Empowered for Mission: Living in God's Purpose
Summary
Between the resurrection and Pentecost, we find ourselves in a season of waiting and expectation, much like the early disciples. Jesus’ final command was not a suggestion but a mandate: “Go into all the world and make disciples of all nations.” This is not just a call for a select few, but for every believer, regardless of age or background. The Holy Spirit, often symbolized as a dove, is not an “it” or a ghostly force, but the very presence of God, sent to guide, empower, and lead us into God’s mission. Without the Spirit, our faith becomes mere ritual; with Him, we are drawn into the living, redemptive work of God in a broken world.
Life with God is not about being a spectator, but a participator. God’s mission is not limited to “missions trips” or special events, but is woven into the fabric of our daily lives. Wherever we are, we are there by God’s design, called to reveal His glory and love to those around us. The stories of Abraham, Moses, David, Peter, Paul, and John remind us that God uses ordinary people, often in the midst of adversity, to accomplish extraordinary things. Each of these figures was called, prepared, and sent by God—not because of their qualifications, but because of their willingness to respond.
God’s call is always personal and purposeful. He initiates relationship, invites us to adjust our lives to Him, and shapes our character through seasons of preparation and even hardship. Our past does not disqualify us; in Christ, we are being transformed from glory to glory. The mission is not about a profession or a title, but about saying “yes” to God’s invitation, wherever He places us. Our influence, like the peaks of the Himalayas, may seem small in the grand scheme, but God weaves our obedience into His eternal story.
We are called to a wide-angle perspective: to see our lives not just as a series of isolated events, but as part of God’s unfolding plan. Our legacy is not measured by worldly standards, but by our faithfulness to God’s mission—impacting generations, both seen and unseen. In this unique moment in history, with the nations gathered in our own neighborhoods, God invites us to join Him in reconciling the world to Himself. The Holy Spirit leads, empowers, and sends us—not as lone rangers, but as a body, together on mission for His glory.
Key Takeaways
- The Holy Spirit is Essential, Not Optional
The Holy Spirit is not a distant or abstract force, but the very presence of God who guides, empowers, and sustains us. Without Him, our faith devolves into empty ritual; with Him, we are drawn into the living, dynamic mission of God. He is the most neglected person in the church, yet without His leading, we cannot fulfill our calling or withstand the pressures of a broken world. [01:01:10]
- God’s Mission is Personal and Ongoing
God’s call is not a one-time event or a special assignment for a select few. Each believer is called to daily mission, wherever they are, as part of God’s redemptive purpose. Our lives are not accidents; God places us intentionally, inviting us to reveal His glory and love in every context, whether at home, work, or across the world. [01:04:29]
- Preparation Often Comes Through Adversity
God shapes and prepares us for His mission through seasons of difficulty and waiting. The stories of Abraham, Moses, David, and others show that adversity is not a sign of God’s absence, but often the crucible in which our character is formed for greater assignment. The hardship you face today may be the very preparation needed for tomorrow’s calling. [01:27:13]
- Obedience Unlocks God’s Covenant and Purpose
God’s promises and covenants are not negotiable; they are invitations to trust and obey. Our willingness to adjust our lives to God’s direction, rather than asking Him to fit into our plans, is what moves us into the center of His activity. Obedience is the key that unlocks the fullness of God’s blessing and purpose in our lives. [01:24:53]
- Your Legacy is Shaped by Faithfulness, Not Fame
The impact of your life is not measured by worldly recognition, but by your faithfulness to God’s mission. Like the heroes of faith in Hebrews 11, your influence may not make headlines, but it will echo in eternity—shaping generations, healing wounds, and advancing God’s kingdom. The legacy you leave is determined by your willingness to say “yes” to God, wherever He leads. [01:30:59]
Youtube Chapters
[00:00] - Welcome
[59:58] - The Mandate: Go and Make Disciples
[01:01:10] - Who is the Holy Spirit?
[01:02:58] - Trusting God’s Guidance in Uncertainty
[01:04:29] - Mission vs. Missions: Our Daily Calling
[01:06:37] - God Uses Imperfect People
[01:10:01] - A Bird’s Eye View: God’s Work in the Nations
[01:11:52] - The Peaks of God’s Mission: Key Biblical Figures
[01:15:01] - Adjusting Our Lives to God’s Call
[01:17:25] - Imagining the Call: Stories of the Called
[01:21:54] - A Wide-Angle Perspective on Your Life
[01:23:50] - Spiritual Markers: Recognizing God’s Direction
[01:24:53] - The Covenant of Obedience
[01:27:13] - Preparation Through Adversity
[01:28:57] - God’s Perfect Guidance
[01:30:59] - Legacy and Influence: What Will You Leave?
