Protocols in the Bible: Types, Breaking Protocols for Breakthrough, and More
Protocols in the Bible are divine principles and patterns that govern how individuals approach God, how blessings are released, and how order is maintained in both the spiritual and natural realms. From the Old Testament to the New Testament, these protocols play a significant role in understanding how God interacts with His people and how they are expected to respond to His commands. While adhering to protocols often leads to blessings, breaking protocols for breakthrough is also a key theme found throughout the scriptures, demonstrating God’s sovereign power over human traditions.
Types of Protocols in the Bible
There are various types of protocols in the Bible that highlight how God operates and how individuals are to conduct themselves in His presence. These include spiritual, relational, and ceremonial protocols.
- Spiritual Protocols
Spiritual protocols involve the correct way to approach God in worship and service. In the Old Testament, strict protocols were established for the priests and the people regarding worship, sacrifices, and entering the temple. For instance, only the high priest could enter the Holy of Holies once a year on the Day of Atonement (Leviticus 16:1-34). This protocol demonstrated the holiness of God and the reverence required in approaching Him.
In the New Testament, spiritual protocols shift with the coming of Jesus Christ. Through His death and resurrection, the veil in the temple was torn, symbolizing the breaking of old protocols and granting believers direct access to God (Matthew 27:51). Despite this, there is still a protocol for approaching God, which involves faith, repentance, and a heart of worship.
- Relational Protocols
Relational protocols in the Bible refer to the guidelines governing relationships between people and their relationship with God. The Ten Commandments (Exodus 20:1-17) serve as a foundational relational protocol, establishing principles for how individuals should relate to God (e.g., “You shall have no other gods before me”) and how they should treat others (e.g., “You shall not steal”). Following these protocols leads to a life of blessing, while breaking them brings consequences.
Jesus emphasized relational protocols in the New Testament, particularly in how we should love one another. He declared in John 13:34, “A new command I give you: Love one another. As I have loved you, so you must love one another.” This protocol of love became central to the Christian faith.
- Ceremonial Protocols
The Bible is also filled with ceremonial protocols, especially in the Old Testament. These protocols related to sacrifices, offerings, and religious festivals. For example, the Passover, described in Exodus 12:1-28, had a detailed protocol for how the lamb was to be slaughtered, how the blood was to be applied to the doorposts, and how the meal was to be eaten. Following these protocols ensured God’s protection over the Israelites.
In the New Testament, Jesus fulfilled the ceremonial protocols of the law, becoming the ultimate sacrifice. However, some ceremonies and sacraments, such as baptism and communion, remain essential protocols for believers today.
Breaking Protocols for Breakthrough
While protocols in the Bible are essential for order, there are times when God breaks protocols to bring about breakthroughs. These divine exceptions demonstrate God’s sovereignty and His desire to bring freedom and deliverance to His people.
One such instance is the healing of the woman with the issue of blood (Mark 5:25-34). According to Jewish law, a woman with an issue of blood was considered unclean and was not allowed to touch others. However, this woman broke the societal protocol by pressing through the crowd to touch the hem of Jesus’ garment. Instead of rebuking her, Jesus commended her faith, saying, “Daughter, your faith has healed you. Go in peace and be freed from your suffering” (Mark 5:34). This is a powerful example of how God sometimes breaks protocols for breakthrough.
Another example is seen in the life of David. As a young shepherd, David was not from a royal lineage, and by protocol, he should not have been considered for kingship. However, God broke the protocol, choosing David to be king over Israel, as described in 1 Samuel 16:1-13. This breakthrough was a result of God’s divine favor and a demonstration that He does not always operate within human expectations.
In the New Testament, Jesus Himself broke protocols by healing on the Sabbath, much to the dismay of the religious leaders (Luke 13:10-17). His actions showed that mercy and compassion superseded rigid religious customs, bringing about healing and deliverance.
What Breaking Protocols for Breakthrough Teaches Us
Breaking protocols for breakthrough teaches us that God is not bound by human limitations or traditions. When God desires to bring healing, deliverance, or promotion, He can bypass the natural order of things. This is particularly important when we face situations that seem impossible by human standards. Understanding this aspect of God’s nature encourages believers to have faith, even when circumstances don’t align with what is expected.
The key to experiencing a breakthrough is faith. Faith enables us to step out beyond the restrictions of societal or religious norms to receive the miracles and blessings that God has for us. In Hebrews 11:6, the Bible states that “without faith it is impossible to please God,” and it is through faith that the protocols of this world are overturned for divine intervention.
Why Protocols Matter
Although God can and does break protocols for breakthrough, protocols still matter. They establish order, ensure reverence for God, and guide believers in their walk with Him. Protocols also protect us from unnecessary harm and guide us toward God’s purpose for our lives. However, it is crucial to recognize that God is above all human rules, and when He chooses to intervene miraculously, He may break the protocols to reveal His power and glory.
Conclusion
Protocols in the Bible serve an important role in establishing divine order, governing relationships, and guiding believers in their spiritual journey. Whether spiritual, relational, or ceremonial, these protocols are designed to draw us closer to God. However, there are moments when God breaks protocols for breakthrough, revealing His authority over human traditions and limitations. Instances like the healing of the woman with the issue of blood and David’s anointing as king illustrate that God can override established norms to fulfill His purposes.
As believers, we must honor the protocols established by God while maintaining the faith that He can break protocols for our breakthrough. Understanding the balance between obedience to divine principles and faith in God’s sovereign power allows us to experience the fullness of His blessings and miracles in our lives.
