Much damage has been done to the gospel by extremist behaviour. Balance is the key to avoiding fanaticism. Here are some objective guidelines for assessing spiritual expressions–

• Is it biblical? (i.e. does it agree with Scripture? 2 Timothy 3:14-17; Deut13:1-3)
• Is it bona fide? (i.e. is it genuine? Deuteronomy 18:21-22)
• Is it beneficial? (i.e. does it build people up? 1 Corinthians 14:12)
• Is it benevolent? (i.e. is it in the context of the fruit of the Spirit? Matthew 7:20)
• Is it balanced? (i.e. is it subject to consultation? Proverbs 11:14; 15:22)

Historically, God’s people have found it difficult to preserve the balance. We tend to go one way or the other.

To be strong in both Word and Spirit is the ideal.

This was clearly demonstrated in the ministry of Jesus.

• He began his ministry with teaching in the synagogues (Luke 4:14-15).
• He cast out demons and healed the sick (Luke 4:31-41)
• This was followed by more teaching and preaching (Luke 4:42-44).

He sustained this pattern for three years, expounding the Word, empowered by the Spirit.

He commissioned us to do the same thing (Mark 16:15-18, 20; Acts 1:8).

To read more on this topic see Living in the Image of God, Barry Chant (Miranda: Tabor, 2012 available in eBook and Paperback) from which this edited extract is taken.