Empowered for Mission: The Birth of the Church

Devotional

Day 1: The Unified Mission of the Church

The mission of the church is to disciple the world for Christ, as Jesus commanded His disciples to be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. This mission is not fragmented but unified in its purpose to spread the gospel and make disciples. The early church understood this mission clearly and pursued it with unwavering dedication. They were not content with merely maintaining their faith within their community but were driven to share the good news of Jesus Christ with everyone they encountered.

This mission continues today, and each believer is called to participate in it. The church's mission is not a casual endeavor but a divine mandate to reach the world for Christ. This involves outreach, worship, fellowship, training, and ministry. As we reflect on the early church's example, we are challenged to be active in our faith, ensuring that the ripple effect of the gospel continues to spread. [42:16]

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: Think of one person in your local community who does not know Christ. How can you intentionally reach out to them this week and share the love of Jesus with them?

Day 2: The Empowering Presence of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit's arrival at Pentecost was marked by audible, visual, and linguistic signs, empowering the disciples to witness effectively. This same Spirit dwells within us today, enabling us to fulfill God's mission with boldness and power. The sound of a mighty rushing wind, tongues like fire, and the ability to speak in various languages were all signs that validated the Holy Spirit's arrival and equipped the disciples for their mission.

The Holy Spirit is not just a historical figure but an active presence in our lives today. He empowers us to live out our faith boldly and to share the gospel with those around us. We are not left to our own devices but are given the strength and courage needed to fulfill God's mission. As we rely on the Holy Spirit, we can be confident that He will guide us and work through us to accomplish His purposes. [43:37]

John 14:26 (ESV): "But the Helper, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, he will teach you all things and bring to your remembrance all that I have said to you."

Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need the Holy Spirit's empowerment? Ask the Holy Spirit to fill you with His power and boldness to witness for Christ today.

Day 3: The Early Church's Devotion

The early church's practices of teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer provide a blueprint for us. Their devotion to these activities fostered a strong sense of community and mission, reminding us of the importance of these elements in our own church life. They were committed to learning from the apostles' teaching, sharing life together, remembering Christ's sacrifice through communion, and praying together.

This devotion created a vibrant and growing community that was attractive to those around them. It wasn't just about individual spirituality but about building a community that reflected the love and grace of Jesus Christ. As we look to the early church as a model, we are encouraged to prioritize these practices in our own lives and churches, fostering a sense of unity and purpose. [45:18]

Acts 2:42 (ESV): "And they devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers."

Reflection: How can you incorporate the early church's practices into your daily life? Choose one practice (teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, or prayer) to focus on this week and make it a priority.

Day 4: The Call to Repentance

Peter's sermon emphasized the need for repentance and the promise of the Holy Spirit to all who believe. This call to repentance is timeless, urging us to turn from our sins and embrace the salvation offered through Jesus Christ. Repentance is not just a one-time event but a continual turning away from sin and turning towards God.

The promise of the Holy Spirit is given to all who repent and believe in Jesus Christ. This promise is for us today, just as it was for the early believers. As we repent and seek God's forgiveness, we are assured of His grace and the indwelling presence of the Holy Spirit. This call to repentance is a reminder of the ongoing need for humility and dependence on God's mercy. [01:03:04]

Acts 3:19 (ESV): "Repent therefore, and turn back, that your sins may be blotted out, that times of refreshing may come from the presence of the Lord."

Reflection: Is there a specific sin in your life that you need to repent of? Take time today to confess it to God, seek His forgiveness, and ask for the Holy Spirit's help to turn away from it.

Day 5: Active Participation in God's Mission

Each believer, empowered by the Holy Spirit, is called to participate in the mission of the church. This involves outreach, worship, fellowship, training, and ministry. The early church's example challenges us to be active in our faith, ensuring that the ripple effect of the gospel continues to spread. We are not called to be passive spectators but active participants in God's mission.

This participation requires intentionality and commitment. It means stepping out of our comfort zones, using our gifts and talents for God's glory, and being willing to serve others. As we engage in God's mission, we experience the joy and fulfillment that comes from being part of something greater than ourselves. The early church's dedication to the mission serves as an inspiration for us to be fully engaged in the work God has called us to do. [01:20:08]

1 Peter 4:10-11 (ESV): "As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God's varied grace: whoever speaks, as one who speaks oracles of God; whoever serves, as one who serves by the strength that God supplies—in order that in everything God may be glorified through Jesus Christ."

Reflection: What specific role can you play in God's mission? Identify one way you can actively participate in outreach, worship, fellowship, training, or ministry this week and take a step towards it.

