Awake Nations

In this episode of The Deep Dive Podcast, we unpack Glenn Bleakney's powerful teaching on Ezekiel's vision of the Valley of Dry Bones. Our hosts explore how this ancient biblical narrative serves as a compelling metaphor for spiritual awakening in today's world. Bleakney's fresh perspective challenges conventional views of revival, suggesting it shouldn't be just a momentary experience, but rather a sustained state of spiritual vitality.

We break down key themes from the sermon: healing personal brokenness, fostering authentic unity among believers, and yielding to the Holy Spirit's transformative power. Join us as we examine what it means to move beyond simply waiting for revival to actively embodying it in our daily lives. Whether you're familiar with Ezekiel's vision or encountering it for the first time, this discussion offers rich insights into spiritual renewal and our role as ambassadors of Christ in a broken world.

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In this well-known passage from Ezekiel 37:1-14, the prophet encounters a valley of dry bones, symbolizing the hopelessness of Israel in exile, seemingly beyond the possibility of redemption. God's actions and questions in this moment show us what it means to go beyond revival, inviting us to embrace a life of transformation, faith, and partnership with His Kingdom purposes. The valley of dry bones isn't merely a revival story. It's a prophetic pattern that reveals the ways of God, showing us how to go beyond a temporary encounter and step into a lasting transformation. In this passage, God's question to Ezekiel—"Can these bones live?"—isn't just an inquiry about possibility; it's an invitation to partner with Him in bringing life, hope, and endurance to His people.

Thanks for reading Kingdom Reformation with Glenn Bleakney ! This post is public so feel free to share it.

🎙️ The Kingdom Reformation Podcast with Glenn Bleakney

In this transformative episode, "Kingdom-Centric Leadership: The Apostolic-Pastoral Dynamic," Glenn Bleakney unpacks the powerful integration of apostolic and pastoral ministry for Kingdom advancement. Drawing from Jesus's ministry and the Book of Acts, discover how the fivefold ministry gifts work together to create exponential Kingdom impact.

You'll learn:

- How to balance apostolic vision with pastoral care

- Biblical principles for multiplication and leadership development

- Practical strategies for transforming your church into a Kingdom training center

- Keys to establishing Kingdom authority in your sphere of influence

- Systems for sustainable Kingdom expansion

Perfect for pastors, church leaders, and anyone passionate about seeing God's Kingdom established on earth as it is in heaven. Don't miss the free Kingdom Reformation resources available at AwakeNations.org.

🎯 Key topics: Kingdom advancement, apostolic leadership, pastoral ministry, church growth, leadership development, fivefold ministry

⏱️ Duration: 11:25 minutes

Want to go deeper? Visit AwakeNations.org for free teachings on Kingdom Reformation principles that are transforming churches and leaders worldwide.

Listen to Darren and Abi's Deep Dive Discussion on this teaching.

#KingdomReformation #ApostolicLeadership #ChurchGrowth #KingdomAdvancement #ChurchLeadership #FivefoldMinistry

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When Jesus said, "I will build my church" (Matthew 16:18), He envisioned a vibrant Kingdom movement that would thrive through the collaboration of different roles within the fivefold ministry—apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers. Together, these diverse gifts would work in harmony to foster growth and extend His influence in the world.

The Kingdom of God thrives on principles of multiplication and nurture, beautifully illustrated by the complementary roles of apostolic and pastoral ministry. Throughout His ministry, Jesus embodied this dual focus—venturing into new territories to share the message of the Kingdom (apostolic function) while also showing deep compassion for His followers (pastoral function). His instruction to "seek first the Kingdom of God" (Matthew 6:33) resonates with both the broad outreach of apostolic work and the supportive nature of pastoral care.

Within this Kingdom framework, apostolic leaders can effectively serve as pastors while maintaining their primary calling to expand God's Kingdom. Just as Jesus trained the twelve while continuing His broader Kingdom mission, modern apostolic pastors can shepherd a local congregation while focusing on raising up Kingdom-minded leaders who will further expand God's territory.

The Kingdom principle of multiplication appears throughout Scripture, from God's first command to "be fruitful and multiply" to Jesus's parables about Kingdom growth. An apostolic pastor embodies this principle by developing what Scripture calls the "fivefold ministry" – apostles, prophets, evangelists, pastors, and teachers (Ephesians 4:11-12). These gifts were given specifically "for the equipping of the saints for the work of ministry, for the edifying of the body of Christ," ultimately advancing God's Kingdom purposes.

