Empowered by the Spirit: Unity and Contribution in the Church
Summary
Today is a day of celebration—a spiritual birthday, the day of Pentecost, when the Holy Spirit was poured out and the Church was born. God’s plan for each of us is not just to save us, but to fill us with His Spirit, to empower us, and to unite us as one body. Just as the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are in perfect unity, so too are we called to walk in unity, strengthening, building up, and encouraging one another. When we gather together, we create an environment where the Holy Spirit can move powerfully among us, equipping us to do what God has called us to do.
The story of Pentecost in Acts 2 is not just a historical event; it’s a living reality for us today. The Holy Spirit still fills, empowers, and gives clear direction to those who wait on Him in unity. The gifts and manifestations of the Spirit are not for show, but for the building up of the Church and the spreading of the good news—righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Ghost. The Spirit’s work is practical: He gives wisdom, knowledge, and skill, just as He did for those who built the tabernacle in Exodus. He enables us to build our lives, our families, and our church on the solid foundation of Christ.
We are living stones, being built into a spiritual house. Every act of obedience, every word of encouragement, every moment of unity contributes to the life and strength of the body. Our words are arrows—what we speak brings life or death, and we are called to speak life, to edify, and to encourage. The Church is not a place for consumers, but for contributors; each of us has something to bring, a song, a word, a revelation, a gift. The Holy Spirit equips us not just to survive, but to thrive, to be strong and courageous, to walk in the fullness of God’s calling.
God is faithful. He establishes us, guards us, and fills us with His Spirit so that we can be a dwelling place for His presence. As we make every effort to pursue peace, unity, and mutual upbuilding, we experience the reality of the Kingdom—righteousness, peace, and joy. Let us stay on the potter’s wheel, allowing the Holy Spirit to shape us, so that together we can accomplish great things for the Kingdom of God.
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Key Takeaways
- Unity is the Atmosphere for the Spirit’s Power
When believers gather in unity, the Holy Spirit is able to move freely, bringing strength, increase, and courage. Just as the Trinity operates in perfect unity, so must the body of Christ. True unity is not uniformity, but a harmony of diverse gifts and callings, all working together for God’s purpose. Without unity, the Church cannot fulfill its calling to strengthen, build up, and encourage. [37:17]
- The Holy Spirit Empowers Ordinary People for Extraordinary Purposes
The outpouring at Pentecost was not a one-time event, but a pattern for how God works through His people. The Spirit gives wisdom, knowledge, and skill, enabling us to do what we could never do on our own. Whether it’s speaking in a language we’ve never learned or building something for God’s glory, the Spirit equips us for every good work. Our limitations become opportunities for God’s power to be displayed. [41:53]
- Every Believer is a Living Stone with a Contribution to Make
The Church is not a spectator event; each person is a living stone, called to bring a song, a word, a revelation, or a gift. When we come together, we should come ready to give, not just to receive. Our obedience and encouragement build up the body and create a dwelling place for God’s presence. The consumer mentality must give way to a culture of contribution and mutual edification. [01:09:44]
- Staying on the Potter’s Wheel is Essential for Growth and Peace
Life’s challenges and disappointments are not reasons to jump off the potter’s wheel, but invitations to let God shape us. The Holy Spirit works out impurities, heals brokenness, and forms us into vessels fit for His presence. True peace and resilience come from allowing God to build and rebuild us, even when the process is uncomfortable or slow. [48:32]
- Pursuing Peace and Mutual Upbuilding is the Pathway to the Kingdom
The Kingdom of God is righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit. We are called to make every effort to do what leads to peace and mutual edification. If our words and actions are not building up, we are moving away from the Kingdom’s reality. The Holy Spirit leads us into harmony, empowers us to forgive, and enables us to love as Christ loves. [01:14:58]
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Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[34:55] - Greeting in Unity
[37:17] - The Power of Unity
[39:10] - Strengthen, Build Up, Encourage
[40:25] - The Day of Pentecost
[41:05] - The Promise and Power of the Holy Spirit
[41:53] - The Church’s Birth and Mission
[48:32] - The Spirit’s Work Across Cultures
[57:09] - Boldness and Courage in the Spirit
[01:03:10] - God’s Affirmation of Our Potential
[01:08:50] - Living Stones and Spiritual Sacrifice
[01:09:44] - The Power of Words and Encouragement
[01:10:24] - God’s Faithfulness and Our Strength
[01:14:58] - Pursuing Peace and Mutual Edification
[01:16:14] - Building the Kingdom and Staying on the Wheel
[01:26:04] - Spirit-Filled Wisdom for Building
[01:32:09] - The Holy Spirit Dwelling in Us
[01:33:46] - Closing Prayer and Declaration
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: Pentecost, the Holy Spirit, and the Power of Unity
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### Bible Reading
- Acts 2:1-13 – The coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost and the birth of the Church.
- 1 Peter 2:4-5 – Believers as living stones being built into a spiritual house.
