In This Last Hour
In the face of spiritual decay and judgment, God offers a message of hope and healing through the 'Sun of Righteousness', Jesus Christ.
David Wilkerson emphasizes the urgency of the Holy Spirit's work in these last days, drawing parallels to Peter's declaration at Pentecost. He highlights the dual prophecy of Malachi, warning the ungodly of impending judgment while offering hope to those who fear the Lord. In a world filled with arrogance and denial of God's sovereignty, Wilkerson reassures believers that despite the challenges ahead, the 'Sun of Righteousness' will rise, bringing healing and a fresh outpouring of the Holy Spirit. He encourages Christians to remain steadfast and expectant of God's miraculous power in these trying times.
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When Peter and the disciples saw what took place at Pentecost, Peter immediately stood up and declared, "This is what was spoken by the prophet Joel ... 'I will pour out My Spirit in those days'" (Acts 2:16, 18). Likewise, we are able to see in Scripture what the Holy Spirit is doing in these last days -- indeed, in this late hour.
The prophet Malachi offers a two-fold prophecy: First, he speaks to the ungodly, materialistic, secular, pleasure-mad world. And second, he speaks to those who love and fear the Lord.
Malachi warned the godless nations, "Behold, the day is coming, burning like an oven, and all the proud, yes, all who do wickedly will be stubble" (Malachi 4:1). If ever there was a day like a burning oven, when everything the world over is "hot" -- economically, socially, spiritually -- it is today. This great nation is slowly pushing God completely out of our courts, our schools, our society, saying, "We are the greatest, mightiest, wealthiest nation on earth, and we have achieved it all on our own."
Such arrogance! But beneath all the bravado is an underlying fear and gloom. Even God's people tremble at what they see. However, Malachi had a second prophecy for those who fear the Lord, the overcoming church, a message of gladness and hope. Christians will experience collateral damage from the coming day of "burning." That cannot be helped. But God has sent a word that will keep his people through the hard times.
We are told that "the Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings" (4:2). In the darkest hour, when things look hopeless, Jesus is going to rise in greater revelation than at any time in history. And the world is going to witness his saving and keeping power in all its glory. Jesus Christ will rise up and he will shine as a healing Sun, brighter than in all past generations, and God's people will experience a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit -- with signs, wonders, and miracles (see Acts 4:29-30).
Encourage yourself in the Lord today and thank him for his anointing on your life.
Sermon Outline
- The Last Hour
- The world is in a state of spiritual decay
- The church is facing a time of great testing
Key Quotes
“This great nation is slowly pushing God completely out of our courts, our schools, our society, saying, 'We are the greatest, mightiest, wealthiest nation on earth, and we have achieved it all on our own.'” — David Wilkerson
“We are told that 'the Sun of Righteousness shall arise with healing in His wings' (4:2).” — David Wilkerson
“Jesus Christ will rise up and he will shine as a healing Sun, brighter than in all past generations, and God's people will experience a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit -- with signs, wonders, and miracles (see Acts 4:29-30).” — David Wilkerson
Application Points
- Encourage yourself in the Lord and trust in his promise to keep and save you.
- Thank God for his anointing on your life and seek to experience a fresh baptism of the Holy Spirit.
- Prepare for the last days by seeking a deeper revelation of Jesus Christ and his power to heal and save.