Empowered by the Holy Spirit: Generosity and Transformation
Summary
### Summary
Today, we gathered to celebrate the transformative power of Jesus Christ in our lives. We began by acknowledging the recent devastation caused by Hurricane Helene, which has left many without power and in dire need of assistance. This tragedy serves as a reminder of the importance of generosity and the role of the church in providing support during difficult times. Through our collective generosity, we have already begun to make a difference, partnering with organizations like Convoy of Hope to deliver much-needed supplies to affected areas.
We then shifted our focus to the power of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing that it is not just about the gifts and fruits of the Spirit, but about the transformative power that resides within us. Ephesians 3:20 reminds us that God is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power that works within us. This power is not our own; it is the Holy Spirit working through us, enabling us to make a significant impact in our communities and beyond.
We explored the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives, highlighting three key functions: empowerment, teaching, and setting us apart. The Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses of God's kingdom, teaches us through the Word and our experiences, and sets us apart to live lives that reflect God's love and truth. This empowerment is crucial for our spiritual maturity and our ability to fulfill God's purpose for our lives.
As we celebrated baptisms, we were reminded that baptism is not the end of the journey but the beginning. It symbolizes the death of our old selves and the resurrection of our new lives in Christ. The Holy Spirit plays a vital role in this transformation, guiding us, convicting us, and helping us to live out our faith daily.
In conclusion, we are called to rely on the power within us that is not our own but God's. This power enables us to do more than we could ever imagine and to make a lasting impact in the world. Let us continue to walk in the Spirit, allowing Him to guide us, teach us, and set us apart for His glory.
### Key Takeaways
1. Generosity in Times of Crisis: The recent devastation from Hurricane Helene highlights the importance of generosity. Our collective giving allows us to provide immediate and impactful assistance to those in need. This is a tangible expression of the love of Christ and a demonstration of the church's role in times of crisis. [21:12]
2. The Power Within Us: Ephesians 3:20 teaches that God can do far more than we can ask or think, but this is according to the power that works within us. This power is the Holy Spirit, not our own strength. When we rely on the Holy Spirit, we can achieve things beyond our natural capabilities. [33:54]
3. Empowerment by the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses of God's kingdom. This empowerment enables us to make a significant impact in our communities, to serve others, and to live out our faith boldly. It is through the Holy Spirit that we can accomplish God's purposes. [41:23]
4. Teaching and Guidance of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit teaches us and illuminates God's Word as we read the Bible, worship, and pray. This teaching helps us understand God's will and apply His truths to our lives. The Holy Spirit's guidance is essential for our spiritual growth and maturity. [46:09]
5. Being Set Apart by the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit sets us apart to live lives that reflect God's love and truth. This means living differently from the world, showing love where others may not, and standing firm in our faith. The Holy Spirit helps us to be distinct and to live in a way that honors God. [51:17]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[18:52] - Welcoming Online and Florence Campuses
[19:35] - Addressing the Impact of Hurricane Helene
[21:12] - The Role of Generosity in Crisis
[23:18] - The Importance of Generosity and Support
[25:00] - Prayer for Impacted Areas
[26:15] - Prayer for Generosity and Blessings
[28:42] - Baptism Celebrations
[29:29] - Introduction to the Series "Small Hinges"
[30:05] - The Concept of Small Hinges in Our Lives
[31:26] - The Church as the Body of Christ
[32:04] - The Establishment of the Church
[33:15] - The Power of the Holy Spirit
[33:54] - Ephesians 3:20 and the Power Within Us
[41:23] - Empowerment by the Holy Spirit
[46:09] - Teaching and Guidance of the Holy Spirit
[51:17] - Being Set Apart by the Holy Spirit
[56:21] - Invitation to Accept Jesus
[58:54] - Closing Prayer and Celebration
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Ephesians 3:20 (ESV) - "Now to him who is able to do far more abundantly beyond all that we ask or think, according to the power at work within us."
2. John 14:15-20 (ESV) - "If you love me, you will keep my commandments. And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Helper, to be with you forever, even the Spirit of truth, whom the world cannot receive, because it neither sees him nor knows him. You know him, for he dwells with you and will be in you. I will not leave you as orphans; I will come to you. Yet a little while and the world will see me no more, but you will see me. Because I live, you also will live. In that day you will know that I am in my Father, and you in me, and I in you."
3. Galatians 5:16-18 (ESV) - "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will not gratify the desires of the flesh. For the desires of the flesh are against the Spirit, and the desires of the Spirit are against the flesh, for these are opposed to each other, to keep you from doing the things you want to do. But if you are led by the Spirit, you are not under the law."
