Renewal and Unity Through the Holy Spirit
Summary
On this special Pentecost Sunday, we gathered to celebrate not only the descent of the Holy Spirit but also Christian Education Sunday. The sanctuary was filled with vibrant red, symbolizing the fire of the Holy Spirit, and the joyful presence of children and a mini orchestra. As we began our worship, I welcomed everyone, both in-person and online, and emphasized our church's commitment to being a loving community for all of God's people. I invited everyone to stand and join in worship, reminding us that the Spirit of God descends upon us, fulfilling Christ's promise.
Before diving into the sermon, I reminded the congregation about the "Strengthening the Church" offering, encouraging everyone to contribute as they felt led. This offering supports one of the five missionaries of the United Church of Christ. We then turned our focus to the story of Pentecost, exploring it through the lens of Ezekiel's vision of the valley of dry bones. This vision, found in Ezekiel 37, serves as a powerful metaphor for the church's potential for renewal and resurrection through the Spirit of God.
Ezekiel's vision begins with God's Spirit, or Ruach, bringing him into a valley filled with dry bones. This vision parallels the events of Acts 2, where God's Spirit breathes new life into the community of believers, forming the body of Christ, the church. The dry bones represent the lifeless state of the church, devoid of hope and vitality. However, they cannot rise on their own; it is only through the Word of God, spoken by the prophet and empowered by the Holy Spirit, that they are brought to life.
As our congregation faces a time of transition, I emphasized the importance of allowing the Spirit to work through us. Just as Ezekiel was willing to follow God's leading, we too must be open to the Spirit's guidance. The themes of renewal, resuscitation, restoration, rejuvenation, and resurrection are crucial for us during this period. These themes challenge us to reflect on our spiritual drive and what our "dry bones" can teach us.
The Spirit, or Ruach, is not just about having breath but about having life. It is the Spirit that will give our congregation life as we navigate this transition. The scattered bones in Ezekiel's vision eventually form a united army, symbolizing unity and reconciliation. This unity is a reminder that only God has the power to bring together what has been divided or broken. As a church, we must trust in God's ability to breathe new life into us and unite us for His purposes.
In the latter part of the service, we recognized and thanked our dedicated teachers and volunteers who contribute to our Christian education programs. Their commitment to teaching and nurturing our children and youth is invaluable. We also acknowledged the parents who trust us with their children's spiritual growth. Following the service, we had an ice cream social and shared information about upcoming events like Vacation Bible School and the Freedon's family outing.
We concluded with a time of community prayer, lifting up the needs of our congregation and expressing gratitude for the ways God has been at work among us. We prayed for those facing health challenges and celebrated the return of a beloved member. As we prayed the Lord's Prayer together, we reaffirmed our trust in God's provision and guidance.
In closing, I encouraged everyone to let the Spirit continue to soar through our congregation, bringing new life and unity. We are the seeds of resurrection, called to speak God's words and bring hope to a world in need. As we move forward, let us embrace the Spirit's work in our lives and in our church, trusting that God will bring us through this time of transition with renewed strength and purpose.
### Key Takeaways
1. The Power of the Spirit in Renewal: Ezekiel's vision of the valley of dry bones illustrates that God's power is made perfect in our weakness. The church's strength lies not in human efforts but in the Spirit of God working through us. This vision reminds us that even in times of despair, God's Spirit can bring renewal and new life. [38:46]
2. Unity Through the Spirit: The scattered bones forming a united army symbolize the unity and reconciliation that God desires for His people. Only God has the power to bring together what has been divided or broken. As a church, we must trust in God's ability to unite us and work through us for His purposes. [49:34]
3. The Role of the Word of God: The dry bones in Ezekiel's vision come to life through the Word of God spoken by the prophet. This emphasizes the importance of proclaiming God's Word in our lives and communities. It is through the power of the Holy Spirit and the spoken Word that we can bring hope and life to those around us. [45:33]
4. Embracing Transition with Faith: As our congregation faces a time of transition, we must be willing to let the Spirit guide us. The themes of renewal, resuscitation, restoration, rejuvenation, and resurrection are essential during this period. Reflecting on these themes can help us understand our spiritual drive and what we can learn from our "dry bones." [46:46]
5. The Importance of Community and Gratitude: Recognizing and appreciating the contributions of our teachers, volunteers, and parents is vital for our church community. Their dedication to nurturing the spiritual growth of our children and youth is invaluable. Expressing gratitude and supporting one another strengthens our unity and helps us fulfill our mission as a church. [01:00:13]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[08:42] - Pentecost Sunday Introduction
[09:33] - Beginning of Worship
[37:20] - Strengthening the Church Offering
[38:46] - Ezekiel's Vision of Dry Bones
[40:16] - Can These Bones Live?
