Monday Sep 18, 2023

”This Is How We Respond To The Counterfeit” _Todd Coconato Radio Show

"This Is How We Respond To The Counterfeit" -- The Todd Coconato Radio Show

In the Bible, there are instances where the devil or evil spirits attempt to imitate or counterfeit the work of God's Holy Spirit. Here are some examples with their full scriptural references and brief explanations:

1. **The Witch of Endor - 1 Samuel 28:3-25**:
- **Scriptural Reference**: 1 Samuel 28:3-25
- **Commentary**: Saul consulted a medium, the witch of Endor, in an attempt to contact the spirit of Samuel, a prophet of God who had died. This act involved necromancy and was contrary to God's commandments. The devil can deceive through practices that seem spiritual but are rooted in the occult.

2. **Simon the Sorcerer - Acts 8:9-24**:
- **Scriptural Reference**: Acts 8:9-24
- **Commentary**: Simon, a magician, was amazed by the miracles performed by the apostles and wanted to buy the ability to bestow the Holy Spirit by laying on of hands. Peter rebuked him for trying to purchase spiritual gifts, showing that the devil can corrupt spiritual experiences for personal gain.

3. **The Seven Sons of Sceva - Acts 19:13-16**:
- **Scriptural Reference**: Acts 19:13-16
- **Commentary**: These Jewish exorcists attempted to cast out demons using the name of Jesus, whom they didn't personally believe in. The possessed man overpowered them, demonstrating that invoking the name of Jesus without genuine faith can be ineffective and even dangerous.

4. **False Prophets and False Signs - Matthew 24:24**:
- **Scriptural Reference**: Matthew 24:24
- **Commentary**: Jesus warned about false prophets and false Christs who would perform great signs and wonders to deceive, if possible, even the elect. This highlights the deceptive nature of counterfeit spiritual experiences.

5. **The Temptation of Jesus - Matthew 4:1-11**:
- **Scriptural Reference**: Matthew 4:1-11
- **Commentary**: Satan tempted Jesus by quoting Scripture and offering worldly power. However, Jesus discerned the deception and countered with the truth of God's Word. This illustrates how the devil can twist Scripture and offer false promises to mislead.

These examples serve as warnings against deception and the misuse of spiritual experiences. They emphasize the importance of discernment, a deep understanding of God's Word, and a genuine relationship with the Holy Spirit to avoid falling prey to counterfeit spiritual influences.

There are numerous instances in the Bible where the Spirit of the Lord was poured out, empowering individuals or groups for various purposes. Here are some examples with their scriptural references and brief commentary:

1. **Pentecost - Acts 2:1-4**:
- **Scriptural Reference**: Acts 2:1-4
- **Commentary**: On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles in the form of tongues of fire, enabling them to speak in languages they didn't know. This event marked the birth of the Christian Church and demonstrated the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in equipping believers for evangelism.

2. **Anointing of David - 1 Samuel 16:13**:
- **Scriptural Reference**: 1 Samuel 16:13
- **Commentary**: Samuel anointed David with oil, and the Spirit of the Lord came powerfully upon him. This anointing prepared David for his future role as king of Israel, illustrating how the Spirit empowers individuals for specific purposes.

3. **Ezekiel's Vision of Dry Bones - Ezekiel 37:1-14**:
- **Scriptural Reference**: Ezekiel 37:1-14
- **Commentary**: In this vision, the Spirit of the Lord brought life to dry, dead bones, symbolizing God's power to restore Israel. It illustrates how the Holy Spirit can revive and renew spiritually dead situations.

4. **The Baptism of Jesus - Matthew 3:16-17**:
- **Scriptural Reference**: Matthew 3:16-17
- **Commentary**: When Jesus was baptized, the Holy Spirit descended upon Him in the form of a dove, and the Father's voice affirmed His divine Sonship. This event marked the beginning of Jesus' earthly ministry and highlighted the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering Him.

5. **The Day of Atonement - Leviticus 16:12-13**:
- **Scriptural Reference**: Leviticus 16:12-13
- **Commentary**: On the Day of Atonement, the high priest entered the Holy of Holies with incense, representing the prayers of the people, and the Spirit of the Lord manifested in the cloud. This symbolized God's presence and forgiveness, emphasizing the importance of ritual purity.

The Bible emphasizes various principles and virtues for pleasing the Lord and fostering an environment where the Holy Spirit can work. While interpretations may vary among denominations and individuals, some key ingredients include:

1. **Faith**: Believing in God and trusting in His plan is foundational.

2. **Love**: Loving God and one's neighbors is a central commandment.

3. **Repentance**: Turning away from sin and seeking forgiveness is essential.

4. **Obedience**: Following God's commandments and teachings is important.

5. **Prayer**: Regular communication with God through prayer deepens the relationship.

6. **Worship**: Praising and honoring God through worship services and personal devotion.

7. **Fruit of the Spirit**: Cultivating qualities like love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control, as mentioned in Galatians 5:22-23.

8. **Humility**: Recognizing one's need for God and not exalting oneself.

9. **Service**: Serving others in love and humility, as exemplified by Jesus.

10. **Community**: Being part of a Christian community for support, accountability, and growth.

11. **Scripture**: Studying and meditating on the Bible for guidance and wisdom.

12. **Sacrifice**: Willingness to make personal sacrifices for God and others.