Elevation with Steven Furtick: Episode Summary

Title: Time To Rise & Shine | Larry Brey
Host/Author: iHeartPodcasts
Release Date: March 9, 2025

Introduction

In this compelling episode of Elevation with Steven Furtick, Pastor Larry Brey delves deep into the story of Peter's denial, drawing profound lessons on faith, grace, and the subtle ways the enemy seeks to distance believers from God's purpose. Through personal anecdotes, biblical exegesis, and heartfelt reflections, Larry guides listeners on a journey of introspection and spiritual awakening.

Church Journey and Personal Testimony

Larry Brey begins by sharing his personal connection to Elevation Church, highlighting the humble beginnings of eight families 19 years ago who sold their homes and quit their jobs to start the church. Today, Elevation boasts 19 physical locations and broadcasts to 180 countries, a testament to their unwavering faith and dedication.

Larry Brey [01:39]: "My wife and I had the privilege of being one of the original eight families that sold their homes and quit their jobs 19 years ago to start Elevation Church."

He expresses immense gratitude for Pastor Steven Furtick's consistent faithfulness in preaching the word of God, emphasizing the collective growth and global reach of the church community.

Scriptural Focus: Peter’s Denial

Larry anchors his message in Acts 4:14, recounting the moment Peter stood up boldly despite his past shortcomings.

Larry Brey [02:07]: "This is in Acts, chapter 4, verse 14. Then Peter stood up with the 11, raised his voice..."

He emphasizes that Peter's transformation was not just in his words but also in his posture—standing up when he might have otherwise remained seated in fear or shame.

The Drift from Faith

Larry introduces the concept of "drift," illustrating how small distances from God can lead to significant separations. Using the analogy of children playing in the ocean, he describes how subtle shifts can take one far from their starting point without immediate realization.

Larry Brey [10:30]: "Denial is a drift because the drift wants to push you away from the purposes of God. And it's so subtle, it's so slippery."

He warns against the incremental distances we sometimes allow in our spiritual lives, whether it's from the word of God, small groups, or daily routines that inadvertently distance us from our faith.

Peter’s Human Struggles

Delving deeper into Peter's humanity, Larry reflects on Peter's initial loyalty and subsequent fear leading to his denials. He draws parallels between Peter's actions and the listeners' own struggles with maintaining steadfast faith under pressure.

Larry Brey [15:45]: "The devil doesn't need much space to work in your life. I wonder where you've got some distance in your life."

Larry highlights how Peter, despite his earlier proclamations of unwavering support, faltered under imminent threat—denying Jesus three times before the rooster crowed.

Grace and Redemption

Despite Peter's failures, Larry emphasizes the unmerited grace that God extends, reminding listeners that success in faith isn't about perfection but about God's unwavering support.

Larry Brey [23:43]: "Success is realizing that he is holding on to me."

He discusses how Jesus prayed for Peter's faith to remain strong, indicating that even when behaviors falter, God's faith in believers remains unshaken.

Larry Brey [22:15]: "Jesus says, I prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail."

Larry encourages listeners to redefine success not by personal achievements or lack of failure but by recognizing God's persistent grace and presence despite shortcomings.

Invitation to Faith

Towards the episode's conclusion, Larry extends a heartfelt invitation for listeners to place their faith in Jesus Christ, emphasizing that salvation is not about self-effort but about embracing the grace offered through Christ's sacrifice.

Larry Brey [40:25]: "If you believe in your heart that he was raised from the dead, and you confess with your mouth that he is Lord, the Holy Spirit ... comes to live inside of you."

He leads the congregation in a communal prayer, inviting those who feel distant or burdened by shame to accept Jesus' forgiveness and to rise and shine in their renewed faith.

Key Takeaways

1. Subtle Drift: Small, seemingly insignificant distances from faith can lead to significant spiritual separations.
2. Human Frailty: Even the most devoted can falter under pressure, but this does not negate their value or God's plan for them.
3. Unwavering Grace: God's grace remains steadfast, offering redemption and strength even when believers stumble.
4. Redefining Success: True success in faith is recognizing and embracing God's support, not measured by personal perfection.
5. Call to Action: Embrace the invitation to renew faith, shedding shame, and stepping into a life aligned with God's purpose.

Notable Quotes

• Larry Brey [01:50]: "Time to rise and shine, Larry. That's the title I got for our message today."

• Larry Brey [10:30]: "Denial is a drift because the drift wants to push you away from the purposes of God."

• Larry Brey [22:15]: "Jesus says, I prayed for you, Simon, that your faith may not fail."

• Larry Brey [23:43]: "Success is realizing that he is holding on to me."

• Larry Brey [40:25]: "If you believe in your heart that he was raised from the dead, and you confess with your mouth that he is Lord ..."

Conclusion

In this enriching episode, Pastor Larry Brey skillfully intertwines Scripture, personal narrative, and practical advice to illuminate the journey from failure to redemption. "Time To Rise & Shine" serves as both a reflection on Peter's vulnerabilities and a beacon of hope for believers striving to maintain unwavering faith amidst life's storms. Listeners are left empowered to identify and overcome the subtle drifts that distance them from their divine purpose, embracing the transformative power of God's enduring grace.

Join the Movement

If this message resonated with you, consider connecting with Elevation Church either through their website or by downloading the Elevation App. Embrace the opportunity to rise and shine in your faith journey today.