Empowered Vessels: Unity, Generosity, and Dependence on God
Summary
### Summary
Today, we celebrated the incredible generosity of our church community, which has enabled us to fund our first-ever mission trip to Poland. This mission is part of a larger vision to plant churches in 700 cities across a post-Christian nation. We are not just giving financially; we are investing in the Kingdom of God, helping to train and equip church planters who will spread the gospel across Europe. This is a testament to our belief that we bring the Lord's tithe and give offerings to further His work.
We also delved into Acts chapter 2, focusing on the day of Pentecost when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles. This event marked the birth of the church and demonstrated the power of being filled with the Holy Spirit. The apostles were like empty vessels, ready to be filled and used by God to carry His message to the world. This is a powerful reminder that God often chooses to work through people, using us as vessels to carry His presence and perform miracles.
The story of the pizza delivery man without a box illustrated the importance of being a vessel for God's work. Just as a pizza box is essential for delivering a pizza in its intended form, we are essential for carrying God's Spirit and His message to the world. The key is to be empty and available, ready to be filled with the Holy Spirit.
We also discussed the significance of the Feast of Pentecost, which lies between the Feast of Passover (symbolizing deliverance) and the Feast of Tabernacles (symbolizing provision and destiny). The Feast of Pentecost represents our dependence on God. Between our deliverance and our destiny, we must depend on God, seek His face, and be filled with His Spirit.
Finally, we emphasized the importance of unity within the church. Just as the apostles were in one place and in one accord when the Holy Spirit was poured out, we too must strive for unity. Relational barriers and unresolved tensions can hinder the work of the Holy Spirit. We must stand together, support one another, and be in alignment to see God's miraculous work in our lives and our church.
### Key Takeaways
1. Generosity Fuels Kingdom Work: Our financial contributions are not just donations; they are investments in the Kingdom of God. By funding mission trips and church planting efforts, we are enabling the spread of the gospel and the training of new leaders who will carry the message of Christ to unreached areas. This is a powerful reminder that our giving has eternal significance. [39:55]
2. Being a Vessel for God's Spirit: Just as a pizza box is essential for delivering a pizza, we are essential for carrying God's Spirit and His message. God often chooses to work through people, using us as vessels to perform His miracles. The key is to be empty and available, ready to be filled with the Holy Spirit. [56:39]
3. Dependence on God: The Feast of Pentecost, which lies between deliverance and destiny, symbolizes our dependence on God. Between our deliverance from sin and our ultimate destiny in Christ, we must depend on God, seek His face, and be filled with His Spirit. This dependence is crucial for experiencing the fullness of God's provision and purpose in our lives. [01:06:16]
4. Unity in the Church: Just as the apostles were in one place and in one accord when the Holy Spirit was poured out, we too must strive for unity. Relational barriers and unresolved tensions can hinder the work of the Holy Spirit. We must stand together, support one another, and be in alignment to see God's miraculous work in our lives and our church. [01:14:18]
5. Desire and Hunger for God: The key ingredient to experiencing the miraculous is a personal desire to seek God's face. When we hunger and thirst for righteousness, we open the doors to the miraculous. This desire propels us towards the destiny that God has for us and allows us to experience His presence and power in new and profound ways. [01:09:24]
### YouTube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[39:55] - Mission Trip to Poland
[40:33] - Vision for Church Planting
[41:26] - Importance of Generosity
[43:28] - Offering and Worship
[44:28] - Prayer for the Offering
[45:39] - Small Groups Announcement
[46:36] - Small Group Leader Training
[47:58] - Church Anniversary and Baptisms
[49:04] - Labor Day Weekend Service Update
[50:35] - Online Service Reminder
[51:36] - Acts Chapter 2 Reading
[53:00] - Peter's Address
[55:04] - The Pizza Box Analogy
[57:50] - Being Vessels for God's Spirit
[59:01] - Dependence on God
[01:02:20] - Feast of Pentecost Explained
[01:06:16] - Dependence Between Deliverance and Destiny
[01:09:24] - Increasing Desire for God
[01:10:18] - Unity in the Church
[01:14:18] - Standing Together in Unity
[01:17:15] - The Work of the Holy Spirit
[01:19:18] - Seeking the Holy Spirit
[01:21:19] - Receiving by Faith
[01:22:42] - Graduating to Greater Dependence
[01:26:15] - Pursuing God's Face
[01:27:28] - Call to Prayer and Worship
[01:38:24] - Prophetic Word and Prayer
[01:41:09] - Call to Salvation
[01:42:50] - Closing Remarks and Next Steps
Study Guide
