Holy Boldness

In Isaiah 11, there is an amazing prophecy describing the coming messiah: “ And his delight shall be in the fear of the LORD. He shall not judge by what his eyes see, or decide disputes by what his ears hear, but with righteousness he shall judge the poor, and decide with equity for the meek of the earth…”. (Isaiah 11:3-4) We referenced this scripture earlier in the book but it bears repeating. This Messianic prophecy from Isaiah describes Jesus. V. 3 says that “his delight shall be in the fear of the Lord…” and then it immediately states that he shall judge with righteousness. Of all the seven spirits of God only the spirit of the “fear of the Lord” is said to be delighted in by the Messiah. The Hebrew word translated “delight” literally means to “smell with pleasure… ” Interestingly, the nose is often associated with true discernment. Therefore, it is said of the Messiah that he will not judge by his eyes or ears “ …but with righteousness (through the smelling of the fear of the Lord) he will judge the poor and will decide with equity for the meek of the earth.” The poor and the meek are two of the categories of people that Jesus identified as “ blessed” in the beatitudes. In a superficial or judg mental culture, these two categories of people are often misjudged. That’s the characteristic irony of the beatitudes. But when Messiah comes and the fear of the Lord is present, these people get a true evaluation. They will not be judged by outward appearances but by internal realities. Thus, true discernment never judges by appearances. It looks at the heart. This is why Jesus urged caution when it comes to judgment. When the fear of the Lord becomes part of the culture, transparency will abound in relationships. In that culture, everything comes into the light and becomes clear because seeing things with a clear focus and open face is a commitment that everyone buys into. Those who do not know how to navigate a transparent culture will simply walk away. It’s too intense. For many years superficiality has ruled the church. But that day is coming to a close as God invades His people with light. “Arise and shine!” (Isaiah 60:1)

Appropriate Discrimination: Pearls before Swine

Jesus encouraged His followers to discern their audience. Not everyone can handle transparency or certain truths. When a community becomes open, honest and transparent, it’s a beautiful thing but it is also

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