TLDR;
This sermon by Locke Media focuses on the importance of revival, the need for the church to be desperate for God's presence, and the power of God to remove mountains (obstacles) in our lives. It emphasizes genuine faith over cultural Christianity, the need to stand against anti-Semitism, and the significance of personal commitment and focus on God amidst distractions.
- The sermon emphasizes the need for revival and a deep, personal relationship with God.
- It addresses the issue of anti-Semitism and the importance of supporting Israel.
- It encourages believers to identify and confront the "mountains" in their lives through faith and prayer.
Introduction [0:00]
The speaker introduces the sermon by mentioning a donated 1923 Ford Roadster that will be auctioned off to benefit Global Vision Bible Church. He draws a parallel to the early church in Acts, where believers sold possessions to support the ministry and meet needs. He emphasizes the donor's selfless motivation and encourages those interested to inquire about the vehicle.
Isaiah and Prophetic Parallels [3:39]
The speaker introduces Isaiah 64, highlighting the book's prophetic nature and its parallel to the entire Bible. The first 39 chapters of Isaiah correspond to the 39 books of the Old Testament, while the last 27 chapters relate to the 27 books of the New Testament. The last three chapters of Isaiah are post-exile, describing the state of the Israelites after years of exile, their temple and city destroyed, and their people ravaged.
Chastening and Obedience [6:56]
The speaker emphasizes that God chastens those He loves to bring them back to the path of blessing. He outlines a progression of God's discipline: speaking, spanking, and ultimately, ending life prematurely if one persists in rebellion. He asserts that cemeteries are full of Christians who died early due to disobedience.
A Cry for Revival [9:36]
The speaker reads Isaiah 64:1-4, expressing a desperate plea for God to "rend the heavens" and come down. He explains that the Hebrew word "Oh" signifies deep desperation and mourning, akin to wearing sackcloth and ashes. He contrasts this with the American church's pursuit of superficial things like bigger buildings and recognition.
Standing Against Anti-Semitism [14:06]
Fresh from a trip to Israel, the speaker passionately denounces anti-Semitism, which he identifies as a major demon of the day. He criticizes those who spread hateful rhetoric against Jewish people and affirms Global Vision Bible Church as a safe haven for them. He emphasizes the biblical importance of Israel and the Jewish people, rejecting replacement theology.
The Love Waxing Cold [21:21]
The speaker laments the complacency and coldness within the church, referencing Matthew 24:12, where the love of many will "wax cold." He describes how people who were once on fire for God can become hardened and apathetic. He contrasts this with the desperation and brokenness needed for true revival, urging listeners to seek God's presence and be broken for what breaks His heart.
Desperate for God's Presence [24:10]
The speaker stresses the importance of being desperate for the things that matter to God. He contrasts genuine love for God with wickedness and a lack of repentance. He criticizes the "once saved, always saved" mentality that allows people to live however they want. He expresses his commitment to cleaning up the bride of Christ and promoting holiness.
Truth and Hypocrisy [25:42]
The speaker addresses the hypocrisy in how truth is received based on who is speaking it. He points out that he faces criticism for saying the same things that others are praised for, possibly due to racial biases. He emphasizes the church's commitment to truth, regardless of color or background.
Commitment, Not Complacency [27:41]
The speaker declares that he is too far gone to change and will continue to preach the truth, even if it costs him relationships and opportunities. He emphasizes that he is not trying to win friends but to prepare the church for the last days. He explains that what happens on Earth is a result of what happens in heaven, urging listeners to seek God's intervention in the spiritual realm.
Tearing the Heavens [29:11]
The speaker explains that the prophet is asking God to "rend the heavens," not the earth or the church, because earthly experiences are a result of heavenly actions. He emphasizes the need for a move of God, not just better programs, to combat the hardness of people's hearts. He contrasts cultural Christianity with true faith, stating that the Bible and culture are on a collision course.
Come Down [32:53]
The speaker emphasizes the importance of God coming down to meet us where we are, rather than us trying to reach Him. He describes how God's presence transforms a room, leading to genuine worship and a disregard for time constraints. He contrasts this with the boredom and formality often found in American churches.
Intercessory Prayer [35:34]
The speaker contrasts the packed houses for famous preachers with the sparse attendance at intercessory prayer meetings. He emphasizes that revival will come through God's people getting on their faces and seeking His presence, not through famous personalities. He encourages undignified, desperate prayer, contrasting it with the primness and propriety of many American churches.
Excitement for Revival [39:14]
The speaker questions where the church's excitement for revival is, compared to the enthusiasm people show for sports and entertainment. He suggests that worship should be an overflow of how one lives daily. He expresses his desire to birth a heart for revival in the church, seeking people hungry for God's power, not just pew sitters.
Commitment, Not Complacency [42:12]
The speaker shares a personal anecdote about running around a Publix supermarket late at night to reach his step goal, illustrating his commitment to the "man plan." He emphasizes that the church is trying to build commitment, not complacency. He warns that difficult times are coming and encourages listeners to prepare themselves spiritually.
Mountains and God's Presence [45:57]
The speaker explains that mountains in the Bible represent obstacles. He emphasizes that God's presence, like lava, melts away these mountains. He clarifies that Christianity is not the absence of trials but the ability to navigate them with faith in God's sustaining power.
Desperation and Distractions [49:10]
The speaker reiterates that the church needs more of God's presence, which will lead to more people and power. He asserts that he is not trying to be cute but to warn and shepherd the congregation. He shares that he is not discouraged by hate or people leaving the church, as he is focused on preaching the Bible and loving people where they are.
Blocking Negativity [51:38]
The speaker advises listeners to block anyone on social media who intentionally tries to steal their peace. He shares his personal experience of cutting off toxic influences to maintain his focus on God. He emphasizes that what is coming requires full attention and no distractions.
Invitation to Prayer [55:09]
The speaker invites those with mountains in their lives to come forward and pray. He identifies various mountains, including financial, marital, job-related, health-related, addiction-related, and prodigal children. He emphasizes that God can evaporate these mountains and encourages listeners to seek His presence.
The Power of God [59:16]
The speaker emphasizes that the power of God can level any mountain. He shares testimonies of God restoring marriages and bringing people out of sin. He encourages listeners to take their burdens to the Lord and be in His presence for transformation.
Speak to the Mountain [1:04:00]
The speaker encourages listeners to speak to their mountains, declaring their faith in God's ability to remove them. He emphasizes that it is not the size of one's faith but the object of that faith—God—that matters. He encourages listeners to be baptized and to seek prayer and ministry.