Atmosphere of Joy | AGC & Discipleship Training (8th April)

Welcome to Wow Tuesday: An Atmosphere of Joy

Introduction and Call to Worship

• The session begins with an invitation to join in praise and worship, setting a joyful tone for the gathering.

• A song is introduced, encouraging attendees to come down to the river, symbolizing a transformative experience that promises change.

• Repeated emphasis on not being alone in struggles; the message reassures participants that they are welcome regardless of their burdens.

Themes of Healing and Acceptance

• The call continues for individuals to bring their sins and burdens, highlighting the theme of healing through faith.

• Participants are encouraged to "come as you are," promoting acceptance and openness within the community.

• The metaphor of water symbolizes healing and renewal, urging attendees not to hesitate but rather embrace this opportunity for spiritual cleansing.

Joyful Participation

• The repetition of phrases like "no time to waste" emphasizes urgency in seeking joy and healing through participation.

• Encouragement is given for collective engagement, reinforcing community spirit as everyone is invited down to the river together.

Shifting Focus: Creating an Atmosphere of Joy

Service Format Change

• Transitioning into a different format for service, focusing on creating an atmosphere filled with joy rather than traditional elements.

• Acknowledgment that external factors often attempt to steal joy; today’s service aims at breaking those barriers.

Resetting Emotions

• The speaker expresses hope for emotional reset during this gathering, promising transformation from sadness or negativity into happiness.

• Emphasis on tapping into higher spiritual understanding rather than relying solely on intellect; encourages faith-driven experiences.

Conclusion of Initial Segment

Joy and Intoxication in God's Presence

The Nature of Joy

• The speaker emphasizes that one does not need to conform to societal expectations regarding appearance, such as wearing heels or makeup, suggesting a more relaxed approach to joy.

• Acknowledges newcomers and reassures them about comfort during the gathering, introducing the concept of "positive theology."

• Clarifies that joy is not something we manufacture; rather, it comes from God, who embodies love and joy.

Understanding Divine Joy

• Highlights that God is not punitive but loving; His presence brings a heavenly atmosphere filled with joy.

• Stresses that true joy cannot be self-generated but must come from an external source—God's infusion of joy into our lives.

• Describes this divine joy as a state of peace and clarity rather than chaotic exuberance.

Intoxication vs. Escape

• The speaker humorously addresses drug use among attendees while discussing the innate human desire to escape reality.

• Contrasts worldly intoxication with divine intoxication, which helps individuals tune into their true reality rather than escape it.

• Emphasizes that the worries causing distress are not reflective of one's true reality; instead, heavenly realities are filled with joy.

Commandment of Joy

• Discusses how being filled with God's joy can lead to a transformative experience akin to being intoxicated without negative consequences.

• References Acts 2 where disciples were perceived as intoxicated after receiving the Holy Spirit, illustrating how divine experiences can appear unconventional to outsiders.

• Encourages breaking free from conventional frameworks and experiencing the fullness of life through God's perspective.

Repentance and Seeking True Satisfaction

• Reflecting on Nehemiah's teachings about remorseful feelings when distancing from God; encourages attendees not to dwell on shame or regret.

• Asserts that God’s greatness surpasses personal guilt or shame; emphasizes that joy is a commandment rather than an option for believers.

Spiritual Hunger and Divine Presence

Seeking Deeper Connection with God

• The speaker emphasizes the importance of desiring a deeper spiritual experience, asking for God's mercy and grace to fill the congregation beyond worldly satisfactions.

• A call is made for divine intoxication through the Holy Spirit, likening it to being filled with the finest wine that transcends earthly sources.

• The speaker expresses a desire for complete abandonment in worship, encouraging attendees to disregard their reputations and fully embrace God's presence.

Creating a Safe Space for Worship

• The speaker establishes boundaries for the gathering, indicating that only dedicated members ("wowers") are invited to create an uninhibited environment.

• Assurance is given that this meeting will not be broadcasted publicly; instead, it will be shared privately with family members watching online.