- Exodus 31:1-6 – God fills Bezalel with the Spirit, wisdom, and skill to build the tabernacle.
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### Observation Questions
1. In Acts 2, what were the believers doing when the Holy Spirit was poured out, and what was the immediate result?
2. According to 1 Peter 2:4-5, what does Peter call believers, and what are they being built into?
3. In Exodus 31:1-6, what specific gifts did God give Bezalel through His Spirit, and for what purpose?
4. The sermon described the church as a place for contributors, not consumers. What are some examples the pastor gave of what each person can bring when the church gathers? [[01:09:44]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. The believers in Acts 2 were “all together in one place” and in unity when the Holy Spirit came. Why do you think unity was so important for the Spirit’s outpouring? [[37:17]]
2. The sermon said, “Our words are arrows—what we speak brings life or death.” What does this mean for how we interact with each other in the church? [[01:09:44]]
3. In Exodus 31, God gave wisdom and skill for building the tabernacle. How does the Holy Spirit equip ordinary people for God’s purposes today? [[01:26:04]]
4. The pastor said, “Staying on the potter’s wheel is essential for growth and peace.” What does it look like to “stay on the wheel” in real life? [[48:32]]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon emphasized that unity is the atmosphere for the Spirit’s power. Is there a relationship, ministry, or area in your life where you need to pursue unity more intentionally? What’s one step you could take this week? [[37:17]]
2. The Holy Spirit equips us to contribute, not just consume. When you come to church or small group, do you come ready to give (a word, encouragement, prayer, etc.)? What is one thing you could bring next time? [[01:09:44]]
3. The pastor shared that our words are like arrows and can build up or tear down. Think about your conversations this past week—was there a time you spoke life, or a time you wish you had? How can you be more intentional with your words this week? [[01:09:44]]
4. The story of Bezalel in Exodus shows that the Spirit gives practical wisdom and skill. Is there an area in your work, family, or ministry where you need God’s wisdom or skill? How can you invite the Holy Spirit into that area? [[01:26:04]]
5. “Staying on the potter’s wheel” means letting God shape us, even when it’s uncomfortable. Is there a challenge or disappointment you’re facing right now? What would it look like to let God use this to shape you instead of trying to escape it? [[48:32]]
6. The Kingdom of God is “righteousness, peace, and joy in the Holy Spirit.” Are there habits or attitudes in your life that are moving you away from peace and mutual upbuilding? What’s one change you could make to move toward the reality of the Kingdom? [[01:14:58]]
7. The pastor said, “Every act of obedience, every word of encouragement, every moment of unity contributes to the life and strength of the body.” What is one small act of obedience or encouragement you can do for someone in this group or church this week? [[01:09:44]]
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Closing Prayer Suggestion:
Invite the Holy Spirit to fill, empower, and unite your group, and to help each person walk in their calling as a living stone in God’s house.
Devotional
Day 1: Unity Invites the Holy Spirit’s Power
When believers gather in unity, the presence and power of the Holy Spirit are invited to dwell among them, just as the early church experienced at Pentecost. Unity is not just a nice idea; it is the very environment in which God moves, strengthens, and encourages His people. When we come together, each person brings something unique, and together we become the body of Christ, able to do what God has called us to do. The Holy Spirit flows freely where there is unity, empowering us to strengthen, build up, and encourage one another, so that we leave gatherings more courageous and full of faith than when we arrived. [37:17]
Acts 2:1-4 (ESV)
When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 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: Who is one person in your church family you can intentionally encourage or connect with today to help foster unity and invite the Holy Spirit’s presence?
Day 2: The Holy Spirit Empowers Us to Build and Encourage
The Holy Spirit is given not just for personal experience, but to empower every believer to strengthen, build up, and encourage the body of Christ. Just as the Spirit filled the disciples and enabled them to speak boldly and minister to people from every nation, the Spirit equips us with gifts, wisdom, and courage to serve others. When we allow the Holy Spirit to work through us, we become vessels of encouragement, building up the church and advancing the kingdom of God. The Spirit’s power is not for show, but for the edification and growth of God’s people, so that together we can walk in righteousness, peace, and joy. [41:53]
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: What is one way you can use your gifts or words today to build up and encourage someone in your church or community?
Day 3: Be Strong and Courageous—God Is With You
God calls His people to be strong and courageous, not because of their own ability, but because He is with them and empowers them by His Spirit. Just as Joshua was commanded to lead with courage, and as the early church faced challenges with boldness, we too are called to step out in faith, knowing that God affirms our potential and walks with us. Even when we feel weak or discouraged, the Lord promises to be with us wherever we go, strengthening our hearts and giving us the courage to fulfill His purpose. [01:03:10]
Joshua 1:9 (ESV)
Have I not commanded you? Be strong and courageous. Do not be frightened, and do not be dismayed, for the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.
Reflection: What is one area of your life where you need to step out in courage today, trusting that God is with you?