[01:33:26] - God’s Global Mission in Our Generation
[01:37:11] - Prayer and Communion
[01:42:10] - Benediction: Sent with Purpose
[01:44:32] - Closing
Study Guide
Bible Study Discussion Guide
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### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 28:18-20
*Then Jesus came to them and said, “All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Therefore go and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, and teaching them to obey everything I have commanded you. And surely I am with you always, to the very end of the age.”*
2. Acts 1:8
*But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.*
3. Hebrews 11:8-10, 32-40
*(The “Hall of Faith” – stories of Abraham, Moses, David, and others who responded to God’s call and were faithful even through adversity.)*
---
### Observation Questions
1. According to Matthew 28:18-20, what is the main command Jesus gives to his followers before he leaves?
2. In Acts 1:8, what does Jesus say will happen when the Holy Spirit comes upon the disciples?
3. The sermon mentioned that the Holy Spirit is “not an it” but the very presence of God. What are some ways the Holy Spirit is described or symbolized in the Bible and in the sermon? [[01:01:10]]
4. The sermon gave examples of Abraham, Moses, David, Peter, Paul, and John. What were some of the unique ways God called and used these people? [[01:11:52]]
---
### Interpretation Questions
1. The sermon says, “Without the Spirit, our faith becomes mere ritual; with Him, we are drawn into the living, redemptive work of God in a broken world.” Why do you think the Holy Spirit is described as “essential, not optional” for living out God’s mission? [[01:01:10]]
2. The stories of Abraham, Moses, David, and others show that God often prepares people through adversity. How might seasons of difficulty actually be part of God’s preparation for us? [[01:27:13]]
3. The pastor said, “God’s call is always personal and purposeful. He initiates relationship, invites us to adjust our lives to Him, and shapes our character through seasons of preparation and even hardship.” What does it mean to “adjust our lives to Him” rather than asking God to fit into our plans? [[01:15:01]]
4. Hebrews 11 lists people who were faithful but not always famous or recognized in their time. How does this challenge our ideas about what it means to leave a legacy? [[01:30:59]]
---
### Application Questions
1. The sermon said, “God’s mission is not limited to ‘missions trips’ or special events, but is woven into the fabric of our daily lives.” Where has God placed you right now, and how might you see your daily routines as part of His mission? [[01:04:29]]
2. The pastor shared stories of ordinary people being used by God in extraordinary ways. Is there an area of your life where you feel unqualified or unprepared? How might God want to use you there anyway? [[01:11:52]]
3. Think about a time when you faced adversity or waiting. Looking back, can you see how God might have been preparing you for something? How does that change the way you view current challenges? [[01:27:13]]
4. The sermon emphasized obedience as the key to unlocking God’s purpose. Is there a specific area where you sense God is asking you to obey or adjust your life? What would it look like to say “yes” to Him this week? [[01:24:53]]
5. The pastor said, “You go nowhere by accident. Wherever you go, God is sending you there.” Who is someone in your neighborhood, workplace, or daily life that you could intentionally reach out to or show God’s love to this week? [[01:42:10]]
6. The sermon talked about the legacy we leave—not measured by fame, but by faithfulness. What kind of legacy do you want to leave for your family, friends, or community? What is one step you can take toward that this month? [[01:30:59]]
7. The Holy Spirit is described as the one who guides, empowers, and sends us. How can you be more open to the Holy Spirit’s leading in your decisions and relationships this week? [[01:01:10]]
---
Devotional
Day 1: The Holy Spirit Guides and Empowers Us for God’s Mission
Without the Holy Spirit’s presence and guidance, our faith becomes mere ritual, lacking the power and direction God intends for our lives. The Spirit is not an impersonal force or a distant “ghost,” but the very wind and breath of God, sent to lead us step by step into His purposes. As we journey through a broken world, it is the Spirit who equips us to move from being spectators to participators in God’s redemptive work, ensuring that we reach the destination He has prepared for us—one far greater than we could have imagined. Trusting the Spirit’s leading means surrendering our own plans and allowing God to shape our lives for His glory. [01:01:10]
John 16:13 (ESV)
“When the Spirit of truth comes, he will guide you into all the truth, for he will not speak on his own authority, but whatever he hears he will speak, and he will declare to you the things that are to come.”
Reflection: Where in your life do you need to stop relying on your own understanding and begin actively seeking the Holy Spirit’s guidance today?