#### Observation Questions
1. What recent event was mentioned in the sermon that highlighted the importance of generosity? ([19:35])
2. According to Ephesians 3:20, what is the source of the power that enables us to do more than we can ask or think? ([33:54])
3. What are the three key functions of the Holy Spirit as highlighted in the sermon? ([41:00])
4. How does the sermon describe the significance of baptism in a believer's journey? ([37:06])
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the devastation caused by Hurricane Helene serve as a reminder of the church's role in times of crisis? ([21:12])
2. In what ways does the Holy Spirit empower believers to be witnesses of God's kingdom, according to Acts 1:8? ([41:23])
3. What does it mean to be "set apart" by the Holy Spirit, and how does this affect a believer's daily life? ([51:17])
4. How does the Holy Spirit teach and guide believers, as described in John 14:15-20? ([46:09])
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you experienced or witnessed the power of generosity during a crisis. How did it impact you or others? ([21:12])
2. Ephesians 3:20 speaks of the power within us. How can you rely more on the Holy Spirit rather than your own strength in your daily life? ([33:54])
3. The sermon mentioned that the Holy Spirit empowers us to make a significant impact in our communities. What specific actions can you take this week to serve others and be a witness of God's kingdom? ([41:23])
4. How can you be more attentive to the Holy Spirit's teaching and guidance in your life? Are there specific practices you can adopt to better hear and follow His direction? ([46:09])
5. Being set apart by the Holy Spirit means living differently from the world. Identify one area in your life where you can show God's love and truth more clearly. ([51:17])
6. Baptism is described as the beginning of a journey. If you have been baptized, how can you continue to grow and live out your faith daily? If you haven't been baptized, what steps can you take to learn more about it? ([37:06])
7. The sermon emphasized the importance of walking in the Spirit. What are some practical ways you can cultivate a deeper relationship with the Holy Spirit this week? ([54:58])
Devotional
Day 1: Generosity in Times of Crisis
Generosity is a powerful expression of Christ's love, especially in times of crisis. The recent devastation caused by Hurricane Helene has left many without power and in dire need of assistance. This tragedy serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of generosity and the role of the church in providing support during difficult times. Through collective generosity, the church has already begun to make a difference, partnering with organizations like Convoy of Hope to deliver much-needed supplies to affected areas. This act of giving is a tangible expression of the love of Christ and a demonstration of the church's role in times of crisis. [21:12]
2 Corinthians 9:11-12 (ESV): "You will be enriched in every way to be generous in every way, which through us will produce thanksgiving to God. For the ministry of this service is not only supplying the needs of the saints but is also overflowing in many thanksgivings to God."
Reflection: Think of a recent crisis or need in your community. How can you contribute your time, resources, or skills to help those affected? What steps can you take today to be a tangible expression of Christ's love?
Day 2: The Power Within Us
Ephesians 3:20 teaches that God can do far more than we can ask or think, but this is according to the power that works within us. This power is the Holy Spirit, not our own strength. When we rely on the Holy Spirit, we can achieve things beyond our natural capabilities. The Holy Spirit's power within us enables us to make a significant impact in our communities and beyond, fulfilling God's purposes in ways we could never imagine on our own. This divine empowerment is crucial for our spiritual maturity and our ability to live out our faith boldly. [33:54]
2 Timothy 1:7 (ESV): "For God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."
Reflection: Identify an area in your life where you feel limited by your own strength. How can you invite the Holy Spirit to empower you in this area? What steps can you take to rely more on His strength rather than your own?
Day 3: Empowerment by the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses of God's kingdom. This empowerment enables us to make a significant impact in our communities, to serve others, and to live out our faith boldly. It is through the Holy Spirit that we can accomplish God's purposes. This divine empowerment is not just for personal edification but for the benefit of others and the advancement of God's kingdom. By relying on the Holy Spirit, we can overcome obstacles and achieve things that are beyond our natural abilities. [41:23]
Acts 1:8 (ESV): "But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the end of the earth."
Reflection: Think about a situation where you need to be a witness for God's kingdom. How can you rely on the Holy Spirit to empower you in this situation? What specific actions can you take to be a bold witness for Christ today?
Day 4: Teaching and Guidance of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit teaches us and illuminates God's Word as we read the Bible, worship, and pray. This teaching helps us understand God's will and apply His truths to our lives. The Holy Spirit's guidance is essential for our spiritual growth and maturity. By allowing the Holy Spirit to teach and guide us, we can gain deeper insights into God's Word and live out His truths more effectively. This divine guidance is crucial for navigating the complexities of life and making decisions that align with God's will. [46:09]
John 14:26 (ESV): "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you."
Reflection: Reflect on a recent Bible passage or sermon that spoke to you. How can you apply the Holy Spirit's teaching from that passage to your daily life? What steps can you take to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance more intentionally?
Day 5: Being Set Apart by the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit sets us apart to live lives that reflect God's love and truth. This means living differently from the world, showing love where others may not, and standing firm in our faith. The Holy Spirit helps us to be distinct and to live in a way that honors God. By being set apart, we can be a light in the darkness and a beacon of hope to those around us. This distinctiveness is not about isolation but about being a transformative presence in the world, reflecting God's love and truth in all that we do. [51:17]
1 Peter 2:9 (ESV): "But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."
Reflection: Consider an area of your life where you struggle to live differently from the world. How can you allow the Holy Spirit to set you apart in this area? What practical steps can you take to reflect God's love and truth more clearly in your daily actions?
