Empowered Living: Embracing Authority and the Holy Spirit
Summary
Today, I began by sharing a light-hearted moment with the congregation, reflecting on the humorous side of life and ministry, which set a welcoming tone for the sermon. I then transitioned into the core message, focusing on the significant period between Easter and Pentecost, emphasizing the teachings and actions of Jesus during this time. This period is crucial as it marks the resurrection of Jesus and the forthcoming outpouring of the Holy Spirit, which are foundational to our faith and daily living.
I delved into the scriptural passage from Matthew 28, where Jesus, after His resurrection, appears to His disciples, instructing them not to be afraid and to go forth spreading the news of His resurrection. This directive from Jesus highlights the transition from fear to mission, a theme that resonates deeply with our calling as Christians to be messengers of the Good News.
Further, I explored the profound implications of Jesus' declaration that all authority in heaven and on earth has been given to Him. This statement is not just a theological assertion but a practical reality that should influence how we live, pray, and interact with others. It underscores our mission to make disciples of all nations, baptizing them and teaching them to observe all that Jesus commanded.
In discussing the challenges and victories of Christian life, I shared personal anecdotes from my missionary experiences and pastoral ministry, emphasizing that while the journey is fraught with difficulties, the victory of Jesus is a constant source of strength and motivation. This victory should affect every aspect of our lives, including our prayer life and our interactions with others, encouraging us to live from a place of victory and not defeat.
The sermon concluded with a call to embrace the Holy Spirit's guidance in our daily lives, encouraging trust and submission to His leading. This is crucial for living out the fullness of a Spirit-led life, which impacts not only personal spirituality but also our engagement with the world around us.
Key Takeaways:
1. Understanding Jesus' Authority Transforms Us - Recognizing that all authority has been given to Jesus changes how we view ourselves and our mission in the world. It empowers us to live boldly and confidently, knowing that we are operating under the supreme authority of Christ. This should transform our approach to discipleship, urging us to engage actively in spreading the teachings of Jesus. [01:04:07]
2. Victory in Jesus Shapes Our Prayer Life - The victory of Jesus is not just a past event but a present reality that influences our prayer life. Praying from a place of victory means we approach God with confidence, knowing that Jesus has overcome the world. This perspective should permeate our prayers, intercessions, and daily interactions with God, fostering a deeper relationship with Him. [01:26:13]
3. The Holy Spirit as Our Guide - The role of the Holy Spirit in our lives is indispensable. As Jesus promised the outpouring of the Holy Spirit, we too must lean on His guidance daily. The Holy Spirit reveals Jesus to us, helps us understand Scripture, and empowers us for ministry. Trusting the Holy Spirit leads to a fruitful, fulfilling Christian life that is responsive to God’s call. [01:34:17]
4. Mission as a Way of Life - Being a Christian is not just about attending church services but living out the Great Commission daily. Whether at home, in the workplace, or in the broader community, we are called to be lights in the world, reflecting the love and truth of Jesus in all we do. This mission-focused living ensures that our faith has a tangible impact on the world around us. [01:43:12]
5. Engaging with Eschatology Practically - While eschatological studies are fascinating, they should not distract us from fulfilling our immediate responsibilities as believers. Understanding the end times should not lead to speculation but rather motivate us to live faithfully and actively in the present, fulfilling Christ’s mandate to be witnesses in all the earth. [01:19:13]
Chapters:
0:00 - Welcome
01:00:52 - Introduction to the Post-Easter Period
01:02:07 - Prayer and Invocation of the Holy Spirit
01:03:07 - The Six Do's and Don'ts from Jesus' Post-Resurrection Teachings
01:04:07 - Authority and Commissioning
01:25:34 - The Victory of Jesus and Its Implications
01:26:13 - Practical Victory in Prayer
01:30:28 - Relational Dynamics in Christian Living
01:32:49 - Challenges and Encouragements for Believers
01:42:53 - Being a Light in Everyday Contexts
01:44:27 - Closing Prayer and Invitation for Personal Ministry
01:45:28 - Benediction and Farewell
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Matthew 28:16-20 - "Then the eleven disciples went to Galilee, to the mountain where Jesus had told them to go. When they saw him, they worshiped him; but some doubted. 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 1:6-8 - "Then they gathered around him and asked him, 'Lord, are you at this time going to restore the kingdom to Israel?' He said to them: 'It is not for you to know the times or dates the Father has set by his own authority. 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. John 21:15-17 - "When they had finished eating, Jesus said to Simon Peter, 'Simon son of John, do you love me more than these?' 'Yes, Lord,' he said, 'you know that I love you.' Jesus said, 'Feed my lambs.' Again Jesus said, 'Simon son of John, do you love me?' He answered, 'Yes, Lord, you know that I love you.' Jesus said, 'Take care of my sheep.' The third time he said to him, 'Simon son of John, do you love me?' Peter was hurt because Jesus asked him the third time, 'Do you love me?' He said, 'Lord, you know all things; you know that I love you.' Jesus said, 'Feed my sheep.'"
