Open Heavens

Title: OPEN HEAVENS

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text:

Isaiah 64:1 – “Oh, that You would rend the heavens and come down, that the mountains might quake at Your presence!”

Supporting Texts:

Deuteronomy 28:12

Malachi 3:10

Ezekiel 1:1

Luke 3:21-22

Acts 7:55-56

INTRODUCTION:

The concept of "Open Heavens" signifies a time of divine intervention, where God’s presence, power, and blessings flow unhindered. It is when the barriers between heaven and earth are removed, and people experience God's glory in remarkable ways. This sermon explores what it means to live under open heavens, the signs of open heavens, and how we can position ourselves to experience this reality in our lives.

1. WHAT DOES IT MEAN TO HAVE OPEN HEAVENS?

Open heavens signify God’s manifest presence, provision, and power in extraordinary ways. It is a time when spiritual access to the resources of heaven becomes available.

a) Divine Access: Open heavens mean direct access to the throne of God, where prayers are answered speedily (Luke 3:21).

b) Unhindered Communication with God: It is a time when we can hear from God clearly and walk in His will (Ezekiel 1:1).

c) Outpouring of Blessings: Open heavens signify abundant blessings from God—both spiritually and materially (Deuteronomy 28:12).

d) Divine Intervention and Breakthroughs: In times of open heavens, there is divine intervention in challenging circumstances (Acts 7:55-56).

e) God’s Manifest Presence: Open heavens bring a tangible sense of God’s presence that transforms lives and situations (Isaiah 64:1).

Biblical Example:

At the baptism of Jesus in Luke 3:21-22, the heavens were opened, and the Holy Spirit descended on Him in the form of a dove. This marked the beginning of His public ministry, showing how open heavens usher in divine empowerment and new seasons of life.

2. SIGNS OF OPEN HEAVENS

There are several indicators that show when the heavens are open over a person, community, or church.

a) Divine Encounters: When the heavens are open, people experience visions, dreams, and supernatural encounters with God (Acts 7:55).

b) Answered Prayers: Open heavens are characterised by answered prayers and miracles in response to petitions (1 Kings 18:36-38).

c) Abundant Provision: God’s provision flows freely in times of open heavens, meeting needs supernaturally (Malachi 3:10).

d) Spiritual Refreshing: Open heavens bring times of refreshing, where the Holy Spirit moves powerfully, reviving hearts (Acts 3:19).

e) Visible Signs and Wonders: Under open heavens, there is a release of supernatural signs and wonders that testify to God’s power (Acts 2:43).

Biblical Example:

In Acts 7:55-56, Stephen, while being martyred, saw the heavens open and Jesus standing at the right hand of God. This encounter brought peace to him despite his circumstances, showing that open heavens bring divine assurance and strength.

3. HOW TO POSITION YOURSELF FOR OPEN HEAVENS

There are practical steps we can take to experience open heavens in our lives.

a) Obedience to God’s Word: Obeying God’s commands brings His blessings and opens the windows of heaven (Deuteronomy 28:1-2).

b) Sacrificial Giving: Tithing and sacrificial giving are keys to unlocking open heavens, as seen in Malachi 3:10.

c) Fervent Prayer: Persistent prayer and communion with God can open the heavens, as Jesus experienced at His baptism (Luke 3:21).

d) Living a Life of Holiness: Holiness and righteousness attract God’s presence and favour (Psalm 24:3-4).

Praise and Worship: A lifestyle of praise creates an atmosphere for open heavens. God inhabits the praises of His people (Psalm 22:3).

Biblical Example:

In Malachi 3:10, God promises that when we bring the whole tithe into His storehouse, He will open the windows of heaven and pour out a blessing so great that there will not be room enough to receive it. This shows the power of obedience and giving in unlocking open heavens.

4. LIVING UNDER OPEN HEAVENS

It is possible to live under perpetual open heavens, where God’s presence and blessings continually flow into your life.

a) Continuous Fellowship with God: Maintaining a deep relationship with God through daily fellowship keeps the heavens open (James 4:8).

b) Walking in Faith and Expectation: We must walk in faith, believing that God will manifest His glory in our lives (Hebrews 11:6).

c) Living in God’s Will: Staying in the centre of God’s will aligns us with His divine agenda, opening the heavens over us (John 15:7).

d) Being Filled with the Holy Spirit: A Spirit-filled life keeps us connected to the divine flow of blessings from heaven (Ephesians 5:18).

e) Fruitfulness in Kingdom Work: Serving in God’s kingdom with passion and diligence draws His favour and blessings (John 15:8).

Biblical Example:

In Deuteronomy 28:12, God promises to open the heavens and bless the work of our hands, making us fruitful. This shows that living in obedience and fulfilling God's purposes brings open heavens over our labour and endeavours.

5. BARRIERS TO OPEN HEAVENS