Brief Summary
In this video, Benny Hinn discusses the importance of knowing and internalising the Word of God for spiritual nourishment and strength, especially in these times. He emphasises that simply reading the Bible for information isn't enough; one must seek to know Jesus through the scriptures, allowing the Holy Spirit to bring the Word to life. Hinn also shares insights on meditation, apprehension, assimilation and application of the Word, illustrating how these practices lead to a restored soul, wisdom, freedom from sin, and a fruitful life. He encourages viewers to actively seek the Word daily, meditate upon it, and apply it to their lives for spiritual and practical success.
- Importance of knowing the Word of God for spiritual nourishment and strength.
- Knowing Jesus through scripture, not just reading for information.
- Meditation, apprehension, assimilation and application of the Word.
- Giving financially to the work of the Lord as an act of faith.
Introduction: The Importance of Knowing the Word of God
Benny Hinn opens by expressing gratitude to the viewers and introduces the topic of the importance of knowing the Word of God. He stresses the need to understand the depth of scripture and the mind of God, especially given the increasing dangers in the world. Hinn challenges viewers to get to know the mind of God, emphasising that the Word of God is a source of light and strength in dark times. He references the scripture stating that while gross darkness covers the earth, the glory of the Lord will be seen upon believers.
Three Keys to Longevity in Ministry
Hinn shares advice he gave to his son-in-law, Michael Koulianos, regarding longevity in ministry. The three keys are: building a reservoir of the Word of God, clinging to Jesus (which is enabled by the Word), and never abandoning one's calling, as there is protection within it. He uses the analogy of a car needing gasoline (the Word of God) to run, even with the gift of the car itself (eternal life). Similarly, prayer is the key to ignite the engine.
Daily Bread: The Necessity of Seeking the Word Daily
Drawing from Exodus 16:4, Hinn explains that God provides the Word, but it is our responsibility to seek it out daily. Just as the Israelites had to gather manna each day, believers must actively read and feed upon the Word of God. He warns against living on "leftovers" from previous days, as the Word needs to be received fresh daily to combat the flesh and prevent spiritual "rust." He references Exodus 16:19-20, where the leftover manna bred worms and stank, illustrating the importance of daily nourishment from the Word.
Jesus as the Bread of Life
Hinn quotes John 6:32-35, where Jesus declares himself to be the bread of life. He explains that through the Word, we receive the knowledge of Jesus, not just doctrinal information. He contrasts this with Saul of Tarsus, who knew the Bible but persecuted the church because he did not know the Lord through the Word. Hinn stresses the importance of inviting the Holy Spirit to make the Bible alive, revealing Jesus through the scriptures.
Meditation on the Word: Thoughts, Not Just Chapters
Hinn shares his approach to reading the Bible, focusing on thoughts rather than just chapters. He uses Romans as an example, breaking it down into sections based on themes like justification (Romans 1-5), sanctification (Romans 6-7), and glorification (Romans 8). He explains that meditating on these thoughts allows them to move from the mind to the heart, bringing life.
Bible Study vs. Bible Meditation
Hinn differentiates between Bible study and Bible meditation. Bible study emphasises the mind and intellectual knowledge, while meditation focuses on the heart. He explains that meditation involves intellectually processing the Word first, then allowing it to activate the heart, leading to fellowship with God and lifegiving prayer.
The Law of the Lord: Restoring the Soul and Giving Wisdom
Referring to Psalm 19:7, Hinn explains that the law of the Lord is perfect, converting (restoring) the soul. He notes that the testimony of the Lord gives wisdom to the simple. He highlights that when the Word becomes active through meditation, it restores the inner being and provides wisdom.
Apprehension: Understanding and Freedom from Sin
Hinn discusses apprehension, referencing Psalm 119:99, where the writer claims more understanding than his teachers because of meditating on God's testimonies. He explains that apprehension begins when meditation begins, leading to spiritual insight and freedom from sin. He quotes Psalm 119:1-2, emphasising that those who keep God's testimony and seek Him with a whole heart will walk in His ways and avoid iniquity.
Assimilation: Spiritual Nourishment and Character Formation
Hinn describes assimilation as the stage where the spirit is fed and spiritual food is processed through meditation. This process develops the spiritual digestive system, allowing the Word to form spiritual character. He quotes Psalm 63:5, where the soul is satisfied as with marrow and fatness, leading to joyful praise. He connects this to Colossians 3:16, where the Word dwelling richly leads to teaching, admonishing, and singing with grace in the heart.
Application: Living Out the Word
Hinn explains that application is the practical outworking of meditation, where one adjusts to the ways of God and walks in His law. This process involves moving from understanding to nourishment and satisfaction, ultimately leading to living out the scriptures. He references Joshua 1:8, emphasising the importance of meditating on the law day and night to observe and do what is written, leading to success and prosperity.
The Blessings of Meditating on the Word
Hinn references Psalm 1, highlighting the blessings of meditating on the law of the Lord day and night. He explains that this leads to joy, nourishment, fruitfulness, healing, and success. He prays for the Word to dwell richly in everyone listening, asking for a deep hunger for the Word.
Giving as an Act of Faith
Hinn encourages viewers to give financially to the work of the Lord as an act of faith. He explains that giving is a key to financial blessings, as it demonstrates trust in God. He contrasts this with buying something in a store, which requires no faith. He prays that God will meet the financial needs of those who give, referencing the promise of good measure, pressed down, shaken together, and running over.
Closing Remarks and Final Blessing
Hinn concludes by encouraging viewers to share the teaching and invites them to give through various platforms. He offers a final blessing and expresses his love, promising to return with another powerful teaching.