Sermon Summary

### Summary

Today, we delved into Acts chapter 2, exploring the birth of the early church and the profound significance of the Holy Spirit's arrival at Pentecost. The mission of the church is singular: to disciple the world for Christ. Jesus commissioned His disciples to be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. This mission is not just historical but continues to this day, reaching even our local communities.

The disciples were instructed to stay in Jerusalem and wait for the promise of the Holy Spirit. This promise was fulfilled with audible, visual, and linguistic signs: the sound of a mighty rushing wind, tongues like fire resting on their heads, and the ability to speak in various languages. These signs validated the Holy Spirit's arrival and empowered the disciples to witness effectively.

Peter's sermon at Pentecost, which drew from Joel 2 and Psalms 16 and 110, clarified that the events were a fulfillment of prophecy. He emphasized the necessity of repentance and the promise of the Holy Spirit to all who believe. The early church's practices—teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer—serve as a model for us today. They were devoted to these activities, which fostered a strong sense of community and mission.

The church's mission is not a casual endeavor but a divine mandate to reach the world for Christ. This mission involves outreach, worship, fellowship, training, and ministry. Each believer, empowered by the Holy Spirit, is called to participate in this mission. The early church's example challenges us to be active in our faith, ensuring that the ripple effect of the gospel continues to spread.

###

Key Takeaways

1. The Singular Mission of the Church: The mission of the church is to disciple the world for Christ, as Jesus commanded His disciples to be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. This mission is not fragmented but unified in its purpose to spread the gospel and make disciples. [42:16]
2. The Promise and Power of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit's arrival at Pentecost was marked by audible, visual, and linguistic signs, empowering the disciples to witness effectively. This same Spirit dwells within us today, enabling us to fulfill God's mission with boldness and power. [43:37]
3. The Early Church as a Model: The early church's practices of teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer provide a blueprint for us. Their devotion to these activities fostered a strong sense of community and mission, reminding us of the importance of these elements in our own church life. [45:18]
4. The Necessity of Repentance: Peter's sermon emphasized the need for repentance and the promise of the Holy Spirit to all who believe. This call to repentance is timeless, urging us to turn from our sins and embrace the salvation offered through Jesus Christ. [63:04]
5. Active Participation in God's Mission: Each believer, empowered by the Holy Spirit, is called to participate in the mission of the church. This involves outreach, worship, fellowship, training, and ministry. The early church's example challenges us to be active in our faith, ensuring that the ripple effect of the gospel continues to spread. [01:20:08]
### [80:08]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[40:46] - Introduction and Announcements
[41:30] - The Mission of the Church
[42:16] - Jesus' Commission to the Disciples
[42:56] - The Promise of the Holy Spirit
[43:37] - The Holy Spirit's Role
[44:38] - The Birth of the Church
[45:18] - Early Church Practices
[46:08] - The Ripple Effect of the Gospel
[47:15] - The Day of Pentecost
[48:11] - Signs of the Holy Spirit's Arrival
[50:03] - Speaking in Tongues
[51:02] - Witnessing to Devout Jews
[52:03] - The Normative Work of the Holy Spirit
[53:01] - The Filling of the Holy Spirit
[56:02] - Peter's Sermon: Joel 2
[59:59] - The Last Days and the Holy Spirit
[63:04] - The Call to Repentance
[64:30] - Peter's Sermon: Psalm 16
[67:00] - The Humiliation and Exaltation of Christ
[70:47] - The Exaltation of Jesus Christ
[71:25] - The Response to Peter's Sermon
[72:34] - The Promise for All Generations
[73:10] - The Early Church's Growth
[74:38] - Devotion to Apostles' Teaching and Fellowship
[77:02] - Caring for Each Other
[78:37] - The Urgency of the Mission
[80:08] - Joining the Mission
[81:39] - Closing Prayer and Invitation

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What were the three signs that accompanied the arrival of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost? ([49:10])
According to Peter's sermon, what was the significance of the events at Pentecost in relation to Joel's prophecy? ([58:20])
How did the early church practice their faith according to Acts 2:42-47? ([45:18])
What was Peter's call to action for the people after his sermon? ([01:11:25])

Interpretation Questions

Why do you think the Holy Spirit's arrival was marked by such dramatic signs (wind, fire, and speaking in tongues)? How do these signs validate the Holy Spirit's presence and power? ([49:10])
How does Peter's use of Joel 2:28-32 help to explain the events of Pentecost to the crowd? What does this say about the fulfillment of prophecy? ([58:20])
In what ways does the early church's devotion to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer serve as a model for modern churches? ([45:18])
What is the significance of repentance in Peter's sermon, and how does it relate to receiving the Holy Spirit? ([01:11:25])

