49 Religious Lies Jesus Told Me to Stop Believing - #49 I Am the Final Judge of What I Say

Summary

Mark Virkler reflects on the belief, “I am the final judge of what I say.” He says his writing and spiritual impressions should not be treated as automatically true or right for everyone. Instead, he recommends seeking feedback from trusted spiritual counselors and allowing readers to discern whether a message is sound and relevant to them.

Virkler describes learning to listen for God’s guidance through prayerful imagination and journaling. He says this practice changed his understanding of Scripture and helped him feel freer and more hopeful. He encourages viewers to develop their own ongoing relationship with God rather than relying solely on a book or another person’s teachings.

Strategies and Practices

• Pray and listen: Picture Jesus beside you, ask for guidance, and pay attention to the thoughts, images, and emotions that arise.
• Journal in response to prayer: Ask what a teaching means for your life and write down what you believe you receive.
• Seek counsel and feedback: Share uncertain ideas with trusted spiritual leaders and remain open to refinement.
• Stay humble about conclusions: Don’t assume that others must accept something as true simply because you said or wrote it.
• Revisit beliefs and grow: Be willing to reconsider interpretations and change your thinking.
• Speak a positive affirmation: Virkler invites viewers to say they are free from the belief that they are the final authority over their words.
• Build a daily spiritual practice: He hopes the series encourages viewers to seek daily communion with God and live by what they understand as guidance for the moment.

Virkler closes by praying for viewers and expressing hope that the church will reflect God’s glory and draw people into a living relationship with Jesus. He also mentions his books, courses, newsletter, and other ministry resources.

Presenter and Sources

• Presenter: Mark Virkler
• Sources mentioned: The Bible; Virkler’s journal entries and book Release from Religion; CWG Ministries website (cwgministries.org).