When we allow ourselves to be defined by our financial prosperity, even known as “ridiculously generous,” that, at its root, is the biblical definition of the sin of immodesty.
Scripture reveals the early church brought all their proceeds, tithes, and offerings to the Apostles (Acts 4:35). Then, God-ordained leaders could prayerfully decide how funds would be used to advance Christ’s kingdom according to the Father’s will by the Spirit’s power.
Ministry has never been individuals doing whatever they see fit to do in their own eyes (Judges 21:25). The first two deciding for themselves how “ministry” should be done apart from the church, Ananias and Sapphira, they dropped dead on the spot because of their immodesty.
In bringing our whole tithe, all our firstfruits, all the proceeds… and laying them down in faith, the Lord and His Bride are always the focus of people’s thanksgiving and praise… not immodest individuals with deep pockets overflowing with the best of intentions.
Immodesty is not, at its core, a sin about dress or skin. Instead, it’s a sin about how we flaunt wealth, albeit unintentionally, drawing attention away from Christ and His Bride to ourselves… especially through our “random acts of kindness” rather than exclusively through the ministries of the church.
The immodest (idol of wealth) are mentioned in Revelation 21:8, right along with: “the cowardly, the unbelieving, the vile, the murderers, the sexually immoral, manipulators, the idolaters and all liars—they will be consigned to the fiery lake of burning sulfur.”
The immodest seem to be those mavericks of Matt 7:22 who have said the right words with their lips, “Lord, Lord,” yet are doing whatever “ministry” (casting out demons, prophesying, and great miracles - all “in Your Name!”) they see fit apart from the authority and accountability of the Body of Christ.
If our “ministry” is disconnected from God-ordained leaders, gifts Christ has given to Himself (Eph 4:10) for the health and prosperity of His Bride… we should recall Jesus’ words, “apart from Me you can do nothing.”
To those doing autonomous “ministry,” King Jesus reveals, “I will tell them plainly, ‘I never knew you. Away from me you evildoers!’”
In redefining ministry, modesty, and worship… effectively redefining Christianity… we’re teetering over the edge and flirting with disaster. That’s why King Jesus preached, first and foremost, a simple message of repentance (Matt 4:17) so rarely heard in churches and sermons today.
Lord, help us to repent of the sin of immodesty, taking the spotlight off ourselves and putting it where it always belonged… because it’s all about You, Jesus! -Amen!
Blessings,
-PK
https://www.unstoppablekidsbook.com/
