Repentance, Renewal, and the Power of the Spirit

Devotional

Day 1: The Cycle of Blessing and Rebellion

Throughout history, God's people have experienced a cycle of blessing, rebellion, judgment, and repentance. This cycle is evident in the book of Joel, where a devastating locust plague serves as a divine call to repentance. Joel's message is clear: return to the Lord with genuine heart change, seek forgiveness, and recommit to God. This call to repentance is not just about avoiding judgment but about experiencing God's mercy and restoration. Joel emphasizes that true repentance involves a transformation of the heart, not just outward actions. This cycle reminds us of God's patience and willingness to restore us when we turn back to Him.

In our own lives, we may find ourselves in similar cycles of blessing and rebellion. We experience God's blessings, but sometimes we drift away, prioritizing other things over our relationship with Him. When we face the consequences of our actions, it is an opportunity to return to God with a sincere heart. God's desire is not to punish but to bring us back into a loving relationship with Him. As we reflect on this cycle, let us be mindful of the areas in our lives where we need to seek God's forgiveness and renewal. [31:17]

Joel 2:12-13 (ESV): "Yet even now," declares the Lord, "return to me with all your heart, with fasting, with weeping, and with mourning; and rend your hearts and not your garments." Return to the Lord your God, for he is gracious and merciful, slow to anger, and abounding in steadfast love; and he relents over disaster.

Reflection: What is one area of your life where you have drifted away from God? How can you begin to return to Him with a genuine heart change today?

Day 2: The Fulfillment of Joel's Prophecy

In Acts 2, we see the fulfillment of Joel's prophecy as the Holy Spirit descends upon the disciples. This event marks the beginning of a new era where God's Spirit is poured out on all people, not just a select few. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, stands up and delivers the first gospel sermon, connecting Joel's prophecy to the events of that day. He emphasizes that the promise of the Holy Spirit and salvation is for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord. This moment signifies the inclusivity of God's plan and the beginning of the church's mission to spread the gospel to all nations.

The outpouring of the Holy Spirit is a powerful reminder that God's presence is available to all who seek Him. It is not limited to a specific group or time period but is a gift for all believers. This fulfillment of prophecy shows God's faithfulness to His promises and His desire for all people to experience His love and salvation. As we reflect on this event, let us be encouraged to seek the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment in our own lives, knowing that we are part of God's ongoing plan of redemption. [40:08]

Acts 2:17-18 (ESV): "‘And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams; even on my male servants and female servants in those days I will pour out my Spirit, and they shall prophesy."

Reflection: How can you open yourself up to the Holy Spirit's work in your life today? What steps can you take to be more receptive to His guidance and empowerment?

Day 3: The Role of the Holy Spirit

The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force but a personal, powerful presence in our lives. Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would come to guide, comfort, and empower His followers. This promise is not just for the early church but for all believers throughout history. The Holy Spirit enables us to live out our faith, to be witnesses of Jesus in our communities and beyond. The presence of the Holy Spirit in our lives is a testament to God's ongoing work in and through us, equipping us for the mission He has called us to.

The Holy Spirit's role is multifaceted, providing us with wisdom, strength, and comfort in our daily walk with God. He convicts us of sin, leads us into truth, and empowers us to live in a way that honors God. As we rely on the Holy Spirit, we can experience a deeper relationship with God and a greater impact in our witness to others. Let us be intentional in seeking the Holy Spirit's presence and allowing Him to work through us for God's glory. [52:24]

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 ways do you need the Holy Spirit's guidance and empowerment in your life right now? How can you invite Him to take a more active role in your daily walk with God?

Day 4: Living with an Eternal Perspective

While we may not know the exact timing of Jesus' return, we are called to live as if it could happen at any moment. This urgency should drive us to share the gospel, to live out our faith authentically, and to be ready for Christ's return. The message of Joel and the events of Acts 2 remind us that God's plan of redemption is unfolding, and we are invited to be a part of it. Living with an eternal perspective means prioritizing what truly matters and being mindful of how our actions align with God's purposes.

