Embracing the Holy Spirit: Our Call to Action
Summary
### Summary
Welcome, everyone. Today, we celebrate a significant milestone—Happy Birthday, Church! Pentecost marks the birth of the church 2,000 years ago, and it is a time to remember the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. This is not just a historical event; the Spirit is still being poured out today, all over the globe. Last Tuesday night, we had 2,000 young people at Descend and the Town Hall, eager to evangelize our city, schools, and universities. There is a fresh wind of the Holy Spirit blowing, and it is our responsibility to lean in and drink deeply from what God is pouring out. We must not stand on the sidelines but actively receive and be filled with the Holy Spirit to become powerful men and women of God. [01:29:15]
Our mission is to transform the world with the goodness of Jesus. We need to lift our eyes to heaven and see Jesus, who is building His church. The gates of hell shall not prevail against it. This is our finest hour to move into our community with love, gifts, fire, and helps. We are a community born of the Spirit, and we must partner with God for the glory of Jesus Christ. [01:30:57]
The Holy Spirit's coming at Pentecost was not just for personal edification but also for ministry. Your vocation is your ministry, whether you are a teacher, business broker, or any other profession. You are a minister of the gospel, just as I am. The inward filling of the Holy Spirit is for your life and intimacy with God, while the outward filling is for ministry and power. This is basic Christianity, and it is for everyone, regardless of denominational background. [01:23:49]
The prophetic, dreams, and visions are direct results of the Holy Spirit's empowering. When the Spirit comes, it activates mission and births new ministries. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, preached the gospel, and 3,000 people were saved. The church of Jesus Christ was born through the power of the Holy Spirit, and we are a Spirit community, a Jesus community. Our nine kingdom culture values are rooted in this passage, emphasizing the importance of the Word of God, family, prayer, miracles, and generosity. [01:27:17]
Today, we are also launching our annual "Heart for the House" offering. This is a love offering to grow the church and advance the kingdom of God. We invest in people who do not yet know Jesus Christ. Last year, we raised $150,000, and this year, we aim for $200,000. This offering supports various initiatives, including youth workers, community trusts, and our music label. Let's be generous and faithful in our giving, ensuring that finance is not a bottleneck for the gospel. [01:06:47]
As we conclude, I invite you to come forward if you want to be filled with the Holy Spirit or need a touch from God. The Holy Spirit is here to minister to us, bringing healing, restoration, and new initiatives. Let's drink deeply from the Spirit, allowing His fire and love to fill us. Keep drinking, keep receiving, and let the Holy Spirit empower you for the week ahead. [01:34:23]
### Key Takeaways
1. The Spirit is Still Being Poured Out: The Holy Spirit, poured out 2,000 years ago at Pentecost, continues to be poured out today. This fresh wind of the Spirit is a call for us to lean in and actively receive what God is offering. We must not be passive observers but active participants, drinking deeply from the Spirit to become powerful men and women of God. [01:29:15]
2. Your Vocation is Your Ministry: Regardless of your profession, you are a minister of the gospel. The inward filling of the Holy Spirit is for your personal life and intimacy with God, while the outward filling is for ministry and power. This dual aspect of the Spirit's work is essential for fulfilling our mission to transform the world with the goodness of Jesus. [01:23:49]
3. The Prophetic Activates Mission: The prophetic, dreams, and visions are direct results of the Holy Spirit's empowering. When the Spirit comes, it activates mission and births new ministries. This activation is not limited to any one denomination but is a universal call for all believers to engage in the mission of the church. [01:27:17]
4. Generosity Fuels the Mission: Our annual "Heart for the House" offering is a love offering to grow the church and advance the kingdom of God. Generosity is a key value, and our giving supports various initiatives, including youth workers, community trusts, and our music label. Let's ensure that finance is not a bottleneck for the gospel by being faithful and generous in our giving. [01:06:47]
5. The Holy Spirit Empowers and Heals: The Holy Spirit is here to minister to us, bringing healing, restoration, and new initiatives. We are invited to come forward and receive a touch from God, allowing His fire and love to fill us. This empowerment is not just for personal edification but for the mission of the church. Keep drinking from the Spirit, allowing His presence to transform and empower you for the week ahead. [01:34:23]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:29:15] - The Spirit is Still Being Poured Out
[01:30:57] - Transforming the World with Jesus
[01:23:49] - Your Vocation is Your Ministry
[01:27:17] - The Prophetic Activates Mission
[01:06:47] - Heart for the House Offering
[01:34:23] - Holy Spirit Empowers and Heals
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
1. Acts 2:1-4 (ESV)
> "When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance."
2. Joel 2:28-29 (ESV)
> "And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit."
3. Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)
> "And Jesus came and said to them, 'All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.'"
4. 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (ESV)
> "The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
### Observation Questions
1. What happened to the disciples when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the day of Pentecost according to Acts 2:1-4?