Emphasizing Authentic Spiritual Experiences

• The speaker discusses how speaking the word of God can manifest His power during worship, highlighting a commitment to authenticity over superficial displays of faith.

• There is an emphasis on creating private meetings where individuals can experience God's authority without external judgment or scrutiny from social media.

Encouraging Genuine Encounters with God

• The speaker invites participants to engage in authentic expressions of faith, such as physical manifestations like shaking or rolling under the influence of the Holy Spirit.

• A personal testimony is shared about experiencing powerful movements of God since the inception of their ministry nearly two decades ago.

Fostering a Culture of Expectation

• The focus shifts towards seeking genuine encounters rather than manufactured miracles; true peace and joy are sought through divine touch rather than external validation.

Hunger for God

The Nature of Spiritual Hunger

• The speaker emphasizes a deep spiritual hunger, likening it to a personal need. They reference Sam, who embodies this hunger for God, highlighting that everyone shares a common background as sinners.

• This hunger is portrayed as essential for divine intervention; without it, nothing significant occurs in one's spiritual life. The speaker encourages the audience to cultivate this desire actively.

• The analogy of approaching God with childlike innocence is introduced. The speaker argues that humility and undignified behavior are necessary to experience God's presence fully.

• Personal anecdotes illustrate the importance of prioritizing God's glory over personal dignity. The speaker expresses their commitment to seeking God regardless of societal expectations.

• A call to action is made: attendees should approach God with an open heart and express their need for His touch today, emphasizing the necessity of shared hunger among participants.

Permission for Divine Movement

• Attendees are encouraged to promise not to be offended by how God may choose to move among them, fostering an environment of openness and acceptance towards unexpected manifestations.

• The speaker stresses the importance of giving God permission to act freely in their lives, suggesting that miracles and signs will follow if they do so.

Expectation of Miracles

• An invitation is extended for participants to prepare themselves spiritually as the speaker plans to share scriptures and recount three miracles, urging them to seek personal experiences during these stories.

• Reference is made to Moses' encounter with God's glory on Mount Sinai. This sets up a discussion about experiencing divine presence through faith and expectation.

Understanding Grace Through Moses

• The narrative shifts focus onto Moses asking God about His glory while wearing a veil due to its intensity. This symbolizes the transformative power of encountering God's presence.

• Emphasis is placed on grace as a recurring theme in Moses' conversation with God; he pleads for grace multiple times, which highlights its significance in establishing a relationship with the divine.

• A connection is drawn between Moses’ plea for grace before Jesus’ arrival and the present-day understanding that all believers have found grace through Christ's sacrifice.

Assurance of God's Presence

• A powerful promise from God is shared: His presence will accompany those who have found grace in His sight. This assurance serves as encouragement for believers facing challenges in their lives.

God's Presence and Glory

The Assurance of God's Presence

• The speaker expresses gratitude for God's promise, emphasizing that Jesus will walk with him and that God's presence brings rest.

• Moses challenges God, asking for grace and requesting a sign of His glory, indicating the importance of seeking deeper connection with God.

The Request for Glory

• The speaker highlights the significance of Moses' plea to "show me your glory," illustrating a humble yet earnest request for divine revelation.

• Emphasizes the difference between merely having God's presence and experiencing His glory, which is portrayed as something extraordinary worth pleading for.

Understanding the Holy Spirit vs. Glory

• Acknowledges that while believers have the Holy Spirit within them, there exists a higher realm known as the glory of God that offers more profound experiences.

• Shares a personal testimony about losing significant wealth and realizing the need to seek deeper understanding beyond just having the Holy Spirit.

Experiencing God's Glory

• Discusses how seeking God's glory led to transformative experiences in life and ministry, moving from reliance on just the Holy Spirit to embracing the realm of glory.

• Distinguishes between having the Holy Spirit and encountering individuals who carry an atmosphere or "realm" of glory.