### Bible Reading
- Acts 2:1-21: "When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven. When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken. Utterly amazed, they asked: 'Aren’t all these who are speaking Galileans? Then how is it that each of us hears them in our native language? Parthians, Medes and Elamites; residents of Mesopotamia, Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts to Judaism); Cretans and Arabs—we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!' Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, 'What does this mean?' Some, however, made fun of them and said, 'They have had too much wine.' Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: 'Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you; listen carefully to what I say. These people are not drunk, as you suppose. It’s only nine in the morning! No, this is what was spoken by the prophet Joel: "In the last days, God says, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your young men will see visions, your old men will dream dreams. Even on my servants, both men and women, I will pour out my Spirit in those days, and they will prophesy. I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke. The sun will be turned to darkness and the moon to blood before the coming of the great and glorious day of the Lord. And everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved."'"
### Observation Questions
1. What event marked the birth of the church according to Acts 2:1-4?
2. How did the crowd react when they heard the apostles speaking in their own languages? (Acts 2:6-12)
3. What Old Testament prophecy did Peter refer to in his address to the crowd? (Acts 2:16-21)
4. What analogy did the pastor use to illustrate the importance of being a vessel for God's work? [55:04]
### Interpretation Questions
1. Why is the day of Pentecost significant in the context of the birth of the church? How does this event demonstrate the power of the Holy Spirit? (Acts 2:1-4)
2. How does Peter’s explanation of the events in Acts 2:14-21 help us understand the role of the Holy Spirit in the early church?
3. What does the analogy of the pizza box teach us about our role as vessels for God's Spirit? [56:39]
4. How does the Feast of Pentecost symbolize our dependence on God between deliverance and destiny? [01:06:16]
### Application Questions
1. Generosity Fuels Kingdom Work: Reflect on your own giving. How can you view your financial contributions as investments in the Kingdom of God rather than just donations? [39:55]
2. Being a Vessel for God's Spirit: In what ways can you make yourself more available and empty to be filled with the Holy Spirit? What practical steps can you take this week to be a better vessel for God's work? [56:39]
3. Dependence on God: Think about a time when you had to depend on God between a significant deliverance and a future promise. How did that dependence shape your faith? How can you cultivate a deeper dependence on God in your current situation? [01:06:16]
4. Unity in the Church: Are there any unresolved tensions or relational barriers in your life that might be hindering the work of the Holy Spirit? What steps can you take to resolve these issues and promote unity within your church community? [01:14:18]
5. Desire and Hunger for God: How can you increase your personal desire and hunger for God? Identify one specific action you can take this week to seek God's face more earnestly. [01:09:24]
6. Practical Unity: How can you support and stand with your church leaders and fellow believers to foster a spirit of unity and collective purpose? [01:14:18]
7. Experiencing the Miraculous: What barriers might be preventing you from experiencing the miraculous in your life? How can you remove these barriers and open yourself up to the work of the Holy Spirit? [01:10:18]
Devotional
Day 1: Generosity as Kingdom Investment
Our financial contributions are not merely donations; they are investments in the Kingdom of God. By funding mission trips and church planting efforts, we enable the spread of the gospel and the training of new leaders who will carry the message of Christ to unreached areas. This is a powerful reminder that our giving has eternal significance. When we give generously, we are participating in God's work and helping to bring His light to places that need it most. Our generosity fuels the mission and vision of the church, allowing us to reach more people and make a lasting impact.
Generosity is not just about the amount we give but the heart behind it. When we give with a cheerful heart, we reflect God's own generosity towards us. Our financial contributions can transform lives, communities, and even nations. As we invest in the Kingdom, we are storing up treasures in heaven and partnering with God in His redemptive work. Let us continue to give generously, knowing that our contributions have a profound and eternal impact. [39:55]
2 Corinthians 9:6-7 (ESV): "The point is this: whoever sows sparingly will also reap sparingly, and whoever sows bountifully will also reap bountifully. Each one must give as he has decided in his heart, not reluctantly or under compulsion, for God loves a cheerful giver."
