Awake Nations

Thanks to our friends from the Deep Dive for their recap of my most recent teaching on Revival as a River. If you missed the episode, just search for Revival as a River.

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What is revival? While many liken it to a spiritual awakening, I'd like to propose a different metaphor: revival as a mighty river, reminiscent of the vision in Ezekiel 47.

Picture a once-vibrant river that has slowed to a trickle. Its banks are dry, and the surrounding landscape thirsts for nourishment. Suddenly, the waters begin to swell, and the river surges forward with renewed strength. This is what revival does for the church.

Refreshing Stagnant Waters

Just as a rushing river refreshes stagnant pools, revival reinvigorates believers. It replenishes our spiritual reservoirs, renews our commitment to our faith, and redirects our focus towards expanding God's righteous Kingdom rule in the world. As Ezekiel observed, "This water flows toward the eastern region and goes down into the Arabah, where it enters the Dead Sea. When it empties into the sea, the salty water there becomes fresh" (Ezekiel 47:8).

Carving New Paths

A powerful river doesn't just flow within its existing banks; it carves new channels. Similarly, revival propels us beyond the familiar confines of our church walls. It creates new pathways into our communities, carrying the life-giving message of God's love to those who are spiritually parched.

Washing Away Debris

Rivers have the power to wash away accumulated debris. In the same way, revival cleanses our spiritual lives of the buildup of routine, the sediment of complacency, and the flotsam of going through the motions. As these are swept away, we gain a clearer view of our purpose and role in God's plan.

Nourishing Barren Lands

A river brings life to barren lands along its banks. Revival spreads believers throughout society like water nourishing dry soil. We become wellsprings of faith in unexpected places, empowered to nurture growth, foster change, and cultivate spiritual fruit in our spheres of influence. Ezekiel's vision speaks to this transformative power: "Fruit trees of all kinds will grow on both banks of the river. Their leaves will not wither, nor will their fruit fail. Every month they will bear fruit, because the water from the sanctuary flows to them. Their fruit will serve for food and their leaves for healing" (Ezekiel 47:12).

A Constant Flow

It's important to understand that revival isn't meant to be a flash flood, but a constant, powerful flow. It's not a one-time event, but a sustained force that continually renews and reshapes the church. This river reminds us that our spiritual journey is ongoing—requiring constant movement and growth as we work to expand God's righteous Kingdom rule on earth.

As these life-bestowing waters surge, they not only revive our souls but also erode the barriers of indifference, carving fresh avenues of empathy and selfless dedication. 

The prophetic call compels us to immerse ourselves in the overwhelming river of God's grace, as illustrated in Ezekiel 47. As we surrender to its depths, we find that it is not our strength but His divine power that carries us forth. This river, fierce and unrelenting, will sweep us up, transforming us from within. It is through this miraculous work of God in and through us that we are equipped to share the life-altering message of Christ, reaching every parched soul and desolate place, revealing the abundant life that flows within His kingdom.

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In this episode, we dive deep into John 15, where Jesus teaches the powerful analogy of the vine and branches. We’ll explore how abiding in Christ is the key to experiencing God’s grace, spiritual growth, and bearing fruit in our lives. Glenn discusses the significance of grace, the process of pruning, and the true meaning of spiritual fruitfulness. Join us as we uncover how staying connected to Jesus transforms not only our inner lives but also our outward actions, leading to a fruitful life that glorifies God.

“And I tell you, you are Peter, and on this rock I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it” (Matthew 16:18, ESV).

In my new sermon "The Gates of Hell Will Not Prevail," I aim to redefine the Church's role and authority in spiritual warfare. I emphasize that the Church is not merely a religious gathering, but a divine assembly [the Ekklesia] - a governing body commissioned by Heaven to advance God's Kingdom on earth.

I explore how believers are entrusted with the "keys of the kingdom," empowering us to bind, loose, forbid, and permit according to God's will. This authority calls us to take an offensive stance, actively confronting and reclaiming ground from the enemy rather than just defending passively.

Jesus' declaration that the gates of hell cannot prevail against His Church underscores our invincibility when we operate in divine revelation. Just as Peter received revelation of Christ's identity, I believe today's Church is called to a deep, transformative knowledge of Jesus.

This intimate knowledge of Christ empowers us to establish God's purposes, witness miracles, and bring godly transformation to all areas of society. Despite enemy assaults, God's Kingdom continues to progress, with apparent setbacks serving as opportunities for the Church to arise and take authority.

