Empowered by the Holy Spirit: The Gift of Pentecost
Summary
### Summary
Welcome, everyone. Today, we delve into the significance of Pentecost and the power of the Holy Spirit. We begin by reflecting on the events leading up to Pentecost. For forty days after His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples, teaching them and preparing them for what was to come. He promised to send a Comforter, the Holy Spirit, who would empower them to do even greater works than He did. This promise was fulfilled on the day of Pentecost, fifty days after Passover, when the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples as they were gathered in one accord in the upper room. The Holy Spirit came like a rushing mighty wind, filling the entire house and enabling them to speak in different tongues. This miraculous event marked the birth of the Church and the beginning of a new era of spiritual empowerment for believers.
We then explore the story of Philip in Acts 8, where he preached the gospel in Samaria, and many believed and were baptized. However, they had not yet received the Holy Spirit. When Peter and John arrived, they laid hands on the new believers, and they received the Holy Spirit. This underscores the importance of not just believing in Jesus but also receiving the Holy Spirit to experience the fullness of God's power.
Moving to Acts 19, we see Paul encountering disciples in Ephesus who had received John's baptism of repentance but had not heard of the Holy Spirit. Paul laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues and prophesying. This event, occurring 24 years after Pentecost, demonstrates that the gift of the Holy Spirit is not limited to a one-time event but is available to all believers throughout the ages.
We also discuss the unity and power that come from being in one accord. The early disciples were in one accord, praying and seeking God's will, which created an environment for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully. This unity is essential for us today as we seek to experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit in our lives and ministries.
The sermon emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is a free gift, purchased by Jesus Christ, and available to all who believe. It is not something that can be bought or earned but must be received by faith. The Holy Spirit empowers us to live victorious lives, to pray effectively, and to minister to others with the love and power of God.
We conclude with a call to receive the Holy Spirit. Just as the early disciples received the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands, we too can receive this gift today. Whether you have been a believer for many years or are new to the faith, the Holy Spirit is available to you. As we pray and seek God together, let us open our hearts to receive the fullness of His Spirit, empowering us to live out our faith with boldness and love.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Promise of the Holy Spirit: Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to His disciples, a Comforter who would empower them to do greater works. This promise was fulfilled on the day of Pentecost, marking the birth of the Church and the beginning of a new era of spiritual empowerment. The Holy Spirit is not just a historical event but a present reality for all believers. [29:21]
2. Receiving the Holy Spirit: Believing in Jesus is the first step, but receiving the Holy Spirit is essential for experiencing the fullness of God's power. In Acts 8, the new believers in Samaria received the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands by Peter and John. This demonstrates the importance of seeking and receiving the Holy Spirit to live a victorious Christian life. [55:53]
3. Unity in the Spirit: The early disciples were in one accord, praying and seeking God's will, which created an environment for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully. Unity among believers is crucial for experiencing the fullness of the Holy Spirit. When we come together in prayer and unity, we create a space for God to work miracles in our midst. [30:40]
4. The Holy Spirit as a Free Gift: The Holy Spirit is a free gift, purchased by Jesus Christ, and available to all who believe. It is not something that can be bought or earned but must be received by faith. This gift empowers us to live victorious lives, to pray effectively, and to minister to others with the love and power of God. [56:40]
5. The Ongoing Work of the Holy Spirit: The gift of the Holy Spirit is not limited to a one-time event but is available to all believers throughout the ages. In Acts 19, Paul encountered disciples who had not heard of the Holy Spirit, and they received this gift through the laying on of hands. This demonstrates that the Holy Spirit's work is ongoing and available to all who seek Him. [57:45]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [23:24] - Hunger and Thirst for Righteousness
3. [27:13] - The Day of Pentecost
4. [29:21] - Jesus' Promise of the Holy Spirit
5. [30:40] - Unity in the Upper Room
6. [31:23] - The Holy Spirit Comes
7. [32:17] - Receiving the Holy Spirit
8. [33:23] - The Feast of Pentecost
9. [34:48] - The Holy Spirit in Acts 19
10. [36:02] - The Power of Unity
