Transformers

Extract 96
I can't stop laughing!

John and I have just come home after walking around the city. Peter and the others wanted a revolution and they've got one – but but so much more profound than they ever imagined possible. They wanted the drama of violently replacing one authority for another – in the end nothing much would have changed. Instead through these eklesia, little groups of people brought to real life by the Spirit of Jesus, the city is unrecognisable. Sworn enemies holding out hands in genuine friendship, families reconciled after years of hurt, sicknesses and evil spirits being cast out – the oppressed being set free. Real life is flooding back, John tells me that the whole economy of Jerusalem is being transformed – people aren't buying as much because they are sharing what they have meaning they have more money to give to the poor. I've noticed it already – there aren't as many beggars or homeless people. Of course it means that some corrupt businesses aren't doing as well and although people are going to the Temple in even bigger numbers, they aren't buying sacrifice animals as much – they don't need to, Jesus is their sacrifice. Just weeks ago, Jesus had to use force to to get rid of the traders so that the women and Gemtiles could worship. Today the traders had gone and the courts were full of all nations praising God.

Jesus did amazing miracles over these last three years, but this is even more extraordinary. This fire isn't just changing a few lives.

This could change the world and I don't think even the powers of hell can stop it.

Extract 97
Of course, there are some who still refuse to see what is in front of their eyes. All they see is a loss of income or an eroding of authority – they don't see that it was income from ungodly business or authority based on power & tyranny - but nonetheless, eventually they will fight back I'm sure. Even now, in the midst of this incredible blessing there are complaints! Those who a few weeks ago had nothing, now complaining that they aren't receiving as much as others! Of course, until they receive the real gift, their stomachs may be better fed, but their hearts will remain cold, immune to the warming love of Jesus.

Peter and the others have appointed seven administrators to help distribute the food and money being given to help the poor. I understand the reason, but we're supposed to be a radically new kingdom rooted in the love of God – and it's working! If we're not careful we'll simply become an alternative to the old priesthood and synagogue system.