Why are there so many people in the Christian ministry who are not hearing from the Lord? Some of them, like Absalom, are highly esteemed by the people. They seem to be preaching the Gospel. In actuality they are imitators. Those who truly have been sent by the Lord appear at times to be outnumbered.

Perhaps there are two motivations. The first motivation, that which inspires people to seek high rank in the church world, is common to rulers in all areas of endeavor. It is the desire for status, fame, wealth, the authority and power to govern one's fellow creatures. This motivation proceeds from man's self-will and self-love and often is strengthened by Satan.

For thou hast said in thine heart, I will ascend into heaven, I will exalt my throne above the stars of God: I will sit also upon the mount of the congregation, in the sides of the north: (Isaiah 14:13)

People who seek authority over other people have many explanations why they actually are benefactors—helpers of the people whom they govern. In church circles the excuse is that by seeking to be a leader they actually are helping God build His Kingdom.

The truth is, they desire to be preeminent. Unless it indeed is the Lord who is guiding us in our endeavors to govern, we are being moved by self-seeking.

The second motivation, which is restricted to areas of religious activity, is the feeling of deliciousness that is present when one is dealing with the supernatural. There is a deliciousness in spiritual things. There is a deliciousness in preaching and some preachers have a lust to preach. They are not faithful "Cushites," as were the Apostles of the Lamb. They enjoy preaching and the accompanying spiritual deliciousness.

Deep in the spirit of mankind is buried the memory of the delights of Eden. Also in the spirit of mankind is an anticipation of the Kingdom of God, of Paradise in the spirit realm, and of the return of Paradise to the earth. Eternal wonder, glory, delights of every sort are just around the corner.

The true saints bow their neck and take the yoke of the Lord Jesus. They know glory is coming but also that there is work to be done first.

Babylon is institutionalized religion—religion organized and directed by man rather than by the Lord. The ways of Babylon are delicious for they include a dabbling in the spirit realm, anticipating Paradise that has been and Paradise that is coming. Satan, the false day star, is active among the members of Babylon.

For all nations have drunk of the wine of the wrath of her fornication, and the kings of the earth have committed fornication with her, and the merchants of the earth are waxed rich through the abundance of her delicacies. (Revelation 18:3)

To be continued.