An eternal perspective helps us to focus on the bigger picture and to live with intentionality. It encourages us to invest in relationships, to serve others, and to share the hope we have in Christ. As we navigate the challenges and distractions of daily life, let us remember that our ultimate goal is to glorify God and to be ready for His return. This perspective can transform the way we approach our responsibilities, relationships, and opportunities, making each moment count for eternity. [33:24]

2 Peter 3:10-11 (ESV): "But the day of the Lord will come like a thief, and then the heavens will pass away with a roar, and the heavenly bodies will be burned up and dissolved, and the earth and the works that are done on it will be exposed. Since all these things are thus to be dissolved, what sort of people ought you to be in lives of holiness and godliness."

Reflection: How can you live with a greater sense of urgency and purpose today, knowing that Jesus could return at any moment? What changes can you make to align your life more closely with God's eternal perspective?

Day 5: The Inclusive Nature of God's Salvation

The prophecy of Joel and its fulfillment in Acts 2 highlight the inclusive nature of God's salvation. The promise of the Holy Spirit and salvation is for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord. This message is a call to repentance, renewal, and a deeper relationship with God. It challenges us to live with an eternal perspective, to be filled with the Holy Spirit, and to share the good news of Jesus with the world. God's desire is for all people to come to know Him and to experience His love and grace.

As believers, we are called to be ambassadors of this inclusive message, reaching out to those who may feel excluded or distant from God. The gospel is for everyone, regardless of background, culture, or past mistakes. Let us be intentional in sharing this message of hope and salvation with those around us, inviting them to experience the transformative power of God's love. [47:47]

Romans 10:12-13 (ESV): "For there is no distinction between Jew and Greek; for the same Lord is Lord of all, bestowing his riches on all who call on him. For 'everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved.'"

Reflection: Who in your life needs to hear the inclusive message of God's salvation? How can you share the good news of Jesus with them in a loving and authentic way today?

Sermon Summary

### Summary

In today's message, we explored the profound prophecy of Joel and its fulfillment in the New Testament, particularly in the book of Acts. We began by reflecting on the cyclical nature of God's relationship with His people. God blesses His people, but they often rebel and disobey, leading to judgment. This cycle is evident in the book of Joel, where a devastating locust plague serves as a divine call to repentance and renewal. Joel's message is clear: return to the Lord with genuine heart change, seek forgiveness, and recommit to God. This call to repentance is not just about avoiding judgment but about experiencing God's mercy and restoration.

We then transitioned to the New Testament, where the prophecy of Joel finds its fulfillment. In Acts 2, we see the disciples gathered in an upper room, waiting in fear and uncertainty. But then, the Holy Spirit descends upon them, igniting a new hope and courage. This event marks the beginning of a new era where God's Spirit is poured out on all people, not just a select few. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, stands up and delivers the first gospel sermon, connecting Joel's prophecy to the events of that day. He emphasizes that the promise of the Holy Spirit and salvation is for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord.

We also discussed the significance of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer. The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force but a personal, powerful presence in our lives. Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would come to guide, comfort, and empower His followers. This promise is not just for the early church but for all believers throughout history. The Holy Spirit enables us to live out our faith, to be witnesses of Jesus in our communities and beyond.

Furthermore, we reflected on the importance of living with an eternal perspective. While we may not know the exact timing of Jesus' return, we are called to live as if it could happen at any moment. This urgency should drive us to share the gospel, to live out our faith authentically, and to be ready for Christ's return. The message of Joel and the events of Acts 2 remind us that God's plan of redemption is unfolding, and we are invited to be a part of it.

In conclusion, the prophecy of Joel and its fulfillment in Acts 2 highlight the incredible gift of the Holy Spirit and the inclusive nature of God's salvation. This message is a call to repentance, renewal, and a deeper relationship with God. It challenges us to live with an eternal perspective, to be filled with the Holy Spirit, and to share the good news of Jesus with the world.