Day 2: God’s Mission Is for All People—And You Are Called
God’s redemptive mission is not limited to a select few; it is a calling for every believer to participate in His plan to bless all nations. Through figures like Abraham, Moses, David, Peter, Paul, and John, God revealed His desire to reach every tribe, tongue, and nation, and He continues to invite us into this same mission. No matter your background, age, or past, God has chosen you to be part of His story, to be a minister of reconciliation, and to reflect His glory to a waiting world. Your decision to follow Jesus is just the beginning—He calls you to join Him in a lifelong journey of purpose and transformation. [01:16:24]
Matthew 28:18-20 (ESV)
“And Jesus came and said to them, ‘All authority in heaven and on earth has been given to me. Go therefore and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you. And behold, I am with you always, to the end of the age.’”
Reflection: Who in your daily life might God be calling you to reach out to as part of His mission, and what is one step you can take toward that today?
Day 3: God Prepares and Shapes You for Your Unique Assignment
God’s preparation in your life is intentional and often involves seasons of waiting, adversity, and growth. Just as He took years to prepare Abraham, Moses, David, Peter, Paul, and John for their assignments, God is shaping your character to match the purpose He has for you. The challenges and hardships you face are not wasted; they are part of His process to equip you for greater impact. Trust that even in times of difficulty, God is at work, preparing you to fulfill His mission in ways you may not yet see. [01:26:32]
James 1:2-4 (ESV)
“Count it all joy, my brothers, when you meet trials of various kinds, for you know that the testing of your faith produces steadfastness. And let steadfastness have its full effect, that you may be perfect and complete, lacking in nothing.”
Reflection: What current challenge or hardship might God be using to prepare you for a future assignment, and how can you respond with faith and openness today?
Day 4: Your Life Has a Providential Purpose—You Are Not Here by Accident
Every detail of your life—where you live, work, and worship—is part of God’s providential plan. He has placed you in this generation, in this community, for a reason, and there is no “plan B” for the work He wants to do through you. Like the great cloud of witnesses in Hebrews 11, your obedience and availability can leave a legacy that impacts generations. God’s design is for His people to function together as the body of Christ, each fulfilling their unique role for the sake of His kingdom. [01:23:50]
Ephesians 2:10 (ESV)
“For we are his workmanship, created in Christ Jesus for good works, which God prepared beforehand, that we should walk in them.”
Reflection: In what ways can you embrace your current season and location as God’s intentional placement for His purpose, and how might you step into that purpose more fully this week?
Day 5: God’s Mission Is Both Global and Local—Start Where You Are
God’s heart is for all peoples to know Him, and He is reconciling the world to Himself through Jesus Christ. You don’t have to travel overseas to participate in His mission; the nations are often right in your neighborhood, workplace, or school. God invites you to join Him in reaching out, building relationships, and sharing His love with those around you. The church is called to be both global and local, advancing God’s kingdom wherever He has placed us. Will you accept the invitation to join Him in this greatest of all endeavors? [01:35:30]
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: Who is one person from a different background or culture in your community you can intentionally connect with this week, and how will you take the first step?
Quotes
You see, unfortunately in churches today, many people go to churches to watch a concert and be a spectator. But God's not called us to be spectators. He's called us to be participators of what he's doing. And the Bible is a book of similes and metaphors and allegories and parables and types and symbols. And one of the greatest symbols we see all through Scripture is the symbol of the Holy Spirit who comes as a dove. We know the Holy Spirit is evident throughout the Bible. But before we go on, let me just clarify some things. [01:00:16] (39 seconds)
But Scripture needs to be our guide. Without him present in our lives, all we have is religion. We come ritually to do something. But without a doubt, as Gabby mentioned a moment ago, we live in a broken world with the endless cycle of decay and corruption. And so we just have to look, she mentioned Doge, we just have to look at the trillions of dollars that have been spent wrongly in our nation. And so our faith is lived out in a world as we wait for the completion of our salvation when the Lord comes again. [01:01:22] (40 seconds)
They were supposed to be our guides, but they sat there just dumbfounded with the way we were driving. And I tell that story to say something. When you ask God for a road map for your life, He replies, I have sent the Holy Spirit, and He will lead and guide you. On the way, you discover that you may not get to the destination you first had in mind, but you'll get to His destination for your life, a life that is much better at the arrival point than you ever thought. You know, I never thought I'd be a pastor. I never wanted to be a pastor. Really, I never wanted to be a pastor. Got involved in a church. [01:03:44] (46 seconds)
You see, God is not simply interested in giving you a one -time missions experience in a foreign country, like one and done, and now I've been on missions. I've been to Mexico, and I helped build a house. Now I'm done for the kingdom of God. That's not what God wants for yours and my life. There is a purpose why you are saved. There's a reason why you're even in church this morning. You see, we are to be on daily mission with Him. Why do you think we read the benediction every single week? You go nowhere by accident. If we begin to get that in our minds, that whatever we're doing, wherever we are, we're not there by accident. God has placed us there for a purpose, and God reveals Himself to you so that you can adjust your life to Him and join Him on His mission. [01:05:37] (51 seconds)
