Empowered by the Spirit: Celebrating Pentecost Together
Summary
### Summary
Good morning and welcome to St. Andrew's Church. Today, we celebrate Pentecost, a significant event in the life of the church. Last week, we discussed the Ascension, and today we focus on the day when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the disciples, marking the birth of the New Testament church. This is also my last Sunday service before my sabbatical, so it's a special day for multiple reasons.
We began our service by praying and singing hymns, reminding ourselves of the significance of Jesus' sacrifice and the power of the Holy Spirit. The children were then invited to their special session, where they would also celebrate Pentecost with cake and other activities.
Our main scripture reading was from Acts chapter 2, which describes the events of Pentecost. This chapter is crucial as it marks the beginning of the church's mission, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The many become one, as people from diverse backgrounds and languages are united by the Spirit. This unity is not based on our social activities, common beliefs, or even our preaching, but on the Holy Spirit who supernaturally binds us together.
Peter's sermon on Pentecost is a cornerstone of our faith. He boldly tells the crowd that they are responsible for Jesus' death, but God raised Him from the dead to prove that He is the Lord of all. This message cuts the listeners to the heart, leading them to ask, "What shall we do?" Peter's response is clear: "Repent and be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
This event led to the conversion of about 3,000 people, a testament to the power of the Holy Spirit. The early church devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. This fellowship, or "koinonia," is a deep sharing of life, sustained by the Holy Spirit.
As we celebrate Pentecost, we are reminded that our church family is part of a worldwide, Spirit-empowered, gospel-convicted, and fellowship-sustained mission. We are called to pray for the Holy Spirit to continue working in our church, uniting us and empowering us for the mission ahead.
We also took time to share in communion, a practice that unites us as one body in Christ. We used the common cup, a return to our pre-pandemic tradition, symbolizing our unity in the Spirit.
As I prepare for my sabbatical, I encourage you to continue praying for our church. Pray that the Holy Spirit will empower us, the gospel will convict us, and our fellowship will sustain us. I look forward to seeing how God will work in our church during this time.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Unity of the Church Through the Holy Spirit
The fundamental cause of unity in the church is the Holy Spirit, who supernaturally relates us to one another. This unity is not based on our social activities, common beliefs, or even our preaching, but on the Spirit who binds us together. As a church, we must continually pray for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit to maintain this unity. [43:56]
2. The Conviction of the Gospel
Peter's sermon on Pentecost was direct and convicting, telling the crowd that they were responsible for Jesus' death. This message cut them to the heart, leading them to repentance. The gospel convicts us of our sins and calls us to turn towards Jesus for forgiveness. This conviction is essential for our spiritual growth and unity as a church. [45:33]
3. The Role of Fellowship in Sustaining the Church
The early church devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. This fellowship, or "koinonia," is a deep sharing of life, sustained by the Holy Spirit. Being part of a church family is crucial for our spiritual well-being, as it provides support, encouragement, and accountability. [50:31]
4. The Birth of the New Testament Church
Acts chapter 2 marks the birth of the New Testament church, where the many become one. This chapter takes the church from great diversity to devoted unity, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The Spirit's empowerment is essential for the church's mission to reach the ends of the earth. [35:56]
5. The Importance of Communion
Sharing in communion is a practice that unites us as one body in Christ. It is a reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and our unity in the Spirit. As we partake in the bread and wine, we remember that we are part of a worldwide, Spirit-empowered, gospel-convicted, and fellowship-sustained family. [01:11:32]
### YouTube Chapters
1. [0:00] - Welcome
2. [12:20] - Introduction and Announcements
3. [20:22] - Children's Session and Prayer
4. [26:13] - Scripture Reading: Acts 2
5. [30:36] - Reflection on Pentecost
6. [33:05] - The Many Become One
7. [35:56] - Birth of the New Testament Church
8. [43:56] - Unity Through the Holy Spirit
9. [45:33] - Conviction of the Gospel
10. [50:31] - Role of Fellowship
11. [01:11:32] - Importance of Communion
12. [01:27:28] - Church Notices and Closing Remarks
13. [01:38:36] - Final Blessing and Dismissal
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Acts 2:1-13
- Acts 2:37-47
### Observation Questions
1. What event is described in Acts 2:1-13, and why is it significant for the church? ([26:13])
2. According to Acts 2:37-38, what was Peter's response to the crowd's question, "What shall we do?" ([41:50])
3. How did the early believers in Acts 2:42-47 demonstrate their devotion to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer? ([50:31])
4. What was the result of Peter's sermon on the day of Pentecost, as described in Acts 2:41? ([48:50])
### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the unity described in Acts 2:44-47 reflect the work of the Holy Spirit in the early church? ([35:56])
2. Why is Peter's direct and convicting message in Acts 2:14-36 important for understanding the role of the gospel in the church? ([45:33])
3. What does the practice of communion symbolize about the unity and mission of the church, as discussed in the sermon? ([01:11:32])
4. How does the concept of "koinonia" or fellowship in Acts 2:42-47 sustain the church, according to the sermon? ([50:31])
