who do not experience this phenomenon is addressed, indicating that such expectations can lead to feelings of inadequacy.
Understanding Leadership and Accountability in Churches
Biblical standards for leadership within church communities stress the necessity for accountability and integrity among elders. Specific instructions for publicly addressing the sin of leaders are highlighted, reflecting the importance of transparency and justice in maintaining trust within the church. The approach to handling allegations and sin among leadership is rooted in scriptural teachings to prevent misuse of authority and protect congregants. Such practices are vital for cultivating an environment where the character and moral standing of leaders are continually examined against biblical principles.
The Significance of Community in Church Membership
The question of church membership and denominational affiliation is explored, advising individuals to take their time when deciding on membership in a particular denomination. The importance of understanding core theological beliefs as opposed to peripheral issues is emphasized to ensure that members align with the faith's primary tenets. There is encouragement to engage in community while being open to change, which reflects a healthy approach to church membership rather than feeling confined by rigid denominational structures. This perspective aims to foster a sense of belonging while allowing for personal spiritual growth.
Navigating Personal Relationships with Compassion
The challenge of discussing difficult topics, such as sexual orientation within the context of Christianity, is discussed with an emphasis on approaching conversations with love and gentleness. Equipping oneself with scriptural truths is essential for addressing situations where loved ones may be straying from biblical teachings. James 5:19-20 is referenced to encourage believers to restore those wandering from the faith, highlighting the importance of hope and compassion in discussions about faith. The need for self-awareness and humility when addressing sin in others is emphasized to maintain healthy relationships while sharing the truth.
1. 1:48 {Do All Christians Have the Gift of Tongues?} Do Christians all have access to a “private prayer language” (speaking in tongues) according to Scripture? 2. 11:31 {A Judgment for Widows?} What is the judgment put on widows in 1 Timothy 5:12, and how do we know we can change course without judgment? Does it apply to keeping an unchanging devotion time with God? My goals can get legalistic. 3. 22:05 {Slaves or Brothers?} Why in Scripture are we told we are the slaves of Christ, as well as the brothers of Christ? 4. 24:57 {Shame and Pride Related?} Is the feeling of shame the byproduct of pride? 5. 28:07 {Permissible Doubts vs. Double-mindedness} Can you explain the difference between the man in Mark 9:24 and the double-minded man talked about in James 1:5-8? I find myself relating to the former a lot, but I also fear being double-minded. 6. 37:36 {Choosing a Denomination: Important?} Do you think it's important to choose a denomination? I have people pressuring me to choose one, but I don't feel ready to do that (I'm new) and I’m wondering if it's important at all. 7. 42:52 {Is Progressive Sanctification Biblical?} While I know sanctification is real and biblical, if we are dead to sin after salvation as mentioned in Romans 7, why do we need progressive sanctification? 8. 55:34 {Witnessing to an LGBTQ+ Family Member} My aunt is gay but claims to be a Christian. I have never talked with her about this, but I feel I am doing her a disservice by not lovingly sharing the truth with her. How can I go about this? 9. 1:00:37 {Tourism or Idolatry?} I’m planning a trip to Japan and would like to visit some of the shrines for the tourism aspect, but I don’t want to sin against God or put my family at risk of demonic exposure. Is this acceptable? 10. 1:07:01 {Believing & Receiving Biblically} How do I pray for something and believe I’ve received it (Mark 11:24) such as healing or peace, if I don't know how God is using the illness or anxiety in my life or someone else's life?
A serious study of the best name-it-and-claim-it verse: Click Here
I have the following study for the passage in Romans 7 that was asked about today: Click Here
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