Quotes
1. "When devastation hits, that's when the body of Christ gets to rise. And your generosity actually makes an impact. And we get all kinds of comments and things like this, like, what are we doing? Can we help? And all that. And can I just tell you, in moments like this, a lot of times, until kind of the smoke clears a little bit, right? One of the best things we can do is be generous. And because of your generosity and the consistency of your generosity and our generosity, we've actually been able to already help." [21:12] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "God wants to do big things in your life. It doesn't matter if you feel qualified or not, it doesn't matter if you feel like, I don't know, maybe you're a little insecure in what God can do in your life. I just want you to know God wants to do big things in your life. Well, I thought that would get, Pastor, that was, I'm excited about that, right? God wants to do big things in your life. God's not just sitting there going, you know what? I want for you just to get by. No, God wants to do big things. God wants blessing in your life. He wants power in your life. He wants impact in your life." [29:29] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "When we put our life in Christ, when we give our hearts to God, when we accept the salvation of Jesus into our lives, right? The truth is we become a part of this thing called the body of Christ or an institution called the church. And here's what I want to say. The church is not the facility you sit in today. The church is not the facility in Columbia. It's not the facility in Florence. It's not your home. If you're at home today trying to watch on your phone because the power's in and out, whatever it is, the truth is the church is not the place. The church is the people and the power of God inhabiting the people." [31:26] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The Holy Spirit connects our spirit to God's spirit. And it teaches us how to live a life that keeps his commands. The Holy Spirit, I say it like this. Because it's just my language. The Holy Spirit is literally the cheat code for living a life of fullness with God. That's the Holy Spirit. And we can leave the Holy Spirit. Because we're like. God the Father. I'm good. God the Son. I'm good. God the Spirit freaks me out. And the reality is. Jesus goes. Here's the truth. I'm leaving him. Because you need him." [40:21] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The Holy Spirit empowers us. Watch this. In Acts chapter one. In verse eight. Jesus is talking to his disciples. And he says this. But you will receive power. When the Holy Spirit has come upon you. And you will be my witnesses. Both in Jerusalem. And in Judea. And in Samaria. And even to the remotest part of the earth. Here's what Jesus is literally saying. I will empower you. To make the biggest difference. That you've ever made. In the world. To your coworkers. To your family. To your friends. To strangers. At Target. Wherever you are. Wherever you are." [41:00] (36 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "The Holy Spirit teaches us as we worship, when we throw our hands in the air and we sing songs of declaration. I'm not just singing, goodbye yesterday. I'm living in the land of the promises, right? Y'all are like, oh, he can sing. Yeah, you're right. I can. You're right. Man of many talents, right? Let's go. It's so good. You know, we're not just singing that. And I know you're kind of like, whoo, that song is like up here, man. Like we're, wow. I've never sang words so fast in my life. I love it. Get it. But you know why we do that? Because it's the declaration to go, you know what, God, thank you. Thank you that I don't have to be who I was yesterday and I can dance on the grave that I used to live in because who I was is dead in Christ and because of the resurrection of Jesus in my life, I'm different today and I'm going to declare and I'm going to worship." [47:45] (48 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "The Holy Spirit teaches us as we believe for great things. Because I believe that when he did it once, he can do it again. I believe that he can change my marriage. He changed their marriage. He can change mine. He can reach my kids. He can reach my workplace. That where we are. We are sitting today at Radiate Church. Great things are happening. But this ain't it. I believe for bigger. I believe for more. I believe for greater reach. I believe for more baptisms. And more salvations. And more generosity. And more opportunity." [50:26] (23 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "The Holy Spirit teaches us to look different, be different, live different, talk different, worship different, pray different, believe different, read different, give different, serve different. It just teaches us to be different. Why? Because the Bible clearly tells me in John chapter 17 that the kingdom of God is not of this world. And if the kingdom of God is not of this world and I am now in the kingdom of God, then why in the world do I look? Why do I look like the world? Why do I think like the world, talk like the world, even worship like the world?" [52:56] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "The Holy Spirit now is housed within each and every one of us. You are the New Testament. You are the New Temple. I am the New Temple. And the Holy Spirit is going, I want to empower you. I want to teach you. I want to set you apart. And today, the reality is, is it is entirely possible that some of us have given our lives to Jesus and prayed that prayer, but never submitted ourselves to the empowering, teaching, and the setting apart of the Holy Spirit. To going, hey, Holy Spirit, convict me, change me, move in me, teach me things that I don't know. Take me on this journey. Help me." [54:12] (31 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
10. "Spiritual maturity is impossible without the power of the Holy Spirit in your life. And so as we walk this out and we're going, you know what? I gave my life to Jesus. The small hinge today is would you rely on the power within you that's not you? The power within you that is God. Because there are big things, great things, powerful things that God wants to do in you. But if it's only within your power, there's only so much we can do. And I don't know about you, but I look at our world today, and then I'm going to pray. I look at our world today, and I go, there's so much more to do." [54:58] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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