###

Key Takeaways

1. The Cycle of Blessing and Rebellion: Throughout history, God's people have experienced a cycle of blessing, rebellion, judgment, and repentance. This cycle is evident in the book of Joel, where a devastating locust plague serves as a divine call to repentance. Joel's message is clear: return to the Lord with genuine heart change, seek forgiveness, and recommit to God. This call to repentance is not just about avoiding judgment but about experiencing God's mercy and restoration. [31:17]
2. The Fulfillment of Joel's Prophecy: In Acts 2, we see the fulfillment of Joel's prophecy as the Holy Spirit descends upon the disciples. This event marks the beginning of a new era where God's Spirit is poured out on all people, not just a select few. Peter, filled with the Holy Spirit, stands up and delivers the first gospel sermon, connecting Joel's prophecy to the events of that day. He emphasizes that the promise of the Holy Spirit and salvation is for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord. [40:08]
3. The Role of the Holy Spirit: The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force but a personal, powerful presence in our lives. Jesus promised that the Holy Spirit would come to guide, comfort, and empower His followers. This promise is not just for the early church but for all believers throughout history. The Holy Spirit enables us to live out our faith, to be witnesses of Jesus in our communities and beyond. [52:24]
4. Living with an Eternal Perspective: While we may not know the exact timing of Jesus' return, we are called to live as if it could happen at any moment. This urgency should drive us to share the gospel, to live out our faith authentically, and to be ready for Christ's return. The message of Joel and the events of Acts 2 remind us that God's plan of redemption is unfolding, and we are invited to be a part of it. [33:24]
5. The Inclusive Nature of God's Salvation: The prophecy of Joel and its fulfillment in Acts 2 highlight the inclusive nature of God's salvation. The promise of the Holy Spirit and salvation is for everyone who calls on the name of the Lord. This message is a call to repentance, renewal, and a deeper relationship with God. It challenges us to live with an eternal perspective, to be filled with the Holy Spirit, and to share the good news of Jesus with the world. [47:47]
### [47:47]

Youtube Chapters

[00:00] - Welcome
[27:31] - Introduction to At the Movies Series
[28:35] - The Breath of God and Our Mission
[30:13] - Understanding the Book of Joel
[31:17] - The Cycle of Blessing and Rebellion
[32:23] - The Call to Repentance
[33:24] - Living in the End Times
[34:55] - The Judgment of God
[36:38] - The Day of the Lord
[37:20] - Restoring the Lost Years
[40:08] - Joel's Prophecy and God's Plan
[42:02] - The Mission of God's People
[45:05] - The Fulfillment of Joel's Prophecy
[47:47] - The Inclusive Nature of Salvation
[49:15] - Peter's First Gospel Sermon
[52:24] - The Role of the Holy Spirit
[55:39] - The Disciples' Transformation
[58:16] - The First Converts
[60:44] - The Gift of the Holy Spirit
[66:25] - Invitation to Respond
[68:31] - Closing Prayer and Song

Bible Study Guide

Observation Questions

What was the cyclical pattern of behavior described in the book of Joel? ([31:17])
How did Peter connect Joel's prophecy to the events of Pentecost in Acts 2? ([45:43])
What are the two gifts mentioned by Peter that believers receive upon repentance and baptism? ([50:24])
How did the Holy Spirit transform the disciples' behavior in Acts 2? ([56:08])

Interpretation Questions

What does the cyclical pattern of blessing, rebellion, judgment, and repentance in Joel teach us about human nature and God's response? ([31:17])
How does the fulfillment of Joel's prophecy in Acts 2 demonstrate the inclusive nature of God's salvation plan? ([47:47])
In what ways does the Holy Spirit empower believers to live out their faith according to the sermon? ([52:24])
How should the urgency of living with an eternal perspective influence our daily actions and decisions? ([33:24])

Application Questions

Reflect on a time when you experienced a cycle of blessing, rebellion, and repentance in your own life. How did you see God's mercy and restoration during that period? ([31:17])
How can you actively seek to be filled with the Holy Spirit in your daily life? What steps can you take to be more aware of His presence and guidance? ([52:24])
The sermon emphasized the importance of living with an eternal perspective. What specific changes can you make in your life to prioritize sharing the gospel and living authentically for Christ? ([33:24])
Think of someone in your life who has not yet experienced the gift of the Holy Spirit. How can you share the message of salvation with them in a loving and effective way? ([47:47])
The disciples were transformed from fearful individuals to bold witnesses after receiving the Holy Spirit. What fears or uncertainties are holding you back from fully living out your faith, and how can you overcome them? ([56:08])
How can you cultivate a deeper relationship with God and seek His forgiveness and renewal in your life? What practical steps can you take to recommit to God with genuine heart change? ([32:23])
The sermon mentioned the importance of being ready for Christ's return at any moment. What specific actions can you take this week to live as if Jesus could return today? ([33:24])

