Seeing with New Eyes

2 Corinthians 5:16-17 - 16 Consequently, from now on we estimate and regard no one from a [purely] human point of view [in terms of natural standards of value]. [No] even though we once did estimate Christ from a human viewpoint and as a man, yet now [we have such knowledge of Him that] we know Him no longer [in terms of the flesh]. 17 Therefore if any person is [ingrafted] in Christ (the Messiah) he is a new creation (a new creature altogether); the old [previous moral and spiritual condition] has passed away. Behold, the fresh and new has come!

Paul makes it clear that we once viewed Christ from a "worldly" point of view, but we do so no longer.  We no longer view Him as merely "a carpenter's son" from Nazareth, but as the Son of the Living God!  Likewise, the Apostolic Way Makers must also be able to see the lost through new eyes. In order to do that, our minds must be renewed by the Word of God (Rom. 12:1-2).  To receive a fresh perspective, two things are required:


   1.  Humility - we are not to think more highly of ourselves than we should
   2.  Repentance - we have to "change our minds"; turnaround and go in a different direction

Only after we surrender to this work of the Holy Spirit, can we begin to receive a fresh perspective from heaven so that we no longer see the lost for:

  -  their appearance, race, or gender
  -  what they can do for us or our ministry
  -  material possessions
  -  their level of education,
  -  their station in life, or their economic status;

but as those who, regardless of their worldly status, are dead in their trespasses and sins and in need of a savior, Jesus Christ.  When we see them from Heaven's perspective, we can minister to their "real" need without being blinded/influenced by what we see in the natural.  We have to be able to discern beyond their faults (and worldly trappings), to see their inward need.

By the grace of God and the power of the Holy Spirit, Way Makers (the end-time Apostles) are empowered to prepare the way of the Lord, speaking prophetically to the issues of the heart, allowing the healing power of reconciliation to take place. Then old things are indeed passed away; behold, all things are become new!!

This requires spending time in the Presence of God, developing an "ear to hear" and a boldness and courage to speak out for God when called upon to do so.  As I begin to step out more and more in prophetic ministry, I am seeing God meet me and meet the need.  It is exciting to see what God is doing and how He will use me to meet the needs of others.

Way Maker, this is the price of Apostolic leadership:  we must "let go" of every personal, societal and cultural filter that hinders us from ministering from a pure heart to a lost and dying world.

Until you are ready and willing to "let go", you cannot fully enter into the Apostolic call.
Are you ready to "let go"?