Reflection: How can you intentionally set aside a portion of your resources to invest in God's Kingdom this week? What specific mission or ministry can you support with your generosity?
Day 2: Being Empty Vessels for God's Spirit
Just as a pizza box is essential for delivering a pizza, we are essential for carrying God's Spirit and His message. God often chooses to work through people, using us as vessels to perform His miracles. The key is to be empty and available, ready to be filled with the Holy Spirit. When we empty ourselves of pride, selfishness, and distractions, we make room for God's Spirit to dwell within us and work through us. Being a vessel for God means being open, willing, and ready to be used for His purposes.
The story of the pizza delivery man without a box illustrates the importance of being a vessel for God's work. Just as a pizza box is essential for delivering a pizza in its intended form, we are essential for carrying God's Spirit and His message to the world. The key is to be empty and available, ready to be filled with the Holy Spirit. When we allow God to fill us, we become instruments of His grace, love, and power, bringing His presence to those around us. [56:39]
2 Timothy 2:21 (ESV): "Therefore, if anyone cleanses himself from what is dishonorable, he will be a vessel for honorable use, set apart as holy, useful to the master of the house, ready for every good work."
Reflection: What areas of your life need to be emptied to make room for the Holy Spirit? How can you position yourself to be a vessel for God's work today?
Day 3: Dependence on God Between Deliverance and Destiny
The Feast of Pentecost, which lies between deliverance and destiny, symbolizes our dependence on God. Between our deliverance from sin and our ultimate destiny in Christ, we must depend on God, seek His face, and be filled with His Spirit. This dependence is crucial for experiencing the fullness of God's provision and purpose in our lives. As we journey from our past to our future, we must rely on God's guidance, strength, and presence to navigate the challenges and opportunities that come our way.
Dependence on God is not a sign of weakness but a recognition of our need for His power and wisdom. When we depend on God, we acknowledge that we cannot achieve our destiny on our own. We need His Spirit to lead us, empower us, and sustain us. The Feast of Pentecost reminds us that God's provision and presence are available to us as we seek Him and rely on Him. Let us embrace our dependence on God and trust Him to lead us from deliverance to destiny. [01:06:16]
Zechariah 4:6 (ESV): "Then he said to me, 'This is the word of the Lord to Zerubbabel: Not by might, nor by power, but by my Spirit, says the Lord of hosts.'"
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you need to depend more on God? How can you actively seek His guidance and strength in your daily walk?
Day 4: Unity in the Church
Just as the apostles were in one place and in one accord when the Holy Spirit was poured out, we too must strive for unity. Relational barriers and unresolved tensions can hinder the work of the Holy Spirit. We must stand together, support one another, and be in alignment to see God's miraculous work in our lives and our church. Unity is essential for the church to function effectively and fulfill its mission. When we are united, we create an environment where the Holy Spirit can move powerfully and bring transformation.
Unity in the church requires intentional effort and a commitment to love and support one another. It means addressing conflicts, forgiving offenses, and working together towards a common goal. When we prioritize unity, we reflect the heart of God and create a space where His presence can dwell. Let us strive for unity in our relationships, our ministries, and our church, knowing that it is through our unity that God's power is made manifest. [01:14:18]
Ephesians 4:3-4 (ESV): "Eager to maintain the unity of the Spirit in the bond of peace. There is one body and one Spirit—just as you were called to the one hope that belongs to your call."
Reflection: Are there any relational barriers or unresolved tensions in your life that need to be addressed? How can you contribute to the unity of your church community today?
Day 5: Desire and Hunger for God
The key ingredient to experiencing the miraculous is a personal desire to seek God's face. When we hunger and thirst for righteousness, we open the doors to the miraculous. This desire propels us towards the destiny that God has for us and allows us to experience His presence and power in new and profound ways. A deep longing for God draws us closer to Him and positions us to receive His blessings and guidance.