When Jesus spoke about the Kingdom of God being like a mustard seed that grows into a great tree (Matthew 13:31-32), He was illustrating a fundamental Kingdom principle that applies to apostolic-pastoral ministry. The local church, under apostolic-pastoral leadership, becomes like that mustard tree – firmly rooted in one place while providing far-reaching influence and impact for the Kingdom.

The Book of Acts provides a powerful model of this Kingdom-focused leadership approach. The apostles, while maintaining connection with their home base in Jerusalem, invested heavily in developing local leadership teams throughout the expanding Kingdom territory. They understood that Kingdom advancement required both the pioneering spirit of apostolic ministry and the stabilizing influence of pastoral care.

This Kingdom-centric model becomes particularly effective when the apostolic pastor focuses on developing teams that understand and operate according to Kingdom principles. These aren't merely functional leadership teams; they're Kingdom representatives equipped to demonstrate and declare the reality of God's reign in their spheres of influence. As Jesus sent out His disciples with the mandate to "preach, saying, 'The Kingdom of heaven is at hand'" (Matthew 10:7), so apostolic pastors send out equipped leaders to extend Kingdom influence.

The development of pastor/elder teams takes on new significance when viewed through a Kingdom lens. These teams aren't just providing practical care; they're establishing outposts of Kingdom authority and influence within the local community. They become stewards of Kingdom culture, demonstrating the values and principles of God's reign in tangible ways.

In practical terms, an apostolic pastor operating with Kingdom focus structures their ministry to reflect Heaven's priorities. Their preaching and teaching emphasize Kingdom principles, their leadership development programs focus on Kingdom values, and their strategic planning aligns with Kingdom purposes. Every aspect of ministry becomes an opportunity to advance God's reign and influence.

The Kingdom principle of stewardship plays a crucial role in this model. Jesus often taught about faithful stewardship in His Kingdom parables, and apostolic pastors must steward both their apostolic calling and their pastoral responsibility. This means wisely investing in leadership development, creating opportunities for emerging leaders to exercise their gifts, and establishing systems that sustain Kingdom advancement.

The multiplication of apostolic leadership takes on greater significance when viewed through Kingdom eyes. Each new apostolic leader raised up represents potential for Kingdom expansion in new territories. As Paul mentored Timothy and Titus, establishing them as Kingdom leaders in their own right, so modern apostolic pastors invest in the next generation of Kingdom leaders.

The development of elders in this context becomes about more than local church governance – it's about establishing Kingdom authority and wisdom in the local church. These mature leaders serve as pillars of Kingdom culture, helping to align church life with Heaven's values and priorities while supporting the apostolic vision for Kingdom expansion.

When Jesus taught us to pray "Your Kingdom come, Your will be done on earth as it is in heaven" (Matthew 6:10), He was establishing a pattern for all ministry. Apostolic pastors take this prayer seriously, working to establish Kingdom patterns in their local churches while simultaneously pushing for Kingdom expansion beyond their walls.

The impact on church culture is profound when viewed through this Kingdom lens. Members begin to see themselves not just as church attendees but as Kingdom ambassadors. The church transforms from a pastoral care center into a Kingdom training ground, equipping believers to represent Heaven's interests in every sphere of influence.

In conclusion, the integration of apostolic and pastoral functions under Kingdom principles creates a powerful dynamic for advancing God's purposes on earth. This approach aligns with Jesus's Kingdom parables about growth, multiplication, and influence. The result is a church that provides excellent pastoral care while simultaneously advancing Kingdom territory through apostolic vision and multiplication.

Success in this Kingdom-focused model ultimately depends on maintaining clear alignment with Heaven's purposes, developing Kingdom-minded leaders, and creating systems that facilitate ongoing Kingdom expansion. When these elements are in place, the church becomes an effective center for both nurturing believers and extending God's reign in the earth. As Jesus promised, "this gospel of the kingdom will be preached in all the world as a witness to all the nations" (Matthew 24:14), and apostolic pastors play a crucial role in fulfilling this Kingdom mandate.

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Are you tired of leadership advice that feels hollow and purely tactical? Ready to tap into something deeper? Join us on this episode of "Kingdom Reformation wiih Glenn Bleakney as we dive into "Listening Leadership" - the revolutionary concept of blending spiritual sensitivity with practical leadership in the modern world.