Sermon Clips

### Quotes for Outreach

1. "When we as a church breathe in, it kind of pulls us all into a room like this where we get kind of inspired and fueled up but we don't hold our breath, right? We don't just stay in here. We as a church kind of breathe out too and as we breathe out, that's God's way of sending us out. We're dispersed into the community. Whatever job you have, wherever you go to school, whatever ball team you play for, whatever neighborhood you're in, we're breathing out into the community the love of Jesus." [29:08](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

2. "If Jesus were to return an hour from now, are you ready? And if you're not, you can be moments from now. So we're gonna stand. We're gonna sing a song. I'm gonna pray for us. We're gonna have prayer partners come up to the front. And the way it works here is, during this song, with the lights a little dim, not everybody's looking at you, everybody's pulling for you, walk across the room. Connect with a prayer partner. You don't even have to say, what do I need to do? Because we already told you. Repent and be baptized. Every one of you. In the name of Jesus Christ, for the forgiveness of your sins. And you'll receive the gift of the Holy Spirit." [01:06:25](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

3. "You should live today as if the return of Christ can happen at any moment. Because it can. And if He came back, listen, in an hour. Does it really matter what's gonna happen in 2025? Does it really matter who's gonna be elected in November of 2020 or February of 2025? We don't know when we're gonna know the answer to all that. What matters most is have you received the gift?" [01:03:37](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

4. "God is not slow in keeping his promise. As people understand slowness, he is patient. He doesn't want anyone to perish, the Bible says. He wants everyone to come to repentance. So God is literally holding back the close of history in hopes that some of you who have not yet connected to him through his son can make that decision. So God is a good God. That's why he's holding back." [33:57](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

5. "Everyone who calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. Joel's prophecy is looking forward to a day after his day, after his generation, when God would actually do, do even more than just restore the years the locusts have eaten. He will pour out his spirit on all nations. That was God's plan of redemption from the very beginning. In fact, that's the thread that you see through the entire Bible." [40:08](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

### Quotes for Members

1. "It was good news for God's people. It's great news for us that God can actually do the impossible, that he can do what no human can do. He can actually restore time, the Christless years, the rebellious years, the fruitless years, the painful, sorrowful, suffering years, right? Those years that we lost, that we can never get back. God says he can restore those years. It's a miracle that can come through his blessing." [37:20](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

2. "They were huddled behind a locked door. About 120 of Jesus' disciples that had started to follow Him. In a little upper room, they were whispering prayers that sounded like, Lord, we're in way over our heads. Lord, we're scared to death. Are we gonna be next? Are we going to a cross? Lord, we got tons of questions, very few answers. We don't know what to do. It's just not in us to pull this off. What you've asked is way too hard. You ever prayed a prayer like that?" [55:39](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

3. "The real miracle here is that what Jesus had promised and Joel had prophesied about, that God was no longer out there somewhere, that God, by His Holy Spirit, was not just visiting people from time to time in and out like He was in the Old Testament. But listen, this was a new day. God was pouring out His Spirit. He was moving in. He was taking up residence in them now. Every believer after the resurrection." [01:00:05](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

4. "They begin speaking in foreign languages so that each person who had come from all over the world to celebrate Pentecost, right, to celebrate the feasts, could hear them in their own languages. People from other countries could hear the apostles speaking in their own native language. The charge was made that the apostles must be drunk. And Peter cleared the air. Beginning in verse 14, here's what he said. Acts two, verse 14. It says, then Peter stood up with the 11, 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." [45:05](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

5. "They were gonna be history makers. They were gonna turn the world upside down by their ministry. They were gonna be His witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. And I bet they were thinking, you know, we weren't real great while you were here. Like, how are we gonna pull this off without you, Jesus? I mean, we're fishermen. We're carpenters. We're tax collectors. It's just not in us to pull this off because they're still in Acts 1. And Jesus tells them, well, listen, you're gonna have to wait. And as you wait, the gift that my Father promised, the one that Joel told about in Joel 2 that you're gonna preach about in a few minutes, Peter, is coming, but you're gonna have to wait. And when that gift comes, when the Holy Spirit comes upon you, you will have the power it takes to pull this off, what I'm asking you to do." [53:26](Download raw clip | Download cropped clip | Download vertical captioned clip)

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Transcript

What was the most surprising thing in this sermon?

Were there any personal stories shared?