This is Our Turning Point in the Church
Scroll to read a recap of Pastor Lee Cummings’ sermon from September 14, 2025!
Our nation is hurting.
On September 10th, Charlie Kirk was shot and killed at Utah Valley University in front of about 3,000 students. Earlier that day, he had answered a question about Jesus. Before that, he spent 20 minutes explaining why he believed Jesus is the only way, the truth, and the life. He spoke boldly and clearly about his faith.
Charlie was, in many ways, like a Billy Graham for this generation. He also became America’s first public martyr, killed for his faith in Jesus Christ.
His death could have silenced others. Instead, it sparked a new wave of revival. As Lee Cummings said, rather than intimidating preachers, “you have in fact instigated a shift of resolve.”
The book of Jonah tells the story of Jonah’s disobedience in preaching to the lost. He ran from God, ended up in the belly of a giant fish, and faced crisis. In the middle of despair, he prayed:
“I called out to the Lord, out of my distress, and he answered me. . .Yet you brought up my life from the pit, O Lord my God” (Jonah 2:2, 6).
Like Jonah, God is giving us a second chance to be bold in our faith. The American Church is at a crossroads. Many have pulled back, staying in comfort zones. But there’s a call to step up.
When Jonah obeyed, an entire city changed. The gospel isn’t just preached from platforms. Revival comes when the church realizes the power of the gospel. When we realize the Gospel isn’t just proclaimed from platforms, we have something even more powerful than Charlie Kirk or any pastor has. We have a testimony.
Your story—how you’ve struggled, doubted, or found hope—can reach people in ways speeches cannot.
Studies show Gen Z, the youngest adult generation, is making waves of revival. In fact, Gen Z is now the most spiritually curious generation in American history. Reaching this generation requires courage—stepping out of comfort zones and into public spaces. The path forward won’t be easy. Following Jesus has always come with a cost.
But believers throughout history who faced persecution and even martyrdom understood that eternal rewards far outweigh temporary suffering.
We stand at a pivotal moment. The challenges are great, but so is the opportunity. God is giving His church a second chance to be the prophetic voice our generation desperately needs.
We are people of the cross. And if we want to see a turning point in America, the turning point begins in us.
Tap to watch Pastor Lee Cummings’ full sermon on Youtube.
Here's a 5-day devotional guide based on this sermon:
Day 1: The Power of God's Love
Reading: Romans 5:6–11
Devotional: God's love is transformative and unconditional. Just as the sermon emphasized how Charlie Kirk's life was dedicated to sharing the gospel, we too are called to be bearers of God's love. Reflect on how God's love has changed your life. How can you demonstrate this love to others, even those who may oppose or misunderstand you? Remember, it's God's love that has the power to turn hearts and transform lives. Today, pray for the courage to love boldly, even in the face of adversity.
Day 2: Unashamed Faith
Reading: Romans 1:16–17
Devotional: The apostle Paul declared he was not ashamed of the gospel, recognizing its power to save. In our current cultural climate, it's easy to feel intimidated about sharing our faith. Yet, like Charlie Kirk and countless others throughout history, we're called to be unashamed of our belief in Jesus. Consider areas in your life where you might be hesitant to express your faith. Ask God for boldness and wisdom to share the gospel effectively. Remember, your testimony is powerful—how has God worked in your life in ways that others need to hear?
Day 3: The Gift of Salvation
Reading: Ephesians 2:1–10
Devotional: Salvation is a free gift from God, not earned by our own efforts. The sermon reminded us that it costs us nothing because it cost Jesus everything. Meditate on the magnitude of this gift. How does understanding God's grace change your perspective on your worth and purpose? Consider how you can extend this message of hope to others who may feel unworthy or far from God. Pray for opportunities to share the good news of salvation with someone in your sphere of influence today.
Day 4: Hope in the Midst of Darkness
Reading: Romans 8:18–25
Devotional: In times of tragedy and societal upheaval, hope can seem elusive. Yet, as Christians, we have a living hope in Christ. The sermon highlighted how even in the wake of violence, God can bring about transformation and revival. Reflect on areas in your life or in society that seem hopeless. How can you cultivate and spread hope in these situations? Remember, our hope is not based on circumstances but on the unchanging character of God. Pray for renewed hope and for eyes to see how God is working, even in dark times.
Day 5: God's Presence in Suffering
Reading: 2 Corinthians 1:3–7
Devotional: Suffering is an inevitable part of life, but as believers, we're not alone in our pain. The sermon touched on personal struggles and societal tragedies, reminding us that God is present and at work even in our darkest moments. Consider a difficult situation you're facing or have faced. How have you experienced God's comfort? How can your experience of God's presence in suffering equip you to comfort others? Today, reach out to someone who is hurting and share the comfort you've received from God. Pray for those who are suffering, that they would experience God's tangible presence and peace.
There’s an opportunity for you to grow in your spiritual journey, build meaningful community, and truly get connected. At Radiant Church, we’re passionate about helping people grow in faith, encounter the presence of God, and be part of a church grounded in Spirit and truth.