Empowered by the Spirit: Witnessing Through Transformation
Summary
Summary (300-500 words):
Today, we gathered with a sense of expectation, reminded that our experience of God’s presence is deeply connected to the hunger and thirst we bring. When we approach God with open hearts, He promises to fill us, not with empty gestures, but with the real and generous gift of the Holy Spirit. This gift is not reserved for a select few, but is poured out on all who believe and ask. Just as the early disciples waited in Jerusalem and were filled with the Spirit at Pentecost, so too are we invited to wait, to ask, and to receive.
The Holy Spirit’s primary purpose is to empower us to be witnesses—to tell the story of Jesus everywhere, not just in words, but in the way we live, love, and serve. The transformation seen in Peter, who went from denying Jesus to boldly proclaiming Him to thousands, is the same transformation available to each of us. The Spirit gives us courage, boldness, and the ability to shine the light of Christ in our everyday lives, whether in moments of strength or in seasons of suffering.
We are reminded that the Spirit’s work is not just about outward witness, but also about inward transformation. The Spirit convicts us of sin, calls us to repentance, and shapes us to become more like Jesus—growing in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This is not a one-time event, but a continual process of surrender, confession, and renewal. We are encouraged to bring our struggles into the light, to seek accountability, and to allow the Spirit to do His refining work in us.
Our witness is most powerful when it is authentic—when people see the difference Jesus makes in our lives, especially in times of trial. The story of the nuns in the internment camp, shining with joy and peace amidst suffering, challenges us to consider how we reflect Christ in our own hardships. The invitation is clear: to daily ask for the filling of the Holy Spirit, to surrender every part of our lives, and to step out in obedience—whether that means confessing sin, reaching out to someone in need, or simply inviting a friend to church.
God’s promise is sure: as we hunger and thirst, as we ask and receive, we will be filled, empowered, and transformed to be the light of the world, carrying the hope of Jesus to those around us.
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Key Takeaways
- Hunger and Thirst for God Open the Door to His Presence
Our experience of God is not determined by the quality of a service or the novelty of a message, but by the posture of our hearts. When we come hungry and thirsty for righteousness, God promises to fill us. If we find ourselves spiritually dry, we can simply ask God to renew our hunger and thirst, trusting that He is eager to meet us. [31:02]
- The Holy Spirit Empowers Us to Be Witnesses, Not Just Comforted Believers
The Spirit is given not only to comfort, guide, or help us, but to empower us to be bold witnesses of Jesus. This power is not for personal gain or status, but for sharing the good news everywhere—at home, in our communities, and beyond. The transformation of Peter and countless others shows that the Spirit can turn even the timid into courageous proclaimers of Christ. [37:55]
- Transformation Happens Through Ongoing Surrender and Repentance
The Spirit’s work is ongoing; being filled is not a one-time event but a daily process. As the Spirit convicts us of sin, we are called to confess and repent—not to earn God’s love, but because we are already loved. Regular repentance and accountability bring our struggles into the light, allowing the Spirit to transform us more and more into the likeness of Jesus. [47:29]
- Our Light Shines Brightest in Darkness and Suffering
The world watches how we respond to hardship. Like the nuns in the internment camp or the woman who witnessed from her hospital bed, our faith and joy in suffering can be a powerful testimony. The Spirit enables us to shine with hope, peace, and love even when circumstances are bleak, drawing others to the source of our light. [59:53]
- Obedience to the Spirit’s Promptings Multiplies the Kingdom
The Spirit often prompts us in simple, quiet ways—an idea, a nudge, a sense to reach out or invite someone. Our responsibility is to obey, leaving the results to God. Every act of obedience, no matter how small, can have a ripple effect, leading others to encounter Jesus and become lights themselves. [53:03]
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Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[30:03] - The Mug Warmer Surprise
[31:02] - The Importance of Hunger and Thirst
[31:58] - Leaning In and Praying for Open Hearts
[33:09] - Asking God for Spiritual Hunger
[34:10] - Acts 1: The Promise of the Holy Spirit
[35:14] - The Gift for Everyone
[36:09] - Misunderstanding the Gift
[37:55] - Power to Be Witnesses
[39:07] - Pentecost: The Spirit Poured Out
[41:47] - Testimonies of Transformation
[43:33] - The Early Church’s Devotion
[46:27] - Living in the Light: Confession and Repentance
[49:12] - Ongoing Filling of the Spirit
[50:56] - Engaging with Scripture and Surrender
[52:15] - Obedience and the Power to Witness
[54:20] - Jesus, the Light of the World
[55:41] - The Nuns’ Testimony: Shining in Darkness
[59:53] - Suffering as a Witness
[01:00:32] - Asking for the Holy Spirit
[01:01:29] - Invitation to Receive Jesus
[01:02:19] - Waiting and Receiving the Spirit
[01:03:19] - Responding in Community and Prayer
Study Guide
Small Group Bible Study Guide: Empowered by the Holy Spirit
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### Bible Reading
- Acts 1:1-8
- Acts 2:1-4, 14-41
- Ephesians 5:15-18
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### Observation Questions
1. In Acts 1:4-8, what specific instructions did Jesus give his disciples before he ascended to heaven? What was the promised gift, and what was its purpose?