The Ecosystem of Glory

• Describes the realm of glory as an ecosystem from heaven involving not only God’s presence but also angels working together in harmony.

• Each community has its unique "weave" or manifestation of this ecosystem; emphasizes that every church or group has distinct spiritual dynamics shaped by their relationship with God.

Manifestation of Divine Presence

• Defines glory as not just being present but manifesting visibly in life circumstances; it represents tangible evidence of God's involvement.

The Manifest Presence of God

Understanding the Glory of God

• The speaker discusses the concept of miraculous occurrences linked to the presence of angels, emphasizing that true miracles happen in the manifest presence of God.

• It is highlighted that God's glory is unique and not shared with anyone else, except for Jesus Christ, who was granted glory before creation.

• Believers in Christ share in this divine glory, establishing a connection between them and Jesus.

Personal Testimony: Seeking Miraculous Power

• The speaker recounts a personal journey from financial distress (150 million rupees) to seeking out manifestations of God's power through various churches.

• A pivotal moment occurs when they discover a preacher on God TV performing unusual miracles, such as significant weight loss during meetings.

Unusual Miracles Observed

• The speaker describes witnessing extraordinary events at meetings, including people experiencing dramatic changes like hair color transformations and unexpected additions to jewelry.

• An account is given where an offering amount miraculously increases upon being counted multiple times during a service.

Encountering David Herzog

• The speaker expresses admiration for David Herzog's ability to address their financial issues and seeks to meet him after hearing about his upcoming visit to their pastor's church.

• Despite initial caution from their pastor regarding Herzog's authenticity, the speaker remains determined to connect with him.

Miraculous Events During Meetings

• Upon meeting Herzog, the speaker witnesses astonishing miracles including gold and silver teeth appearing in attendees' mouths and gold dust manifesting on hands.

• Acknowledgment is made of Fiona’s initial skepticism towards these events; however, her discernment has improved over time.

Understanding Discernment and Divine Communication

The Nature of Wisdom vs. Street Smarts

• The speaker reflects on the difference between wisdom and street smarts, indicating a transition from being street-wise to seeking divine wisdom.

• Emphasizes the importance of discernment in spiritual matters, asking for guidance from God to avoid deceit.

Divine Communication Through Dreams and Visions

• The speaker shares experiences of receiving messages from God through dreams and visions, highlighting their significance in understanding divine will.

• Mentions the role of his wife, Fiona, in interpreting these divine communications and questioning their meaning.

Miraculous Transformations as Signs of Faith

• Discusses an instance where Fiona's dental amalgam transformed into bright platinum silver after she repented, marking a pivotal moment in her faith journey.

• This transformation led Fiona to become a believer, showcasing how miraculous events can influence personal faith.

Worship and Spiritual Awakening

• After experiencing miracles, the speaker describes an overwhelming urge to worship God continuously during a car ride.

• Observes gold dust appearing in the atmosphere while driving, reinforcing his belief in God's presence and power.

Financial Miracles and Divine Provision

• Despite not receiving a loan he expected at DFCC bank, he recounts witnessing small specks of gold around him as signs of God's provision.

• Shares that within a month he was able to pay off significant debts miraculously, attributing this success to his faith in God.

Commitment to Serving God

• The speaker expresses that witnessing such miracles solidified their decision to serve God wholeheartedly despite feeling unworthy.

• Highlights that it is not personal merit but Jesus' sacrifice that qualifies believers for God's blessings.

Encountering Angels and Signs & Wonders

• Describes meeting Joshua Mills who exhibits miraculous signs like gold dust covering him while walking—an affirmation of divine encounters.

• Critiques those who fake miracles for monetary gain while asserting their commitment to genuine spiritual experiences.

Reflection on Spiritual Expectations

• Questions whether physical manifestations (like gold teeth or dust) are the ultimate goal of faith or if they signify deeper spiritual transformations.