Desire and hunger for God are essential for spiritual growth and transformation. When we prioritize our relationship with God and seek Him with all our hearts, we create an environment where His Spirit can move freely. This desire leads us to deeper intimacy with God and a greater awareness of His presence in our lives. Let us cultivate a hunger for God and pursue Him passionately, knowing that it is through our desire for Him that we experience the fullness of His love and power. [01:09:24]
Psalm 42:1-2 (ESV): "As a deer pants for flowing streams, so pants my soul for you, O God. My soul thirsts for God, for the living God. When shall I come and appear before God?"
Reflection: What steps can you take to increase your desire and hunger for God? How can you prioritize seeking His face in your daily life?
Quotes
1. "We bring the Lord's tithe because it's his in the first place, the first ten. We bring that. And then we give. What you gave was an offering to help make that happen. And so, as our ushers come down to give, we gave you a little update about where we are. We receive an offering at every single service that we have as a part of our worship. It's part of worshiping God and putting him first in our lives and in our finances. Because if he's not first in your finances, it's hard to really confess that he's first in your life." [43:28] (32 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
2. "We are a church that believes that we are here to lead people far from God, closer to Jesus. And we have been doing that passionately now for four years. And we are seeing some really incredible things take place. But I want to talk to you about the events of this. This day and what happened therein." [53:47] (20 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
3. "In the same way, I believe God is looking for people. People just like you and me who are just empty vessels. Who are simply just carriers of the Spirit of God. And I believe there are miracles from heaven that are looking for vessels who will carry them. And in Acts chapter number 2, all we had was a group of 12. 12 men who were gathering with an additional group of people numbering 120. And there was a miracle from heaven called the Holy Spirit that was looking for empty vessels who would carry the culture of Christianity further and who could carry the content of the Spirit of the living God into every space and place that they could go." [59:01] (49 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
4. "It was never about the person. It was always about what the person was carrying. And you and I, as we come into a place and go, God, would you fill me with your Spirit? I am nothing all by myself. I'm just a man. I'm just water and muscle and bone and flesh like you. But it is what we are carrying that makes us valuable. It is what we are holding on to and we present to people that fills us up. See, it says that they were all filled. They were filled with the Spirit of God." [59:58] (39 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
5. "Don't you find it interesting that the thing that was between deliverance and destiny, was dependence on God. I just find it slightly ironic that when we come into places and we celebrate, we celebrate things of what God's delivered us out of and what God saved us out of and what God has set us free from. All while we are longing for the provision and the destiny moments that he has for us in our future. The dreams that he's placed in your heart that you have not seen come to pass yet. And the only thing between, between deliverance and destiny is dependence." [01:05:35] (41 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
6. "In the kingdom of God, you do not graduate from dependence to independence. In the kingdom of God, you graduate from dependence to levels of greater dependence. And then you graduate to greater levels of dependence and greater levels of dependence and greater levels of dependence because you cannot ever stop depending upon God. It's a built-in system where he's the one who says, follow me all the days of your life. I'm not saying follow me in an instant and give your heart to Jesus. It's much bigger than that. It's follow me today. Follow me the next day. Follow me in all things." [01:24:32] (46 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
7. "And they got in touch with God. And they got in touch with God. And they got in attention and they're like, God, I want you. God, I need you. God, I got to get close to you. God, my job is to teach you how to call on the name of the Lord your God and create atmosphere and environment for that to happen. You better watch out when you start getting really hungry and you start really depending and you start really craving like, whoa, whoa, whoa, this is not just pastor like teaching me something. I'm starting to want it. I'm starting to sense it." [01:26:15] (25 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
8. "And the peace of God, which transcends understanding, will guard your heart and mind in Christ Jesus. Receive that. Amen. Amen. Amen. The God is yours. We thank you for it. In Jesus' name. Amen. The text tells us you can be seated. The text tells us, not all of you. I meant him. You can stay standing because I want to identify a few people. The text tells us everybody who calls in the name of the Lord will be saved." [01:41:09] (29 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
9. "And, of course, come to party with the pastor today if you want to hear more about our vision, our values, and get involved in groups and serving." [01:43:32] (9 seconds) (Download raw clip | Download cropped clip)
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