Empowered by the Holy Spirit for Mission

 

Summary

Today, the focus is on a deep and personal encounter with the Holy Spirit, especially as we celebrate Pentecost Sunday. The heart cry is for a greater awareness of God’s presence—not just as a distant idea, but as a living reality that transforms lives, families, and churches. Revival is not merely an event or a feeling; it is the manifest presence of God at work among us, bringing supernatural change and empowering us to live out the gospel in tangible ways.

Reflecting on recent experiences in Honduras, it’s clear that the Holy Spirit moves powerfully both in extraordinary moments and in the everyday sharing of faith. Whether it’s praying with someone in their home, witnessing miraculous healings, or seeing lives surrendered to Christ, the Holy Spirit is the one who brings about true transformation. This is not limited to a particular place or time; the same Spirit who moved in the early church is present and active today.

Scripture teaches that the Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force, but a person—one who has a mind, will, and emotions. At salvation, every believer receives the Holy Spirit as a friend and comforter, dwelling within and guiding us into all truth. Yet, there is more: the baptism of the Holy Spirit is a distinct experience that empowers believers to witness boldly and to operate in the supernatural power of God. This is not about chasing emotional highs or memorializing past experiences, but about continually seeking to be filled and refilled with the Spirit’s power for the sake of the world.

The challenge is to move beyond a faith that is confined to the four walls of the church. The power of Pentecost is not for personal enjoyment or spiritual entertainment, but for mission. The Spirit fills us so that we can be witnesses—so that the supernatural life of God overflows into our neighborhoods, workplaces, and beyond. The call is to hunger for more, to pray for boldness, and to allow the Holy Spirit to use us as instruments of healing, proclamation, and transformation wherever we go.

Key Takeaways

- The Holy Spirit is a Person, Not a Force
Understanding the Holy Spirit as a person—one with a mind, will, and emotions—changes how we relate to Him. He is not a tool to be used, but a friend to be known, grieved, and obeyed. This personal relationship invites us into deeper intimacy and responsiveness to His leading in every area of our lives. [12:17]

- Every Believer Receives the Spirit at Salvation, but There is More
At the moment of salvation, the Holy Spirit takes up residence within us, making us children of God and guiding us into truth. Yet, Scripture reveals that there is a further experience—the baptism of the Holy Spirit—that brings a new dimension of power and boldness for witness. This ongoing filling is essential for living out the mission of God in the world. [22:40]

- The Supernatural is the Norm for God’s People
The kingdom of God is inherently supernatural, from the resurrection of Jesus to the birth and growth of the church. We are not called to settle for a powerless Christianity, but to expect and pursue the supernatural work of the Spirit in and through us. This includes spiritual gifts, healings, and bold proclamation, all for the glory of God. [25:55]

- The Baptism of Power is for Mission, Not Just Experience
The outpouring of the Spirit is not primarily for personal edification or spiritual excitement, but to empower us to be witnesses in the world. The true test of Spirit-filled living is not what happens in church services, but how we impact the world around us with the love, truth, and power of Jesus. We are filled to be poured out for others. [40:46]

- Continual Renewal is Needed—Not Just a One-Time Encounter
It is possible to memorialize a past encounter with the Holy Spirit and miss what He wants to do today. The call is to seek continual renewal, to be filled again and again, so that our lives remain vibrant, powerful, and effective for God’s purposes. The Spirit’s work is not a relic of the past, but a present and ongoing reality for every believer. [32:53]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[01:46] - Cry for God’s Presence and Revival
[04:23] - Testimonies from Honduras and the Power of the Spirit
[06:44] - Pentecost: Old and New Testament Meaning
[10:00] - Acts 19: Receiving the Holy Spirit
[12:17] - The Holy Spirit as a Person
[14:39] - The Spirit’s Mind, Will, and Emotions
[16:47] - The Spirit at Salvation: Biblical Evidence
[20:02] - The Spirit Dwelling in Believers
[22:40] - There is More: Baptism of the Holy Spirit
[25:00] - Power to Witness: The Supernatural Church
[27:12] - Expressions of the Spirit’s Power
[29:59] - Continual Filling and Boldness
[32:53] - Personal Testimony: Ongoing Renewal
[34:37] - Miracles and Salvations: The Spirit at Work
[39:10] - The Danger of Inward-Focused Spirituality
[40:46] - The Spirit’s Power for Mission
[45:36] - The Power of Pentecost Today
[48:17] - The Prayer: “Come, Holy Spirit, Bend Me”
[53:31] - Invitation to Salvation and Spirit-Filling
[56:05] - Closing Prayer and Call for Revival

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide: The Power and Presence of the Holy Spirit (Pentecost Sunday)

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### Bible Reading

- Acts 19:1-6
(Paul asks the disciples in Ephesus, “Did you receive the Holy Spirit when you believed?” and lays hands on them to receive the Holy Spirit.)