A Journey of Faith and Miracles

The Transformative Power of Faith

• The speaker reflects on their life journey with God, emphasizing a lack of regrets and the potential for storytelling from their experiences.

• They discuss finding joy even in the face of fear, such as death or loss, highlighting a spiritual realm that opens up through faith.

• The speaker expresses love for signs and wonders as they point towards an awesome and loving God who desires us to live joyfully like children.

Signs and Wonders Pointing to Jesus

• The presence of gold dust is mentioned as a miraculous sign pointing to Jesus, who can provide healing and support in times of need.

• The atmosphere during these miracles is described as strange; the speaker questions why such phenomena occur while maintaining a scientific perspective.

• They propose that emotions like awe may enhance our inherent qualities (like "gold") within us, suggesting a connection between spirituality and neuroscience.

Biblical Miracles: A Sign of God's Glory

• The speaker references Moses' desire to see God's glory, contrasting it with Jesus' first miracle at the wedding in Cana—turning water into wine.

• This miracle serves not just practical needs but symbolizes God's glory on Earth rather than providing free wine indefinitely.

• They highlight the controversial nature of this miracle due to the guests being already intoxicated, illustrating grace amidst human flaws.

Understanding Transformation Miracles

• Different types of miracles are discussed; healings versus signs and wonders. Signs aim to expand our understanding beyond conventional limits.

Transformation Miracles and Manifestation of Glory

The Importance of Transformation Miracles

• The speaker emphasizes the need for a "multiplication transformation miracle," highlighting that witnessing such miracles can stretch one's mind and perception.

• Referring to John 2:11, the speaker notes that Jesus' first miracle at the wedding in Cana was significant as it marked the beginning of His signs, which manifested His glory.

Understanding Signs and Their Purpose

• The miracles performed by Jesus are described as manifestations of His glory rather than personal glory, indicating a divine purpose behind them.

• The speaker encourages the audience to actively seek signs from God, suggesting that these signs serve as affirmations of God's presence and power.

Examples of Divine Signs

• A peculiar sign is mentioned where an increase in phone battery life without being plugged in is presented as evidence of God's work.

• The speaker recalls instances where unexpected financial blessings occurred, like finding more money or having bills unexpectedly cleared, framing these events as miraculous signs.

Biblical References to Miraculous Provision

• Transitioning to Matthew 17, the speaker discusses Jesus’ transfiguration and subsequent instructions regarding paying temple taxes through a miraculous catch of fish.

• In this account, Peter is instructed to catch a fish that will contain money for tax payment—an unconventional method illustrating divine provision.

Reflection on Modern-Day Signs

• The speaker reflects on contemporary experiences where individuals have witnessed unusual occurrences (like increased data or bill reductions), interpreting them as modern-day signs from God.

Miraculous Signs and Beliefs

The Concept of Miracles in Everyday Life

• The speaker emphasizes that just as it seems impossible to find money in a fish's mouth, it's equally improbable to see unexpected financial relief, such as bills being paid. This serves as a metaphor for divine intervention.

• A discussion about a recent disconnection and reconnection of internet service highlights the idea that these occurrences can be seen as signs from God, reinforcing faith in miraculous events.

• The speaker shares an example of zero data usage over a billing period, which is typically not possible. This anomaly is presented as evidence of God's presence and action in their lives.

Challenging Conventional Logic

• The notion of the "religious spirit" is introduced, suggesting that some people limit God’s actions based on their own logic rather than embracing the possibility of extraordinary miracles.

• The speaker references Shanta, an intelligent CFO who chooses to believe in something greater than himself despite his logical background. This illustrates the theme of faith transcending rationality.

Engaging with Technology for Miracles

• An interactive moment occurs where participants are encouraged to check their phones for messages or credits while invoking divine blessings. This act symbolizes openness to receiving miracles through modern technology.

• A participant shares their experience of seeing their outstanding bill drop from 3,500 to zero after prayerful engagement during the session, further emphasizing miraculous financial changes.

