Empowered by the Spirit: Living Out Our Identity
Summary
In my recent sermon, I began by sharing some light-hearted jokes and a humorous anecdote about a woman's experience in church to set a relaxed and engaging tone. I then transitioned into the heart of the message, focusing on the implications of Jesus being alive and well after Easter. I emphasized the importance of not just ending the conversation about Jesus with Easter but continuing to explore what His resurrection means for us today.
I directed the congregation to Acts chapter one, where I highlighted Jesus' command to the disciples to wait in Jerusalem for the baptism of the Holy Spirit. This command was not optional; it was essential for their mission. Jesus did not specify when the Holy Spirit would come, only that it would be soon, requiring the disciples to exercise faith and obedience.
I recounted the disciples' question about the restoration of the kingdom to Israel and Jesus' response, which redirected their focus from political aspirations to the coming of the Holy Spirit. Jesus made it clear that the timing of God's plans was not for them to know, but they were to trust in the Father's authority. He promised them power when the Holy Spirit came upon them to be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.
I described the scene of Jesus' ascension and the disciples' return to the upper room in Jerusalem, where they joined together in prayer with other believers, including women and Jesus' brothers. This gathering in unity and prayer was a model for us, showing that the early church was not defined by numbers but by obedience to Jesus' commands.
I shared personal reflections on the disciples' ordinariness, pointing out that they were average people like us, with their own struggles and backgrounds. I encouraged the congregation to see themselves in the disciples, emphasizing that the Holy Spirit's empowerment is available to all believers, not just a select few.
I spoke about the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, which enables us to carry Jesus with us in our daily lives. I referenced Ephesians 2:10, which speaks to our identity as God's workmanship, created for good works that God has prepared for us. I also turned to Isaiah 43 to illustrate how God calls us from where we are and forms us into the beings He has called us to be, reminding us that we are never alone and that our identity is found in Christ.
I addressed the issue of identity, challenging the congregation to consider what defines them and to focus on what Jesus says about them rather than the lies of the enemy. I urged them to let Jesus define them and to trust in His work in their lives.
I concluded by discussing spiritual gifts, or charismas, as described in 1 Corinthians 12. I explained that these gifts are not just for personal edification but are meant to serve others as we act upon the Lord's will. I emphasized that the Holy Spirit empowers us to serve and that we should focus on what we can give through the Holy Spirit rather than what we can receive.
Finally, I invited the congregation to respond to the message by coming forward for prayer if they felt unqualified, needed power for a situation, or simply wanted to be encouraged in their identity in Christ.
Key Takeaways:
1. The command to wait for the Holy Spirit in Jerusalem was not optional for the disciples; it was a necessary preparation for their mission. Similarly, we must be attentive to the Holy Spirit's timing in our lives, trusting that God's plans will unfold as we remain obedient and faithful. [01:09:41]
2. The disciples' question about the restoration of the kingdom to Israel was met with Jesus' redirection towards the promise of the Holy Spirit. This teaches us to focus on spiritual empowerment over political or worldly concerns, trusting in God's ultimate authority and timing. [01:11:16]
3. The early church's unity and devotion to prayer in the upper room serve as a model for us today. Success in God's kingdom is not measured by numbers but by our commitment to seeking the Lord and aligning ourselves with His will. [01:14:25]
4. Our identity should be rooted in what Jesus declares over us, not in the circumstances of our lives or the lies of the enemy. By focusing on Jesus and His truth, we can overcome feelings of inadequacy and step into the fullness of our calling. [01:29:12]
5. Spiritual gifts are given for the common good, to serve others as we act upon the Lord's will. We should seek to be conduits of the Holy Spirit's power, looking for opportunities to serve and bless those around us with the grace we have received. [01:42:49]
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 1:4-8 - "And while staying with them, he ordered them not to depart from Jerusalem, but to wait for the promise of the Father, which, he said, 'you heard from me; for John baptized with water, but you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit not many days from now.' So when they had come together, they asked him, 'Lord, will you at this time restore the kingdom to Israel?' He said to them, 'It is not for you to know times or seasons that the Father has fixed by his own authority. 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.'"
2. Ephesians 2:10 - "For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them."
3. Isaiah 43:1-2 - "But now thus says the Lord, he who created you, O Jacob, he who formed you, O Israel: 'Fear not, for I have redeemed you; I have called you by name, you are mine. When you pass through the waters, I will be with you; and through the rivers, they shall not overwhelm you; when you walk through fire you shall not be burned, and the flame shall not consume you.'"