#### Observation Questions
1. What command does Jesus give to His disciples in Matthew 28:19-20?
2. In Acts 1:6-8, what does Jesus say about the timing of the restoration of the kingdom to Israel?
3. How does Jesus restore Peter in John 21:15-17, and what does He ask Peter to do? [01:07:58]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. What does Jesus' declaration of having "all authority in heaven and on earth" imply about our mission as Christians? [01:04:07]
2. How should the promise of the Holy Spirit's power in Acts 1:8 influence our daily lives and ministry efforts?
3. What is the significance of Jesus asking Peter three times if he loves Him, and how does this relate to Peter's earlier denial? [01:07:58]
#### Application Questions
1. How can recognizing Jesus' authority in your life change the way you approach your daily tasks and interactions with others? [01:04:07]
2. Reflect on a recent challenge you faced. How can the victory of Jesus shape your prayer life and response to similar challenges in the future? [01:26:13]
3. In what ways can you actively seek the guidance of the Holy Spirit in your decisions and actions this week? [01:34:17]
4. Think of a specific area in your life where you have experienced failure. How can you bring this to Jesus and allow His restoration to redefine you? [01:10:06]
5. How can you live out the Great Commission in your current context, whether at home, work, or in your community? [01:43:12]
6. What steps can you take to ensure that your focus on eschatology does not distract you from fulfilling your immediate responsibilities as a believer? [01:19:13]
7. Identify one person in your life who needs to hear the Good News. How can you share the love and truth of Jesus with them this week? [01:43:12]
Devotional
Day 1: Embracing Christ's Ultimate Authority
Understanding that all authority has been given to Jesus transforms our perspective on life and mission. When we grasp the magnitude of Jesus' authority, it empowers us to live boldly and confidently. This realization is not just about acknowledging His power but actively incorporating this truth into every aspect of our lives. It means stepping out in faith to spread His teachings and make disciples, knowing that we are backed by the highest power in existence. This empowerment should lead us to engage more fervently in our communities and beyond, as we carry the message of Christ's love and salvation to all corners of the earth. [01:04:07]
Matthew 28:18-20
"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: How can you exercise the authority given to you through Christ in your current circumstances?
Day 2: Living in the Reality of Jesus' Victory
The victory of Jesus over sin and death is a cornerstone of our faith, influencing not only our spiritual outlook but also our daily interactions and prayers. Praying from a place of victory changes our approach; we pray with confidence, knowing that we are communicating with a God who has already overcome the world. This victorious stance should permeate our entire life, encouraging us to face challenges with courage and to intercede for others with steadfast faith. Let this reality mold our relationships and our commitments, as we live out the victory of Jesus in practical, everyday ways. [01:26:13]
Romans 8:37
"No, in all these things we are more than conquerors through him who loved us."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to start praying from a position of victory?
Day 3: Guided Daily by the Holy Spirit
The indispensable role of the Holy Spirit in our lives cannot be overstated. As believers, leaning on the Holy Spirit for daily guidance is crucial for a fruitful and fulfilling Christian life. The Spirit not only reveals Jesus to us and helps us understand Scripture but also empowers us for ministry. This guidance should be sought in every decision and action, allowing the Holy Spirit to lead us into deeper understanding and effective service. Trusting in this divine guidance ensures that our lives are aligned with God's will, making us responsive to His call and ready to act on His directives. [01:34:17]
John 16:13-14
"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. He will glorify me, for he will take what is mine and declare it to you."
