The Valley of Dry Bones

Pastor Tim Akin opened by addressing current tragedies and the church's partnership with Send Relief for disaster response. He then turned to Ezekiel 37:1-14, explaining that Ezekiel was a prophet to Jews exiled in Babylon during one of Judah's darkest periods. The main idea was that God gives new life by His word and through His Spirit. Akin emphasized that everyone needs new life in various areas - marriages, families, spiritual lives, emotions, and vocations. He explained that while Old Testament prophets like Ezekiel had the Spirit come upon them temporarily, New Testament believers have the Holy Spirit dwelling within them permanently. However, fellowship with the Spirit can be hindered by unrepentant sin or strengthened through prayer, Bible study, and obedience.

In this message:

God gives new life by his word and through his spirit.Everyone needs new life in some area of their lives.New Testament believers have the Holy Spirit dwelling within them permanently, unlike Old Testament times.Fellowship with the Holy Spirit can be hindered by unrepentant sin.The Holy Spirit is a person with emotions, not just a force.