“And from the days of John the Baptist until now the kingdom of heaven suffers violence, and the violent take it by force” (Matt. 11:12 NKJ).
This verse is an encouragement to intercessors. The word violent speaks volumes to us. A violent person is defined as “one who feels an eager, vehement desire for something.” Praying people understand such language. Some other possible translations of this verse are:
“…the kingdom of heaven is eagerly sought and forcibly snatched at. The forceful press forward through vehement desire and pursue it eagerly.”
“…the kingdom of Heaven has been taken by storm and eager men are forcing their way into it.”
“…the kingdom of heaven has been rushed. The impetuous seize it by force.”
In our times, the lateness of the day, the brevity of the hour, the hostility of our enemies, the desperation of our society, the urgency of the situation, the vital need of the twenty-first century Church is all we really need to incite and excite intense prayer.
Like a fortress in war, the kingdom of heaven must be taken by storm. He who besieges the throne of grace by faith and prayer is sure to prevail. Like a crowd bursting into a house and like an army taking a city, this is no time for hesitation or delay. Those who wrestle in prayer, those who will not be denied, those who strive will succeed.
For praying people, Matthew 11:12 could read: “The kingdom of heaven has available great answers to prayer. The determined, persistent, fervent and energetic take it by storm.” What an incentive for a consistent disciplined life of prayer!
Excerpt permission granted by Harrison House Publishers
Dick Mills was ordained at The International Church of the Foursquare Gospel in 1949. He and his wife Betty traveled as evangelists all over the United States, Canada, Mexico, Latin America, Europe, and Australia. Dick and Betty are now home in heaven.
In 1966 Dick and Betty became a part of the then-emerging Charismatic Renewal. Passing through all denominational barriers, Dick has had the opportunity to speak in thousands of churches of varied backgrounds all over the world.
He ministered within several Christian organizations, including the Full Gospel Business Men, Women's Aglow, Inter-church Renewal Catholic Pentecostals, mainline Charismatic groups, CBN and TBN television networks, and many other independent Christian TV stations.
Dick appeared on numerous radio talk shows, written several magazine articles, and spoke at many Bible conferences and universities. He served as an adjunct professor at six Schools of the Bible and Seminaries.
In addition, Dick authored and co-authored several books and tapes. Dick's ministry was characterized by the unique gifts God has blessed him with. His services informed, enlightened, and motivated people to a higher level of commitment to God.