Empowered by the Spirit: Our Call to Mission
Summary
### Summary
Today, we delved into the book of Acts, a pivotal text that chronicles the early church's journey after Jesus' ascension. Acts, authored by Luke, continues the narrative from the Gospel of Luke, focusing on the transition from Jesus' earthly ministry to the disciples' Spirit-empowered mission. This transition is akin to the one I am experiencing with my father, moving from his leadership to mine. Jesus prepared His disciples for ministry, but His ascension left them to rely on the Holy Spirit, marking a significant shift in their journey.
In Acts 2, we see the Holy Spirit descending at Pentecost, empowering the disciples to preach boldly despite severe persecution. Peter, who once denied Jesus, now preaches with conviction, attributing miracles to Jesus' name. This boldness, fueled by the Spirit, led to the rapid spread of Christianity, even under Roman oppression. The story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5 underscores the importance of honesty and integrity within the church.
The narrative then shifts to Stephen, one of the seven chosen leaders, whose martyrdom introduces Saul (later Paul). Saul's dramatic conversion on the road to Damascus (Acts 9) highlights God's transformative power. Despite his past as a persecutor, Saul becomes Paul, a pivotal figure in spreading the Gospel to the Gentiles. His Roman citizenship and unique background enable him to bridge cultural gaps and expand the church's reach.
Paul's ministry, marked by missionary journeys and letters to various churches, underscores the importance of faith in Jesus Christ. His ability to relate to diverse audiences and his unwavering commitment to the Gospel, despite imprisonment and persecution, exemplify the power of the Holy Spirit working through a surrendered life.
As we reflect on these accounts, we are reminded of our own calling. The Holy Spirit empowers us to fulfill God's purpose, regardless of our past. Whether we are like Peter, Ananias, Barnabas, or Paul, we are called to use our gifts to further God's kingdom. The question remains: What are we doing with the Spirit within us to impact the world for Christ?
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit's descent at Pentecost transformed the disciples from fearful followers into bold preachers of the Gospel. This same Spirit empowers us today to live out our faith courageously and to spread the message of Jesus Christ, even in the face of opposition. [05:17]
2. Integrity in the Church: The story of Ananias and Sapphira highlights the critical importance of honesty and integrity within the Christian community. Their deceit led to their downfall, reminding us that God values truthfulness and transparency in our dealings, especially within the church. [13:15]
3. God's Transformative Power: Saul's conversion to Paul on the road to Damascus is a powerful testament to God's ability to transform even the most unlikely individuals. No matter our past, God can use us for His purposes if we surrender to His will and allow the Holy Spirit to work through us. [17:06]
4. The Call to Mission: Paul's ministry exemplifies the call to take the Gospel to the ends of the earth. His journeys and letters show that spreading the message of Jesus requires dedication, resilience, and the ability to connect with diverse cultures. We are similarly called to use our unique backgrounds and gifts to share the Gospel. [25:10]
5. Living Out Our Calling: Each of us has a specific calling and purpose in God's kingdom. Whether we are leaders like Peter, encouragers like Barnabas, or obedient servants like Ananias, we must actively use the gifts God has given us to further His kingdom. The Spirit within us equips us to make a significant impact for Christ. [33:11]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[01:13] - Transition in Leadership
[02:24] - Jesus' Ministry and Ascension
[03:14] - Peter's Transformation
[04:13] - The Holy Spirit at Pentecost
[05:17] - Persecution and the Early Church
[06:32] - Preaching in the Synagogues
[07:26] - Early Church Hierarchy
[08:16] - Persecution in China
[09:37] - Peter and John Heal a Beggar
[10:31] - Peter's Bold Preaching
[11:32] - Continued Persecution
[12:29] - Ananias and Sapphira
[13:15] - The Importance of Integrity
[14:02] - Choosing New Leaders
[14:57] - Introduction of Stephen
[15:42] - Stephen's Martyrdom
[16:29] - Saul's Persecution of Christians
[17:06] - Saul's Conversion
[18:13] - Saul's Blindness
[19:20] - Different Experiences of Jesus
[20:29] - Saul's Transformation
[21:41] - Ananias' Obedience
[22:53] - Saul's Calling
[23:27] - Our Call and Purpose
[24:33] - Paul's Unique Role
[25:10] - Paul's Ministry to the Gentiles
[26:21] - Paul's Missionary Journeys
[27:28] - Barnabas' Role
[28:00] - The Spread of Christianity
[28:42] - Paul's Defense in Aramaic
[29:51] - Paul's Background
[30:21] - Paul's Encounter with Jesus
[31:26] - Paul's Ministry Beyond Jerusalem
[32:33] - Paul's Letters and Impact
[33:11] - The Spirit's Empowerment
[34:30] - Overcoming Past Hindrances
[35:09] - The Need for Boldness
[35:41] - The Call to Share the Gospel
[36:17] - Prayer and Reflection
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Acts 2:1-4 (The Holy Spirit at Pentecost)
