Experiential Knowledge or Divine Revelation?
1st Corinthians 2:12
Redemption is not contingent on my personal experience; rather, it is an inherent and undeniable reality. The concept of redemption holds no true significance for me unless it is actively manifested in my conscious existence. Upon my rebirth, the Spirit of God transcends my individuality and personal encounters, establishing a profound connection between myself and Jesus Christ. If I rely just on my personal experiences, I possess something that is not derived from salvation. However, the transformative effects of redemption are evident as they guide me to transcend my own limitations, to the extent that I no longer prioritize experiences as the foundation of reality. However, I see that the experiences were solely generated by the actuality itself. My experiences hold no value until they anchor me to the ultimate source of truth— Jesus Christ.
If you attempt to restrain the Holy Spirit residing within you, in an effort to generate additional internal spiritual encounters, you will discover that He will overcome the restraint and guide you back to the historical figure of Christ. Avoid endorsing any experience that lacks God as its origin and trust in God as its outcome. Engaging in such behavior results in an experience that contradicts Christian principles, regardless of any visions or insights one may have encountered. Does Jesus Christ hold dominion over your experiences, or do you prioritize your experiences over Him? Is there any experience more cherished to you than your Lord? To truly surrender, you must grant Him authority over your life and disregard any encounter in which He does not hold dominion. Eventually, there will be a moment when God will cause you to lose patience with your own encounters, and you will sincerely declare, "I am indifferent to whatever I may encounter—I am confident in His existence!"
Exhibit unwavering determination and hold oneself to high standards if you tend to engage in discussing the experiences you have undergone. Belief grounded in personal encounters lacks the essence of true belief; only belief rooted in God's disclosed veracity constitutes genuine belief.