Pastor Brian Gibson’s interview with Charisma Media delivers a stirring message about the state of the church in 2024 and offered a hope-filled vision for 2025.
Gibson didn’t shy away from addressing what he described as a season of reckoning, one where “lampstands were removed, and leaders were exposed.” His words cut to the core of ongoing discussions about accountability and authenticity within Christian leadership.
“2024 was a year when God’s hand revealed the truth in His church,” Gibson said. “We saw leaders who had built their ministries on sand instead of the solid rock of Christ crumble under the weight of their own iniquities. This wasn’t about condemnation—it was about a call to repentance.”
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He highlighted that the removal of “lampstands”—a biblical reference to the light and presence of God among His people—was not just about individuals but entire congregations. “When God removes a lampstand, it’s because we’ve stopped being a beacon of His truth and started being a reflection of our culture. It’s painful, but it’s necessary,” Gibson explained.
The pastor also touched on the impact of these exposures, calling it a “refining fire” for the global church. “Some of us didn’t want to see it, but it’s better for the body of Christ to be pure and holy. God is separating the wheat from the chaff,” he said.
Looking forward to 2025, Gibson’s tone shifted to one of hope and restoration. He prophesied that it would be a year of rebuilding and reestablishing foundations. “This is a season where we’re going to see leaders rise who are humble, who walk in integrity and who carry the heart of a shepherd. God is raising up new lampstands,” he said. “The Spirit is moving on leaders who’ve been hidden in the wilderness, preparing them to step into the light.”
Gibson also emphasized unity as a key topic for 2025. “We’ve been divided by denominations, politics and preferences. But the time is coming when we will gather under the banner of Christ, not our individual agendas. The church will look more like the bride she was meant to be,” he said.
There is hope and optimism for the years ahead according to Gibson. “We’re not done yet. God’s not done yet. The church will shine brighter than ever before because He’s faithful to finish the good work He started in us.”
As believers step into a new year, Pastor Gibson’s words serve as both a challenge and an encouragement to embrace accountability and unity, trusting that God’s plans for His church remain steadfast and redemptive.
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James Lasher is staff writer for Charisma Media.