Episoder
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🎙️ 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 the 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...
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Welcome to the Kingdom Reformation Podcast with Glenn Bleakney
Visit AwakeNations.org and KingdomCommunity.tv
Email [email protected] to join our community
Introduction
God's Kingdom, a concept central to biblical teachings and theological discourse, encompasses both the present reality of God's reign in believers' hearts and the future consummation of His rule over all creation. The advancement of this Kingdom occurs through a fascinating interplay of dramatic, transformative moments and gradual, steady growth. This dual nature of Kingdom advancement reflects the multifaceted ways in which God works in our world and in individual lives.
Dramatic Moments: Powerful Waves of the Holy SpiritThroughout history, there have been periods of intense spiritual awakening and revival that have profoundly impacted individuals, communities, and even entire nations. These dramatic moments are often characterized by a tangible sense of God's presence and power manifesting in extraordinary ways. When the Holy Spirit is poured out in abundance, it can feel like a tidal wave of divine energy washing over believers, reminiscent of the Day of Pentecost described in Acts 2.
Rapid Transformation and RenewalIn these moments of spiritual intensity, people often experience rapid and dramatic changes in their lives. Long-standing addictions may be broken instantly, deep-seated emotional wounds can be healed, and hardened hearts may suddenly soften to receive God's love. Physical healings, emotional restoration, and spiritual renewal are common hallmarks of these dramatic outpourings. People may find themselves suddenly freed from chronic illnesses, mental health struggles, or spiritual oppression.
Signs and WondersAccompanying these powerful moves of the Spirit are often supernatural manifestations that defy natural explanation. These may include prophecies, visions, miraculous healings, or other phenomena that point to the reality of God's intervention in human affairs. Such signs and wonders serve to strengthen faith and draw attention to the message of the Kingdom.
Extraordinary Divine InterventionDuring these periods, there's often a sense that God is moving in ways that transcend the ordinary. Prayers may be answered with uncanny specificity, seemingly impossible situations might be resolved, and there may be a heightened awareness of God's guidance and providence in daily life.
Gradual Maturation: The Steady Growth of the KingdomPrayer as a CornerstoneConsistent, 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 ThingsThe 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 TrialsThe 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 DevelopmentGod's Kingdom grows as individuals are drawn into relationship with...
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One of the most disconcerting phenomena we observe among Kingdom leaders is when they become more preoccupied with safeguarding their own position, authority, or personal comfort than with sincerely addressing the needs of those they guide.
This disjunction may manifest in several troubling manners:
1. Lack of Empathy for Daily Challenges: Leaders often struggle to connect on a personal level, overlooking the everyday difficulties faced by their constituents. This lack of understanding fosters alienation and reduces the leader's effectiveness.
2. Prioritizing Personal or Institutional Goals Over Community Needs: When leaders concentrate solely on their objectives, they risk ignoring the community's actual needs. This can result in initiatives that fail to resonate with or benefit those they aim to help.
3. Surrounding Themselves with Affirmative Voices: Leaders who seek only affirmation instead of diverse viewpoints miss out on valuable insights. A lack of constructive criticism can stifle innovation and impede progress.
4. Making Decisions in Isolation: Leaders who operate without consulting those impacted by their decisions risk creating policies that are disconnected from reality. This detachment can lead to ineffective strategies and further alienation of the community.
This disconnect leads to a breakdown in trust and effectiveness, ultimately undermining a leader's ability to lead authentically.
The Manifestation of Altruistic Leadership
In stark contrast to the disconnect seen in modern leadership, Jesus exemplified a deep commitment to altruistic leadership. He showed empathy, actively engaged with those around Him, and placed the needs of others above His own. Here are some key principles of altruistic leadership that can help revitalize our approach to leadership within our churches and communities:
1. Empathy and Active Listening: Leaders should strive to genuinely understand the struggles their community faces, involving not just hearing but actively listening to others' experiences and concerns.
2. Prioritizing Community Needs:
Decisions should be rooted in the well-being of the community. Leaders can establish regular feedback mechanisms to ensure their initiatives align with the true needs of those they serve.
3. Encouraging Diverse Perspectives: Fostering a culture of openness and inclusivity can drive innovation. Leaders should seek input from a variety of voices within their community to enhance their understanding and approach.
4. Engaging with the Community: Rather than leading from afar, effective leaders should immerse themselves in the community to grasp the challenges and opportunities firsthand. This engagement builds trust and fosters a sense of belonging.