### Application Questions
1. Reflecting on the unity of the early church, how can we as a small group pray for the Holy Spirit to unite us and empower our mission? ([43:56])
2. Peter's sermon convicted the crowd of their role in Jesus' death. How can we allow the gospel to convict us of our sins and lead us to repentance in our daily lives? ([45:33])
3. The early church devoted themselves to fellowship and breaking of bread. How can we deepen our relationships within our small group to reflect this same devotion? ([50:31])
4. Communion was a significant practice for the early church. How can we approach communion with a renewed sense of its importance and symbolism in our church family? ([01:11:32])
5. The sermon emphasized the importance of being part of a Spirit-empowered, gospel-convicted, and fellowship-sustained church. What specific steps can you take this week to contribute to this vision in our church? ([52:04])
6. The early believers shared everything in common and supported one another. How can we as a small group support each other in practical ways, especially during challenging times? ([35:56])
7. As the pastor prepares for his sabbatical, he encouraged the church to continue praying for the Holy Spirit's work. How can we commit to praying for our church and its mission during this time? ([52:04])
Devotional
Day 1: The Unity of the Church Through the Holy Spirit
The fundamental cause of unity in the church is the Holy Spirit, who supernaturally relates us to one another. This unity is not based on our social activities, common beliefs, or even our preaching, but on the Spirit who binds us together. As a church, we must continually pray for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit to maintain this unity. The early church experienced this unity on the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit was poured out on the disciples, bringing together people from diverse backgrounds and languages into one body.
This unity is a powerful testimony to the world of the transformative power of the Holy Spirit. It shows that despite our differences, we can be united in Christ. This unity is not something we can achieve on our own; it is a gift from the Holy Spirit. Therefore, we must continually seek the Spirit's presence and guidance in our lives and in our church community. [43:56]
Ephesians 4:3-4 (ESV): "Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call."
Reflection: Think of a relationship within the church that has been strained. How can you invite the Holy Spirit to bring unity and healing to that relationship today?
Day 2: The Conviction of the Gospel
Peter's sermon on Pentecost was direct and convicting, telling the crowd that they were responsible for Jesus' death. This message cut them to the heart, leading them to repentance. The gospel convicts us of our sins and calls us to turn towards Jesus for forgiveness. This conviction is essential for our spiritual growth and unity as a church. When we are convicted by the gospel, we recognize our need for a Savior and are drawn closer to Jesus.
This conviction is not meant to condemn us but to lead us to repentance and transformation. It is a call to turn away from our sins and to embrace the new life that Jesus offers. As we respond to this conviction, we experience the forgiveness and grace of God, which empowers us to live in a way that honors Him. [45:33]
Acts 2:37-38 (ESV): "Now when they heard this they were cut to the heart, and said to Peter and the rest of the apostles, 'Brothers, what shall we do?' And Peter said to them, 'Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.'"
Reflection: Reflect on a recent moment when you felt convicted by the gospel. How did you respond, and what steps can you take today to align your life more closely with Jesus' teachings?
Day 3: The Role of Fellowship in Sustaining the Church
The early church devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread, and prayer. This fellowship, or "koinonia," is a deep sharing of life, sustained by the Holy Spirit. Being part of a church family is crucial for our spiritual well-being, as it provides support, encouragement, and accountability. This deep fellowship goes beyond mere social interactions; it is a spiritual bond that unites us as one body in Christ.
In this fellowship, we share our joys and sorrows, support one another in times of need, and grow together in our faith. It is through this deep sharing of life that we are strengthened and encouraged to live out our faith in the world. The Holy Spirit sustains this fellowship, enabling us to love and serve one another as Christ has loved us. [50:31]
Hebrews 10:24-25 (ESV): "And let us consider how to stir up one another to love and good works, not neglecting to meet together, as is the habit of some, but encouraging one another, and all the more as you see the Day drawing near."
Reflection: Think of a fellow church member who may be in need of support or encouragement. How can you reach out to them today to offer your fellowship and care?
Day 4: The Birth of the New Testament Church
Acts chapter 2 marks the birth of the New Testament church, where the many become one. This chapter takes the church from great diversity to devoted unity, empowered by the Holy Spirit. The Spirit's empowerment is essential for the church's mission to reach the ends of the earth. On the day of Pentecost, the Holy Spirit enabled the disciples to speak in different languages, allowing them to share the gospel with people from various backgrounds.
This event signifies the beginning of the church's mission to spread the gospel to all nations. The Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses of Jesus, giving us the boldness and ability to share the good news with others. As we celebrate Pentecost, we are reminded of our calling to be part of this mission, relying on the Holy Spirit to guide and empower us. [35:56]
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: Reflect on your role in the church's mission. How can you rely on the Holy Spirit to empower you to share the gospel with those around you?
