Is the message here that if someone doesn't hold to Latter Rain theology that this means they are complacent, content, and not interested in growth?
No.
There . . . that's the heart of it. Right there. And there are many ways God uses for that to happen.
We should go by the way the text reads they did, however.
5 For our gospel did not come to you in word only, but also in power, and in the Holy Spirit and in much assurance... 8 From you the word of the Lord has sounded forth... and they themselves declare concerning us what manner of entry we had to you, and how you turned to God from idols to serve the living and true God, 10 and to wait for His Son from heaven, whom He raised from the dead, even Jesus who delivers us from the wrath to come. (1 Thessalonians 1:5-10)
The supernatural is all over this passage, Mark. The Lord confirmed that Jesus was the Son of God by
raising Him from the dead, and then poured out the same Spirit on the apostles and the early church, such that they presented the gospel with works of power like healings, exorcisms, prophecy, etc., to provide assurances that it was not something merely made up in the minds of men.
There's no need to think that way. That's not in my mind at all. I actually happen to think you're a smart fellow.
You said this applied to the dead, I was showing a response from Scripture is all. No personal assessments intended.
LoL. I consider myself middle of the road.
Kinda like Goldilock's porridge; not too hot, not too cold. But
oh, so delicious!
Isn't this saying man is in the driver's seat?
Well, now yes.
Or that God is always wanting to send revival to man who is frustrating Him?
Well, now no.
God is unable to work His purpose in His children?
Well, now yes again, Lol. I believe the Lord would have the church in a FAR better state than she is now, don't you? I think our deplorable spiritual state right now is the result of us not pursuing Him with our whole hearts. David brought up the Laodicean church, and it is a fitting example. I don't think the Lord wanted some churches to do really well and others do badly. I think those decisions were left up to each individual congregation. Same goes for the gifts of God. Paul said, "desire the greater gifts, and rather that you may prophesy," and "pray that he may interpret." This means the onus is on us, just like the onus is on us whether we will fully give ourselves to God or not, yes?
And yes, you have not because you ask not. But do you think you have to force God's hand? Reach some emotional frenzy? The fulfilling self-affirmation of human accomplishment?
Emotional frenzy?! Lol. Me still thinks you still have a rather bad impression of Pentecostalism. No, no one is forcing His hand. But what happens is, as our passage for this thread states, "To whom much is given, much will be required," and that is why the Lord puts a certain price tag on the gifts. He doesn't just dole them out willy nilly because there is a responsibility involved. They will be expected to handle the increased influence they have properly. This is why, in my experience and what I've seen of others I've known, the gifts generally only come to those who pay the price for them in prayer. Think of it as a kid wanting a car. His father knows better than to give it to him unless he has proven he can be responsible. Otherwise he may bring harm to his son, and possible damage to others. Same with the gifts. They carry responsibility. The last thing the world needs is another minister putting his hand out and saying, "Thus saith the Lord, PAY ME," and that's what we'd have a whole lot more of if the Lord gave most superficial believers today anything resembling serious spiritual power and influence.
It's not forcing His hand. It's more like convincing Him that it's ok to open it up, lest He fear us going out there and proverbially killing ourselves or others spiritually.
