FP has become kind of a central warehouse for students of Bible prophecy. I like to spend time on our discussion board just to see what news our members are posting and what others have to say about it. However, the discussions aren't always about prophecy. And, sometimes they take a turn that concerns me. One of these turns is to the supernatural.

The Apostle Paul was concerned about this issue too. In fact, when he began his discussion on the supernatural, he started with a warning. Paul said:

Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware. You know that when you were pagans, you were led astray to the dumb idols, however you were led. Therefore I make known to you that no one speaking by the Spirit of God says, "Jesus is accursed"; and no one can say, "Jesus is Lord," except by the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 12:1-3 New American Standard Bible).

One of the things that interests me is the tremendous freedom that Paul allows us in expressing our spiritual gifts. Yet, at the same time, Paul gives a stern warning and places strict limits. The fact is, once we enter into the realm of the supernatural, we had better be careful. And, if that was true for early Christians not long from their demonic pagan experiences, how much more true would it be for us modern, Western style Christians who have little or no such past encounters.

Today, as it was in Paul's day, the subject of spiritual gifts can be very divisive. But, it shouldn't be. In the following three chapters Paul lays down principles that, if we follow them, will help keep us safe in the supernatural realm. Unfortunately, we don't always follow them. As a result, we can become exposed to some things that are very dangerous. I'm talking about the things of which both Peter and Jude warn (2 Peter 2:1-22, Jude 1-16). I recommend that you read and take seriously these passages because, once again, not everyone among us is working by the power of God. And to know the difference, you need to know the Bible.

Friends, listen to me: Mature Christians should never allow themselves to be impressed with the supernatural. If we are impressed by it, it only reveals our unbelief. You see, the Bible tells us the supernatural is a very natural part of being a Christian. And, if we allow ourselves to become impressed by it, Satan will quickly use the supernatural to mislead us -- just like Paul warns.

The Bible tells us where Satan wants to take us. He wants to break us away from trusting in the simple gospel for our salvation and start following after his false prophets and teachers. Ultimately, Satan's goal is to lead us, and all humankind, away from the God of the Bible and into worshipping him. But, he knows better than to do it too quickly. So, he does it in the way that Paul says.

That's why Paul warns about ignorance in this regard. Remember, Paul said, "Now concerning spiritual gifts, brethren, I do not want you to be unaware." But, when I read some of the posts on our discussion board,  it becomes evident that many of God's people are very unaware.

Friends, don't be impressed with the supernatural.