Day 5: The Importance of Communion
Sharing in communion is a practice that unites us as one body in Christ. It is a reminder of Jesus' sacrifice and our unity in the Spirit. As we partake in the bread and wine, we remember that we are part of a worldwide, Spirit-empowered, gospel-convicted, and fellowship-sustained family. Communion is a time to reflect on the significance of Jesus' death and resurrection and to renew our commitment to Him.
This practice also serves as a reminder of our unity with other believers. Despite our differences, we are all part of the same body, united by our faith in Jesus. As we share in communion, we are reminded of the love and grace that Jesus has shown us, and we are called to extend that same love and grace to others. [01:11:32]
1 Corinthians 10:16-17 (ESV): "The cup of blessing that we bless, is it not a participation in the blood of Christ? The bread that we break, is it not a participation in the body of Christ? Because there is one bread, we who are many are one body, for we all partake of the one bread."
Reflection: As you prepare to take communion, reflect on the unity you share with other believers. How can you demonstrate this unity and love in your interactions with others today?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "When a person becomes a Christian, they receive the gift of the Spirit. And Pentecost has taught us that the Holy Spirit is that unifier. He's committed to binding the church together. Whoever takes up this offer of the Holy Spirit is deciding to plug themselves in to that generator. Plug themselves in to the church. And therefore is related to all of the other believers in that family. This passage reminds us that there's no such thing as a solitary Christian. You cannot carry out an authentic spiritual life on your own. The Spirit of God automatically and organically relates you to other believers." [41:50]
2. "True family gathering happens when the omnipotent power of God the Spirit breathes life into the people of God and relates us all supernaturally to one another. That's amazing, isn't it? Let me say it again. True family gathering happens when the omnipotent power of God the Spirit breathes life into the people of God and relates us all supernaturally to one another. Did you realise that that's what's happening on Sunday mornings? And throughout the week, when we gather?" [43:05]
3. "Friends, let's pray expectantly. Let's look for how God's Spirit is moving in this place. And let's be praying as a church. Every day for the next three months, I will pray for St. Andrews, that this family will be empowered by the Spirit. This family will be, convicted by the gospel. And this family will be sustained by fellowship. I invite you to do the same. And I pray that as God refreshes me and our family, and challenges and grows us for the ministry to come, that that same thing will be happening in our church family." [52:04]
4. "The fundamental cause of unity in this place and in the church worldwide is the Holy Spirit who supernaturally relates us to one another. So we need to ask for that gift if we want it. As a church we need to be praying and asking God to continually pour out his spirit on us to unite us together because otherwise we won't be. Churches are full of broken people, I'm including myself in that, broken people coming together and that should be a recipe for total disaster. But in the power of the spirit it's a recipe for true family. And a family that is involved in the salvation of the world." [43:56]
### Quotes for Members
1. "Peter's sermon addressed to this Pentecost crowd pulls no punches at all. There are times when I've been preparing a sermon, I've been saying, can I say that? And if it's in the Bible I can certainly say it. I should be preaching the Bible and not my own opinions but if I want to phrase something in a way I sort of think, can I say it like that or shall I say it like this? Peter does not pull any punches. Do you know what his main message is? If you have a look down verse 14 onwards, his main message, his basic message to those people gathered there today on that day is, you killed Jesus. You killed Jesus, yet God raised him from the dead to prove that he is the Lord of all." [45:33]
2. "Once we understand that our sin, my sin, necessitated Jesus's death, then like these people there, we are cut to the heart. And like these people, we ask, what shall we do? Peter gives the gospel answer. The other half of the gospel, repent and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins. Once a person is cut to the heart, they must turn from their sins and turn towards Jesus. That's what we have in the baptism liturgy language. We turn away from sin and turn to Christ because in him is the free gift of forgiveness and the Holy Spirit." [47:01]
3. "The many become the one. Acts 2 takes place on the day of Pentecost, which was a thing before Acts 2. That's something that we sometimes forget. Pentecost was a festival beforehand. An Old Testament festival to do with harvest. It's the end of the barley harvest and the start of the wheat harvest. And so people came for a pilgrimage to Jerusalem. And all the Israelites were gathered together in Jerusalem, we're told. Chapter 2 verse 5 tells us, now they were staying in Jerusalem, God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. So at this particular Pentecost, which occurred just after Jesus ascended." [33:52]
4. "The early church devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, the breaking of bread and prayer, the fellowship. Fellowship is a special word in Greek, koinonia, that evokes this total sharing of common life. It's a word that's used in the Bible to describe Jesus and how he shares his life with us, even giving his life for us. Being part of your church family and that worldwide church, is so important. Hebrews chapter 10 reminds us, it says, Let us hold unswervingly to the hope we profess, for he who promised is faithful. And let us consider how we can spur one another on towards love and good deeds. And let us not give up meeting together, as some are in the habit of doing. But let us encourage one another, and all the more as you see the day approaching." [50:31]
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