Empowered by the Spirit: Embracing Our Identity in Christ

 

Summary

In our gathering today, we experienced a profound move of the Holy Spirit, reminding us of the supernatural nature of our faith. We began by reflecting on a recent memorial service that was filled with God's glory, illustrating how even in moments of sorrow, His presence can bring joy and celebration. This set the stage for a powerful time of worship and prophecy, where we were challenged with the question: "Are we ready?" As God prepares to bring people from diverse backgrounds into our community, we must be ready to receive them with Christ's love.

We delved into Romans 8, a chapter rich with doctrinal truths, where Paul emphasizes the necessity of the Holy Spirit in living out our faith. Despite knowing doctrine and scripture, without the Spirit's guidance, we fall short. Paul shares his personal struggle with the war between flesh and spirit, highlighting that Jesus' sacrifice and the Holy Spirit's presence empower us to overcome. This supernatural faith is our new normal, and we must embrace it.

Paul's rhetorical question, "If God is for us, who can be against us?" serves as a reminder of God's unwavering support. He draws parallels to Isaiah's assurance of God's presence and protection, and recounts his own experiences of divine intervention. This assurance is not just for Paul but for all believers who cultivate intimacy with God. Our identity in Christ is crucial; knowing who we are in Him fortifies us against the enemy's attacks.

The chapter concludes with the powerful truth that nothing can separate us from God's love. Paul, speaking from experience, assures us that in all trials, we are more than conquerors through Christ. This victory is not just theoretical but becomes real as we live it out. We are called to be extraordinary, empowered by the Holy Spirit to impact the world beyond our church walls. As we embrace our God-given assignments, both within and outside the church, we fulfill our role in His redemptive plan.

Key Takeaways:

- The Holy Spirit is essential for living out our faith. Without His guidance, we cannot fully embody the supernatural nature of our belief. This faith is not about knowing doctrine alone but about experiencing the Spirit's transformative power in our lives. [01:14:34]

- Our identity in Christ is our strongest defense against the enemy. Understanding who we are in God, and what He thinks of us, empowers us to stand firm against spiritual attacks. This identity is not defined by the world but by God's truth. [01:22:24]

- We are more than conquerors through Christ, even in the midst of trials. Our victory is not ordinary but extraordinary, as God works through our challenges to reveal His power and purpose. This truth becomes real as we live it out in our daily lives. [01:41:15]

- Nothing can separate us from God's love. This assurance is rooted in the reality of God's presence and His commitment to us. Even in spiritual battles, we are secure in His love, which empowers us to overcome any obstacle. [01:43:52]

- God has assignments for us beyond the church walls. We are called to impact the world with His love and truth, using our unique gifts and talents. As we step into these assignments, we fulfill our role in His redemptive plan, bringing His kingdom to earth. [01:47:47]

Youtube Chapters:

- [00:00] - Welcome
- [01:10:48] - Are We Ready?
- [01:12:37] - Empowered by His Spirit
- [01:14:34] - The Necessity of the Holy Spirit
- [01:22:24] - Our Identity in Christ
- [01:33:09] - Nothing Can Separate Us
- [01:38:34] - More Than Conquerors
- [01:41:15] - Extraordinary Victory
- [01:43:52] - Spiritual Realms and Battles
- [01:46:13] - Embracing Our Assignments
- [01:47:47] - Impact Beyond the Church
- [01:50:50] - Closing and Invitation to Prayer

Study Guide

Bible Study Discussion Guide

Bible Reading:
- Romans 8:1-39
- Isaiah 41:10
- Acts 18:9-10

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Observation Questions:

1. In Romans 8, Paul discusses a struggle between two forces within us. What are these forces, and how does Paul describe his personal experience with them? [01:14:34]

2. The sermon mentioned a rhetorical question posed by Paul in Romans 8:31. What is this question, and what is its significance in the context of the sermon? [01:22:24]

3. How does the sermon illustrate the concept of being "more than conquerors" through Christ, as mentioned in Romans 8:37? [01:41:15]

4. What example from the sermon demonstrates the supernatural nature of our faith and the role of the Holy Spirit in our lives? [01:12:37]

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Interpretation Questions:

1. How does the presence of the Holy Spirit change the way believers live out their faith, according to Romans 8 and the sermon? [01:14:34]

2. In what ways does understanding our identity in Christ serve as a defense against spiritual attacks, as discussed in the sermon? [01:22:24]

3. The sermon emphasizes that nothing can separate us from God's love. How does this assurance impact a believer's response to trials and challenges? [01:33:09]

4. What does the sermon suggest about the importance of being ready to receive people from diverse backgrounds into the church community? [01:10:48]

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Application Questions:

1. Reflect on a recent challenge you faced. How did your understanding of being "more than a conqueror" through Christ influence your response? [01:41:15]