Being on mission is not a profession or vocation or location, but it's me committing my life to Him and saying, Lord, whatever it is that you want, I'm willing to do. You see, God has chosen to reveal Himself through people, and He does not have a plan B. There is no other plan if you do not fulfill that which He's called for you to do. You see, the Bible pulls no punches. It not only talks about the great things people do, but it also talks about the failures of those people, the warts and the bumps and the wrinkles, and we all have them in our life. We've all had them in our lives. We've all stumbled at some stage in our walk with Christ, but you know what? He's there to forgive us, cleanse us, and say, get up and get on with the mission. [01:06:47] (55 seconds)
And through Moses, God reveals Himself as the I am that I am, whose plan is to show His glory to the world through His people who are to be a kingdom of priests to all. Through David, God revealed that His seed would rule all nations and His kingdom would be for all peoples. Through Jesus, God revealed His love and His purpose to reconcile the world to Himself and to send His disciples as ministers of reconciliation to all people. And you and I are part of that disciple movement of reaching people for the kingdom of God. Through Peter, God demonstrated how the Holy Spirit would empower His people to be witnesses to all the world. Through Paul, God revealed the mystery of the ages, which includes all people in His plan of redemption. [01:12:53] (58 seconds)
God showed John that he wants people of all nations and creeds and tongues to worship him. You see, a decision to accept Jesus Christ as Lord is just the beginning. God is saying there's more to you than that. I've called you, I have chosen you, and I want you to participate with me on mission. You see, we are all becomers. We're all being changed from glory to glory, even as by the spirit of the living God. We're changed by his spirit. Through Jesus, we don't have to be incarcerated in our past. Each one of us have a past. Each one of us has some things in our past that we are not thankful for, that maybe we're ashamed of. And we don't have to be incarcerated in that past because God has ordained for you to do a work for him. [01:16:24] (61 seconds)
You see, by joining him in his incredible mission, you will experience God in a way that you never thought possible. And I believe that in this day and age that we're living right now, I honestly believe that we're not here by accident. We have an answer to the world's issues. And his name is Jesus Christ. And he's inviting us as a church to be part of something that he's about to do. So with that in mind, let's look at some perspectives. Let's look at the wide -angle perspective of your whole life. With this wide -angle perspective, I used Everest as an analogy because you need to look at the whole range of your life and not just a single experience. [01:21:33] (57 seconds)
So what do I mean when you say, I see a person on mission? You see, too many Christians think that being on mission with God, you've got to be in full -time ministry. But to be God -called means your life in Christ is your vocation, no matter where you get your salary check from. God calls you into relationship with him, and at the same time, he calls you into service so that you can fulfill his mission for your life. Don't you want to get to the end of your life one day and you hear him say, well done, that good and faithful servant? Second marker. God initiates a covenant of promise and obedience with you to accomplish his mission. He makes a covenant of promise and obedience and blessing for you. This covenant, though, is dependent on your obedience. [01:24:00] (65 seconds)
Part of your preparation is the fundamental desire by God to shape your character to match your assignment. Look at the characters that we just spoke about a little earlier. Firstly, God spent 40 years preparing Abraham to be the father of faith. God took 80 years to prepare Moses to lead the children of Israel. David spent 10 of the worst years of his life after he was anointed king. Peter spent three years in preparation with Jesus. But God kept on preparing him for a number of years so that he was willing to go out and minister not only to the Jews but the Gentiles as well. God sent Paul to Arabia for three years for personal training, then 10 years in his hometown of Tarsus, and then another year in Antioch with Barnabas before he sent him on his first missionary trip. God waited until John was 90 years of age before he gave him the revelation that we read in the last book of the Bible. Even Jesus was prepared for 30 years. [01:25:18] (78 seconds)
We need to take note of what God is doing in our lives right now because he's preparing you for his purpose. Maybe you're going through a hard time right now. Well, let me ask you this. Gabby spoke about it. Who are you leaning into? Are you leaning into the ways of the world? Or are you leaning... into God. You're saying, God, you know, I'm going through all of this. But why? You need to understand that the adversity you may be facing today is preparation for your assignment tomorrow. Let's think about the adversity and heartache of the seven. They were in a pressure cooker being shaped for his glory. Marker number four. God sends you where he can best work through you to accomplish his mission. Each of these seven reflected God's kingdom purposes and influenced their generation by being available. [01:26:45] (62 seconds)
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