Join the Community at KingdomReformers.org In this groundbreaking episode, we'll unlock ancient biblical wisdom and show you how to apply it in today's fast-paced leadership environment. From Solomon's "hearing heart" to Jesus' perfect connection with the Father, we're discovering timeless principles that transform good leaders into extraordinary ones.This episode dives deep into practical ways to:- Develop your spiritual sensitivity for better decision-making- Navigate complex leadership challenges with divine wisdom- Transform your organization through Spirit-led leadership- Build a genuine connection with God that shapes your leadership styleWhether you're leading a church, running a business, or influencing your community, these episodes will equip you with the tools to lead not just from your head, but from a place of divine connection and guidance.Topics include:- Spiritual Sensitivity- Prophetic Leadership in the Modern World- Practical Steps to Hearing God's Voice- Leading with Kingdom Authority- Building a Spiritually Attuned OrganizationJoin our Glenn Bleakney as we explore together how to become leaders who don't just manage – but truly listen to God's guidance on the Kingdom Reformation Podcast. New episodes weekly wherever you get your podcasts.

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In this well-known passage from Ezekiel 37:1-14, the prophet encounters a valley of dry bones, symbolizing the hopelessness of Israel in exile, seemingly beyond the possibility of redemption. God's actions and questions in this moment show us what it means to go beyond revival, inviting us to embrace a life of transformation, faith, and partnership with His Kingdom purposes.

The valley of dry bones isn't merely a revival story. It's a prophetic pattern that reveals the ways of God, showing us how to go beyond a temporary encounter and step into a lasting transformation. In this passage, God's question to Ezekiel—"Can these bones live?"—isn't just an inquiry about possibility; it's an invitation to partner with Him in bringing life, hope, and endurance to His people.

Read the Post https://glennbleakney.substack.com/p/why-revival-is-not-enough-embracing

Join us as the team from Deep Dive discuss Glenn Bleakney's book, # Ways God May be Guiding You in a new direction.

Description: Has God ever blatantly interrupted your life plans for you to follow His? There invariably will come a time in our spiritual journey when the Lord will solicit our cooperation in permitting Him to guide us in a new way. His preference is that we would sense His leading, fully cooperate and move in the new direction. However, as is all too often the case, He must intervene in the affairs of our lives due to the fact that we are comfortable and entrenched in our present course of action. In this teaching, Glenn Bleakney shares the 3 Biblical ways God often uses to move us in a new direction.

Did you miss the teaching?

Listen here https://player.captivate.fm/episode/41116808-821b-440f-9ed2-8dfb2070ece2/

Watch the Video - https://www.youtube.com/live/HVLo0tlMZ5U?si=X6Si_yE9qX_mb8jR

Purchase the Book - https://a.co/d/3l6O6Hx

Gradual Maturation: The Steady Growth of the Kingdom

Prayer as a Cornerstone

Consistent, persistent prayer forms the foundation of this gradual growth. Through daily communion with God, believers align their hearts with His will and become more attuned to His voice. This ongoing dialogue shapes character, deepens faith, and gradually transforms individuals from the inside out.

Obedience in the Small Things

The Kingdom advances through countless small acts of obedience. When believers choose to follow God's leading in their daily decisions - showing kindness to a stranger, resisting temptation, or speaking truth in love - they are actively participating in the expansion of God's rule.

Perseverance Through Trials

The steady growth of the Kingdom is often forged in the crucible of trials and challenges. As believers persevere through difficulties, clinging to faith and trusting in God's promises, their character is refined and their testimony strengthened.

Daily Rhythms of Spiritual Development

God's Kingdom grows as individuals are drawn into relationship with Him, one at a time. The daily rhythms of spiritual disciplines - studying Scripture, worship, fellowship with other believers, and acts of service - provide the consistent nourishment needed for long-term spiritual growth.

The Eternal Significance of the Mundane

Redefining Significance

By recognizing the eternal value of everyday faithfulness, we're challenged to recalibrate our definition of what's truly significant. Simple acts of forgiveness, moments of patience, or choices to prioritize spiritual growth may seem unremarkable, but in God's economy, these actions carry immense weight.

