Brief Summary
This video critiques Mike Winger's theological approach, arguing that he prioritizes intellectual understanding over spiritual discernment and intimacy with God. It suggests Winger's reliance on systematic theology and convergent thinking leads him to avoid difficult or uncomfortable biblical topics, and that his understanding of the relationship between God and his followers is too sterile. The video contrasts Winger's approach with that of Micah Turnbo, who emphasizes a more intimate, even "sexual," relationship with God as a reflection of spiritual salvation.
- Mike Winger's intellectual approach to the Bible is contrasted with spiritual discernment.
- The video argues for a more intimate relationship with God, likened to the consummation of marriage.
- It suggests Winger's theology may lead to a misunderstanding of salvation.
Intro
The video introduces a critique of Mike Winger's recent video criticizing Micah Turnbo. The speaker intends to biblically address Winger's concerns and argue that Winger is teaching a flawed perspective. The core issue revolves around the desired level of intimacy between God and his bride, with Winger allegedly favoring a sterile relationship and Turnbo suggesting a connection akin to physical intimacy mirroring spiritual salvation. The speaker shares his history with both figures, noting Winger's past reluctance to address esoteric topics, which led to the speaker creating his own content.
Mike vs Micah: Origins and Irony
The speaker finds it ironic that Mike Winger is discussing Micah Turnbo's origin story, considering Winger inadvertently played a role in both the speaker's and Turnbo's platforms. Winger's unwillingness to address difficult topics created an opportunity for others to do so, including the speaker and later Micah Turnbo. Despite Winger's generally wholesome image and gospel preaching, the speaker believes Winger's problem is deeper and stems from a misalignment between his mindset, heart posture, and spirit.
The Real Issue: Knowing vs Thinking
The speaker claims that Mike Winger's mindset and heart posture are out of sync with his spirit. The correct order is spirit governing the mind, and the mind governing the heart. Winger is criticized for intellectualizing faith instead of allowing his spirit to be led by the Holy Spirit. The speaker references Romans 8 to support the idea that the mind should be governed by the spirit, not the flesh. Micah Turnbo's teachings originate from the spirit, while Mike Winger relies on logical sense, indicating a disconnect between his mind and spirit.
Biblical Intimacy vs Sterile Theology
The speaker argues that Micah Turnbo operates on a higher spiritual level than Mike Winger, who relies on intellectualism. Winger's ministry is centered around "Thinking Biblically," emphasizing intellectual understanding over spiritual discernment. The speaker clarifies that he's not advocating for New Age beliefs but rather the biblical concept of the spirit discerning the thoughts of God, as mentioned in 1 Corinthians 2:11. Winger's approach is likened to an atheist demanding that Christianity make logical sense, while the Bible states it is foolishness to them.
Heart, Mind, Spirit: The Divine Order
Mike Winger's reliance on his mind leads to further issues. He claims to read the Bible exegetically, allowing the text to shape his understanding. However, the speaker argues that the real issue is the difference between convergent and divergent thought. Convergent thought, which Winger employs, involves taking facts and converging them into a central worldview. The problem is that the resulting worldview is only as good as the facts inputted.
Exegetical Thinking vs Spiritual Discernment
The speaker explains that convergent thought can be problematic because it treats biblical passages as isolated facts without considering the broader context or potential contradictions. The speaker suggests switching to divergent thought, starting with a central question and exploring possible answers. Mike Winger's systematic theology, rooted in convergent thinking, can lead to flawed conclusions if based on incomplete or misinterpreted facts. The speaker recommends lateral thinking, which combines convergent and divergent approaches, governed by the spirit.
Justified by Grace, Faith, or Works?
The speaker points out that Calvinists and others like Mike Winger often form their theology as a reaction to perceived abuses. While Winger is aware of this tendency and tries to balance it, overcorrection can lead to reverse psychology. Winger's exposure to the abuse of spiritual gifts may lead him to reject them altogether. However, the speaker argues that the positive fruit of Micah Turnbo's ministry, such as people coming to Christ and growing closer to God, should be considered.
Intimacy and Salvation Parallels
The speaker questions whether God desires an intimate relationship with his followers, referencing the Song of Solomon and its explicit language of love and desire. He reads passages from Song of Solomon, highlighting the intimacy described between the lover and beloved, and questions why God wouldn't want a similar relationship with his bride, the church. The speaker draws a parallel between sin and sex, suggesting that salvation could be viewed similarly, with the Holy Spirit "impregnating" Mary.
The Bride, the Wedding, and Knowing Jesus
The speaker contrasts the idea of a sterile, mature relationship with God with Jesus's call to become like children to enter the kingdom of God. He shares a personal video of playing with his daughter to illustrate the kind of playful, loving relationship God desires with his children. The speaker argues that this intimate relationship is what Jesus means when he says, "I never knew you," warning that a lack of intimacy with Jesus could lead to rejection.
Final Warning: Intimacy Is Salvation
The speaker emphasizes the importance of intimacy with Jesus, suggesting it's a salvific issue. If one rejects the idea of Jesus consummating the marriage with his bride, they may not truly know him. The discomfort surrounding this topic stems from the world's distorted view of sex, influenced by pornography and past mistakes. The speaker concludes by stating that sex is a physical mirror of spiritual salvation and challenges viewers to examine their beliefs about intimacy with God.
