The Crisis Of Contemporary Christianity
Andrew Strom warns of a global crisis in contemporary Christianity marked by the widespread acceptance of prosperity gospel and calls for a return to foundational gospel truths and a prophetic remnant to arise.
This sermon emphasizes the importance of repentance, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, and the need for revival in the church. It addresses the crisis of false teachings, especially the prosperity gospel, and the lack of true discipleship. The speaker urges listeners to stand up like prophets of old, speak the simple words of Jesus, and be vessels of the Holy Spirit to bring about a genuine revival in these last days.
Sermon Outline
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I. The Crisis in Contemporary Christianity
- Widespread acceptance of prosperity gospel worldwide
- Preachers living in luxury while congregations remain poor
- Loss of foundational gospel teachings on sin, righteousness, and judgment
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II. Biblical Examples and God's Response
- Ezekiel 34 condemns unfaithful shepherds
- Elijah’s prophetic ministry in times of crisis (1 Kings 17)
- God raises a remnant to stand for righteousness in last days
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III. The Need for a Teaching Reformation
- Return to preaching repentance and the wrath to come
- Combatting the advertising gospel and false prosperity promises
- Equipping and sending out preachers to proclaim truth globally
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IV. Call to Action for the Church
- Reject complacency and mere attendance at conferences
- Be willing to preach boldly like Elijah and John the Baptist
- Engage in global mission especially in the third world
Key Quotes
“We have a completely unsaved church. Utterly unsaved. They bring forth none of the fruits of true salvation.” — Andrew Strom
“God is calling forth a remnant and a people who do not sit in conferences but only go there to hear what needs to be done and then stand up, get their backpack on and go.” — Andrew Strom
“The famine of the hearing of the word of the Lord is so terribly bad.” — Andrew Strom
Application Points
- Reject prosperity gospel teachings and embrace the true gospel of repentance and judgment.
- Be willing to boldly proclaim God's truth even in difficult or hostile environments.
- Engage actively in global missions, especially where the church is in crisis, rather than remaining passive listeners.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the main crisis Andrew Strom identifies in contemporary Christianity?
He identifies the widespread acceptance of the prosperity gospel and the loss of true gospel preaching on sin, repentance, and judgment.
Why does Andrew Strom reference Ezekiel 34 in his sermon?
To highlight God's condemnation of unfaithful church leaders who exploit their congregations instead of feeding the flock.
What biblical figure does Strom use as a model for prophetic ministry in crisis?
Elijah, who boldly stood before God and declared judgment during a time of national emergency.
What does Strom say about the role of the church in the current global spiritual climate?
He says the church is largely unsaved and in desperate need of a reformation through anointed teaching and a righteous remnant.
What practical steps does Strom encourage believers to take?
He urges believers to go out and preach the truth boldly, especially in the third world, and not just attend conferences passively.