As the new year of 2025 approaches, Christians worldwide are looking for godly insight into what lies ahead. In a recent interview with Charisma Media, Pastor Greg Locke of Global Vision Bible Church offered his perspective on the spiritual trajectory of the coming year, calling for both vigilance and unity among believers.
Locke emphasized the need for the church to rise as a beacon of truth amidst growing cultural and spiritual challenges. “The Lord is shaking the nations, and the church must awaken to her purpose,” he declared. This statement aligns with the biblical mandate in Hebrews 12:26-27: “Yet once more I will shake not only the earth but also heaven.” He pointed to these times as an opportunity for believers to refocus on our mission to spread the gospel of Jesus Christ.
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One of Locke’s primary concerns for 2025 is the rise of deception within and outside the church. “We’re seeing a tidal wave of lies and false doctrines,” he warned, referencing 2 Timothy 4:3 (MEV): “For the time will come when people will not endure sound doctrine; but they will gather to themselves teachers in accordance with their own desires, having itching ears.” Locke’s caution serves as a reminder that having biblical discernment is crucial in navigating the spiritual climate of the new year and beyond.
In addressing societal issues, Locke specifically highlighted the importance of prayer and intercession. “We need to hit our knees and seek the face of God like never before,” he urged. This echoes 2 Chronicles 7:14: “If My people, who are called by My name, will humble themselves, and pray and seek My face, and turn from their wicked ways, then I will hear from heaven, and will forgive their sin and will heal their land.” Prayer, Locke asserted, is the foundation for revival and healing in a world desperate for hope.
Unity within the body of Christ was another key theme of Locke’s message. “The enemy’s strategy is division, but God’s plan is unity,” he said. Citing John 17:21, Locke reminded believers of Jesus’ prayer: “That they all may be one, as You, Father, are in Me, and I in You, that they also may be one in Us, that the world may believe that You have sent Me.” According to Locke, this unity is not merely organizational but deeply spiritual, forged through the power of the Holy Spirit.
As the conversation drew to a close, Locke highlighted the necessity of vigilance in these tumultuous times. “We have to keep our lamps filled with oil and our hearts fixed on Jesus,” he said, alluding to the Parable of the 10 Virgins in Matthew 25. To be prepared for what’s to come, believers must rely on the indwelling and empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit is the helper Jesus promised in John 14:26: “But the Counselor, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in My name, will teach you everything and remind you of all that I told you.” Without the Spirit’s guidance and power, achieving unity and fulfilling the Great Commission in a dark and divided world is impossible.
As 2025 dawns, Locke’s words resonate as a clarion call for all Christians to deepen our faith, seek the Spirit’s leading and boldly shine as lights in the darkness. By embracing the Holy Spirit as our helper, we can step into the new year with courage and purpose, ready to fulfill our God-given mission.
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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.
