Live Big with Derek Grier: Episode Summary – "Victory Over Trials"

Podcast Information:

• Title: Live Big with Derek Grier
• Host: Derek Grier Ministries
• Episode: Victory Over Trials
• Release Date: June 2, 2025

Introduction: Embracing God's Power in the Early Church

In the episode titled "Victory Over Trials," Dr. Derek Grier delves into Acts 5, highlighting the foundational role of divine power in the early church. He emphasizes that the church's growth was not merely due to strong leadership but also the unwavering presence and power of the Holy Spirit.

"The church in the book of Acts was founded on the power of God. But likewise, we need to understand that God intended for it to continue in the power of God." (00:10)

Miracles Today: Affirming God's Unchanging Nature

Dr. Grier addresses contemporary skepticism regarding miracles, contrasting it with his belief and personal experiences of witnessing divine interventions. He asserts that miracles are still a vital part of the Christian faith.

"God never changes. He'll never leave me nor forsake me. God never fails." (00:25)

He criticizes modern preachers and theologians who deny the continuation of miracles, affirming his stance through personal testimony.

Unity and Leadership: The Pillars of Church Growth

The discussion transitions to the unity and purity within the early church, positing that such an environment was perhaps a greater miracle than the healings and exorcisms performed by the apostles.

"One of the most difficult things you'll ever do is try to help people get along... But one of the most spiritual things a church member can do is go home, be good to your family, and then come back to church and repeat." (04:00)

Dr. Grier underscores the importance of healthy leadership and personal integrity in fostering church growth, suggesting that a focus on church health naturally leads to expansion.

"If you're a pastor listening, stop altogether trying to be big. Stop it. Focus on trying to make your church healthy, and the growth will take care of itself." (08:30)

Facing Opposition: The Apostles' Persecution as a Test of Faith

Highlighting the rise of the Sadducees' opposition, Dr. Grier explores the theme of persecution faced by the apostles. He explains that such trials serve to test and strengthen faith, drawing parallels with modern believers' struggles.

"Faith that cannot be tested, cannot be trusted. If you want to continue in the power that God has in your life, you're going to have to go through some tests." (15:45)

Using the example of Ananias and Sapphira, he contrasts purity with the subsequent unity and growth of the church, emphasizing that true faith withstands adversity.

Miraculous Deliverance: God's Sovereignty in Trials

Dr. Grier recounts the miraculous release of the apostles from prison, illustrating God's ultimate control and the assurance that no prison—literal or metaphorical—is beyond His power to overcome.

"God cannot get you out unless he first let you go in pain. Doesn't mean God has failed. It just means he's not done yet." (20:10)

He references the story of the three Hebrew boys to demonstrate how God can either protect believers from adversity or sustain them through it, reaffirming His steadfast faithfulness.

Rejoicing in Suffering: Strengthening Credibility Through Trials

A pivotal moment in the episode is Dr. Grier's exploration of the apostles' rejoicing despite severe persecution. He explains that their joy stemmed from being recognized as credible and genuine witnesses of Christ.

"Did they rejoice because they were sadistic and they're into pain? No. They rejoiced because they were counted worthy to suffer." (25:30)

He elaborates that enduring suffering for their faith enhanced their credibility, making their testimonies more impactful and trustworthy to others.

Practical Applications: Enduring Trials in Modern Faith

Concluding the episode, Dr. Grier offers actionable insights for contemporary believers facing trials. He encourages perseverance, maintaining a positive attitude, and trusting in God's greater plan.

"Weeping may endure for a night, but joy comes in the morning. Hang on to the morning, keep taking the hits until morning comes. The sun will rise, you will get back up again." (30:50)

He urges listeners to view their struggles as opportunities for God to demonstrate His power and to reinforce their faith, much like the early apostles did.

Key Takeaways:

1. Divine Power Remains Active: Miracles and God's power are ongoing and integral to the church's mission today.

2. Unity and Health Over Size: Focusing on church health and unity leads to natural and sustainable growth.

3. Faith Through Adversity: Trials and persecutions are essential for testing and strengthening faith.

4. God's Sovereignty: Whether protecting from or sustaining through trials, God's faithfulness remains constant.

5. Rejoicing in Suffering: Enduring suffering for Christ enhances credibility and witness.

6. Perseverance in Trials: Maintaining faith and a positive attitude during hardships leads to divine breakthroughs.

Conclusion: Living Victorious Through Trials

Dr. Derek Grier concludes by reaffirming that God's faithfulness ensures that every trial faced by believers serves a higher purpose in His divine plan. He encourages listeners to remain steadfast, trusting that God is bigger than any problem and that victory is assured through unwavering faith.

"The same God that raised Jesus from the dead will turn your situation around. Yes he will." (32:45)

For more transformative teachings and to partner with Derek Grier Ministries, visit DerekGrer.com.