2. Consider your current spiritual practices. How can you cultivate a deeper intimacy with God to strengthen your identity in Christ? [01:22:24]

3. Identify a situation where you felt separated from God's love. How can the assurance of His unwavering love change your perspective in similar situations in the future? [01:33:09]

4. The sermon calls for readiness to welcome people from different backgrounds. What practical steps can you take to prepare your heart and community for this? [01:10:48]

5. Think about a time when you relied on your own strength rather than the Holy Spirit's guidance. How can you shift towards a more Spirit-led approach in your daily life? [01:14:34]

6. The sermon mentions assignments beyond the church walls. What unique gifts or talents do you have that can be used to impact the world with God's love and truth? [01:47:47]

7. How can you create spaces in your life for the Holy Spirit to move and bring about transformation, both personally and within your community? [01:12:37]

Devotional

Day 1: Embracing the Spirit's Transformative Power
The Holy Spirit is essential for living out our faith, as it is not merely about knowing doctrine but experiencing the Spirit's transformative power in our lives. Without His guidance, we cannot fully embody the supernatural nature of our belief. This faith calls us to move beyond intellectual understanding and into a dynamic relationship with God, where the Spirit leads us into deeper truths and empowers us to live out our calling. The Spirit's presence in our lives is a testament to God's active involvement in our journey, enabling us to overcome the limitations of our flesh and walk in the fullness of His purpose. [01:14:34]

Ephesians 3:16-17 (ESV): "That according to the riches of his glory he may grant you to be strengthened with power through his Spirit in your inner being, so that Christ may dwell in your hearts through faith—that you, being rooted and grounded in love."

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to invite the Holy Spirit to bring transformation and guidance today?


Day 2: Standing Firm in Our Identity in Christ
Our identity in Christ is our strongest defense against the enemy. Understanding who we are in God, and what He thinks of us, empowers us to stand firm against spiritual attacks. This identity is not defined by the world but by God's truth, which assures us of His unwavering support and love. As we cultivate intimacy with God, we become more aware of our true identity and the authority we have in Christ. This awareness fortifies us against the lies and deceptions of the enemy, enabling us to live confidently and victoriously. [01:22:24]

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: How can you remind yourself of your identity in Christ when faced with challenges or doubts today?


Day 3: Living as More Than Conquerors
We are more than conquerors through Christ, even in the midst of trials. Our victory is not ordinary but extraordinary, as God works through our challenges to reveal His power and purpose. This truth becomes real as we live it out in our daily lives, trusting in God's promises and relying on His strength. As we face difficulties, we are reminded that our battles are not fought alone; God is with us, equipping us to overcome and emerge victorious. This assurance empowers us to face each day with hope and courage, knowing that we are part of a greater story of redemption and triumph. [01:41:15]

2 Corinthians 4:8-10 (ESV): "We are afflicted in every way, but not crushed; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not forsaken; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying in the body the death of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our bodies."

Reflection: What is one trial you are currently facing, and how can you rely on God's strength to overcome it today?


Day 4: Secure in God's Unfailing Love
Nothing can separate us from God's love. This assurance is rooted in the reality of God's presence and His commitment to us. Even in spiritual battles, we are secure in His love, which empowers us to overcome any obstacle. This love is not conditional or fleeting but steadfast and eternal, providing us with a firm foundation on which to build our lives. As we rest in the knowledge of God's love, we find peace and confidence to navigate the uncertainties of life, knowing that we are held securely in His hands. [01:43:52]

Zephaniah 3:17 (ESV): "The Lord your God is in your midst, a mighty one who will save; he will rejoice over you with gladness; he will quiet you by his love; he will exult over you with loud singing."

Reflection: How can you remind yourself of God's unfailing love in moments of doubt or fear today?


Day 5: Fulfilling Our God-Given Assignments
God has assignments for us beyond the church walls. We are called to impact the world with His love and truth, using our unique gifts and talents. As we step into these assignments, we fulfill our role in His redemptive plan, bringing His kingdom to earth. This calling challenges us to look beyond our comfort zones and engage with the world around us, sharing the hope and love of Christ in tangible ways. By embracing our God-given assignments, we become active participants in His mission, making a difference in the lives of those we encounter. [01:47:47]

Matthew 5:14-16 (ESV): "You are the light of the world. A city set on a hill cannot be hidden. Nor do people light a lamp and put it under a basket, but on a stand, and it gives light to all in the house. 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: What is one specific way you can use your gifts to impact someone outside the church today?

