Creating and sustaining a spiritual atmosphere in the church 15 OCTOBER, 2016

Introduction The church is an assembly of called-out people and the body of Christ. It thrives in the presence of God. “Now the Lord is that Spirit: and where the Spirit of the Lord is, there is liberty. But we all, with open face beholding as in a glass the glory of the Lord, are changed into the same image from glory to glory, even as by the Spirit of the Lord.” – 2 Corinthians 3:17-18 A spiritual atmosphere is an environment that makes people to receive God’s word and blessings, contribute, pray and grow.

Spiritual Atmosphere Receive Contribute Pray Grow

1. CREATING A SPIRITUAL ATMOSPHERE Holiness: attracts God’s presence. It should be our lifestyle – Deuteronomy 23:14. Prayer: Pre-service prayer (Saturday and Sunday), breakthrough opening prayer, intercession etc. Our prayer should be scriptural and draw souls to God – Acts 4:31. Unity and oneness: There is power in unity. Let us be of one mind. – Acts 4:32; Psalm 133. The word of God: It should be simple, short and sound. It should be enlightening and empowering – Acts 14:1; The response of our audience should be “Come, see a man, which told me all things that ever I did…” – John 4:29

Music: Our songs should inspire and transform lives. – Acts 16:25-26. Sense of belonging: We should have a welcoming attitude so people feel ‘at home’ and can contribute during search the scriptures, testimonies, etc. – Acts 4:31. Preparation: The impact of the Sunday service is determined by what we do during the week. Ministers, teachers, singers, AV technicians, workers, etc. should prepare prayerfully. We should be able to tell people: “Come; for all things are now ready…” – Luke 14:26.

2. CONSERVING A SPIRITUAL ATMOSPHERE Keep the fire burning. “The fire shall ever be burning upon the altar; it shall never go out”. – Leviticus 6:13. Prayer should be the ‘engine’ of the church. Leaders and/or workers’ fasting and prayer. Renewal and revival programs like the monthly revival program. Keep sin and carnality out of the church. Shun tribalism, false religion. Be faithful in preaching the old-time gospel. Stimulate hunger for the bible – Joshua 1:8 Regular check-up of the members. “How was your week”?