2. According to Acts 2:1-4, what happened when the believers were gathered together at Pentecost? Who received the Holy Spirit?
3. In Ephesians 5:15-18, what contrast does Paul make between being “drunk with wine” and being “filled with the Spirit”?
4. The sermon described Peter’s transformation after receiving the Holy Spirit. What was different about Peter before and after Pentecost? [[40:30]]
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### Interpretation Questions
1. Why do you think Jesus told the disciples to wait for the Holy Spirit instead of sending them out immediately after his resurrection? What does this say about the importance of the Spirit’s empowerment? [[34:10]]
2. The sermon mentioned that the Holy Spirit is given to all believers, not just a select few. How does this challenge or encourage your understanding of who can be used by God? [[36:09]]
3. Ephesians 5:18 says to “be filled with the Spirit.” The sermon explained this as an ongoing process. What might it look like in daily life to continually surrender and be filled? [[49:12]]
4. The story of the nuns in the internment camp was shared as an example of shining in darkness. What does this story reveal about the connection between suffering and authentic witness? [[55:41]]
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### Application Questions
1. The sermon said our experience of God’s presence is connected to our hunger and thirst for Him. When was the last time you felt spiritually hungry or dry? What practical step could you take this week to ask God to renew your hunger? [[31:02]]
2. The Holy Spirit empowers us to be witnesses, not just comforted believers. Who is one person in your life you sense God might be prompting you to reach out to, invite, or share your story with? What’s holding you back? [[37:55]]
3. The process of transformation involves ongoing confession and repentance. Is there a struggle or pattern in your life you need to bring into the light with someone you trust? What would it look like to take a step toward accountability this week? [[47:29]]
4. The fruit of the Spirit grows as we surrender to God. Choose one aspect (love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control) that you want to see more of in your life. What is one specific action you can take to cultivate it this week? [[49:12]]
5. The sermon shared how our light shines brightest in suffering. Think of a recent hardship or challenge. How did you respond? How might you invite the Holy Spirit to help you reflect Christ more authentically in future trials? [[59:53]]
6. The Spirit often prompts us in simple ways—an idea, a nudge, a sense to reach out. Can you recall a recent moment when you sensed a prompting but hesitated or ignored it? What would it look like to obey next time, even if it feels small? [[53:03]]
7. The invitation was to daily ask for the filling of the Holy Spirit. What would help you remember to do this each day? Is there a posture or practice (like opening your hands in prayer) that could help you lean in with expectation? [[01:00:32]]
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Close in prayer, asking the Holy Spirit to fill, empower, and transform each person in the group.
Devotional
Day 1: Longing for God Awakens His Presence
Our spiritual experience with God begins not with external circumstances but with the posture of our hearts. When you come before God with genuine hunger and thirst for righteousness, you open the door for His presence to fill you. This hunger is not about craving religious experiences but a deep desire for God’s truth and life to saturate your soul. If you find yourself spiritually dry or distant, remember that God invites you to ask Him to renew this hunger and thirst. He is eager to meet you where you are and fill you with His life-giving Spirit. This openness is the foundation for encountering God’s power and presence in your daily walk. [31:02]
“Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied.” (Matthew 5:6 ESV)
Reflection: What specific spiritual hunger or thirst do you sense in your heart today, and can you ask God to awaken and deepen that desire for Him right now?
Day 2: Empowered to Proclaim Beyond Comfort
The Holy Spirit is given not merely to comfort or guide but to empower believers to be bold witnesses of Jesus Christ. This empowerment is not for personal gain or status but for the purpose of sharing the good news in every sphere of life—at home, work, and community. The transformation of Peter, who moved from fear to fearless proclamation, illustrates that the Spirit can turn even the most timid into courageous witnesses. You are invited to receive this power so that your life becomes a living testimony, shining the light of Christ through your words and actions. This calling to witness is a vital part of the Spirit’s work in you. [37:55]
“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.” (Acts 1:8 ESV)
Reflection: In what area of your life do you feel hesitant to share your faith, and how can you invite the Holy Spirit to empower you to take one courageous step today?
Day 3: Daily Surrender Shapes Christlikeness
Transformation through the Spirit is not a one-time event but a continual journey of surrender and repentance. The Spirit convicts us of sin and calls us to bring our struggles into the light, not to earn God’s love but because we are already deeply loved. This ongoing process involves confession, accountability, and a willingness to be refined. As you daily surrender your heart and confess your shortcomings, the Spirit shapes you into the likeness of Jesus, growing in love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control. This is the path of spiritual formation that leads to authentic maturity. [47:29]
“Create in me a clean heart, O God, and renew a right spirit within me.” (Psalm 51:10 ESV)
Reflection: What is one area of sin or struggle you have been avoiding bringing into the light, and how can you take a step toward confession and accountability today?