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### Observation Questions

1. In Acts 19:1-6, what question does Paul ask the disciples in Ephesus, and how do they respond? What happens after Paul lays hands on them?
2. According to the sermon, what are some ways the Holy Spirit is described—as a force, a friend, or something else? ([12:17])
3. What examples from the Honduras trip were shared in the sermon to show the Holy Spirit at work in everyday life? ([04:23])
4. What is the difference between receiving the Holy Spirit at salvation and the baptism of the Holy Spirit, as explained in the sermon? ([22:40])

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### Interpretation Questions

1. Why does Paul ask the disciples in Acts 19 if they have received the Holy Spirit “since they believed”? What does this suggest about the Holy Spirit’s role after salvation?
2. The sermon says the Holy Spirit is a person with a mind, will, and emotions. How does this understanding change the way believers relate to Him? ([12:17])
3. The pastor shared that the supernatural should be “normal” for God’s people. What does it mean for the supernatural to be the norm in the Christian life? ([25:55])
4. The sermon challenges the idea of keeping spiritual experiences inside the church. Why is it important for the power of the Holy Spirit to overflow into our neighborhoods and workplaces? ([40:46])

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### Application Questions

1. The sermon began with a prayer: “Lord, make us more aware of your presence.” What would it look like for you to be more aware of God’s presence in your daily routine this week? ([01:46])
2. The pastor described the Holy Spirit as a friend, not just a force. How do you personally relate to the Holy Spirit right now—as a friend, a helper, or something else? What might help you grow in that relationship? ([12:17])
3. The sermon shared stories of praying for people in their homes and seeing lives changed. Is there someone in your life you feel prompted to pray for or share your faith with this week? What’s holding you back? ([04:23])
4. The pastor said, “We are filled to be poured out for others.” In what ways could you let the Holy Spirit use you to bless or serve someone outside the church this week? ([40:46])
5. The message warned against memorializing past spiritual experiences and missing what the Spirit wants to do today. Are you holding onto a past encounter with God instead of seeking fresh renewal? What would it look like to ask for a new filling of the Spirit? ([32:53])
6. The sermon emphasized that the baptism of the Holy Spirit is for mission, not just for personal excitement. How can you shift your focus from seeking spiritual experiences for yourself to being empowered for God’s mission? ([40:46])
7. The pastor led the church in a prayer: “Come, Holy Spirit, bend me.” What would it mean for you to pray this honestly? Is there an area of your life where you need to be “bent” or changed by the Spirit? ([48:17])

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Close in prayer, asking for a fresh awareness of the Holy Spirit’s presence and power, and for boldness to be witnesses in your everyday life.

Devotional

Day 1: The Holy Spirit is a Person, Not a Force
The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force or abstract power, but a true person with a mind, will, and emotions who desires relationship with every believer. He is a friend who comforts, guides, and grieves, and is meant to be known intimately, not just experienced as a distant power. When you invite the Holy Spirit into your life, you are welcoming a companion who walks with you, speaks to you, and reveals the will of God in your daily journey. [12:17]

Romans 8:27 (KJV)
"And he that searcheth the hearts knoweth what is the mind of the Spirit, because he maketh intercession for the saints according to the will of God."

Reflection: In what ways have you related to the Holy Spirit more as a distant power than as a personal friend? How can you intentionally invite Him to guide your thoughts, decisions, and emotions today?


Day 2: Every Believer Receives the Holy Spirit at Salvation
From the moment you accept Christ, the Holy Spirit takes up residence within you, marking you as God’s own and empowering you to live as His child. This indwelling is not reserved for a select few or for those who have reached a certain level of spiritual maturity, but is the birthright of every believer. The Spirit’s presence assures you that you are never alone, and that God’s power is available to you from the very beginning of your walk with Him. [22:40]

Galatians 4:6 (KJV)
"And because ye are sons, God hath sent forth the Spirit of his Son into your hearts, crying, Abba, Father."

