V. Purposes for the Manifestations

1. God often chooses foolish things to accomplish His work (1 Cor. 1:27-28). He offends the mind to test the heart. In the account of the outpouring of the Spirit at Pentecost in Acts 2:12-13, some people were amazed, some perplexed, and some mocked. We continue to see these three responses to the work of the Spirit today. This "way of God" challenges our improper "control issues" and breaks down our unsanctified inhibitions and pride.

2. The demonstration of Gods power through signs and wonders -- signs point to the God who is beyond them; wonders cause intrigue concerning the mystery of Gods ways. God wants our faith to rest upon his power and not the wisdom of men's words (1 Cor 2:4-5).

3. Experiential intimacy with God -- knowing God and being known by Him.

4. Grace and power to overcome inner bondages -- fear, lust, pride, envy, greed, deceit, bitterness, etc.

5. Impartations of love, peace, joy, fear of God, etc.

6. Healings -- physical and emotional.

7. Bonding experiences with other believers -- relational barriers fall when people experience the Spirit's presence together.

8. Empowering for ministering to others -- anointing for service.

9. Release of Gods word -- prophetic sensitizing, powerful preaching.

10. Intercession -- apprehended for effective, Spirit-led prayer.

11. Enlarging and liberating of spiritual capacities.

12. The manifestations are given for refreshment, encouragement, and healing. This should lead to deeper discipleship (growth in faith, hope and love). This should then leads to effective evangelism and, hopefully, full revival.

Revised: October 19, 1995
URL: http://www.grmi.org/renewal/new-wine/articles/manifest/5.html