This teaching from Matthew Lilley explores the profound relationship between Jesus, the Bridegroom, and believers, His bride. It explores the significance of prayer, intimacy, and the covenantal relationship that believers have with Christ. This Bible study emphasizes God's love, His desire for partnership, and the importance of understanding our identity as the beloved in the context of spiritual growth and intercession. This teaching was recorded live at The Greenhouse School of Prayer in Greenville, North Carolina. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️Now is the time to fast and pray. ➡️Jesus introduces Himself as the Bridegroom. ➡️Understanding Jesus as the Bridegroom is crucial for prayer. ➡️God's love for us is unconditional and transformative. ➡️God rejoices over us and celebrates our existence. ➡️His jealousy for us is rooted in His love and desire for our hearts. ➡️We are invited to delight in God's presence and love. ➡️Partnership with Jesus is essential in our spiritual journey. ➡️The Holy Spirit is the engagement ring of our covenant with Christ. ➡️Jesus is committed to us and will fulfill His promises. 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://presencepioneers.media/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge 🎙️ ABOUT THE PODCAST 🎙️ The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! Subscribe at https://presencepioneers.media/p/podcast

In this episode of the Presence Pioneers podcast, Matthew Lilley discusses the future of the podcast and the importance of hosting God's presence in communities. He shares insights on building presence-centered communities, the significance of a biblical foundation for prayer, and the upcoming teachings aimed at encouraging and equipping listeners in their spiritual journeys. 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://presencepioneers.media/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge 🎙️ ABOUT THE PODCAST 🎙️ The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! Subscribe at https://presencepioneers.media/p/podcast

In this episode, Matthew Lilley, Jonathan Friz, and Weslea Pierson discuss the often-overlooked topic of grief within the church. They explore how grief is a gift from God, the importance of learning to grieve well, and how to support those who are mourning. Weslea shares her personal journey through pain, healing, and the tension between experiencing miracles and mourning. The conversation emphasizes the need for empathy, understanding, and creating space for those in grief, highlighting that true comfort comes from experiencing God's presence in our pain. The conversation explores the complexities of grief, faith, and the importance of lament in worship. They discuss personal experiences with waiting and how it tests faith, the significance of community support during grief, and practical approaches to comforting those who are grieving. These important topics are expounded on in Weslea’s brand new book, To Weep With Those Who Weep, which is available now! Get your copy here: https://presencepioneers.org/store/to-weep-with-those-who-weep/ 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️Grief is a gift from God. ➡️The church often struggles with how to respond to grief. ➡️Experiencing pain can deepen our understanding of God's comfort. ➡️We need to learn how to grieve well and help others do the same. ➡️Miracles and mourning can coexist in our faith journey. ➡️Jesus wept over Lazarus, showing us the importance of empathy in grief. ➡️It's essential to create space for those who are grieving to express their feelings. ➡️Less is more when comforting someone in pain; listening is key. We often rush to fill silence with words instead of allowing space for grief. ➡️God welcomes our raw emotions, including anger and frustration. ➡️Lament is a significant aspect of worship and prayer. ➡️Communities often lack rituals for grieving, leading to isolation. ➡️The journey of grief is unique and requires personal reflection. 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://presencepioneers.media/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge 🎙️ ABOUT THE PODCAST 🎙️ The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! Subscribe at https://presencepioneers.media/p/podcast

