Does God communicate with people today? The answer may surprise some people but it is an emphatic YES! It is not a matter of IF but HOW. Most Bible readers know humans can pray to God. Certainly this is part of the communication process but it is only one half. When God answer prayers there is no verbal message. Answered prayer is not the other half of the communication between God and man.
So, how does God communicate to man today? The writer of Hebrews recorded, "God, who at various times and in various ways spoke in time past to the fathers by the prophets, {2} has in these last days spoken to us by His Son" (Heb. 1:1,2; NKJV). In the Old Testament period God used prophets to convey His message to mankind. The New Testament message was initially transmitted to man by Jesus teaching in his earthly ministry. We have the words of Christ recorded in the scriptures so God can "speak" His word to us.
There are several examples in the New Testament where the writer affirms that God speaks through His word. Consider Matthew 22:31,32 (NKJV) - "But concerning the resurrection of the dead, have you not read what was spoken to you by God, saying, {32} 'I am the God of Abraham, the God of Isaac, and the God of Jacob'?" The words Jesus quoted are written in the Old Testament yet He affirms God spoke through them to the Sadducees of the first century. Another example is found in Hebrews 12:5 - "And you have forgotten the exhortation which speaks to you as to sons: "My son, do not despise the chastening of the LORD, Nor be discouraged when you are rebuked by Him." In both cases God is pictured as speaking to people through His written word. Remember that the next time you read the Bible.
- Douglas Hoff; via The Lantern, Highway church of Christ, Sullivan, IL Visit their website as http://www.highwaycofc.com
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