Reflection: When you consider that the Holy Spirit already lives within you, how does that change the way you approach your daily challenges and your relationship with God?


Day 3: The Baptism of the Holy Spirit Empowers Us to Witness
Beyond the indwelling Spirit at salvation, God offers a baptism of the Holy Spirit—a supernatural empowerment that enables believers to boldly proclaim the gospel, demonstrate God’s love, and operate in spiritual gifts. This baptism is not just for personal edification, but for the purpose of being Christ’s witnesses in the world, carrying His message and power to those who need Him most. [25:00]

Acts 1:8 (KJV)
"But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth."

Reflection: Who in your life or community needs to experience the love and power of Jesus through your witness? What step can you take today to share your faith with them?


Day 4: The Power of the Holy Spirit Is for Today, Not Just the Past
The work of the Holy Spirit is not meant to be a one-time event or a distant memory, but an ongoing, daily reality. God desires to continually fill and empower His people, refreshing them with boldness, spiritual gifts, and the ability to impact the world around them. The supernatural is not just for the early church or for special occasions, but is available to every believer who seeks more of God’s presence and power right now. [31:40]

Acts 4:31 (KJV)
"And when they had prayed, the place was shaken where they were assembled together; and they were all filled with the Holy Ghost, and they spake the word of God with boldness."

Reflection: Are you relying on a past spiritual experience, or are you seeking a fresh filling of the Holy Spirit today? What would it look like for you to be “plugged into the power source” right now?


Day 5: The Purpose of Pentecost Is to Impact the World
The outpouring of the Holy Spirit is not just for personal blessing or for experiences within the church walls, but to equip believers to bring transformation to their families, workplaces, and communities. The true evidence of Pentecost is seen when God’s people carry His presence and power beyond the church, becoming His hands extended in healing, love, and proclamation of the gospel to a world in need. [45:36]

Matthew 5:16 (ESV)
"In the same way, let your light shine before others, so that they may see your good works and give glory to your Father who is in heaven."

Reflection: How can you allow the Holy Spirit to work through you this week to bring hope, healing, or encouragement to someone outside the church? What specific action will you take to let your light shine?

