Join Lead Pastor Allen Bonnell from Immanuel Baptist Church as he begins a new series, “New Beginnings: Renewal, Rebuilding, and Refocusing,” starting with the book of Ezra. Pastor Allen opens with the powerful truth that “nobody is too far gone that God’s grace cannot redeem them”, sharing a personal testimony of his father’s deathbed prayer.

This sermon highlights incredible stories of God’s recent work, from college students finding Christ in Spain where conversions are rare, to record numbers at 1451 Camp, and two students giving their lives to Christ at a public park prayer meeting. These events demonstrate a season of spiritual renewal and rebuilding within the church.

Delving into Ezra 1, Pastor Allen reveals key truths:

-- God is in control: He orchestrates historical events, even using pagan kings like Cyrus, to fulfill His purposes. He cites Jeremiah’s 70-year prophecy as a testament to God’s precise timing and faithfulness.

-- God will provide for His mission: Just as God moved Pharaoh’s heart during the Exodus, He stirs hearts and provides resources, even using the secular world’s wealth, for His work. He often works through a faithful remnant, not necessarily the masses.

-- God calls His people to respond: He invites us to leave spiritual “Babylon” (exile from Him) and return to our first love, regardless of how long we’ve been away. God’s desire is for His presence to be known in every community.

Discover how God is stirring hearts for evangelism, liberal giving, and full-time ministry. This message is a powerful call to surrender to Christ, trust in His perfect plan, and boldly engage in His mission.