11. [39:31] - The Triune God
12. [41:48] - God's Orchestration
13. [42:37] - The Pure Language
14. [45:11] - Restoration through the Holy Spirit
15. [47:03] - Praying in the Spirit
16. [49:21] - Testimonies of the Holy Spirit
17. [50:25] - The Heavenly Language
18. [52:02] - The Promise of the Holy Spirit
19. [53:50] - The Gift for All Believers
20. [55:53] - Receiving the Holy Spirit in Acts 8
21. [56:40] - The Free Gift of the Holy Spirit
22. [57:45] - The Holy Spirit in Acts 19
23. [58:28] - The Baptism of the Holy Spirit
24. [59:10] - Teaching God's Word
25. [01:00:02] - Receiving the Holy Spirit Today
26. [01:01:46] - The Fulfillment of Pentecost
27. [01:03:45] - Call to Receive the Holy Spirit
28. [01:04:38] - The Language of Heaven
29. [01:05:33] - The Spirit is Subject to the Prophet
30. [01:06:27] - Praying in the Spirit
31. [01:07:14] - Unity and Salvation
32. [01:08:22] - Call to Prayer and Receiving the Holy Spirit
33. [01:09:19] - Prayer of Agreement
34. [01:19:08] - Worship and Longing for God's Glory
35. [01:23:32] - Sowing Seeds and God's Provision
36. [01:25:00] - Personal Prayer Language
37. [01:26:50] - God's Perfect Timing
38. [01:28:34] - The Holy Spirit's Guidance
39. [01:29:00] - Conclusion and Call to Unity
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 2:1-4 (The Day of Pentecost)
2. Acts 8:14-17 (Receiving the Holy Spirit in Samaria)
3. Acts 19:1-6 (Receiving the Holy Spirit in Ephesus)
#### Observation Questions
1. What significant event took place on the Day of Pentecost according to Acts 2:1-4?
2. In Acts 8:14-17, what did Peter and John do to help the new believers in Samaria receive the Holy Spirit? [55:53]
3. How did Paul help the disciples in Ephesus receive the Holy Spirit in Acts 19:1-6? [58:28]
4. According to the sermon, what was the reaction of the people when the Holy Spirit came upon the disciples on the Day of Pentecost? [27:13]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is the Day of Pentecost considered the birth of the Church and the beginning of a new era of spiritual empowerment? [27:36]
2. What does the story of Philip in Acts 8 teach us about the importance of receiving the Holy Spirit after believing in Jesus? [55:53]
3. How does the event in Acts 19 demonstrate that the gift of the Holy Spirit is not limited to a one-time event but is available to all believers throughout the ages? [58:28]
4. What role does unity play in creating an environment for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully among believers? [30:40]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on the promise of the Holy Spirit. How does knowing that the Holy Spirit empowers you to do greater works than Jesus impact your daily life and faith? [29:21]
2. Have you received the Holy Spirit? If not, what steps can you take to seek and receive this gift? If yes, how has the Holy Spirit empowered you in your Christian walk? [01:02:39]
3. Unity among believers is crucial for experiencing the fullness of the Holy Spirit. What practical steps can you take to promote unity within your small group or church community? [30:40]
4. The Holy Spirit is a free gift that cannot be bought or earned. How can you cultivate a heart of gratitude and faith to receive and operate in the Holy Spirit's power? [56:40]
5. The ongoing work of the Holy Spirit is available to all believers. How can you remain open and receptive to the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment in your life? [58:28]
6. Think of a time when you experienced the power of the Holy Spirit in your life. How did it change your perspective or actions? How can you share this testimony to encourage others? [49:21]
7. The sermon emphasized the importance of praying in the Spirit. How can you incorporate praying in the Spirit into your daily prayer routine to strengthen your faith and connection with God? [47:03]
Devotional
Day 1: The Promise of the Holy Spirit
Jesus promised to send the Holy Spirit to His disciples, a Comforter who would empower them to do greater works. This promise was fulfilled on the day of Pentecost, marking the birth of the Church and the beginning of a new era of spiritual empowerment. The Holy Spirit is not just a historical event but a present reality for all believers. [29:21]
For forty days after His resurrection, Jesus appeared to His disciples, teaching them and preparing them for what was to come. He promised to send a Comforter, the Holy Spirit, who would empower them to do even greater works than He did. This promise was fulfilled on the day of Pentecost, fifty days after Passover, when the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples as they were gathered in one accord in the upper room. The Holy Spirit came like a rushing mighty wind, filling the entire house and enabling them to speak in different tongues. This miraculous event marked the birth of the Church and the beginning of a new era of spiritual empowerment for believers.
The Holy Spirit is not just a historical event but a present reality for all believers. The same Spirit that empowered the early disciples is available to us today. As we reflect on the promise of the Holy Spirit, let us open our hearts to receive this gift and allow the Spirit to work powerfully in our lives.