Quotes

Sometimes we'll pray for revival, and we'll say, God, we want revival. I need revival. As a church, we need revival. What is revival? Revival is the manifested presence of God at work in our lives. So if we desire revival, if we want revival, really we are praying the prayer of this song. Lord, make me more aware of your presence. Help me to experience the glory of your presence. Help me to experience your supernatural power at work in my life and family and church. Revive me with your manifested presence. [00:01:26]
We're not talking about a natural fire, are we? We're talking about a supernatural fire, the kind that the prophet Jeremiah declared that it's like fire shut up in your bones. It's the kind of fire that we have heard about on the day of Pentecost when cloven tongues of fire sat upon each of those who were in the upper room, and there was an outward manifestation of an inward transformation that happened in their lives that ultimately turned the world upside down with the power of the Holy Spirit. [00:06:29]
In the New Testament, it is Pentecost. It is 50 days after Easter. It is the celebration of the coming of the Holy Spirit, the celebration of God liberating the whosoever will of this world from the bondage of their sin. That's what Pentecost is really about. [00:07:44]
Unfortunately, today, there are even people in our world who do not even know if there is a Holy Spirit. They are as much in the dark in the 21st century as they were in the 1st century. They have not yet been introduced to the person. And please note that I have said person of the Holy Spirit because he is not just a force, he is a friend. [00:12:02]
When we study the Scripture, we understand the Holy Spirit to be a person. That he is a part of us, that he has a mind, a will, an emotion, that he is not a thing to use, but a person to know. [00:12:43]
If you ever pray to the Lord and say, Lord, I ask you for your will to be done in my life. I will be what you want me to be. Do what you want me to do. Go where you want me to go. The response of that prayer involves the Holy Spirit. He reveals the will of God in our lives, the will of God the Father. [00:14:48]
At salvation, we find a friend who is with us. He becomes a comforter. He becomes what Proverbs talks about, a friend who sticks closer than a brother. He guides us into all truth. He becomes somebody who is constantly with us. [00:16:19]
As Christians, the Holy Spirit is in you. had the Holy Spirit is in you. The Holy Spirit is in you. I don't know. You're untoou. You're. I make Gray Law. You and I am. He can't see you for the passion to you. Actually, it who can confirm ????. And that I find Emma's power over there. I'm a soulieni on earth. Thank you. [00:21:31]
Because you are sons and daughters of God, because you're believers in Jesus Christ. He sent forth the spirit of his son into your hearts. That's why we talked about inviting Jesus Christ to come and live in your heart, in your spirit. The Holy Spirit has taken up residence in your heart or your spirit just simply because you have chosen to be a son or a daughter of God. [00:22:08]
So you have the Holy Spirit with you. When you decide to accept Christ and invite him into your life, he takes up residence within you. The Holy Spirit is in you. So let me say it this way. In the first century or the first century, disciples received the Holy Spirit at salvation. And the 21st century, disciples received the Holy Spirit at salvation. Can I get a witness today? [00:22:40]
At salvation, we find a friend who is with us. But the second key point is this. At the Holy Spirit baptism, we receive a power to witness. [00:23:29]
Can I just declare to you today that we need a baptism of power? Why do Christians and churches settle for a lack of power when we have been afforded access to a supernatural power from God? Why do we settle for a lack of power when God has given us access to his supernatural power? [00:25:11]
God is a supernatural God. The kingdom of God is a supernatural kingdom. Jesus walked the earth and did supernatural. The kingdom of God is a supernatural. things when he walked the earth. The resurrection was a supernatural resurrection. Salvation is supernatural. Sanctification is supernatural. Having the Holy Spirit living on the inside of us is supernatural. You've got a supernatural being living on the inside of you. [00:25:55]
The church was birthed supernaturally. It grew and changed the world supernaturally. The church in the 21st century is a supernatural church. So why is it that we settle for not walking in the supernatural when everything about the kingdom of God is supernatural? [00:26:34]
What I want you to understand is something more begins to happen through a supernatural power of God when we experience a baptism of power. [00:28:48]
It wasn't about just a one -time ducky bump barrage, or a one -time memorializing of an event that happened in your life 30 years ago. See, you can experience a baptism of the Spirit, or a baptism of power 30 years ago, and speak in a spiritual language, or prophesy, or do great wonders and miracles in the kingdom of God 30 years ago, but that doesn't mean you're walking in power today. [00:31:03]
It's not about that past experience. It's about walking in with your family and friends, and you were just released from prison. You just experienced the baptism of power, and all of a sudden, the Holy Spirit shows up again and baptizes you and fills you all over again. [00:32:13]
If you're still speaking those few little syllables that you spoke 30 years ago, you need to get plugged into the power source and let God multiply the spiritual language that he may have given you 30 years ago because there's something more. [00:33:31]
Why in the world would we want to experience crazy town within the four walls of the church and not impact the crazy town we're living in? Why would we want to talk about what God does in the first century and signs and wonders and not walk in what God does in the 21st century and signs and wonders? [00:40:30]
If you're gonna shake in here you'd better shake out there. If you're gonna share spiritual language in here you better share your faith out there. If you're gonna dance and shout in here there needs to be some dancing and shouting out there because it's really not about singing the song I got it I got it I got it I got it something about the power of the Holy Ghost I can't explain it but I've got it oh I've got it it's it's not about getting it it's not about holding on to it as a toy or a trinket and putting it in your back pocket you're getting it so you can give it you're getting the power of God so you can give the power of God you're being overwhelmed with the baptism of power so that you can share that baptism of power that you've received. [00:41:43]
Pentecost Sunday is about that it's not about the hype of Pentecost it's about the harvest of Pentecost. [00:44:43]
One of the greatest dangers that's facing the church today is not dismissing the Holy Spirit but accessing the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit our prayer still needs to be let us become more aware of your presence let us experience the glory of your goodness come Holy Spirit you are welcome in this place peace. [00:44:52]
When you experience that and plug into the power source, you're forever changed. Does it become about a previous experience or encounter with God, but a present moment? When you kneel before him and he comes upon you in supernatural power, that the supernatural one who is living on the inside of you begins to manifest himself in your life and in your family and in the church that you serve. That family is the power of Pentecost. That is what we're celebrating today and that is what every one of us needs today. The power of Pentecost to be revealed in us and through us. [00:45:36]

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