In this episode, Matthew Lilley interviews worship leader Justin Rizzo, exploring his journey in worship, creativity, and the challenges faced in church leadership. Justin shares humorous anecdotes from his early worship leading days, reflects on his time at IHOP, and discusses the importance of creativity in worship. He emphasizes the need for greater expression in church music and the role of art and entertainment in ministry. The conversation also touches on Justin's production company and future projects, encouraging listeners to embrace their creative callings. ABOUT JUSTIN RIZZO Justin Rizzo is a worship leader, songwriter, and filmmaker based in the Midwest, USA, who coaches worship leaders and creatives. In addition, he owns Firelight Creative, a production company that has produced multiple award-winning musicals and films, and hosts gatherings for creatives. Justin spent over 10,000 hours leading worship in the prayer room at IHOP-KC before launching into his current endeavors. 🎙️ ABOUT THE PODCAST 🎙️ The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! Subscribe at https://presencepioneers.media/p/podcast 🚨WATCH PART TWO🚨 Part two of this conversation, "Songwriting, Collaboration and the Dignity of Smallness", will be available exclusively on Substack. Subscribe now at http://presencepioneers.media 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️ Everyone has a unique testimony, regardless of background. ➡️ Prayer and worship can empower the Great Commission. ➡️ Creativity in worship can take many forms. ➡️ It's important to have support when pursuing creative ideas. ➡️ Church music should not be limited to popular songs. ➡️ Engaging with the arts can enhance worship experiences. ➡️ Faith without works is dead; action is necessary for creativity. ➡️ Illogical ideas may be God's calling for your life. 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://presencepioneers.media/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge #worshipleader #leadingworship #christianleadership

In this engaging conversation, Matthew Lilley and Chris Burns explore the transformative power of worship, community, and the presence of God. They discuss the importance of cultivating worship leaders, the role of freedom in worship settings, and the significance of community in nurturing spiritual growth. Chris shares humorous anecdotes from his worship experiences and reflects on his evolving perspectives on worship and leadership. The conversation emphasizes the need for a supportive environment for the next generation of worshippers, encouraging them to embrace their unique expressions of worship. 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️When building a house of prayer, don't focus on the amount of time; focus on pastoring people. ➡️Building a culture for the Lord’s presence is essential. ➡️Community is imperative to mothering and fathering. ➡️Freedom in worship allows for creativity and spontaneity. ➡️The ministry of presence is powerful in leadership. ➡️Everything is sacred if God is involved. ➡️We must not have the spirit of Saul towards younger generations. ➡️The next generation is poised to take worship to the next level. We need to be faithful messengers to the youth. ➡️Worship can happen in various musical styles without a sacred-secular divide. 🎙️ ABOUT THE PODCAST 🎙️ The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! Subscribe at https://presencepioneers.media/p/podcast 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://presencepioneers.media/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge #presenceofGod #worship #houseofprayer

In this engaging podcast episode, host Matthew Lilley and guest Kelanie Webb explore the intersection of worship, creativity, and leadership. Kelanie shares her journey over the past four years, including her role as worship director at Morningstar Ministries and her passion for teaching and mentoring young worship leaders. The conversation delves into the importance of songwriting, the evolution of worship music, and the unique characteristics of the next generation of worshipers. Kelanie emphasizes the value of community, creativity, and the need for churches to cultivate environments that foster authentic worship experiences. 🎙️ ABOUT THE PODCAST 🎙️ The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! Subscribe at https://presencepioneers.media/p/podcast 🚨WATCH PART TWO🚨 Part two of this episode, Spontaneous vs. Prophetic Worship, will be available exclusively on Substack. Subscribe now at http://presencepioneers.media 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️God's presence is transformative and essential in worship. ➡️Humor and creativity are vital in worship leading. ➡️The Harp & Bowl model is a key teaching method in the school of worship. ➡️Songwriting is a powerful way to express what God is saying to a community. ➡️The next generation seeks authenticity in worship experiences. ➡️Worship teams should prioritize time together to foster creativity. 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://presencepioneers.media/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge #worship #GenzForJesus #morningstar