[44:53] - Explanation of Dry Bones
[45:33] - The Power of God's Word
[46:46] - Facing Transition with the Spirit
[48:11] - Themes of Renewal and Resurrection
[49:34] - Unity and Reconciliation
[54:46] - Community Prayer
[58:07] - Recognizing Teachers and Volunteers
[01:00:13] - Gratitude for Parents
[01:03:15] - Upcoming Events and Announcements
[01:05:10] - Closing Remarks and Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. Ezekiel 37:1-10 - The Vision of the Valley of Dry Bones
2. Acts 2:1-4 - The Coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost
#### Observation Questions
1. What does Ezekiel see in the valley in Ezekiel 37:1-2?
2. How does God instruct Ezekiel to prophesy to the dry bones in Ezekiel 37:4-6?
3. What happens to the bones as Ezekiel prophesies in Ezekiel 37:7-10?
4. According to Acts 2:1-4, what were the signs that the Holy Spirit had come upon the believers?
#### Interpretation Questions
1. In Ezekiel 37:3, God asks, "Can these bones live?" Why do you think God asks this question, and what is Ezekiel's response? How does this reflect his faith? [40:16]
2. How does the vision of the dry bones in Ezekiel 37 relate to the events of Pentecost in Acts 2? What similarities and differences do you see in how the Spirit brings life and renewal in both passages?
3. The sermon mentioned that the dry bones represent the lifeless state of the church. What might be some "dry bones" in our own church or spiritual lives that need the Spirit's renewal? [44:53]
4. The sermon emphasized the importance of unity and reconciliation through the Spirit. How does the formation of a united army from scattered bones in Ezekiel 37:10 symbolize this? [49:34]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflecting on Ezekiel's vision, what are some areas in your life or in our church that feel like "dry bones"? How can you invite the Spirit to bring renewal and life to these areas? [44:53]
2. The sermon highlighted the importance of being open to the Spirit's guidance during times of transition. How can you personally be more receptive to the Spirit's leading in your life? [46:46]
3. Unity and reconciliation were key themes in the sermon. Are there any relationships in your life or within the church that need healing and reconciliation? What steps can you take to foster unity? [49:34]
4. The role of the Word of God was emphasized in bringing life to the dry bones. How can you incorporate more of God's Word into your daily routine to experience its life-giving power? [45:33]
5. The sermon mentioned the importance of community and gratitude. How can you show appreciation for the teachers, volunteers, and parents in our church community? What specific actions can you take this week to express your gratitude? [01:00:13]
6. As we face transitions, the sermon encouraged us to reflect on our spiritual drive. What motivates your spiritual journey, and how can you align it more closely with the themes of renewal, resuscitation, restoration, rejuvenation, and resurrection? [48:11]
7. The Spirit's work in bringing new life was a central theme. How can you actively participate in the Spirit's work in our church and community? What specific steps can you take to be a "seed of resurrection" in your daily interactions? [41:20]
Devotional
Day 1: The Spirit's Power in Renewal
The vision of the valley of dry bones in Ezekiel 37 serves as a powerful reminder of God's ability to bring renewal and new life, even in the most desolate circumstances. The dry bones represent a state of hopelessness and lifelessness, much like the church can sometimes feel when it is devoid of spiritual vitality. However, it is through the Spirit of God, or Ruach, that these bones are brought to life. This vision parallels the events of Pentecost in Acts 2, where the Holy Spirit descends upon the believers, breathing new life into them and forming the body of Christ, the church.
As we face times of despair or transition, it is crucial to remember that our strength does not come from human efforts but from the Spirit of God working through us. The Spirit's power is made perfect in our weakness, and it is through this divine power that we can experience renewal and new life. Let us open our hearts to the Spirit's work and trust in God's ability to bring us through any challenging season with renewed strength and purpose. [38:46]
Ezekiel 37:5-6 (ESV): "Thus says the Lord God to these bones: Behold, I will cause breath to enter you, and you shall live. And I will lay sinews upon you, and will cause flesh to come upon you, and cover you with skin, and put breath in you, and you shall live, and you shall know that I am the Lord."
Reflection: In what areas of your life do you feel like dry bones, devoid of hope and vitality? How can you invite the Spirit of God to bring renewal and new life into these areas today?
Day 2: Unity Through the Spirit
The scattered bones in Ezekiel's vision eventually form a united army, symbolizing the unity and reconciliation that God desires for His people. This unity is a powerful reminder that only God has the power to bring together what has been divided or broken. In the context of the church, this means that our unity and strength come from the Spirit of God working through us, not from our own efforts.
As a church, we must trust in God's ability to unite us and work through us for His purposes. This unity is essential for fulfilling our mission and being a loving community for all of God's people. Let us seek the Spirit's guidance in fostering unity and reconciliation within our congregation and beyond. [49:34]
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 relationships in your life or within the church that need reconciliation? How can you seek the Spirit's guidance in fostering unity and peace in these relationships today?
Day 3: The Role of the Word of God
In Ezekiel's vision, the dry bones come to life through the Word of God spoken by the prophet. This emphasizes the importance of proclaiming God's Word in our lives and communities. It is through the power of the Holy Spirit and the spoken Word that we can bring hope and life to those around us.