Application Questions

The mission of the church is to disciple the world for Christ. How can you personally contribute to this mission in your local community? ([41:30])
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to witness effectively. Can you recall a time when you felt the Holy Spirit guiding you in sharing your faith? How did it impact the situation? ([43:37])
The early church was devoted to teaching, fellowship, breaking bread, and prayer. Which of these practices do you find most challenging to incorporate into your life, and why? ([45:18])
Peter emphasized the necessity of repentance. Is there an area in your life where you need to repent and seek God's forgiveness? How can you take steps towards repentance this week? ([01:03:04])
Each believer is called to participate in God's mission. What specific actions can you take to be more active in outreach, worship, fellowship, training, or ministry? ([01:20:08])
Reflect on the ripple effect of the gospel mentioned in the sermon. How has the gospel impacted your life, and how can you ensure it continues to spread through your actions? ([46:08])
The early church cared for each other and shared their resources. Is there someone in your church or community who needs support that you can help this week? ([01:17:02])

Sermon Clips

1. "The mission is to disciple our world for Christ. And Christ said it this way. He sent out the disciples and he said, Be witnesses to me in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and unto the uttermost. So to be witnesses. To disciple the world for Christ. To tell the world about the work of Christ and that God loves them and that Jesus saves. And there's a way to escape their sin and the penalty of sin. And so Christ sent out the disciples on this mission." [41:30] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

2. "The Holy Spirit of God is alive and well. Amen? Boy, that sounded a little weak. The Holy Spirit of God is alive and well on planet Earth in the year 2024. He's within us. That same power. That was at work through the apostles is at work in us and through us. Doing a confirming work and a work of a witness of the Spirit." [43:37] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

3. "It was almost 2,000 years ago that the church of Christ was born. And from that time on, we've had a witness that has had a ripple effect that has rippled and reached out all the way to Central Manor, Pennsylvania. And to every nation on earth. We've had the gospel spreading since that time. The birth of the early church. It all began at Pentecost." [46:08] (26 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

4. "And it shall come to pass that everyone that calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved. Have you called upon the name of the Lord to save you? I'm not asking you whether you can or can't. I'm not asking you if you're Calvinist or Arminian. I'm not asking you what your view of election is. I'm telling you that you must call upon the name of the Lord to be saved. And I'm telling you that God has called on everyone everywhere to repent." [01:03:04] (28 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

5. "We have a mission. I said last week, it's not a country club mission. You don't have to drive very far to find the kind of church I'm going to describe. There's a few people left. They've had it their way for 60 years. And they're not changing, bless God. They're going to do it this way. And they're mad because there's no kids in their church. Well, no duh. And they haven't been reaching out to them. And they didn't care enough to be relevant. They weren't on a mission." [01:17:54] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

6. "We make plans and God guides us. We want to do one thing and He changes our direction. We ask Him. We plead with God. Will you show us? God, tell us how to do this thing. And so we're actively looking for ways we can carry out that mission. But don't exempt yourself. You as an individual follower of God have the Holy Spirit of God within. And what ways is God calling you to be involved? And so I'm asking you, will you join the mission?" [01:20:08] (30 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

7. "We exist to glorify God. By doing one thing. Discipling our world for Christ. Five ways. Through outreach. You need to reach out. Praise God for those of you who went and reached out this week. You have no idea what your witness did. But you reached out. It's our obedience that God blesses. Right? And in the power of the Holy Spirit you were able to be a witness. So outreach. And then worship. We have formal worship with the preaching. With the singing of songs. We do a doxology. Last year we did catechisms. Next year we're doing some creeds. Where we try to take you deeper and help you to know that we're deeply rooted in the teachings of Scripture." [01:15:18] (43 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

8. "The exaltation of Christ involves his resurrection. It involves his ascension to heaven. It involves him being seated at the right hand of the throne of God even as we speak. And it involves one other future thing. And that is the coming of Jesus Christ to establish his kingdom. The future kingdom. We have past, present, and future. That we look ahead with hope." [01:09:09] (27 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

9. "The promise was the gift of the Holy Spirit. They could not fully comprehend it. That Jesus was leaving them. He told them, you know, let not your hearts be troubled. I'm doing a work for you. But I'm going to send a comforter to be with you. The paraclete. One to come along to be your encourager. To be the one who strengthens you. The one who empowers you. The one that prays for you when you don't know how to pray. The one who convicts you and draws you to salvation. The one who brings Scripture to mind, to memory. The one who moves you to minister to somebody." [42:56] (35 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

10. "So Peter's defending the coming of the Holy Spirit. He's explaining it. He said this was talked about in the book of Joel. This is happening here. More is going to happen later. We understand that. But there was a partial fulfillment in the book of Joel. And Peter uses this to validate that." [01:03:50] (18 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)

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