Inspiration always precedes revelation.
Inspiration from the spirit of the flesh will produce one type of revelation. It may come as a surprising idea, shocking suggestion, or secret objective.
Inspiration from the Holy Spirit will produce a different revelation — one birthed in power and truth.
When Jesus asked Simon Peter, ““Who do you say I am?” the disciple answered, “You are the Messiah, the Son of the living God.”
What birthed Simon’s response? Why did he answer in this way? If his intent was to flatter Jesus in order to gain favor, we would expect Jesus to rebuke Simon for his duplicity. But Jesus does not.
Instead Simon makes a shocking pronouncement and Jesus confirms his words. Simon declares that Jesus of Nazareth is the long-awaited Messiah that has come to save and liberate God’s people.
Where did Simon get this idea? How could Simon know this even as the Jewish leaders and teachers did not?
“This revelation was not given to you by the spirit of man,” Jesus said, “but by my Father in heaven. This truth he has revealed to you.”
Has God’s Holy Spirit spoken a secret word, a hidden truth to you with regards to your book?
Are you convinced that your writing is inspired or are you simply producing works based on your own flesh-spirit’s motivation?
That which God breathes life into will live — even books. He breathes life into dead bones, into bread, into wine.
If your words glorify the Father, bring them before Christ. Offer your works as a sacrifice. Give your best writing to the Father. Then ask that Christ bless them and breathe life into your books.
Simon became “Peter,” “Petros,” Πέτρος, a pebble — a stone to be tossed. And on this pebble Jesus built his Church. The Kingdom of God advances one word, one phrase, one truth at a time.
Be inspired. Believe!