Day 4: Every Effort Toward Peace and Mutual Upbuilding
God’s desire is for His people to make every effort to pursue peace, harmony, and mutual edification. The words we speak and the actions we take either build up or tear down, and we are called to be intentional in contributing to the life and faith of others. The church is not a place for consumers, but for contributors—each person has something to offer for the strengthening and encouragement of the whole body. When we pursue peace and unity, we reflect the kingdom of God and create an environment where God’s presence can dwell richly among us. [01:14:58]
Romans 14:19 (ESV)
So then let us pursue what makes for peace and for mutual upbuilding.
Reflection: Is there a relationship or situation where you need to make an extra effort for peace or to build someone up today? What step can you take?
Day 5: The Holy Spirit Equips Us for God’s Work
God fills His people with the Holy Spirit, granting wisdom, skill, understanding, and knowledge to accomplish His purposes and build His dwelling place. Just as Bezalel was filled with the Spirit to build the tabernacle, God equips each believer with what is needed to serve, create, and contribute to His kingdom. The Spirit’s empowerment is practical and supernatural, enabling us to do things beyond our natural ability for the glory of God. When we yield to the Spirit’s leading, He shows us how to build our lives and the church so that God’s presence can abide with us continually. [01:26:04]
Exodus 31:1-6 (ESV)
The Lord said to Moses, “See, I have called by name Bezalel the son of Uri, son of Hur, of the tribe of Judah, and I have filled him with the Spirit of God, with ability and intelligence, with knowledge and all craftsmanship, to devise artistic designs, to work in gold, silver, and bronze, in cutting stones for setting, and in carving wood, to work in every craft. And behold, I have appointed with him Oholiab, the son of Ahisamach, of the tribe of Dan. And I have given to all able men ability, that they may make all that I have commanded you.”
Reflection: Where do you need God’s wisdom or skill today? Ask the Holy Spirit to fill and guide you in that specific area.
Quotes
If I grab hold of what God has for me the Holy Spirit he's going to make known to me the ways of life if it's made known to me the ways of life do I really need to learn the hard way no there's someone that already went a very very very hard way so you do not have to learn the hard way he went the way of a cross he went the way of getting busted and broken and bruised for your iniquities he did it the hard way so you don't have to not by your power but by his power says the Lord. [01:01:49] (53 seconds)
Be strong and courageous you're not going to be asked or told that you are something that you're not God is not your mama you say what do you mean because I heard mamas tell their kids you can be anything you want that's a lie from the pit of hell you cannot be whatever you want you'll be what God's called you to be and created you to be amen or oh me God calls you strong so you're strong God calls you courageous you're courageous. [01:04:26] (37 seconds)
Each act of obedience, every moment of prayer, every word of encouragement contributes to the life of faith. Everything we do contributes. The Bible says speak life or death. You can speak life and death. Everything we do, you're either giving life to something or you're giving death to something. Every word that comes out of your mouth. [01:08:50] (28 seconds)
Let us therefore make every effort. Hold on a second. Y 'all see that? It says eagerly pursue. And what makes harmony and mutual. But eagerly pursue really means every effort. Every effort to do what leads to peace. Have we done every effort? Every effort would be stay on the potter's will. Every effort would allow the Holy Spirit to heal your broken heart. Every effort would be to...for forgiveness every effort would be to forgive every effort would do what Corinthians says love is love is kind patient gentle love is not self -seeking doesn't keep a record of wrong it doesn't it's not hottie that have we done every effort every effort to do what leads to peace because when it leads to peace true peace God is not the author of confusion but the author of peace and if there's confusion in your life I'm here to say God's not writing that story because the author and the finisher of my faith is the same author that is the author of peace. [01:14:45] (88 seconds)
If you're a Christ follower you're a joyful follower there is no woe is me why death does not have esteem because John 10 10 says I've come so you can have a life life more abundantly I've come so you can have a life better than ever you can ever dream of better than ever so today is what better than ever today is better than what yesterday that means every day is a better day why because I'm in his presence one day in his presence is better than a thousand elsewhere. [01:03:10] (33 seconds)
When you leave a meeting with the body of Christ, you should walk away being stronger, increased in your spirit, soul, and body, and walk away with courageous, with courage. That you can say to a mountain, move and get out of its way. That you can walk on any water, any word, walk through any fire and not be burnt. That you know the voice of God. [00:39:49] (27 seconds)
The Holy Spirit builds you so you can build the church so God can dwell in you not just visit you not just guys grab this not just visit you but take residence inside of you because he says were you were where you abide in me I abide in you and the word abide is abode abode is where we get the house home. [01:24:33] (24 seconds)
So if you're not leading to peace you're leading away from the kingdom of God that means you're leading to hell so you can go to hell you can go to heaven you want the kingdom of God or you want your life to burn some of you are like my life is a living hell hell my job is a living hell my relationships are a living hell or my job is heaven on earth my relationships are heaven on earth my communication is heaven on earth earth it's the kingdom of God is righteousness peace and joy all through the Holy Ghost but it looks bad so do you want by faith or you want by sight want by faith you want by sight. [01:17:56] (72 seconds)
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