Acts 2:2-4 (ESV): "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."
Reflection: How can you open your heart today to receive the Holy Spirit and allow Him to work powerfully in your life?
Day 2: Receiving the Holy Spirit
Believing in Jesus is the first step, but receiving the Holy Spirit is essential for experiencing the fullness of God's power. In Acts 8, the new believers in Samaria received the Holy Spirit through the laying on of hands by Peter and John. This demonstrates the importance of seeking and receiving the Holy Spirit to live a victorious Christian life. [55:53]
In Acts 8, we see the story of Philip preaching the gospel in Samaria, where many believed and were baptized. However, they had not yet received the Holy Spirit. When Peter and John arrived, they laid hands on the new believers, and they received the Holy Spirit. This underscores the importance of not just believing in Jesus but also receiving the Holy Spirit to experience the fullness of God's power.
Receiving the Holy Spirit is essential for living a victorious Christian life. It is through the Holy Spirit that we are empowered to live out our faith, to pray effectively, and to minister to others with the love and power of God. As we seek to receive the Holy Spirit, let us do so with open hearts and a willingness to be transformed by His power.
Acts 8:17 (ESV): "Then they laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Spirit."
Reflection: What steps can you take today to seek and receive the Holy Spirit in your life?
Day 3: Unity in the Spirit
The early disciples were in one accord, praying and seeking God's will, which created an environment for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully. Unity among believers is crucial for experiencing the fullness of the Holy Spirit. When we come together in prayer and unity, we create a space for God to work miracles in our midst. [30:40]
The early disciples were in one accord, praying and seeking God's will, which created an environment for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully. This unity is essential for us today as we seek to experience the fullness of the Holy Spirit in our lives and ministries. When believers come together in unity, it creates a space for God to work miracles in our midst.
Unity among believers is crucial for experiencing the fullness of the Holy Spirit. When we come together in prayer and unity, we create an environment where the Holy Spirit can move powerfully. As we strive for unity in our churches and communities, let us remember the example of the early disciples and seek to be of one accord in our pursuit of God's will.
Acts 4:32 (ESV): "Now the full number of those who believed were of one heart and soul, and no one said that any of the things that belonged to him was his own, but they had everything in common."
Reflection: How can you contribute to unity in your church or community today, creating an environment for the Holy Spirit to move powerfully?
Day 4: The Holy Spirit as a Free Gift
The Holy Spirit is a free gift, purchased by Jesus Christ, and available to all who believe. It is not something that can be bought or earned but must be received by faith. This gift empowers us to live victorious lives, to pray effectively, and to minister to others with the love and power of God. [56:40]
The Holy Spirit is a free gift, purchased by Jesus Christ, and available to all who believe. It is not something that can be bought or earned but must be received by faith. This gift empowers us to live victorious lives, to pray effectively, and to minister to others with the love and power of God. The Holy Spirit is essential for living out our faith and experiencing the fullness of God's power in our lives.
As we reflect on the gift of the Holy Spirit, let us remember that it is freely given to all who believe. We do not need to earn it or buy it; we simply need to receive it by faith. This gift empowers us to live victorious lives, to pray effectively, and to minister to others with the love and power of God.
Ephesians 1:13-14 (ESV): "In him you also, when you heard the word of truth, the gospel of your salvation, and believed in him, were sealed with the promised Holy Spirit, who is the guarantee of our inheritance until we acquire possession of it, to the praise of his glory."
Reflection: How can you receive the Holy Spirit by faith today, allowing Him to empower you to live a victorious Christian life?
Day 5: The Ongoing Work of the Holy Spirit
The gift of the Holy Spirit is not limited to a one-time event but is available to all believers throughout the ages. In Acts 19, Paul encountered disciples who had not heard of the Holy Spirit, and they received this gift through the laying on of hands. This demonstrates that the Holy Spirit's work is ongoing and available to all who seek Him. [57:45]
In Acts 19, we see Paul encountering disciples in Ephesus who had received John's baptism of repentance but had not heard of the Holy Spirit. Paul laid hands on them, and they received the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues and prophesying. This event, occurring 24 years after Pentecost, demonstrates that the gift of the Holy Spirit is not limited to a one-time event but is available to all believers throughout the ages.
The Holy Spirit's work is ongoing and available to all who seek Him. As we reflect on the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit, let us remember that this gift is available to us today. Whether we have been believers for many years or are new to the faith, the Holy Spirit is available to us, empowering us to live out our faith with boldness and love.