Follow me on Instagram: “Reviving Altruistic Leadership in Our Faith Communities ht
One of the most disconcerting phenomena we observe among Kingdom leaders is when they become more preoccupied with safeguarding their own position, authority, or personal comfort than with sincerely addressing the needs of those they guide.
This disjunction may manifest in several troubling manners:
1. Lack of Empathy for Daily Challenges: Leaders often struggle to connect on a personal level, overlooking the everyday difficulties faced by their constituents. This lack of understanding fosters alienation and reduces the leader's effectiveness.
2. Prioritizing Personal or Institutional Goals Over Community Needs: When leaders concentrate solely on their objectives, they risk ignoring the community's actual needs. This can result in initiatives that fail to resonate with or benefit those they aim to help.
3. Surrounding Themselves with Affirmative Voices: Leaders who seek only affirmation instead of diverse viewpoints miss out on valuable insights. A lack of constructive criticism can stifle innovation and impede progress.
4. Making Decisions...
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Join us as the hosts of the Deep Dive Podcast review and discuss Glenn Bleakney's powerful teaching on "How to Possess Prophetic Promises." In this episode, we explore a question that often troubles believers: why do some prophetic promises remain unfulfilled, even though we know God is faithful? Sometimes, a promise alone isn't enough. As we delve into stories like Elijah’s prayer for rain (1 Kings 18) and the disciples’ obedience to secure a place for Passover, we uncover how fulfilling a promise often requires our active partnership. Learn how obedience and faith work together to bring God’s promises to life, and join us in contending for the prophetic words spoken over you!
Missed Glenn Bleakney’s teaching, "How to Possess Prophetic Promises?" You can watch the full video on Kingdom Community TV: https://kingdomcommunitytv.subspla.sh/hj9s92s or on YouTube https://youtu.be/SV4HGZS7yNA
Prefer to listen? The original podcast episode is available on all major platforms, or you can access it directly here: https://player.captivate.fm/episode/1aeeb384-d0a7-4893-82f0-1b8425e39655.
Interested in study notes? Donate $20 USD or more to our ministry, Awake Nations, and mention "study notes" to receive them via email. Support our work by donating here: https://AwakeNations.org/donate
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Are you weary of empty leadership advice? 🌊 Join “Listening Leadership” to explore the fusion of spiritual sensitivity and practical leadership. ✨
In this episode, we’ll uncover ancient biblical wisdom 📜 and its application in today’s leadership. From Solomon’s “hearing heart” ❤️ to Jesus’ connection with the Father, discover principles that elevate good leaders to extraordinary ones. 🌟
This episode offers practical insights to:
- Enhance your spiritual sensitivity for better decision-making 🧠
- Tackle leadership challenges with divine wisdom 💡
- Transform your organization through Spirit-led leadership 🙌
- Cultivate a genuine connection with God that influences your style 🌈
Whether you lead a church ⛪, run a business 💼, or impact your community 🌍, this episode provides tools for leading with divine guidance. 🙏
Key points include:
- The Science of Spiritual Sensitivity 🔍
- Prophetic Leadership Today 🌌
- Steps to Hearing God’s Voice 🎤
- Leading with Kingdom Authority 👑
- Creating a Spiritually Attuned Organization 🏢
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Many today have received powerful prophetic promises, but have not seen them translate into reality. Why is this seeing that God is not a man that He would lie. The truth of the matter is a promise sometimes is not enough!
Now some may find this shocking, but please bear with me as I explain.
Consider the great prophet Elijah. He had the sure word of the Lord that it was His will that rain would fall on the earth after 3 years of famine. Was that sufficient? Evidently not. Elijah had to partner with the promise by engaging in a process. In his situation, prayer was the process required (See 1 Kings 18:42-44).
Often, the fulfillment of prophetic promises is contingent on our obedient actions. For example, the disciples were given specific instructions in order to secure a meeting place to celebrate the Passover. They had to go to the city and look for a man with a water jar and say, “The Teacher says to you, Where is the guest room, where I may eat the Passover with my disciples?'” Only after this act of obedience was the promise fulfilled.
Like the saints of old, let's contend for prophetic promises to be realized in our lives! There is so much at stake! “And what more shall I say? For time would fail me to tell of Gideon, Barak, Samson, Jephthah, of David and Samuel and the prophets— who through faith conquered kingdoms, enforced justice, obtained promises …" (Hebrews 11:32-33, ESV).