Extraordinary vs. Ordinary Miracles

• Another participant recounts how previous outstanding amounts have been cleared unexpectedly, showcasing what they describe as unusual miracles happening within the community.

• The speaker categorizes miracles into ordinary and extraordinary types, referencing biblical accounts where Paul performed unusual miracles. This distinction underscores the belief that significant changes can occur when one has faith.

Faith and Transformation

What Miracles Are Happening Right Now?

Observations of Current Events

• The speaker expresses disbelief and excitement over recent events, emphasizing the miraculous nature of occurrences happening in real-time.

• A reference is made to a consistent divine presence, stating that "the same God" has remained unchanged over time, reinforcing faith in continuity.

• The speaker notes zero usage from specific dates, indicating a significant change or miracle occurring within that timeframe.

Understanding Divine Logic

• There’s an emphasis on the idea that logical thinking can hinder experiencing miracles; the speaker encourages letting go of logic to embrace faith.

• The speaker presents two possibilities regarding the authenticity of experiences: either they are genuine encounters with God or mere deception.

Experiencing God's Presence

• The narrative shifts to highlight personal experiences with God, suggesting attendees may feel His touch and love during this moment.

• Various forms of communication (texts, emails, calls) are mentioned as potential signs from God, illustrating how divine messages can manifest in everyday life.

Historical Context and Spiritual Joy

• The speaker draws parallels between biblical miracles and current experiences, asserting that similar divine interventions are possible today.

• A recounting of Peter's experience at Pentecost is shared to illustrate how spiritual joy can transcend ordinary circumstances.

Invoking Joy Through Faith

• Attendees are encouraged to seek joy through prayer and openness to the Holy Spirit's influence, breaking free from seriousness and depression.

The Power of the Holy Spirit in Worship

Addressing Criticism and Celebrating Spiritual Experiences

• The speaker reflects on criticisms faced by their church, likening them to those directed at early churches, indicating a sense of pride in being recognized for their spiritual fervor.

• Emphasizes the sanctity of the church environment, stating that while they may enjoy drinks outside, they will not partake in alcohol or drugs within the sacred space dedicated to worship.

• Shares a personal anecdote about a friend named Darren who has experienced wild parties but was astonished by the joy and high energy present during worship at their church.

The Transformative Nature of Worship

• Highlights how the presence of the Holy Spirit can heal depression and transform lives, suggesting that this spiritual experience surpasses any physical substance like drugs or alcohol.

• Introduces scripture from Peter's sermon where people were confused about the state of those filled with the Holy Spirit, drawing parallels to modern experiences in worship.

Encouragement for Participation

• The speaker encourages attendees to engage actively in worship, inviting them to raise their hands and participate fully as they read scripture together.

• Invites individuals to receive prayer and anointing from leaders within the church community, emphasizing that this touch can lead to significant spiritual transformation.

Experiencing Joy Through Worship

• Describes how participants may physically react during worship (e.g., falling or rolling), encouraging openness to these experiences as part of receiving joy from God.

• Expresses a desire for deeper connection with God’s spirit through joyful praise and acknowledges that this experience is more fulfilling than anything worldly.

Celebration Through Song

• Begins singing about an inner river flowing with life and fire representing God's presence, reinforcing themes of joy and vitality found in faith.

• Continues celebrating through music, reiterating feelings of uncontainable joy stemming from a deep relationship with God.

Joy of the Lord: A Pathway to Worship

Expressing Joy Through Worship

• The speaker emphasizes laying down pain and sorrow for the joy of the Lord, suggesting that worship can transform negative feelings into joy.

• The joy described is characterized as unspeakable, undeniable, and unexplainable, highlighting its profound impact on one's spirit.

• The speaker encourages vocal expression in worship, indicating that loud praise is a gateway to experiencing joy in the Lord.

Engaging in Worship

• A practical tip is provided: focus less on the words displayed during singing and more on vocalizing joy loudly without concern for how it sounds.

• The speaker reassures participants that no one will judge their singing ability; instead, they should express themselves freely.

