God's Prophetic People - A People of Passion, Purpose And Power

God's Prophetic People

confining God to repeating past actions. The Church Fathers experienced God's power in diverse ways — some saw angelic activity, others witnessed oil on their bodies, and many encountered physical manifestations of God's presence. Countless signs and wonders occurred in and through their lives. Below are a few examples meant to inspire faith for God’s continued power today. In 1875, John Alexander Dowie, a pastor in Sydney, Australia, faced a plague that devastated his congregation. When a church member’s daughter called for him to pray, she was instantly healed. Dowie then prayed for others, and they too were healed. From that moment, no more members of his church died from the epidemic, launching Dowie’s renowned healing ministry. 6 Evan Roberts, in late 1800s Wales, spent much time praying for revival. His meetings were marked by the powerful presence of God, with people laughing, crying, dancing, and experiencing joy and brokenness. This revival transformed Wales, shutting down bars, theaters, and gambling establishments. The Welsh revival emphasized confession of sin, open allegiance to Jesus, and obedience to the Holy Spirit. 7 William J. Seymour, the catalyst of the Azusa Street Revival, sparked an outpouring of the Holy Spirit, evidenced by speaking in tongues. The revival broke cultural barriers, with people of all races worshipping together. 8 Seymour’s ministry gained global recognition, significantly impacting the city and spreading throughout the world. 9 Aimee Semple McPherson, a pioneering woman preacher in a time when women were not widely accepted in ministry, faced many struggles but remained committed to God’s call. Her ministry drew crowds from all walks of life, and thousands received the baptism of the Holy Spirit. In 1922, she founded Angelus Temple and the Foursquare Gospel Church, and in 1923, opened the L.I.F.E. Bible College, impacting generations of believers. 10

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A People of Passion, Purpose, and Power / © Brian Daehn