Day 4: Radiating Hope in the Midst of Trials
Your faith shines brightest not in times of ease but in seasons of suffering and hardship. The world watches how you respond to difficulties, and your joy and peace amid trials can become a powerful testimony to others. Stories like the nuns in the internment camp, who radiated peace despite their circumstances, challenge you to reflect Christ’s light in your own hardships. The Spirit enables you to carry hope, love, and peace even when life feels bleak, drawing others toward the source of your strength. Your witness in suffering is a beacon that points others to Jesus. [59:53]
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness.” (James 1:2-3 ESV)
Reflection: How can you intentionally invite the Holy Spirit to help you reflect Christ’s peace and hope in a current difficulty you are facing?
Day 5: Obedience Multiplies God’s Kingdom
The Spirit often prompts you in quiet, simple ways—a nudge to reach out, an idea to encourage, or a sense to invite someone into community. Your responsibility is to obey these promptings, trusting God with the results. Every small act of obedience can create a ripple effect, leading others to encounter Jesus and become lights themselves. This daily responsiveness to the Spirit’s guidance multiplies the kingdom of God in ways you may never fully see but can faithfully participate in. Obedience is the fertile soil where God’s work grows. [53:03]
“If you are willing and obedient, you shall eat the good of the land.” (Isaiah 1:19 ESV)
Reflection: What is one small prompting from the Holy Spirit you have been hesitant to follow, and what practical step can you take today to obey that nudge?
Quotes
It's easy to say, I know that already. Can I challenge you? I'm going to pray for me too, that our hearts hunger and thirst lean in. Okay? So it's really up to you. Okay? Because God is here, and he says, draw near to me, and I'll draw near to you. Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they will be filled. And he is a promise keeper. [00:32:16] (26 seconds)
So when the apostles were with Jesus, they kept asking him, Lord, has the time come for you to free Israel and restore our kingdom? He replied, the Father alone has the authority to set those dates and times, and they are not for you to know. The apostles still didn't understand about the gift, about the Holy Spirit. They still thought that Jesus was ready to overthrow the Roman occupation. When are you going to do it, Lord? Do you know what Jesus said? Above your pay grade. Never mind. Not for you to know. I want to just throw in a line with end times. People predict when Jesus is going to come back. And Jesus said, above your pay grade. Not for you to know. But, verse 8 says, but you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, and you will be my witnesses, telling people about me everywhere. In Jerusalem, throughout Judea, in Samaria and to the ends of the earth. So when the Holy Spirit, when this gift, the Holy Spirit comes on us, the apostles, they would receive power. Power to do what? [00:36:28] (68 seconds)
Now, this is a real big deal. This was the same Peter who denied Jesus three times in front of a few lowly servants. A few lowly servants. Now, there were thousands of all kinds of people. He stood up because he'd received the Holy Spirit, and now he witnessed. He stood and preached to thousands. [00:41:00] (29 seconds)
He is now 40 years old, and he is a very passionate worship leader in his church, church, and a very, very bold leader in his industry and in his community. The Holy Spirit gave him power to witness, and he hasn't stopped witnessing since. Okay? So, Peter stood up and preached to thousands as the Holy Spirit empowered him. And let's read on. Those who believed what Peter said were baptized and added to the church that day. About 3 ,000 in all. I had to Google where did they baptize the 3 ,000? How did they baptize the 3 ,000? You Google yourself. All right. [00:42:24] (40 seconds)
The first thing they did, because baptism is entry into the kindergarten of following Jesus. It is not the uni graduation of having successfully learned everything and written a dissertation. That's called dying. All right? [00:43:13] (20 seconds)
I love the kingdom of God. I really do. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. Each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. How? How did that happen? I imagine Peter, the apostles, the new believers witnessing to their friends and family and news spread. People talk. They didn't have TikTok yet. Okay? So they tell each other, have you heard what they were saying about Jesus who was crucified last week? No, actually it's 50 days. Like last, two months ago, right? Or have you heard that the crippled beggar got healed? Have you heard that the Pharisee who used to persecute the followers of the way is now himself following the way? Have you heard that the sorcerers are burning up all their incantation books? Have you heard? Come and see. [00:43:53] (53 seconds)
when you do. The gift of the Holy Spirit empowers us to live as light. Telling others about Jesus. Bringing light into the world. The gift of the Holy Spirit also empowers us to live in the light. To live like Jesus. Ephesians 5. Be careful how you live. Don't live like fools, but like those who are wise. Make the most of every opportunity in these evil days. Don't act thoughtlessly, but understand what the Lord wants you to do. Don't be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Be filled with the Holy Spirit. [00:45:47] (41 seconds)
We repent because of his love. Yeah? Because he loves us. As we keep repenting and listening to the Holy Spirit, what does he do? He transforms us to become more like Jesus, growing in us. Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self -control. It's a process. As we repent, as we turn, he transforms us, helping us live in the light. [00:49:12] (39 seconds)
The way she shone when she was suffering contributed greatly to her decision to follow Jesus. Light of the world. We can shine even through the darkest things we go through. All of this starts with the Holy Spirit empowering us. [00:59:59] (18 seconds)
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