3. Three Main Ways We Receive the Word of God 1. DIRECTLY  A voice or inspired thought in our minds which we attribute to God  Various events in day to day life, within which we feel God speaks to us  Divine dialogue - in the context of Spirit-led prayer and personal prophecy  Visions - a vivid mental picture while awake; usually only evident to the seer  Dreams - a strong and often reoccurring dream; usually rich in symbolism  Audible voice (this is rare and not typically heard by others)

4. Directly STRENGTHS  A Sensitivity to the Holy Spirit  Passion for and intimacy with God  Responsiveness and flexibility WEAKNESSES (if not balanced with other means of hearing)  Errors in accuracy, interpretation, discernment, and timing  Independence and pride  Emotional instability

5. Three Main Ways We Receive the Word of God 2. THE BIBLE  Reading, studying, memorizing, and meditating on the Scriptures  Reading and listening to sound teaching and exposition of The Word

6. The Bible STRENGTHS  Accuracy in knowledge of God  Balance and stability in faith  Wisdom and strength WEAKNESSES (if not balanced with other means of hearing)  Independence and pride  Tendency towards being non-relational  Tendency towards judgement and legalism

7. Three Main Ways We Receive the Word of God 3. THROUGH PEOPLE  Counsel, encouragement and admonishment of leaders  Prophetic word brought personally or corporately  Conversation - instruction, challenge and encouragement through the Church and beyond

8. Through People STRENGTHS  Humility and love for the Church  Deep relationships and strong friendships  Teachable and responsive to leadership WEAKNESSES (if not balanced with other means of hearing)  Unhealthy dependency on people, thus prone to disappointment  Weakness in the maturity that comes from self-feeding  Lacking confidence and faith in the ability to personally know God’s voice