Biblical Reasons Why Cessationism Can't Be Biblical

 BIBLICAL REASONS WHY CESSATIONISM CAN'T BE BIBLICAL

Cessationism is the belief that certain spiritual gifts, such as speaking in tongues, prophecy, and healing, ceased to exist or are no longer active in the present time. While some individuals hold this belief, there are biblical reasons why cessationism may be seen as inconsistent with the teachings of Scripture. 

Numerous Scriptural Evidence of Continuation

One of the main arguments against cessationism is the lack of clear biblical evidence that spiritual gifts have ceased. In 1 Corinthians 1:7, the apostle Paul speaks of eagerly awaiting the revelation of Jesus Christ and says that believers do not lack any spiritual gift. Additionally, in 1 Corinthians 12-14, Paul provides guidelines for the proper use of spiritual gifts within the church, indicating that they were a regular part of the early Christian community.

Lack of Any Explicit Scriptural Evidence on Cessation

Cessationism often relies on the interpretation of certain biblical passages, such as 1 Corinthians 13:8-10, which mentions the temporary nature of certain gifts. However, this passage does not explicitly state that spiritual gifts have ceased. Instead, it suggests that these gifts will pass away when the perfect comes, which is often understood to refer to the second coming of Christ.

Jesus' Promise of Power was for All Times 

The promise of the Father or Jesus' promise of power was not only for the Apostles but to all that will hear them. In Luke 24:49, Jesus Christ said, "And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high." In Acts 1:8, Jesus promises his disciples that they will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon them. This power was demonstrated through the manifestation of spiritual gifts. It is argued that if these gifts were meant to be temporary or cease after the early apostolic era, Jesus' promise of power loses its significance.

Evidences from Church History and Christian Experiences and Practice

Cessationism is not a universally held belief among Christians throughout history or across different denominations. Many believers, both historically and in contemporary times, continue to experience and emphasize the operation of spiritual gifts within their faith communities. This diversity of practice suggests that cessationism may not be consistent with the ongoing and varied experiences of believers worldwide.

The Need for Continuous Spiritual Gifts for the Edification of the Body of Christ

The Bible teaches that the body of Christ is composed of diverse individuals with different spiritual gifts and functions (1 Corinthians 12:12-31). If cessationism were true, it would imply that certain members of the body are no longer functioning as intended, which raises questions about the unity and purpose of the church.

The Continuous Nature of God's Work

The cessationist viewpoint may imply limitations on God's continual involvement in the world and the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit. The Bible portrays God as actively working through the Holy Spirit to empower and equip believers for ministry (Acts 2:17-18, Ephesians 4:11-13).

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