I'm convinced that the Holy Spirit is preparing and refining the Church to be an unstoppable force in advancing God's reign on earth. This message is a call to embrace our true identity and authority as the Ecclesia of God.​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​​

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Welcome to the Kingdom Encounter Show with Glenn Bleakney! Dive deep into the heart of God's desire to dwell among His people through intimacy and relationship. Join us as we explore the divine blueprint for building a sanctuary where God's glory and power can flow freely. Each episode, Glenn Bleakney offers powerful insights and teachings that call the church to consecration, enabling God's people to become vessels of His glory, through which signs, wonders, and miracles manifest.

For more info about Glenn Bleakney, visit https://awakenations.org. Don’t miss out on our free television network, Kingdom Community TV, available at https://kingdomcommunity.tv, where you can also download our apps.

Tune in to the Kingdom Encounter Show and satisfy your hunger for experiencing more of God's glory in and through the life of His people - the ekklesia.

In this episode, Glenn Bleakney and Dr. Michael Grechko dive into the book of Ephesians, specifically chapter four. They explore the concept of the fivefold ministry and its significance in fulfilling God's purpose for the church. Ephesians 4 provides insight into the importance of unity, walking worthy of our calling, and utilizing the gifts that Christ has given us.

Understanding the Overall Theme of Ephesians 4

To fully grasp the message of Ephesians 4, it is essential to understand the context of the entire book. Paul wrote the letter to the believers in Ephesus, emphasizing both theology and practical instructions for the church. The first three chapters lay the foundation of theology, highlighting God's purpose for His church. The following three chapters focus on the practical application of the church's purpose in the world.

## Walking Worthy of our Calling

In Ephesians 4:1-17, Paul exhorts the church to walk in a manner worthy of their calling. This passage emphasizes the unity of the Spirit and the importance of maintaining peace and humility within the body of Christ. Paul encourages believers to bear with one another, being eager to maintain unity. The church is called to walk in a way that reflects its identity in Christ, demonstrating love, gentleness, and patience.

The Role of the Fivefold Ministry

In verses 7-16, Paul explains the purpose of the fivefold ministry: apostles, prophets, evangelists, shepherds, and teachers. These gifts were given by Christ to equip the saints for the work of ministry, building up the body of Christ. The fivefold ministry exists to serve the church and help individuals walk worthy of their calling. They provide coaching and equipping, guiding believers in utilizing their spiritual gifts to serve others effectively.

The Importance of Utilizing Spiritual Gifts

Each believer has been given spiritual gifts according to the measure of Christ's gift. These gifts are manifestations of the Holy Spirit's work within us. Every gift is essential for the growth and edification of the body of Christ. Just as a sports team functions best when every member understands their position and contributes to the team's objective, the church thrives when every believer understands and utilizes their spiritual gifts.

Connecting the Body of Christ

The body of Christ is a metaphor used throughout the New Testament to illustrate the interconnectedness and interdependence of believers. Just as a body cannot function properly if each part is not working together, the church cannot fulfill its purpose if believers are disconnected. Each member has a unique role to play, and when all members are actively serving, the body grows and becomes healthy. The church needs every individual to fully operate in unity and oneness.

Shifting from Individualism to Community

In Western societies, there is often a heavy emphasis on individualism. However, the biblical perspective emphasizes the importance of community and the interconnectedness of believers within the body of Christ. While personal gifts and callings are significant, they find their fullest expression within the context of community and in serving others. The church must move away from an individualistic mindset and embrace the idea of functioning as a unified body.

Cultivating a Kingdom Culture

As believers understand their gifts, calling, and role within the body of Christ, they become catalysts for sustaining revival and bringing about transformation. This requires a shift in the default settings of our culture, embracing a kingdom culture that prioritizes unity, diversity, and the equipping of the saints. By cultivating a kingdom culture in the church, we create an environment where each member can grow and contribute to the collective growth of the body of Christ.

The Importance of Collaboration and Equipping

In conclusion, Ephesians 4 provides valuable insights into the purpose of the fivefold ministry, the importance of unity, and the significance of utilizing spiritual gifts within the body of Christ. As believers understand their calling and identity in Christ, they can walk in a manner worthy of their calling and contribute to the growth and edification of the church. By embracing a kingdom culture and collaborating with the fivefold ministry, believers can fulfill their purpose and impact the world for Christ.