Acts 19:6 (ESV): "And when Paul had laid his hands on them, the Holy Spirit came on them, and they began speaking in tongues and prophesying."
Reflection: How can you seek the ongoing work of the Holy Spirit in your life today, allowing Him to empower you to live out your faith with boldness and love?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Have you ever been to that place, that moment, that time when you desire something so much just like you long for it, you desire it? And then when you know it's coming to pass, I guess you say obtain it. The word talks about it: hunger and thirst after me. I mean true hunger, true thirst. I don't know about you, I know what thirsty is, I know what hunger is. But what's righteousness? It doesn't matter what any devil, what any government, what anybody does, cannot separate you from the love of Jesus. Nothing can separate it. Nothing." [23:24]
2. "This is the day the Lord has made. I will rejoice and I will be glad in it. For this is my receiving day because I'm gonna walk by faith and not by sight. I'm gonna be a place where God is seen and love is felt and lives are changed in Jesus' name. How am I gonna do that? I'm gonna reach up, reach in, and reach out. I'm gonna do that every day." [24:36]
3. "So even though today is Pentecost Sunday, I'm here to tell you, you can have Pentecost every day. Every day is a Pentecost day. You say, well, what is Pentecost? Well, if you wanna get in the theological and the historical, the history side of it, and the definition side of it, Pentecost means 50." [24:52]
4. "God's timing is perfect timing, but you got to put your faith with your corresponding action and praise God. We sowed into paying for someone to sleep in a bed and the Lord's going to direct our steps. I go to God in prayer and say, 'Lord, direct us on what to do in this situation,' and He shows us exactly what to do, exactly when to call." [01:26:50]
5. "When we're united in spirit and believing, it's a heavenly language. That's from God. And it's pure. And I think when we all get to heaven, what language are we going to speak? Heavenly language. Then I know that the Bible says on earth as it is in heaven. Come on. As on earth as it is in heaven. And if they're speaking in heaven, baby, we speaking in unity on earth. So why do we got to wait to get to heaven to speak in unity?" [51:25]
### Quotes for Members
1. "For forty days, these people followed Jesus in a glorified, resurrected body. I want you to grab hold of this. They just saw Jesus, their salvation, their savior, their messiah, crucified. And they saw him raised. And they walked with him and talked with him for forty days. Then you read the scripture and he said, 'All right, it's time for me to go.' And it says, the Bible says, and he ascended back into heaven." [28:03]
2. "I know they prayed the will of the Father. I know they prayed the father's because the Bible says, and we're going to read the next two, it says, and they were all in what? One accord. Not some Ford, not some Chevy, but they were in a what? An accord. I think a Honda is a Chevy." [30:40]
3. "But you're not going to believe the Holy Spirit can fill you. You're missing a piece of the puzzle, guys. When I hear people say, well, the Holy Spirit was just for that one time in Acts 2, up in that upper room. And we're going to read it again. Acts 2, it says, hey, and the Holy Spirit came upon them. And it came in like a mighty wind, like a tornado. Some of us kind of went through a tornado last week and the week before. We know the sound of that. And they were all filled. They were filled with the Holy Spirit. And they said 3,000 was saved." [33:56]
4. "And when the apostles were at Jerusalem, heard that the Samaria had received the word of God, they sent unto them Peter and John, who when they came down, prayed for them that they might receive what? The Holy Ghost or the Holy Spirit. For as yet he was fallen upon none of them, only they were baptized in the name of the Lord Jesus. Then laid their hands on them and they received the Holy Ghost." [56:40]
5. "Then 24 years later, in Acts 19, Paul's talking to the disciples and said, 'Hey, did you not receive Jesus?' Oh, yeah. He said, 'How about the Holy Spirit, huh?' What? In fact, Acts 19, it says, 'And we do not know of such thing.' Oh, my goodness. 24 years later, after Pentecost, the day of Pentecost, as we know it, when the Holy Spirit came for those 120, they said, 'We don't know it.' And Paul said, 'Receive you the Holy Spirit.'" [34:48]
6. "The promise is the baptism with the Holy Spirit. In Acts 2, 3, 8, Then Peter said to them, 'Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of your sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. For the promise is to you and to your children and to all who are far off, as many as the Lord our God will call.' Is that not us? We are far off to your children and your children's children and are far off. That's for all. It's not just for a select few. It's for who? So is salvation for all?" [53:50]
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