As believers, we are called to speak God's words and bring hope to a world in need. This means not only reading and meditating on Scripture but also sharing it with others and living it out in our daily lives. Let us be intentional about proclaiming God's Word and allowing the Spirit to work through us to bring life and hope to those around us. [45:33]
Isaiah 55:10-11 (ESV): "For as the rain and the snow come down from heaven and do not return there but water the earth, making it bring forth and sprout, giving seed to the sower and bread to the eater, so shall my word be that goes out from my mouth; it shall not return to me empty, but it shall accomplish that which I purpose, and shall succeed in the thing for which I sent it."
Reflection: How can you be more intentional about proclaiming God's Word in your daily life? Is there someone you can share a specific Scripture with today to bring them hope and encouragement?
Day 4: Embracing Transition with Faith
As our congregation faces a time of transition, it is essential to be open to the Spirit's guidance. The themes of renewal, resuscitation, restoration, rejuvenation, and resurrection are crucial during this period. Reflecting on these themes can help us understand our spiritual drive and what we can learn from our "dry bones."
Transitions can be challenging, but they also offer opportunities for growth and renewal. By embracing the Spirit's work in our lives and in our church, we can navigate this time of change with faith and trust in God's provision and guidance. Let us be willing to follow the Spirit's leading and embrace the new opportunities that come our way. [46:46]
Isaiah 43:18-19 (ESV): "Remember not the former things, nor consider the things of old. Behold, I am doing a new thing; now it springs forth, do you not perceive it? I will make a way in the wilderness and rivers in the desert."
Reflection: What are some areas of transition or change you are currently facing? How can you invite the Spirit to guide you and bring renewal during this time?
Day 5: The Importance of Community and Gratitude
Recognizing and appreciating the contributions of our teachers, volunteers, and parents is vital for our church community. Their dedication to nurturing the spiritual growth of our children and youth is invaluable. Expressing gratitude and supporting one another strengthens our unity and helps us fulfill our mission as a church.
As we move forward, let us continue to show appreciation for those who serve and contribute to our community. By fostering a culture of gratitude and support, we can create a loving and united church that reflects God's love to the world. Let us also remember to lift up the needs of our congregation in prayer and celebrate the ways God has been at work among us. [01:00:13]
1 Thessalonians 5:11 (ESV): "Therefore encourage one another and build one another up, just as you are doing."
Reflection: Who in your church community can you show appreciation and gratitude to today? How can you support and encourage them in their ministry and service?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "The story of dry bones takes place at the intersection of humanity's weakness and God's divine power. The story is a reminder to the church that God's power is made great in our weakness. That the power the church holds is not the power of the sword. But the power of God's spirit that is working through the proclamation of the word." [38:46]
2. "It is renewal. It is, here's a big word, resuscitation, which means revive. Restoration, rest. Here's another one. Rejuvenation, energy. And resurrection. These are the things, my brothers and sisters and friends, that the Spirit will bring that you will need in this time of transition. But it also will challenge you to ask and answer the question, what will your spiritual drive be? What will your dry bones teach you?" [48:11]
3. "Ruach, the word that also is used for spirit means that merely having breath does not make one alive. But it is the Spirit, little s, capital S, it is the Spirit that gives us life. It is the Spirit that will give this congregation life as you walk through this time of transition. Breath is necessary, but it's not sufficient." [48:58]
4. "The scattered bones form a united army, a symbol of unity and reconciliation that reminds the church, that reminds freedoms, that God desires God's people to be united, that only God has the power to bring together what has been divided or broken." [49:34]
### Quotes for Members
1. "God's commandment, friends, to the church, is to speak God's words directly to the dry bones of death and injustice, and hopelessness that have engulfed our society. And it is through the ministries of local churches, but right now, I'm speaking to one church, to the church on the hill. It is through the ministries of the church on this hill that the Spirit can bring new life to the dead bones in our world. You and I are the seeds of resurrection. Because we are speaking, and we have the responsibility to speak God's words." [41:20]
2. "These dried up bones represent the body of Christ, the church, who claim to be lifeless, who claim to be without any sense of hope. Ezekiel doesn't command the bones of skeletons or dead bodies to get up, yet they cannot rise under their own power. Why is that? Why can't they rise under their own power? Anybody? More? What did you say? They're dead. They're dead. They have no power. But what gives them power? What lifts them up? It is the Word of God spoken through the prophet chosen by God." [45:33]
3. "If you are a visitor, let me share with you that in a little over a month, a little less actually than a month, this congregation is going through transition, is going to go through a transition. And as I sat and I wrote this sermon, I want to say to you that the Spirit is here. The Spirit is alive. You have got to be willing to let the Spirit do the Spirit's job. The Spirit, God is using you to act through God's Spirit as you face this time of transition." [46:46]
4. "Finally, the scattered bones form a united army, a symbol of unity and reconciliation that reminds the church, that reminds freedoms, that God desires God's people to be united, that only God has the power to bring together what has been divided or broken. Let me read that again. The scattered bones form a united army, a symbol of unity and reconciliation that reminds the church that God desires God's people to be united and that only God, only God, only God, say it with me, only God, louder, only has the power to bring together what has been divided or broken." [49:34]
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