2. Acts 5:1-11 (Ananias and Sapphira)
3. Acts 9:1-19 (Saul's Conversion)
#### Observation Questions
1. What significant event occurs in Acts 2:1-4, and how does it impact the disciples? [05:17]
2. In Acts 5:1-11, what was the sin of Ananias and Sapphira, and what were the consequences? [13:15]
3. Describe Saul's experience on the road to Damascus as detailed in Acts 9:1-19. What immediate changes occur in his life? [17:06]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How did the descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost transform the disciples' approach to their mission? [05:17]
2. Why is the story of Ananias and Sapphira significant in understanding the importance of integrity within the church? [13:15]
3. What does Saul's conversion teach us about God's ability to transform lives, regardless of their past? [17:06]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflecting on the power of the Holy Spirit, how can you allow the Spirit to empower you to live out your faith more boldly in your daily life? [05:17]
2. Considering the story of Ananias and Sapphira, are there areas in your life where you need to practice greater honesty and integrity? How can you address these areas? [13:15]
3. Saul's conversion is a powerful example of transformation. Is there a part of your past that you feel disqualifies you from being used by God? How can you surrender this to Him and allow the Holy Spirit to work through you? [17:06]
4. Paul's ministry required dedication and resilience. What unique gifts or backgrounds do you have that can be used to share the Gospel? How can you start using them more effectively? [25:10]
5. Each of us has a specific calling in God's kingdom. Identify one gift you have and discuss how you can actively use it to further God's kingdom this week. [33:11]
6. The early church faced severe persecution yet continued to spread the Gospel. How can you remain steadfast in your faith and mission, even when facing opposition or challenges? [05:17]
7. Reflect on the different roles mentioned in the sermon (Peter, Ananias, Barnabas, Paul). Which role do you identify with the most, and how can you embrace this role to impact the world for Christ? [33:54]
Devotional
Day 1: The Transformative Power of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit's descent at Pentecost was a pivotal moment for the early church. Before this event, the disciples were often fearful and uncertain, but the arrival of the Holy Spirit empowered them to preach the Gospel with boldness and conviction. This transformation is evident in Peter, who went from denying Jesus to preaching with such power that thousands were converted. The same Spirit that empowered the early disciples is available to us today, enabling us to live out our faith courageously and to spread the message of Jesus Christ, even in the face of opposition. Reflect on how the Holy Spirit can transform your own life and empower you to fulfill God's purpose. [05:17]
Acts 2:4 (ESV): "And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need the Holy Spirit's empowerment to live out your faith more boldly?
Day 2: Integrity in the Christian Community
The story of Ananias and Sapphira in Acts 5 serves as a stark reminder of the importance of honesty and integrity within the church. Their deceit not only led to their downfall but also served as a warning to the early Christian community about the seriousness of sin. God values truthfulness and transparency, and this story underscores the need for integrity in all our dealings, especially within the church. Reflect on how you can cultivate a spirit of honesty and integrity in your own life and within your community. [13:15]
Acts 5:3-4 (ESV): "But Peter said, 'Ananias, why has Satan filled your heart to lie to the Holy Spirit and to keep back for yourself part of the proceeds of the land? While it remained unsold, did it not remain your own? And after it was sold, was it not at your disposal? Why is it that you have contrived this deed in your heart? You have not lied to man but to God.'"
Reflection: Are there areas in your life where you struggle with honesty? How can you seek God's help to live with greater integrity?
Day 3: God's Transformative Power
Saul's conversion on the road to Damascus is one of the most dramatic examples of God's transformative power. Saul, a fierce persecutor of Christians, became Paul, one of the most influential apostles in spreading the Gospel. This transformation highlights that no one is beyond God's reach and that He can use anyone for His purposes if they surrender to His will. Reflect on your own life and consider how God has transformed you or how He might want to transform you for His glory. [17:06]
Acts 9:17-18 (ESV): "So Ananias departed and entered the house. And laying his hands on him he said, 'Brother Saul, the Lord Jesus who appeared to you on the road by which you came has sent me so that you may regain your sight and be filled with the Holy Spirit.' And immediately something like scales fell from his eyes, and he regained his sight. Then he rose and was baptized."
Reflection: Think about a time when God transformed a difficult situation or aspect of your life. How can you share this testimony to encourage others?
