A “Last Days” Church

🗣️ Speaker: Pastor Tom Van Kempen

This week's sermon by Pastor Tom reminded us of the boundless love of God and the resilient nature of the church in times of crisis. Pastor Tom shared the story about his daughter and son-in-law planting a church in Los Angeles and the urgent need for God's presence amidst the California wildfires. He emphasized that God hasn't given up on us and still speaks and empowers us through dreams and visions. Drawing from Acts Chapter 2, Pastor Tom urged us to embrace the Holy Spirit's power, reminding us that we live in the last days, filled with opportunities to do God's work. Our mission as believers is to share God's love and light in our communities and beyond. Let's ignite the fire of hope, faith, and action together.

Additional Info

The info below was generated by an AI from the audio recording of the sermon.

Introduction to God’s Communication

In a world filled with uncertainty and chaos, it's essential to remember that God continues to communicate with us. He is a speaking and empowering God who desires to share His dreams and visions for our lives. This message emphasizes the significance of what transpired during the Day of Pentecost and how it continues to affect us today.

The Lost State of Southern California and God’s Promises

Recent tragedies, such as the fires in Southern California, have led many to question whether God cares for that region. However, there is a strong declaration that God has not forsaken California, as evidenced by a church planted in L.A. by dedicated individuals. Despite the suffering and loss, there are efforts underway to support those affected, showcasing that the church is alive and engaged in the midst of adversity.

The Importance of Prayer

As the community comes together, prayer acts as a critical element for healing. Through prayer, individuals can reach out to God for intervention, comfort, and miraculous restoration. The church serves as a beacon of hope, reminding us that God’s love is vast and that we are called to partake in His mission.

Understanding Dreams and Visions

In Acts chapter 2, Peter speaks of how God will pour out His Spirit, allowing His people to receive dreams and visions. This revelation transforms the way we communicate with God. Unlike in the Old Testament, when communication was sporadic, God now desires a constant dialogue with us. The outpouring of the Holy Spirit signifies His intention to connect deeply with every believer.

Living in the Last Days

The concept of "last days" is often misunderstood, but it refers to the period beginning with the birth of Jesus. The Last Days signify a new era of communication where God desires to enlighten us about His divine plans through the Holy Spirit. This fulfillment is not just historical but very relevant today as believers navigate their faith in a broken world.

Signs and Empowerment through the Holy Spirit

The events of Pentecost demonstrate that God empowers His followers for action. The Holy Spirit’s outpouring is likened to a rushing wind and a mighty fire, symbolizing the transformational power available to believers. This empowerment encourages believers to engage actively in ministry and evangelism.

The Role of the Church in Today’s World

The modern church is called to be not just a bystander but an active participant in the work God is doing in the world. This involvement means reaching out, serving our communities, and sharing the gospel with boldness. The historical acts of early Christians serve as a model for what is possible when the Holy Spirit is at work.

Revival Through Communication

The church's mission is clear: to evangelize and disciple. The Holy Spirit’s role is pivotal here; He empowers believers to articulate their faith compellingly. As we embrace the Spirit, we can expect to see increased sensitivity to God’s prompting, leading to renewed passion for evangelism.

The Importance of Spiritual Sensitivity

Being filled with the Holy Spirit enhances our sensitivity to the needs of those around us. It makes evangelism more effective and opens hearts to the gospel truth. This is a time when it has become easier for people from various backgrounds to discover Jesus Christ, thanks to the persistent work of the Holy Spirit.

Reading and Understanding God’s Word

To effectively navigate this journey, a strong grasp of God’s Word is necessary. The Holy Spirit illuminates scripture, guiding believers to understand its depths. Memorizing verses enables Christians to wield the Word as a powerful tool for both personal growth and evangelistic efforts.

The Call to Action

Ultimately, the message is a call to action. Every believer has a part to play in God's mission. Whether through dreams, visions, or powerful acts of service, the call is clear: get off the bench and participate in what God is doing. Every person, regardless of age or status, is invited to engage fully in the life of the church and the work of the Holy Spirit.

Conclusion: The Power of God’s Spirit

The fulfillment of the Day of Pentecost is ongoing and relevant today. The call to preach the gospel resonates now more than ever, and every believer has access to God’s empowering presence. Through dreams and visions, we can see beyond our circumstances and into God’s glorious plans for us and the world around us. Armed with the Spirit’s power, we can transform lives and communities, igniting a revival that reflects the love and purpose of God.

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