2. According to Joel 2:28-29, what are some of the manifestations of the Holy Spirit being poured out on all flesh?
3. In Matthew 28:18-20, what command does Jesus give to His disciples, and what promise does He make to them?
4. What does 2 Corinthians 9:6-7 say about the attitude we should have when giving?
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the event of Pentecost in Acts 2:1-4 demonstrate the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in the early church?
2. What is the significance of the prophetic, dreams, and visions mentioned in Joel 2:28-29 for believers today?
3. How does Jesus' command in Matthew 28:18-20 relate to the idea that "your vocation is your ministry"?
4. Why is generosity important in the context of advancing the kingdom of God, as highlighted in 2 Corinthians 9:6-7?
### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you felt the presence of the Holy Spirit in your life. How did it impact your actions and decisions?
2. What steps can you take to be more open to the prophetic, dreams, and visions in your spiritual walk?
3. Identify one way you can integrate your faith into your daily work or profession this week. How can you be a minister of the gospel in your workplace?
4. Consider your current giving habits. What is one specific way you can increase your generosity to support the mission of the church?
5. Think of a person or group in your community who needs to experience the love and power of Jesus. What practical action can you take this week to reach out to them?
Devotional
Day 1: The Spirit is Still Being Poured Out
The Holy Spirit, poured out 2,000 years ago at Pentecost, continues to be poured out today. This fresh wind of the Spirit is a call for us to lean in and actively receive what God is offering. We must not be passive observers but active participants, drinking deeply from the Spirit to become powerful men and women of God. The Spirit's outpouring is not just a historical event but a present reality that empowers us to live out our faith with boldness and conviction.
In our daily lives, we often get caught up in routines and forget that the Holy Spirit is actively working in and through us. This week, take time to intentionally seek the Spirit's presence. Whether through prayer, worship, or reading Scripture, open your heart to receive the fresh wind of the Holy Spirit. Remember, the Spirit is not limited by time or space and is available to all who seek Him earnestly. [01:29:15]
Joel 2:28-29 (ESV): "And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh; your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, and your young men shall see visions. Even on the male and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit."
Reflection: How can you make space in your daily routine to actively seek and receive the Holy Spirit's presence this week?
Day 2: Your Vocation is Your Ministry
Regardless of your profession, you are a minister of the gospel. The inward filling of the Holy Spirit is for your personal life and intimacy with God, while the outward filling is for ministry and power. This dual aspect of the Spirit's work is essential for fulfilling our mission to transform the world with the goodness of Jesus. Your vocation, whether as a teacher, business broker, or any other profession, is your ministry field where you can demonstrate the love and power of Christ.
Understanding that your work is a form of ministry can transform how you approach your daily tasks. It means that every interaction, every decision, and every effort can be an opportunity to reflect Christ's love and truth. Embrace your role as a minister in your workplace, knowing that the Holy Spirit equips you for this purpose. Seek God's guidance in your professional life and be open to how He might use you to impact others. [01:23:49]
Colossians 3:23-24 (ESV): "Whatever you do, work heartily, as for the Lord and not for men, knowing that from the Lord you will receive the inheritance as your reward. You are serving the Lord Christ."
Reflection: In what ways can you intentionally reflect Christ's love and truth in your workplace this week?
Day 3: The Prophetic Activates Mission
The prophetic, dreams, and visions are direct results of the Holy Spirit's empowering. When the Spirit comes, it activates mission and births new ministries. This activation is not limited to any one denomination but is a universal call for all believers to engage in the mission of the church. The story of Peter preaching at Pentecost, where 3,000 people were saved, is a powerful example of how the Holy Spirit can use prophetic words to bring about significant transformation.
As believers, we are called to be open to the prophetic and to seek God's guidance through dreams and visions. These spiritual gifts are not just for personal edification but are meant to propel us into action, to share the gospel, and to serve others. Be attentive to the ways the Holy Spirit might be speaking to you and be willing to step out in faith to fulfill the mission God has placed on your heart. [01:27:17]
Acts 2:17-18 (ESV): "‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy."
Reflection: Are you open to receiving prophetic words, dreams, or visions from the Holy Spirit? How can you act on them to fulfill God's mission?
Day 4: Generosity Fuels the Mission
Our annual "Heart for the House" offering is a love offering to grow the church and advance the kingdom of God. Generosity is a key value, and our giving supports various initiatives, including youth workers, community trusts, and our music label. Let's ensure that finance is not a bottleneck for the gospel by being faithful and generous in our giving. Generosity is not just about financial contributions but also about giving our time, talents, and resources to support the mission of the church.
When we give generously, we partner with God in His work and help create opportunities for others to encounter Jesus. Reflect on how you can contribute to the mission of the church, whether through financial giving, volunteering, or using your skills to serve others. Remember, every act of generosity, no matter how small, can have a significant impact on advancing God's kingdom. [01:06:47]
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (ESV): "The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
Reflection: How can you practice generosity this week in a way that supports the mission of the church and advances God's kingdom?