Stay tuned for the next session of the Power of Five podcast where Glenn and Dr. Michael Grechko will dive deeper into Ephesians 4 and explore the roles of the individual fivefold ministries.

Additional Information:

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Timestamps

0:00 - Introduction

0:24 - Overview of Ephesians Chapter Four

3:00 - The Unity of the Spirit and the Bond of Peace

8:05 - The Importance of Spiritual Gifts

14:46 - The Role of the Fivefold Ministry

23:38 - The Church as a Body

24:57 - The Importance of Belonging and Functioning in Community

27:10 - Conclusion and Next Steps

In a day and age when the presence of paternal influence is notably lacking, apostolic leaders face an undeniable and urgent need to transcend their conventional roles as mere leaders. Now, more than ever, they must fully embrace their true calling as spiritual fathers, offering guidance, nurturing, and unwavering care that can only be provided by those who embody the essence of a spiritual father. This generation yearns for a profound and intimate connection, as well as compassionate support that can only be fostered through the presence of spiritual fathers. As spiritual orphans wander, desperately seeking purpose and identity, it becomes imperative for apostolic leaders to wholeheartedly embrace the role of a father, guiding others to experience a deep, personal encounter with God the Father and embracing their true identity as cherished children of Father God. Listen to this podcast for the ten strategic shifts for apostolic leaders to become influential spiritual fathers, catalyzing transformative change in the lives of those they father.

In a day and age when the presence of paternal influence is notably lacking, apostolic leaders face an undeniable and urgent need to transcend their conventional roles as mere leaders. Now, more than ever, they must fully embrace their true calling as spiritual fathers, offering guidance, nurturing, and unwavering care that can only be provided by those who embody the essence of a spiritual father.

This generation yearns for a profound and intimate connection, as well as compassionate support that can only be fostered through the presence of spiritual fathers. As spiritual orphans wander, desperately seeking purpose and identity, it becomes imperative for apostolic leaders to wholeheartedly embrace the role of a father, guiding others to experience a deep, personal encounter with God the Father and embracing their true identity as cherished children of the Divine.

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 Here are ten strategic shifts for apostolic leaders to become influential spiritual fathers, catalyzing transformative change in the lives of those they father.

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In this week's episode of The Power of Five podcast, Glenn Bleakney speaks with Paul Tothill, an apostolic servant of Christ about the topic of the Gospel of the Kingdom and how it is fundamentally different than the Gospel being preached today in many places. There is so much to learn from this interview.

A New episode of the Power of Five podcast with host Glenn Bleakney drops each week! Please subscribe to ensure you do not miss an episode. Would you please leave us a 5 Star Review on Apple Podcasts.

BONUS CONTENT

Watch the Video Interview of this episode with Paul Tothill

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Connect with our community and join our FREE monthly mentoring Zoom meeting on all things five-fold ministry. Join our email list. https://awakenations.myflodesk.com/pw96fa1olj

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In this episode of The Power of Five podcast, Glenn Bleakney advocates that more than revival is needed in the Church today.

First and foremost, there must be re:formation. We must go back to the ancient ways of the New Testament and rediscover and restore the Fivefold ministry that will cause the church to experience great grace once again!

A New episode of the Power of Five podcast drops each week! Please subscribe to ensure you do not miss an episode. Would you please leave us a 5 Star Review on Apple Podcast also.

Connect with our community and join our FREE monthly mentoring Zoom meeting on all things five-fold ministry.

Invite Glenn Bleakney to minister at your event. Go to AwakeNations.org

Watch Kingdom Community TV - KingdomCommunity.tv

Welcome to the Kingdom Encounter Show with Glenn Bleakney! Dive deep into the heart of God's desire to dwell among His people through intimacy and relationship. Join us as we explore the divine blueprint for building a sanctuary where God's glory and power can flow freely. Each episode, Glenn Bleakney offers powerful insights and teachings that call the church to consecration, enabling God's people to become vessels of His glory, through which signs, wonders, and miracles manifest.

For more info about Glenn Bleakney, visit https://awakenations.org. Don’t miss out on our free television network, Kingdom Community TV, available at https://kingdomcommunity.tv, where you can also download our apps.

Tune in to the Kingdom Encounter Show and satisfy your hunger for experiencing more of God's glory in and through the life of His people - the ekklesia.