Watch the video on Kingdom Community TV - https://kingdomcommunitytv.subspla.sh/hj9s92s
Watch the video on Youtube - https://youtu.be/SV4HGZS7yNA
Want the Study notes? Donate $20 USD or more to our ministry, Awake Nations, and mention "study notes" and we will email to you. Donate now at https://AwakeNations.org/donate
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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.
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Watch the Video Interview of this episode with Paul Tothill
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The team at Deep Dive discusses Glenn Bleakney's recent teaching series on Ezekiel 37 and how it is a prophetic and apostolic pattern for revival and reformation.
Read the post https://glennbleakney.substack.com/p/why-revival-is-not-enough-embracing
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Introduction: The Valley Vision
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.
Lessons from History: A Call to Sustained TransformationRevival is a powerful and essential starting point for every believer and community longing to experience the fullness of God. But if we stop there, we miss the bigger picture of what God intends to accomplish. While revival sparks a renewed hunger for His presence, transformation is the ongoing journey of shaping lives and communities to reflect the Kingdom of God.
Ezekiel 37:1-14 paints a vivid picture of this concept, showing how transformation leads to renewed life and how this renewal calls us into a lasting partnership with God. Reflecting on past movements of God, we find a crucial truth: the purpose is not merely to experience powerful services, deep worship, or even witness miracles. It's about letting the Spirit of God fully transform us, so that the impact flows into every part of our lives and communities.
Four Life-Changing Outcomes the Father DesiresThese four outcomes revolve around a single question: "Can these bones live?" (Ezekiel 37:3)
1. Crisis Acknowledged: Facing the Reality of BrokennessIn Ezekiel's vision, God confronts him with a valley of dry bones, a symbol of Israel's utter desolation. God's question—"Can these bones live?"—underscores the severity of their spiritual state, showing the depth of the crisis.
This recognition of brokenness is essential in any revival. We must face our own spiritual dryness, brokenness, and areas where we need God's intervention. By acknowledging the crisis, we open ourselves to a work that only God can accomplish. In this way, revival isn't just a moment of excitement but a sober acknowledgment of our need for ongoing transformation and healing, especially in the areas we cannot repair on our own.
2. Complacency Confronted: Stirring Expectancy Over ResignationWhen God asks Ezekiel, "Can these bones live?" He is challenging any complacency that may have crept in, inviting Ezekiel to rise above hopelessness and believe in the power of God to transform.
This challenge to complacency is critical if revival is to become more than a brief moment. It's easy to become resigned to the situations we see as beyond repair. However, God calls us to live with expectancy, to believe that He can—and will—revive and renew. Revival begins with the conviction that God can bring life to the most desolate places, sparking a fresh expectation that moves beyond revival and into everyday faith.
3. Call for Cooperation: Partnering in God's Redemptive WorkAfter stirring Ezekiel's faith, God calls him to prophesy over the bones, actively involving him in the miracle of restoration. God doesn't bring life alone; He invites Ezekiel to partner with Him. This is a powerful Kingdom principle—revival is not something that God simply does to us; it's something He does through us.
We are called to take steps of faith, speaking life and hope into dead situations. Our cooperation, marked by obedience and...
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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
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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
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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.
Invite Glenn Bleakney to your conference or event. Email [email protected]
Interested in being a guest on our podcast, Email [email protected]
Donate at https://AwakeNations.org
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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.
Video of the Week: https://www.kingdomcommunity.tv/media/nfgwqjx/the-habitation-of-god
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 WatersJust 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 PathsA 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 DebrisRivers 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 LandsA 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 FlowIt'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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“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.
Kingdom Encounter with Glenn Bleakney is a variety show consisting of teaching, discourses, and interviews on all things Kingdom. This is a season of reformation and revival. The Church must build on the foundations of the apostles and prophets preaching and teaching the Gospel of the Kingdom in the demonstration of the Spirit's power to all nations.
Watch the video here https://youtu.be/GRj6uTJ0k-s?si=Esa_-R8IQwSg2Hmw
Glenn Bleakney's Blog - https://www.kingdomcommunity.tv/blog
Donate to Awake Nations - AwakeNations.org/donate
Watch Kingdom Community TV - https://www.kingdomcommunity.tv
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Welcome to the Power of Five podcast! In this episode, Glenn Bleakney and Dr. Michael Gretchko 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...
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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.
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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.
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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.
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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Season 3 of The Power of Five is Launching soon!
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