Michael Koulianos teaches on the concept of being a 'Friend of the Bridegroom,' emphasizing the importance of hearing God's voice and developing a deep friendship with Jesus. He highlights that while salvation is a free gift, true friendship with God requires trust and intimacy, which can be costly. Koulianos warns against the dangers of merely participating in religious activities without genuine connection to God, and he encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship characterized by obedience and humility. He draws parallels between biblical figures like Moses and Abraham, who were known as friends of God, and stresses the significance of living under God's authority and guidance.

Michael Koulianos emphasizes the significance of our words and their impact on our relationships with others and God, drawing from James 3 to illustrate the power of the tongue. He warns against the dangers of speaking negatively and highlights the importance of speaking with kindness and humility, as true friends of the Bridegroom should. Koulianos also connects this to the way we treat others, reminding us that how we speak to and about God's people reflects our relationship with Him. He encourages the congregation to build boundaries against negativity and to cultivate a spirit of peace and gentleness in their speech. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper understanding of the weight of our words and the necessity of aligning them with God's wisdom.

Michael Koulianos emphasizes the significance of being a friend of the bridegroom, urging believers to cultivate a deep relationship with Jesus through prayer and the Word. He highlights that true friendship with God is demonstrated through our words and actions, as they reflect the condition of our hearts. Koulianos warns against gossip and negativity, asserting that our speech should be a testament to our intimacy with Christ. He encourages the congregation to seek a genuine encounter with God, which will transform their lives and produce Christ-like fruit. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to holiness and a deeper awareness of God's presence in our daily lives.

Michael Koulianos emphasizes the importance of honoring God's presence over the idol of time management in church services, arguing that the feelings of the Holy Spirit should take precedence over the comfort of attendees. He warns against the spirit of Korah, which seeks power and recognition, and stresses that true ministry is about serving rather than seeking a platform. Koulianos calls for a lifestyle of faithfulness that prioritizes the glory of God and encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with Him in the secret place. He highlights the need for humility and the dangers of rebellion against God’s appointed authority, reminding the congregation that true growth comes from being in the presence of God rather than merely filling seats.

Michael Koulianos continues his teaching on 'Friends of the Bridegroom,' emphasizing the essential qualities of those who are close to Jesus. He highlights the importance of loving Jesus and His presence, the Word of God, and His church, while also stressing the need to love the lost and family. Koulianos warns against the dangers of compromising one's faith and the necessity of understanding the core of the gospel, which is Christ's death, burial, and resurrection. He encourages believers to prioritize worship and to recognize the significance of the cross in their lives. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper revelation of Jesus and a commitment to living out the gospel in every aspect of life.

In this sermon, the preacher discusses the state of the world and compares it to the dark ages. He argues that despite advancements in technology and education, there is still a moral darkness that engulfs humanity. The church is called to be a terror to evil and should be as terrible as an army with banners. The preacher also explores the bride's experience of hearing the voice of her beloved and emphasizes the importance of spending intimate time with God.

Michael Koulianos continues his sermon 'Friends of the Bridegroom' by emphasizing that while salvation is a free gift, true friendship with God requires trust and comes at a cost. He shares personal experiences of fasting and prayer, illustrating that genuine communion with Jesus is the ultimate reward, not merely a means to an end. Koulianos encourages believers to seek a deeper relationship with God through prayer, worship, and community, highlighting that true prayer is about oneness with Jesus rather than a transactional approach. He warns against the dangers of criticism and judgment within the church, urging listeners to focus on their own spiritual growth and relationship with the Lord. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to becoming friends of the bridegroom, prioritizing intimacy with Christ above all else.