• Movement during worship is encouraged—jumping and dancing as if no one is watching can enhance the experience of joy.

Understanding Holiness in Joyful Worship

• Reference to Nehemiah 8 highlights that "the joy of the Lord is my strength," linking holiness with joyful expressions rather than somberness.

• The speaker challenges traditional views of holiness by stating laughter and exuberance are also holy acts of worship.

• Participants are invited to lose their inhibitions during worship, emphasizing that today is a holy day meant for joyful celebration.

Creating a Special Moment in Worship

• An invitation is made for attendees to dedicate ten minutes solely to God, encouraging them to fully engage emotionally without reservation.

• Participants are urged to surrender completely during this time—crying or laughing as needed—as an act of devotion.

Celebrating God's Greatness

• The session transitions into praising God for His great deeds with open arms and heartfelt declarations about His worthiness.

Worship and Reflection

The Greatness of God’s Love

• The worship begins with a declaration of God's greatness, emphasizing His everlasting love and mercy.

• Lyrics highlight the theme of forgiveness through His blood, reinforcing the message that all sins are removed as far as the east is from the west.

• The repetition of "as high as the heavens" serves to elevate the understanding of God's love and mercy, creating an atmosphere of reverence.

Invitation for Prayer and Healing

• A call is made for individuals seeking emotional or physical change to come forward for prayer, indicating a communal aspect to worship.

• Participants are encouraged to express their hunger for spiritual transformation by stepping forward, fostering an environment of openness and vulnerability.

Experiencing God’s Presence

• Attendees are reassured not to be afraid during this time of worship; they are invited to fully engage with their emotions—whether it be joy or sorrow.

• There is an emphasis on allowing God to minister personally, encouraging participants to remain in a posture of receptivity.

Worship Through Song

• The lyrics affirm God's worthiness, reiterating that He deserves glory because all things originate from Him.

• Repeated declarations reinforce the community's collective acknowledgment of God's sovereignty and majesty.

Times of Refreshing

• An invitation is extended for those hesitant at the back to join in on this transformative experience, suggesting inclusivity in spiritual renewal.

Hallelujah: A Celebration of Faith and Trust

The Strength in Sorrow

• The lyrics express that there is strength found within sorrow, highlighting the beauty in tears and the divine presence during difficult times.

• Emphasizes a love that dispels fear, suggesting that faith can sanctify individuals even when circumstances are beyond understanding.

Divine Assurance

• The message reassures listeners that God's plans are to prosper them, indicating they have not been forgotten amidst trials like fire and flood.

• Reiterates God's faithfulness forever, portraying Him as perfect in love and sovereign over all situations.

Transformation of Evil into Good

• Highlights the belief that even what the enemy intends for evil can be transformed by God for good and glory.

• Reinforces the idea of divine faithfulness even in valleys, emphasizing God's active role in working for our good.

Personal Empowerment Through Faith

• Encourages individuals to claim their night of victory, urging them to embrace personal empowerment through faith.

• Calls on believers to affirm their trust in God’s goodness despite adversities, reinforcing His commitment to work for their benefit.

Praise and Salvation

• Celebrates God as Almighty who reigns eternally, inviting worshippers to acknowledge His sovereignty.

Jesus Christ: Our Beloved and Redeemer

The Theme of Belonging and Redemption

• The speaker expresses a deep sense of belonging, stating, "I am your beloved," emphasizing the personal relationship with Jesus Christ who has redeemed them through His sacrifice.

• The notion of being loved by the Father is reinforced; the speaker highlights that God's mercy overcomes shame and condemnation, illustrating a transformative view of self in light of divine love.

• A powerful declaration is made about identity: "They don't see my sin. They only see redemption." This reflects a core belief in how God perceives believers—through the lens of grace rather than judgment.

• The speaker reiterates that nothing can alter the Father's love for them, reinforcing an unshakeable assurance in their relationship with God despite past actions or sins.