#### Observation Questions
1. What command did Jesus give to the disciples in Acts 1:4-5, and why was it important? [01:09:41]
2. How did Jesus respond to the disciples' question about the restoration of the kingdom to Israel in Acts 1:6-8? [01:11:16]
3. According to Ephesians 2:10, what are we created for, and who prepared these works for us?
4. In Isaiah 43:1-2, what promises does God make to those He has called by name?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus emphasized waiting for the Holy Spirit before beginning their mission? How does this apply to our lives today? [01:09:41]
2. How does Jesus' redirection of the disciples' focus from political aspirations to spiritual empowerment in Acts 1:6-8 challenge our own priorities? [01:11:16]
3. What does it mean to be God's workmanship according to Ephesians 2:10, and how should this understanding influence our daily actions?
4. How can the promises in Isaiah 43:1-2 provide comfort and assurance in times of difficulty?
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on a time when you had to wait for God's timing. How did you handle the waiting period, and what did you learn from it? [01:09:41]
2. In what ways might you be focusing on worldly concerns rather than spiritual empowerment? How can you shift your focus to align more with Jesus' teachings? [01:11:16]
3. How can you actively seek to understand and live out your identity as God's workmanship this week? What specific good work can you commit to doing? [01:24:21]
4. Think about a situation where you felt overwhelmed. How can the promises in Isaiah 43:1-2 help you to trust in God's presence and provision in similar future situations? [01:25:56]
5. What steps can you take to ensure that your identity is rooted in what Jesus declares over you rather than in the lies of the enemy or your circumstances? [01:29:12]
6. Identify a spiritual gift you believe God has given you. How can you use this gift to serve others in your community this week? [01:42:49]
7. If you feel unqualified or inadequate in any area of your life, how can you seek the Holy Spirit's empowerment to overcome these feelings and step into your calling? [01:48:59]
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing the Holy Spirit's Timing
Waiting for the Holy Spirit is not a passive act but a time of active trust and preparation. As the disciples were instructed to wait in Jerusalem for the promised Holy Spirit, they were called to a posture of obedience and anticipation. This waiting period was not about inactivity but about getting ready for the mission ahead. It was a time to align their hearts with God's purposes and to prepare for the transformative power that was to come. The disciples' experience teaches us the value of divine timing and the importance of being spiritually prepared for the tasks God sets before us. Waiting on the Lord is an integral part of the Christian journey, requiring faith and a willingness to submit to God's plan, even when the details are not yet revealed. [07:40]
"But they who wait for the Lord shall renew their strength; they shall mount up with wings like eagles; they shall run and not be weary; they shall walk and not faint." - Isaiah 40:31 (ESV)
Reflection: How can you actively wait on the Lord's timing in a current situation, and what practical steps can you take to prepare for what He has promised?
Day 2: Redirecting Focus to Spiritual Empowerment
The disciples' curiosity about the restoration of the kingdom to Israel was met with Jesus' redirection towards the promise of the Holy Spirit. This moment serves as a reminder that our focus should not be on earthly or political power but on the spiritual empowerment that comes from above. Jesus' response to the disciples' question underscores the importance of trusting in God's ultimate authority and timing. As believers, we are called to seek the kingdom of God above all else, understanding that our true power lies not in human structures but in the presence and work of the Holy Spirit within us. The anticipation of the Holy Spirit's arrival was a pivotal point for the disciples, shifting their perspective from temporal concerns to eternal purposes. [11:16]
"But seek first the kingdom of God and his righteousness, and all these things will be added to you." - Matthew 6:33 (ESV)
Reflection: In what ways might you be focusing on worldly power or influence instead of seeking the spiritual empowerment that comes from the Holy Spirit?
Day 3: Unity and Devotion in Prayer
The early church's gathering in the upper room exemplifies the power of unity and devotion to prayer. This model of collective prayer and waiting on the Lord's promises is a testament to the strength found in communal faith. The believers' commitment to seeking the Lord together, regardless of their number, highlights that success in God's kingdom is not measured by worldly standards but by our alignment with His will. The upper room was a place of convergence for diverse individuals who shared a common purpose: to obey Jesus' command and to prepare for the work of the Holy Spirit. This account encourages us to prioritize unity and prayer within our own faith communities, recognizing that these practices are foundational to experiencing God's presence and guidance. [14:25]
"And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers." - Acts 2:42 (ESV)
Reflection: How can you contribute to fostering unity and a culture of prayer within your community, and what specific steps will you take this week to do so?