Day 5: The Holy Spirit Empowers and Heals
The Holy Spirit is here to minister to us, bringing healing, restoration, and new initiatives. We are invited to come forward and receive a touch from God, allowing His fire and love to fill us. This empowerment is not just for personal edification but for the mission of the church. Keep drinking from the Spirit, allowing His presence to transform and empower you for the week ahead. The Holy Spirit's work in our lives is ongoing, and we must continually seek His presence and guidance.
As you go through this week, be open to the ways the Holy Spirit might want to minister to you. Whether you need healing, restoration, or a fresh vision for your life, the Holy Spirit is ready to meet you where you are. Take time to pray and invite the Holy Spirit to fill you anew, empowering you to live out your faith with boldness and love. [01:34:23]
Romans 15:13 (ESV): "May the God of hope fill you with all joy and peace in believing, so that by the power of the Holy Spirit you may abound in hope."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need the Holy Spirit's healing and empowerment? How can you invite Him to work in those areas this week?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Our mission is to transform the world with the goodness of Jesus. Let's lift our eyes. Come on, let's stand together. Let's lift our eyes to heaven. Let's lift our eyes to see Him. Lord, we see you, Jesus. We believe you. Jesus is building His church. And the gates of hell shall not prevail against it. This is our finest hour. This is the church's finest hour. To move into our community with love and with gifts and with fire and with helps." [01:30:57]
2. "The prophetic is voice activated. So when God speaks something, it is activated by your voice and my voice. He goes by agreement. He says something also in the Bible. The promises are all yes and in Christ, but we say the amen. All the things of God that He promised over your life or even in the Bible, they're all voice activated. And so there needs to be an activation of the church right now to say yes to Jesus. Yes and amen. Yes, we want the power. Yes, we want the outpouring. Yes, we want to go everywhere that you want us to go." [01:13:11]
3. "Because that's what He does. He gives us dreams. He gives us visions. He gives us authority. He gives us power. Come, Holy Spirit. Can we just start drinking a little bit? This way you sit. Say, Lord, I'm starting to drink a little bit. Just open your hands and say, Lord, I want to drink. I want to drink in of your goodness. I want to drink in of the fire of God. Jesus says you'll be baptized. Actually, John said that. He says Jesus will come. He said He will baptize you with spirit and fire. Spirit is always the fire of God." [01:35:17]
4. "So when the Holy Spirit came at Pentecost 2,000 years ago, it was also, not just for inside, it was also an anointing. It was an anointing for ministry. That's why one of the core values that we have, your vocation is your ministry. Whether you are a business insurance broker, a teacher, whatever you do, you are a minister of the gospel in the same way that I am. I am a church minister. You are a marketplace minister. But they're both a ministry. We just have different roles." [01:23:49]
### Quotes for Members
1. "The Spirit was poured out 2,000 years ago. But the Spirit is still being poured out right now. It's being poured out all over the globe. Last Tuesday night, we had 2,000 kids, young people in Descend and the Town Hall. Going again after mission. What are we going to do to evangelize our city, our schools, our universities? There is a movement around the globe. The wind is blowing. There's a fresh wind of the Holy Spirit blowing. Now for us, it is to lean in. For us, it is to drink." [01:29:15]
2. "The Holy Spirit is really leaning into the prophetic. I mean, Catherine is training all these prophetic people every year. She does two of them. If you're interested in the next one, go talk to her. She just finished another crop of 25 or so. And we had like 60 the other day at Brave Blessy. 60 or so. I think we have, I don't know how many there are, Catherine. There must be about 70 or so. How many are there? I don't know how many there are. But anyway, I love the prophetic. Because God wants us to have the prophetic in our lives. Dreams and visions. Prophetic activity. Amazing." [01:26:11]
3. "The church of Jesus Christ was born through the power of the Holy Spirit. A spirit community. A Jesus community. And I'll tell you something. The nine kingdom culture values that we released today, not today, this year, nine of them, almost all of them are in this passage. Every believer was faithfully devoted to following the teachings of the apostle, the word of God. The hearts were mutually linked together. Family. Shared communion. Coming together for prayer. Prayer is power. A deep sense of holy awe swept over everyone. And the apostles performed many miracles. Miracles are normal." [01:27:17]
4. "It's only finance that's holding us back right now. And I really mean that. And we don't want finance to be the bottleneck of the gospel being preached and us to see the kingdom come. Let's make sure that we're faithful to our giving. Let's be faithful in giving to the house when there is a need in the house." [01:28:31]
5. "And then the church of Christ was born. And the Spirit lit the flame. And if you don't feel it right now, feel the Holy Spirit come over you right now. And let yourself be lit up. Lit up. Maybe it's just a little amber right now. And you say, Lord, I need you to blow on my amber. I want to be fully alive again. Fully on fire again." [01:33:29]
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