I posted this to my facebook wall about this Copeland video that's making the rounds:
I no longer am shy about proclaiming my Christian faith, I try to walk that line of never denying it, but also of not being a pain in the backside by pounding on the Bible and preaching because I know it can get people's back up....I know because it used to get my back up before I started back on the path so to speak.
Put another way, for a long time I was a very "lousy" (edited) Christian, (its just a word, and I'm describing myself) and ultimately I may still be one...its not for me (or anyone else on this earth) to judge. I'm trying to do better, and I likely have a very long way to go.
With that being said, the linked video is not something with which I personally agree...it actually bothers me a lot. This individual, Copeland....he theatrically blows away Covid-19, claiming that by the the Holy Spirit, that Jesus has given him dominion over Covid-19 and that he has the power to banish it.
This goes against just about everything I believe to be true about my Lord and Saviour.
Jesus went to the cross willingly, tomorrow we celebrate that event. His own disciples were stoned and crucified themselves. When Rome did all it could to eradicate Christians, they didn't blow the wind of god (small g on purpose) to defeat their enemies, they went to their deaths, refusing to deny their Lord and Saviour because of their faith. A faith which told them that this life is not the end.
Should Chrisitans be afraid of Covid-19? Of course, fear of death is natural and normal, no matter how deep one's faith is. What exactly lies on the other side of the veil is still unknown. All I know, because of my faith, is that its better than what's on this side.
But that doesn't mean one embraces death, its a fine line....one is to embrace life, and not fear death, that's my take on it anyway....
Its all summed up very well in scripture, non Christians and many who've never even set foot in a church for a worship service probably know at least some of the 23rd Psalm, the one that includes:
"Even though I walk through the valley of the shadow of death, I will fear no evil, for you are with me; your rod and your staff, they comfort me".
So when you see a video with something like this, don't assume that this guy (or others like him) represents all Christians, or even all evangelicals, he doesn't represent my views....not at all.
Do I consider Copeland a Christian? That's not my call...he affirms the same faith I do so I'll call him a brother in Christ, but the ultimate judgement doesn't rest with me.
Peace everyone.