“The chiefest among ten thousand” (Song of Solomon 5:10).
Part Two
The root definition of this word chiefest gives us a three-dimensional view of Jesus Christ not evident from its surface usage. In the original Hebrew version of this text, the word is dagal (daw-gol’). One of the definitions is “a standard bearer” or “one who sets up an ensign or banner.”
In military skirmishes when the battle was often spread out over acres of terrain, a standard would be lifted up as a rallying point for the scattered troops who would converge on it.
The fragmented Church of Jesus Christ is being united by the Head of the Church Himself. It is He Who is the standard bearer. True worshippers are being drawn by the Spirit of God to rally around the person of Jesus Christ.
Doctrines have kept us divided. Denominations, sects, and splinter groups have fragmented the Body of Christ. Modes of water baptism have caused dissension and separation.
All these things that have kept us apart in the past are now being replaced by the new thing the Lord is doing in these last days. By His Spirit He is rallying His people around His Son. As all true worshippers gather to Him, we will automatically be drawn closer to each other.
The Lord’s banner over us is love (Song of Sol. 2:4). In a world filled with hate, it is easy to respond to real love. Even if people have been hurt and offended by negative church experiences, the love of Christ can cause them to surrender to Him – the chiefest among ten thousand, the standard bearer. He draws us to Himself with cords of love (Hos. 11:4). Don’t resist, respond!
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.