Reflection: What is one decision you are facing where you need to seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance today?
Day 4: Mission as a Lifestyle
Being a Christian extends beyond weekly church attendance; it involves embodying the Great Commission in every aspect of our lives. Whether at home, in the workplace, or within the community, we are called to be ambassadors of Christ, reflecting His love and truth. This mission-focused living ensures that our faith actively impacts the world around us, turning every interaction into an opportunity to demonstrate the grace and truth of Jesus. Let us embrace this call wholeheartedly, seeking to influence our surroundings positively as we live out our faith. [01:43:12]
1 Peter 2:9
"But you are a chosen race, a royal priesthood, a holy nation, a people for his own possession, that you may proclaim the excellencies of him who called you out of darkness into his marvelous light."
Reflection: How can you be a light in your immediate environment this week?
Day 5: Engaging with Eschatology in Everyday Life
While the study of end times can be intriguing, it should not distract us from our immediate responsibilities as believers. Understanding eschatology should motivate us to live faithfully and actively in the present, fulfilling Christ’s mandate to be His witnesses in all the earth. This practical engagement with our eschatological beliefs encourages us to remain vigilant and proactive in our Christian walk, ensuring that our actions and decisions are aligned with the eternal perspective of God’s kingdom. [01:19:13]
2 Peter 3:11-12
"Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness, waiting for and hastening the coming of the day of God, because of which the heavens will be set on fire and dissolved, and the heavenly bodies will melt as they burn!"
Reflection: What is one way you can better prepare for Christ’s return through your daily actions?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "Don't let failures define you. Don't let your doubts define what Jesus has for you. Bring Jesus to wherever it's around you. And when we all get to heaven, Jesus's death, burial, and resurrection has so much power to challenge us." [01:43:49]
2. "When we know the authority of Jesus, it changes the way we relate to ourselves, the way we relate to others. When Jesus is victorious, then my sin does not defeat him. And I can be honest with Jesus, man, I screwed up, would you forgive me?" [01:30:28]
3. "Jesus, help me to be the best light I can be for you here as a fill in the blank. Now, if the Lord has put a calling on your heart you'll know but the vast majority of us don't. Be the best I can be in this." [01:41:08]
4. "The Holy Spirit loves to reveal Jesus to us. So when you get in the Word, I mean, this is the easiest way to do it, to learn, to say, okay, Lord, Holy Spirit, I've opened here or I'm reading in the book of Luke, I'm reading in John, would you just speak to me about Jesus as I read here?" [01:34:47]
5. "The world needs Jesus. Therefore, the world needs us to carry the Holy Spirit with us wherever we go and Jesus just have fun. I think Jesus is just waiting. He's waiting to have fun." [01:36:17]
### Quotes for Members
1. "Understand the authority of Jesus. Trust the Holy Spirit and be ready to be a light because you are one. Let me pray with you. And then when I finish praying, if you would like someone to agree with you over one of these areas, the pastors will be up here." [01:44:27]
2. "He challenges us to trust and submit to the Holy Spirit. Here, we read here in Acts, he says, you know, you don't need to worry about this. What you need to do is you need to wait in Jerusalem until you are endowed with power by the Holy Spirit." [01:33:36]
3. "I trust you, Jesus. Yes. So I think it should affect our prayer life when we're praying, Lord Jesus, bring this person. I think that's why Paul prayed his apostolic prayers that we call them in Ephesians and in Colossians, where he says, Lord, open the eyes of their heart that they would see who you are, the depth of your love, the greatness of your power." [01:27:42]
4. "It's the time, God, you gotta move. I am of the generation of the 88 reasons why the rapture is in 1988. Y2K. The Soviet Union and the end of the world. I mean, I don't know. I've lived through the end of the world like nine times." [01:22:23]
5. "Do you realize when you leave this building, you don't leave the presence of the Lord? You have the presence of the Lord with you wherever you go. It's called the Holy Spirit. If you don't have the Holy Spirit around to take care of that, will you lay hands on me? Yes. But the Holy Spirit's with you and wants to be with you." [01:35:42]
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