In this engaging conversation, Matthew Lilley and David Vallier explore the profound themes of worship and creativity. David shares his personal journey from Louisiana to becoming a worship leader, emphasizing the importance of unique expressions of worship and the role of spontaneity. They discuss the significance of creating safe environments for worship, the value of diverse musical styles, and the necessity of discipleship in worship leadership. The conversation highlights the importance of being genuine in worship, embracing emotions, and living a life directed towards God. 🎙️ ABOUT THE PODCAST 🎙️ The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! Subscribe at https://presencepioneers.media/p/podcast 🚨WATCH PART TWO🚨 Part two of this episode, _Finding Your Unique Expression of Worship, will be available exclusively on Substack. Subscribe now at http://presencepioneers.media 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️ Worship is about experiencing and hosting the presence of God. ➡️ David Vallier's journey reflects the transformative power of worship. ➡️ Spontaneity in worship can lead to deeper connections with God. ➡️ Unique expressions of worship are essential for personal and communal growth. ➡️ Creating safe spaces for worship allows for creativity and exploration. ➡️ Diverse musical styles enrich the worship experience. ➡️ Worship should be rooted in both spirit and truth. ➡️ Emotions play a significant role in authentic worship. ➡️ Discipleship is crucial for developing worship leaders. ➡️ Worship is a personal journey that reflects one's relationship with God. 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://presencepioneers.media/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge

In this podcast episode, host Matthew Lilley interviews Caleb Culver, co-author of the song 'Reckless Love' and worship leader at Radiant Church. They discuss the origins of the song, Caleb's journey in worship ministry, and the significance of prayer in local churches. Caleb shares insights on the importance of being a praying church and how Radiant Church embodies this through its worship and prayer initiatives. 🎙️ ABOUT THE PODCAST 🎙️ The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! Subscribe at https://presencepioneers.media/p/podcast 🚨WATCH PART TWO🚨 Part two of this episode, "Processing IHOPKC and Healthy Leadership Culture", will be available exclusively on Substack. Subscribe now at http://presencepioneers.media 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️A prayer room can exist without being a praying church. ➡️Leaders must model prayer for their congregations. ➡️Prayer meetings should foster personal prayer growth among attendees. ➡️Faith is essential for effective prayer; it's not just about attendance. 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge

In this episode, Matthew Lilley interviews Adam Cates, a worship leader and church planter, discussing his journey into ministry, the founding of Big House Church, and the importance of creativity in worship. Adam shares insights on transitioning to new ministry ventures and offers encouragement to pastors and leaders about the organic nature of church leadership and the significance of allowing creativity to flourish within the church community. Watch Part 2 of This Interview Here: Part two of this episode,The Challenges and Joy of Pioneering From Your Passion, will be available exclusively on Substack. Subscribe now at http://presencepioneers.media 🎙️ ABOUT THE PODCAST 🎙️ The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! You can subscribe to the free audio podcast here: https://presencepioneers.media/p/podcast 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://presencepioneers.media/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️ The presence of God is transformative and essential in worship. ➡️ Creating space for the Holy Spirit is crucial in ministry. ➡️ Transitioning to new ministry ventures can be exciting and challenging. ➡️ Creativity in worship is vital for expressing the beauty of God. ➡️ The arts should be embraced as a form of worship in the church. ➡️ Church leadership should focus on organic growth rather than corporate models. ➡️ Pastors need to deal with their own insecurities to lead effectively. ➡️ Burnout can occur when leaders rely on their own strength rather than God's guidance. VIDEO TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Worship and Leadership 01:50 Adam Cates' Journey into Ministry 06:45 The Birth of Big House Church 10:09 Transitioning to New Ministry Ventures 12:08 The Importance of Creativity in Worship 23:10 Encouragement for Pastors and Leaders #propheticworship #pioneering #churchplanting