Day 4: The Call to Mission
Paul's ministry is a powerful example of the call to take the Gospel to the ends of the earth. His missionary journeys and letters to various churches show that spreading the message of Jesus requires dedication, resilience, and the ability to connect with diverse cultures. Paul used his unique background and Roman citizenship to bridge cultural gaps and expand the church's reach. Reflect on how you can use your own unique background and gifts to share the Gospel in your community and beyond. [25:10]
Acts 13:47 (ESV): "For so the Lord has commanded us, saying, 'I have made you a light for the Gentiles, that you may bring salvation to the ends of the earth.'"
Reflection: What unique gifts or experiences do you have that can help you share the Gospel with others? How can you start using them today?
Day 5: Living Out Our Calling
Each of us has a specific calling and purpose in God's kingdom. Whether we are leaders like Peter, encouragers like Barnabas, or obedient servants like Ananias, we must actively use the gifts God has given us to further His kingdom. The Holy Spirit equips us to make a significant impact for Christ, regardless of our past. Reflect on your own calling and consider how you can use your gifts to serve God and others more effectively. [33:11]
1 Peter 4:10 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace."
Reflection: What specific gifts has God given you, and how can you use them to serve others and further His kingdom this week?
Quotes
### Quotes for outreach
1. "The reason why the church succeeded is found in this chapter 2. The whole... The Holy Spirit came and indwelled the disciples. You see, because their pastor didn't have a long transition where he continued living among them as they employed and built the church up. Their pastor, Jesus, ascended into heaven. And they had to figure it out. This is the Holy Spirit indwelt in the disciples." [05:17] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We live in an age that certainly has all the information. You certainly have all of the sermons online and you can go and search. There's Christian radios, there's Christians around. But we live in an age where people don't want to go to church. We live in an age where people want this idea and fantasy of being a Christian, because it's the nice and right thing to do. But we don't live our lives in that manner on a daily basis." [35:09] (33 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "We live in an age, just like all the ages of the past, that needs to hear the good news of Jesus Christ. And that's what every single person in this room is called to do. In our own ways, shapes, and forms, the gifts that God has given us, use those gifts with the Spirit inside of us to reach the ends of the earth. What are you doing? What are you doing today?" [35:41] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "The Spirit is here to empower us to do what we need to do. The Spirit is here to indwell within us. If you've accepted Christ into your life as your Lord and Savior, the Spirit lives within you. What are you doing with the Spirit inside of you? Are we sitting by, wasting our days, not utilizing the gifts that God has given us to further His kingdom?" [33:11] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Look at the life of Jesus. He lived it perfectly. It wasn't even that long ago in this day. Follow who Jesus is. We're going to jump ahead to Acts chapter 22. As you go through here, you see a lot of the churches that he writes letters to. He visits Corinth and he visits Ephesus and he settles up with Barnabas and Barnabas is a leader. Barnabas is one of those key figures in Paul's life that really got his ministry going." [26:21] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
### Quotes for members
1. "The disciples continue to heal people. And the church is starting to spread. So chapter 6, we get to a point where they have to get some other leaders into the church. The 12 disciples are really, they're sticking around the Jerusalem area. They're staying kind of at home. And the church is spreading out past where they can lead. So they choose seven disciples, not disciples, seven church leaders. And one of them was Stephen." [14:02] (40 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "The reason they die is because they lied to the Holy Spirit. They lied to the leaders. They lied to the leaders of the church out of greed, out of self-importance. As people are coming into the church, what they need is for people to be honest and truthful. These people were not." [13:15] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "Paul is called by God to go. Paul's ministry is not based in Jerusalem. Paul's ministry is to get up and to go out into the ends of the earth, the heart of the world as they know it in Rome. That was his goal. I don't think that it was his intention, as Paul's intention, to go there under arrest, but guess what? He was able to travel from where he was a long distance by boat and shipwreck and more boats, and he was able to make it to Rome, all on Rome's dime." [32:01] (42 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "If Jesus is not who Jesus said he was, Christianity would have fallen flat with the persecution that was happening in this day. These people, these people that had first-hand knowledge of seeing who Jesus was, that wholeheartedly, even though he had ascended into heaven, wholeheartedly believed in everything that Jesus had said. And they spread that word throughout the nations." [27:28] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "The opportunity that Paul is used by God because he's a Roman citizen, it gets him out of trouble with the Roman law. He's still jailed. He's still imprisoned. But all of these missionary journeys that he goes on, he has standing with the people because he can relate to these people. He has standing with these people because he speaks their language. He can reach these people because people understand who Paul is." [25:10] (37 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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