Quotes


The premise of this conversation. Is about the impossibility. To live out this faith. Without the help. And the guidance. And the influence. Of the Holy Spirit. You can know all the doctrine you want to know. You can read all the Bible you want to read. You can quote and memorize. And even teach the word of God. And still come up short. When it comes out to living out this faith. Because by it's very nature. This faith is supernatural. [01:14:57] (35 seconds)


And so Paul brings this chapter conclusion with another great testimony are you ready beginning in verse 31 he says what then shall I say what then shall I say you can also say so what does all this mean he's saying based on everything that we've talked about up until this point the things that I just recapped what does all this mean what then shall I say and then he says if god he forms it in the form of a question obviously it's a rhetorical question a question that doesn't require an answer he says if god you know it if god if god is for us if god is for us [01:19:11] (72 seconds)


He said the potential for something more than ordinary on the victorious side lies right in the middle of all of that craziness. That's the God we serve. Having a tough time in your workplace. He is right there. Don't jump out too quick. Don't transfer to another department too quick. Don't quit premature. Wait on the Lord. Wait on the instruction of the Holy Spirit. Don't do anything until he tells you what to do. Important. Because in the middle of that, he wants to reveal in you that you are more than a conqueror. [01:41:08] (63 seconds)


There is something extraordinary that I'm about to do through you, if you just hang in there. In any situation, you name it, bring it up to your mind right now. What situation are you walking through that's troubling, that's difficult? Is it a relationship? Is it finances? What is it that's troubling? And whatever it is, in the middle of that, he wants you to be more than a conqueror. And these aren't just nice spiritual words. [01:41:39] (37 seconds)


Paul is giving his account of what he knows is true, and he's doing his best to pass it on to us. He's saying that we are more than conquerors through him who loved us. And then he goes on to bring this thing to a close. He says, for I am convinced. And then he goes into the heavenly realm. He talked about this victor we have in the natural realm, but he says, but it doesn't stop there because you know there is a war for your soul. [01:42:41] (35 seconds)


He who did not spare his own son but delivered him up for us all how shall he not with him also freely give us all things who shall bring a charge against god's folks it is god who justifies nobody else it is god who justified us who set things in motion that we could have a right relationship with him who declared over each of us not guilty he's the only one one that has a heaven or hell nobody else you see paul is beginning to testify [01:25:09] (45 seconds)


And so she went and found Janice. Wave your hand, Janice. Amen. She's one of the ones that's teaching our class on this campus, Power to Heal. And took her to Janice and Janice began to pray for her. I said, she began to pray for her. And all of a sudden this woman started walking correct. Walking upright. Am I, am I telling the truth? And then she wanted to go look into the sanctuary. [01:10:05] (35 seconds)


And Paul says, even in that place, though you may not be aware of it, huh, I'm working up there too. We know that's true because of Daniel's testimony. You know the story. Daniel prayed. Prayer didn't, the answer didn't come right away. 21 days later, he got a... An answer from the angel that said, man, God heard your prayer that day. But he was contending with the enemy. Once I got done with the enemy, then your prayer came. But I heard it on that day. The request was in. The answer was yes. [01:43:52] (48 seconds)


And then once you're reconciled to God, all the things that I talked about apply to you. Amen? So, Father, in the name of Jesus, I thank you that we are empowered by your Holy Spirit to walk this thing out. Not in religion or tradition, but in relation. relationship, true community, loving one another, forgiving one another, bearing one another's burdens, going outside of the walls and making disciples of all nations, no matter what color they are, baptizing them in the name of the Father, Son, and the Holy Spirit, and then teaching them how to obey you, Jesus, just like we're trying to walk it out. [01:49:08] (55 seconds)


And then you promised, you said, lo, I'll be with you, even until the end, until you see me face to face. Father, let that be the testimony and the hallmark of this local community right here. And Holy Spirit, you're continued to be welcome in this place. We pray that you would make habitation with us. And as one of the beloved said that your presence would just linger and carry on into the week, into all the places that we go until we gather again to encourage one another in this most holy faith. We love you, Jesus. We thank you. We appreciate you. [01:50:02] (47 seconds)


And my own note to myself that I scratched in my Bible. So what are we waiting for? What are we waiting for, beloved? Let's go! What are we waiting on? I told you assignments have dropped on all kind of folks. I was so blessed we were at the Oasis 25th celebration of their existence. It was a wonderful spirit -filled environment. The night before that was the Galentine thing and a bunch of the ladies, all generations I heard it was wonderful. [01:46:13] (40 seconds)


But at the Oasis gathering, Elder Marvin was given just a short testimony. You know, Elder Marvin, he plays the guitar, he leads worship, and he does a wonderful thing for us in this house. But he says, the Lord touched Tina's wife with an assignment. And I said, no, that's what I'm talking about. Praise God for what we do around here. But God wants to give us assignments out there. He said the Lord spoke to him and his wife about taking that guitar. [01:46:47] (35 seconds)


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Transcript
What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?
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