We are excited to announce that the theme of our next podcast season will be WORSHIP! Our last season focused on “presence-centered communities” was amazing (see https://media.presencepioneers.org/t/presence-centered-communities-season), and we are now preparing our next batch of episodes for you. 👉🏼 If you are a pastor or ministry leader, you will learn why cultivating a strong worship culture in your community is so important. 👉🏼 If you are an intercessor, you will discover why prayer and intercession work best when fueled by worship and devotion to God. 👉🏼 If you are a worship leader, singer, or musician, then you definitely need to tune in for some encouragement, wisdom, and perspective that will help you host God’s presence with your music. Worship has always been a huge part of the podcast, but we want to focus on this important biblical topic in the next batch of episodes. We plan to interview worship leaders and Bible teachers who have practical experience and biblical understanding of cultivating prophetic worship in communities, ministering to the Lord in the prayer room, and integrating creative arts into the life of the Church. We expect our next podcast episode to be out by the end of May. Stay tuned! P.S. This short break is a great time to binge-watch our archive of 150 episode on Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/presencepioneers

In this episode, Matthew Lilley continues his teaching on Psalm 132, exploring the themes of God's presence, David's vision for a dwelling place, and the implications of the Davidic covenant. He discusses the importance of waiting for God's presence, the tension between the kingdom of God now and not yet, and the afflictions faced by those who seek to pioneer God's presence. It concludes by discussing the promise of God’s kingdom through Jesus, the greater David. Listen to part 1 of this teaching at https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/exploring-psalm-132 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️God desires a resting place in our cities. ➡️David's vow reflects a deep longing for God's presence. The kingdom of God is both a present reality and a future hope. ➡️Pioneering God's presence often comes with affliction. ➡️The vision for God's presence requires a commitment to prayer and worship. ➡️God's covenant with David is a promise of eternal kingship. ➡️Jesus fulfills the promise of the Davidic covenant. ➡️The presence of God brings transformation and breakthrough. ➡️We are called to host God's presence in our communities. ➡️The ultimate fulfillment of God's presence will come with Jesus' return. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS 00:00 The Call to Wait for God's Presence 01:15 David's Vision for God's Dwelling Place 03:12 Understanding God's Resting Place 10:24 The Kingdom of God: Now and Not Yet 12:20 The Afflictions of a Presence Pioneer 16:15 The Vow of David: Until God's Presence Comes 19:12 God's Covenant with David 24:23 The Promise of the Davidic Kingdom 27:15 The Fulfillment of God's Presence in Zion 🔥ABOUT THIS PODCAST🔥 The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything. Subscribe at https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/podcast

In episode 150 of the podcast, Matthew Lilley dives deep into Psalm 132, exploring its significance in understanding what it means to be a presence pioneer. The discussion covers David's vow to God, God's promise in return, and the importance of both personal and corporate breakthroughs in experiencing God's presence. The episode emphasizes the need to host God's presence in our communities and the transformative power it holds. The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! You can subscribe to the free audio podcast here: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/podcast Watch Part 2 of This Interview Here: Part two of this episode will be available next week. Subscribe on Substack to be notified via email when it's out: http://media.presencepioneers.org 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️Psalm 132 is foundational for understanding presence pioneering. ➡️ David's vow reflects a deep longing for God's presence. ➡️ God's promise to David is a covenant that extends to us. ➡️ The connection between God's dwelling place and unity is crucial. ➡️ Presence pioneers seek both personal and corporate breakthroughs. ➡️ Hosting God's presence requires intentionality and commitment. ➡️Experiencing God's presence is different from hosting it. Revival history shows the impact of God's presence on cities. ➡️ God's presence is transformative and changes everything. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Presence Pioneering 01:03 The Significance of Psalm 132 05:48 David's Vow and God's Promise 11:01 Clarifying the Vision of God's Presence 18:08 Personal vs. Corporate Breakthrough 24:03 Hosting God's Presence vs. Experiencing It 30:50 Conclusion and Next Steps