Day 4: Rooted Identity in Christ's Declaration
Our identity should be firmly rooted in what Jesus declares over us, not in the circumstances of our lives or the lies of the enemy. Understanding our identity in Christ is crucial for overcoming feelings of inadequacy and stepping into the fullness of our calling. As believers, we are reminded that we are God's workmanship, created for good works, and that our worth is not determined by external validation but by the truth of who we are in Jesus. By focusing on His truth and promises, we can navigate life's challenges with confidence and purpose, knowing that our identity is secure in Him. This assurance allows us to live out our faith boldly, embracing the roles and tasks He has prepared for us. [29:12]
"For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them." - Ephesians 2:10 (ESV)
Reflection: What aspect of your identity have you allowed to be shaped by external factors, and how can you begin to reclaim your identity based on what Jesus says about you?
Day 5: Serving Others with Spiritual Gifts
Spiritual gifts, or charismas, are given not for personal edification alone but to serve others and act upon the Lord's will. These gifts are a manifestation of the Holy Spirit's power within us, intended to build up the body of Christ and extend grace to those around us. As members of the church, we are each equipped with unique gifts that, when used in service to others, reflect the diverse and multifaceted nature of God's kingdom. The purpose of these gifts is to contribute to the common good, demonstrating love and serving the needs of the community. By focusing on what we can give through the Holy Spirit, we participate in the mission of the church, encouraging and supporting one another as we each walk in our God-given callings. [42:49]
"As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace." - 1 Peter 4:10 (ESV)
Reflection: What spiritual gift have you been given, and how can you actively use it this week to serve someone in your community or church?
Quotes
"What defines you guys? I am not alone. I am not alone. Hebrews 13.5. Jesus says that he would never leave me nor forsake me, which is also a quote out of the Old Testament. So I got both covenants telling me. It says here, which I never really noticed it. It talks about waters. And then it talks about the rivers. The rivers, they shall not overwhelm you. I am not overwhelmed. I am not overcome by this situation." [01:27:20]
"And we let our lives and what happens to us define us instead of what Jesus has declared over us. I was thinking about this when we were driving in this morning. What defines us? Who or what defines you? And I thought about having you guys take out a piece of paper. You can do this later on if you want. But just write down what defines you right now. What makes you you?" [01:29:12]
"Ephesians 2.10 says we are God's workmanship. Created in Christ Jesus to do good works, which God prearranged in advance for us to do. I love that verse. Because it basically says that this isn't limited to these 11 guys here, 12 with Matthias added. But it's available to each and every one of us. Wherever the Lord is leading you in your life, wherever the Lord has you in your life, you can carry Jesus." [01:22:42]
"You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you and you're going to be my Martha's, my martyrs, my court witnesses, my people who are living sacrifices, who will shine forth my glory by the power of the Holy Spirit. You're going to do that in Jerusalem, in Judea, Samaria, and to all the ends of the earth." [01:11:16]
"And all of them were in one accord and they were devoting themselves to pray together with the women. Mary, the mother, Jesus and his brothers. All of Jesus's brothers are there. One ends up becoming. The head of the church in Jerusalem. So they're all gathered together in this place and they're seeking the Lord." [01:14:25]
"Would he not say to you, son or daughter, I do. By the Holy Spirit. Move forward in this. Lord, I don't know how to handle this situation with my neighbor. Great, I do. Here's the gift of the Holy Spirit. To bring peace to that situation. There is an abundance of grace, of charisma available to you to give away." [01:43:54]
"Because if you can write a whole book down about what Satan says about you, but what Jesus says about you, man, that's really hard. Then you are probably focused on what Satan is doing in your life instead of what Jesus is doing in your life. And I want to encourage you. It should be, okay, I see the hand of Satan moving in my life here and here. But I see Jesus." [01:30:06]
"So his purpose is always to keep you full in his spirit as we focus on him so that we can overcome in these situations. And not be able to speak to the flood. Flood, you may come in all you want, but you know what Jesus declares? You're not going to dictate who I am. I will not be dictated by this weapon." [01:33:50]
"I almost think we need, in our lives, a little bit more time of just Acts 1, 15. Getting together and seeking the Lord. You know, so in those circumstances, we're like, wow, I'm just so overwhelmed. Jesus, you're risen. I feel alone. I feel overwhelmed. I'm overwhelmed in this situation. Lord, I'm going to choose to go into my upper room and commune with you until I get the Holy Spirit power to have victory in this area." [01:35:35]
"There are a variety of charismas, but the same spirit. So the Holy Spirit's going to work in a bunch of different ways. There isn't one way. There's a bunch of different ways, but you need to understand that it's the same spirit that does it. Charismas are gifts of grace that don't require faith. Grace is empowering by the Holy Spirit to do something." [01:37:30]
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