Joel Osteen‘s Lakewood church held its first in-person service since the global pandemic began in March.

It was at 25% capacity and masks were required in addition to social distancing, but for the first time since March, the church met in person and not online.

Joel Osteen preached his sermon on being conquerors in Christ and spreading hope in this time of uncertainty.

“I felt like God put in my spirit it was time to come back… God has raised up Lakewood for this time. Hey, when does the world need hope any more than now?”
Joel Osteen said in his sermon.

Joel Osteen told the congregation that his reach grew more than ever under quarantine and that on easter the church reached 12 million people.

The service started with a praise and worship song and the auditorium was filled with people. Osteen stepped up to the front of the stage and greeted the audience saying how thankful he was they could all worship together. “It’s better when we’re together,” he said.

In his sermon, Osteen preached about how we are currently in a time where doing the right thing and following God is important.

“You don’t have to be perfect. We’ve all made mistakes. It’s not so much about your performance. It’s about your heart. Keep God first place. Do the right thing when it’s hard. Say no to things that are pulling you down … God is saying to you what He’s saying to Joash (2 Chronicles 23), ‘It’s time for the King’s children to reign.'”

Joel Osteen isn’t the only church to have opened its doors. According to Barna Group, more than half of pastors have re-opened for in-person church services.

But some mega-churches, like North Point Community Church in Georgia, The Potter’s House in Texas, and Saddleback Church in California still remain closed.

However, John MacArthur’s church, Grace Community Church, stayed open for in-person services throughout the entire pandemic.