Is God calling you to be a pioneer? In this conversation, Matthew Lilley and Dr. Faith Wokoma explore the theme of pioneering in faith and ministry. They discuss the unique calling of pioneers, the role of worship and prayer, and the importance of understanding personality types in relation to leadership. Dr. Wokoma shares her personal journey, insights on apostolic ministry, and the significance of diverse expressions in worship. The conversation emphasizes the need for resilience and innovation in pursuing one's God-given purpose. The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! You can subscribe to the free audio podcast here: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/podcast Watch Part 2 of This Interview Here: Part two of this episode, Apostolic Ministry and Church-Planting, will be available exclusively on Presence Pioneers Premium at http://media.presencepioneers.org 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️ God calls individuals to pioneer new paths in faith. ➡️ Worship and prayer are foundational to pioneering efforts. ➡️ Pioneers often feel out of place in conventional settings. ➡️ Resilience is a key trait of successful pioneers. ➡️ Personality types can influence one's leadership style. ➡️ God wires us with our destiny in mind from birth. ➡️ Diverse worship expressions enrich the church community. ➡️ Pioneering requires a willingness to take risks. ➡️ Understanding one's calling is essential for fulfilling purpose. VIDEO TIMESTAMPS 00:00 The Call to Pioneer: Understanding Your Purpose 03:00 Journey of Faith: Dr. Faith Wokoma's Story 06:02 The Role of Worship and Prayer in Pioneering 08:58 Gleaning from Different Streams: A Unique Approach 11:53 Identifying Pioneers: Signs and Characteristics 15:05 Personality and Pioneering: Nature vs. Nurture 18:00 Apostolic Ministry: Exploring the Biblical Definition 20:52 Resources and Offerings: Connecting with Dr. Faith Wokoma

In this conversation, Matthew Lilley chats with R.A. Martinez of MAPS Global and Jason Hubbard of International Prayer Connect about the significance of the church at Antioch as a model for contemporary churches and ministries. They discuss the idea of churches as missions-sending centers, the importance of worship and prayer, and how these elements are integral to God’s purposes on the earth. The conversation emphasizes the need for a presence-centered approach in church life, highlighting the historical and theological foundations of the Antioch model and its implications for global missions today. Resources from This Episode Order The Antioch Blueprint by R.A. Martinez at https://amzn.to/4kGfZRc Order The Moravian Miracle by Jason Hubbard at https://amzn.to/4iEFOzk Watch Part 2 of This Interview Here: Part two of this episode, The Irreplaceable Prayer Meeting, will be available exclusively on Presence Pioneers Premium at http://media.presencepioneers.org The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! You can subscribe to the free audio podcast here: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/podcast 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️Antioch serves as a prototype for modern church models. ➡️ The church at Antioch was pivotal in the transition to Gentile Christianity. ➡️ Prayer and worship are essential components of missions work. ➡️ Building a rhythm of prayer is crucial for church communities. ➡️ The presence of God is transformative in mission contexts. ➡️ Antioch's diversity in leadership is a model for today's churches. ➡️ The concept of ministering to the Lord is foundational to church life. ➡️ Prayer meetings should be irreplaceable in church culture. ➡️ The restoration of the tabernacle of David is relevant today. ➡️ Local churches can adopt the Antioch model regardless of size. VIDEO TIMESTAMPS 00:00 The Antioch Sending Centers Vision 05:14 Understanding the Antioch Blueprint 11:58 Antioch: The Birthplace of Gentile Christianity 20:15 The Priesthood of Believers in Antioch 27:24 Global Perspectives on Antioch's Model 32:14 Building Irreplaceable Prayer Meetings