The Hidden Work of God

Much of God's work in advancing His Kingdom happens beneath the surface, unseen by human eyes. Like a seed germinating underground before it breaks through the soil, the most profound spiritual growth often occurs in the hidden places of the heart.

Cumulative Effect of Small Choices

The power of gradual growth lies in its cumulative effect. While a single act of obedience may seem insignificant, the compounded impact of thousands of such choices over a lifetime can result in profound transformation and far-reaching influence for the Kingdom.

#Reshaping Worldviews

As believers internalize this understanding of the mundane's eternal significance, it reshapes their entire worldview. Routine tasks become opportunities for worship, daily interactions become potential Kingdom encounters, and the ordinary rhythms of life are infused with sacred purpose.

The Paradox of Kingdom Advancement

Embracing Both Dynamics

Mature faith recognizes and values both the dramatic outpourings and the gradual processes of Kingdom growth. Rather than prioritizing one over the other, believers are called to embrace both dynamics, understanding that God works through both means to accomplish His purposes.

Breakthroughs and Process

The journey of faith often involves periods of breakthrough - moments of sudden insight, deliverance, or empowerment - interspersed with long seasons of steady growth and patient endurance. Both elements are necessary for holistic spiritual development and the advancement of God's Kingdom.

Sudden Change and Patient Development

While sudden, dramatic changes can catalyze growth and inspire faith, patient, long-term development is often where lasting transformation occurs. The integration of both sudden and gradual change creates a robust and resilient faith capable of withstanding various challenges.

Mountaintop Experiences and Valley Walks

The spiritual journey encompasses both exhilarating mountaintop experiences - moments of clarity, intimacy with God, and spiritual highs - and long walks through valleys of challenge, doubt, and perseverance. Both terrains are essential for spiritual formation and the expansion of God's Kingdom.

The Spirit's Equal Work

Perhaps most importantly, the Holy Spirit is equally at work in all these varied experiences. Whether in dramatic outpourings or quiet moments of faithfulness, in sudden breakthroughs or gradual growth, the same divine power is actively advancing God's Kingdom.

In Summary

The advancement of God's Kingdom manifests through a profound interplay of the extraordinary and the ordinary. This divine reign progresses through powerful movements of the Spirit that reverberate across nations, as well as through the quiet, steadfast faithfulness of believers in their daily walk.

To fully participate in God's work of establishing His Kingdom on earth, we must embrace both the dramatic and the gradual aspects of spiritual growth. This involves recognizing the value in both momentous events and mundane routines, understanding that each plays a vital role in the unfolding of God's plan.

As we journey through our spiritual lives, it is crucial to remain receptive to sudden outpourings of God's Spirit, anticipating with eager hearts the moments of breakthrough and transformation. Yet equally important is our commitment to the daily disciplines of faith, acknowledging the profound significance of our seemingly small acts of obedience and love.

By engaging in this dual approach, we become active participants in the advancement of God's Kingdom. We cooperate with His Spirit to manifest glimpses of heaven on earth, gradually transforming our world through each day lived in faith, each person touched by grace, and each choice made in alignment with God's will.

In this well-known passage from Ezekiel 37:1-14, the prophet encounters a valley of dry bones, symbolizing the hopelessness of Israel in exile, seemingly beyond the possibility of redemption. God's actions and questions in this moment show us what it means to go beyond revival, inviting us to embrace a life of transformation, faith, and partnership with His Kingdom purposes.

The valley of dry bones isn't merely a revival story. It's a prophetic pattern that reveals the ways of God, showing us how to go beyond a temporary encounter and step into a lasting transformation. In this passage, God's question to Ezekiel—"Can these bones live?"—isn't just an inquiry about possibility; it's an invitation to partner with Him in bringing life, hope, and endurance to His people.

Has God ever blatantly interrupted your life plans for you to follow His? There invariably will come a time in our spiritual journey when the Lord will solicit our cooperation in permitting Him to guide us in a new way. His preference is that we would sense His leading, fully cooperate and move in the new direction. However, as is all too often the case, He must intervene in the affairs of our lives due to the fact that we are comfortable and entrenched in our present course of action. In this teaching, Glenn Bleakney shares the 3 Biblical ways God often uses to move us in a new direction.

Purchase the Book - https://a.co/d/3l6O6Hx

Watch the Video - https://www.youtube.com/live/HVLo0tlMZ5U?si=X6Si_yE9qX_mb8jR