In this conversation, Matthew Lilley and Jonathan Friz explore the profound themes of unity and prayer from Jesus' prayer in John 17 which Jonathan explores in his new book, Jesus Gets What He Prays For. They discuss the nature of glory, the role of the Holy Spirit, and the dynamics of self-giving love within the Trinity. The conversation emphasizes the possibility of achieving true unity in the church today, encouraging listeners to engage with the teachings of Jesus and the scriptures to foster a deeper understanding of their faith and community. 🎧 LISTEN TO PART TWO🎧 Part two of this episode, Practical Keys to Experience Greater Unity in the Church, will be available exclusively at http://media.presencepioneers.org 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️ Jesus' prayer in John 17 emphasizes unity among believers. ➡️ The concept of glory is central to understanding Jesus' prayer. ➡️ The Holy Spirit plays a crucial role in facilitating unity. ➡️ Self-giving love is the essence of the relationship between the Father and Son. ➡️ True unity is possible and is a prayer for this age, not just the next. ➡️ The church is called to grow in unity and maturity before Jesus' return. ➡️ Scripture provides a roadmap for understanding and pursuing unity. ➡️ Historical patterns show that division can lead to greater unity. ➡️ The journey towards unity involves extraordinary prayer and humility. ➡️ Engaging with the teachings of Jesus can transform our understanding of community. ➡️ Learn more in Jesus Gets What He Prays For by Jonathan Friz! 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge 🔥ABOUT THIS PODCAST🔥 The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything. Subscribe now at https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/podcast

In this Bible teaching, recorded at a live event in Greenville NC, Matthew Lilley discusses the theme of persistence in prayer, drawing from the parable of the persistent widow in Luke 18. He emphasizes the importance of faith, the power of prayer, and the necessity of community in sustaining a prayer life. The discussion highlights how understanding God's nature as a loving father can fuel persistent prayer and how collective prayer efforts can lead to transformation in communities and nations. 🎧 LISTEN TO PART TWO🎧 Part two of this episode, Leaders: Stop Sabotaging Your Intimacy with God, will be available exclusively on Presence Pioneers Premium at https://media.presencepioneers.org/s/podcast 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️ Persistence in prayer is essential for spiritual growth. ➡️ Faith fuels our ability to remain persistent in prayer. ➡️ Understanding God's character is crucial for effective prayer. ➡️ Prayer has therapeutic effects, as supported by scientific studies. ➡️ Community prayer is more powerful than individual prayer. ➡️ We are called to be a house of prayer, not just individuals. ➡️ God desires to give us good gifts when we approach Him in prayer. ➡️ The act of praying can lead to real-world transformation. ➡️ Jesus encourages us to pray without losing heart. ➡️ The global prayer movement is a sign of the times. 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge 🔥ABOUT THIS PODCAST🔥 The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything. Subscribe at https://media.presencepioneers.org/s/podcast

In this podcast episode, Matthew Lilley interviews Gerald Murphy, the founder of Garden City Church in Columbus, Ohio. Gerald shares his journey of church planting, the vision behind Garden City, and the impact the church has had on the community. The conversation delves into the importance of prayer and worship, the church's commitment to sending out missionaries, and the lessons learned in leadership and discipleship. Gerald emphasizes the significance of being a presence-centered community and how the church has grown and evolved over the past four years. The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! You can subscribe to the free audio podcast here: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/podcast Watch Part 2 of This Interview Here: Part two of this episode, Discipleship Strategies for a Presence-Centered Church, will be available exclusively on Presence Pioneers Premium at http://media.presencepioneers.org 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️ Gerald and his wife founded Garden City Church in 2020. ➡️ The church focuses on prayer, worship, and community impact. ➡️ They started with home meetings and grew into a larger community. ➡️ The Eden Center serves as a hub for community collaboration. ➡️ Prayer and worship are central to their church's mission. ➡️ They have sent out nearly a dozen missionaries to global partners. ➡️ The church emphasizes the importance of being a presence-centered community. ➡️ They raised significant funds to renovate their community center. ➡️ The church's name reflects a vision of God's original dream and future hope. EPISODE TIMESTAMPS 00:00 Introduction to Garden City Church and Its Mission 06:06 The Vision Behind Garden City Church 12:10 The Role of Prayer and Worship 16:58 Sending and Supporting Missions 24:05 Looking Ahead: Discipleship and Leadership Lessons

In this conversation, Matthew Lilley and guest Brad Stroup explore the challenges and rewards of leading corporate prayer and worship in a house of prayer setting. They discuss the importance of maintaining engagement in prayer, the monotony that can arise from regular meetings, and the need for leaders to remind themselves of God's presence and care. The conversation also touches on the realities of attrition in prayer communities and the importance of celebrating those who have been part of the journey. Additionally, resources for prayer leaders are highlighted, including a the National House of Prayer Leadership Summit and the How to Build a House of Prayer handbook. Order the How To Build A House of Prayer handbook here: https://amzn.to/41YTEHG Learn more about the HOP Leaders Summit here: https://www.tprdfw.com/2025-nhop-leadership-summit-lp 🎧 LISTEN TO PART TWO🎧 Part two of this episode, Finding Volunteers and Money for a House of Prayer, will be available exclusively on Presence Pioneers Premium at https://media.presencepioneers.org/s/podcast 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️Corporate prayer is a unique ministry that requires commitment. P➡️resence-centered communities engage with God through worship and prayer. ➡️Houses of prayer often host multiple prayer meetings weekly. ➡️Monotony can be a significant challenge in prayer leadership. ➡️Engagement in prayer requires a heart posture of faith. ➡️Prayer meetings are often the first thing to go in busy schedules. ➡️Reminding ourselves of God's presence is crucial for engagement. ➡️Attrition in prayer communities is a common challenge for leaders. ➡️Celebrating the contributions of those who leave is important. ➡️Resources and support are available for prayer leaders. 📚 FREE E-BOOK ON FASTING & PRAYER 📚 The Dance and The Dirge: The Pain and Pleasure of Prayer and Fasting by Jonathan Friz and Matthew Lilley: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/the-dance-and-the-dirge 🔥ABOUT THIS PODCAST🔥 The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! You can subscribe to the free audio podcast here: https://media.presencepioneers.org/p/podcasts EPISODE TIMESTAMPS 00:00 The Call to Corporate Prayer 02:24 Understanding Presence-Centered Communities 04:55 Challenges in House of Prayer Leadership 11:24 Engaging in Prayer: Overcoming Monotony 14:13 Reminding Ourselves of God's Presence 19:11 Navigating Attrition in Prayer Communities 24:18 Resources for Prayer Leaders

Presence-centered communities consistently and corporately engage with God through worship and prayer as their primary activity. In this episode, Matthew Lilley introduces the concept of presence-centered communities, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing God's presence through worship and prayer. He shares his personal journey of establishing a house of prayer in Greenville, North Carolina, detailing the challenges and successes experienced during that time. This teaching explores the impact of such communities on local transformation, the biblical foundations for presence-centered living, and practical steps for launching similar initiatives. The episode concludes with a call to action for listeners to engage with or start their own presence-centered communities. The Presence Pioneers Podcast exists to help you experience and host God’s presence through worship and prayer - because God’s presence changes everything! Become a paid subscriber at http://media.presencepioneers.org 🔑 KEY TAKEAWAYS FROM THIS EPISODE 🔑 ➡️God is inviting the church to prioritize His presence. ➡️Presence-centered communities focus on worship and prayer. ➡️David's Tabernacle serves as a model for presence-centered worship. ➡️The church at Antioch exemplified a mature Christian community. ➡️Presence-centered communities engage with God corporately. ➡️Consistency in worship and prayer is crucial for these communities. ➡️The prayer meeting reflects the popularity of God. ➡️Launching a presence-centered community can start with a simple prayer meeting. VIDEO TIMESTAMPS 00:00Introduction to Presence-Centered Communities 02:02The Journey of Establishing a House of Prayer 09:25Impact of the Boiler Room on the Community 10:51Defining Presence-Centered Communities 21:51Biblical Examples of Presence-Centered Communities 27:07The Importance of Prioritizing God's Presence 28:06Launching Presence-Centered Communities

A quick update with Matthew Lilley on the next season of the Presence Pioneers podcast, which launches on January 1, 2025 and is focused on the topic of "Presence-Centered Communities.” Stay tuned!