Stirring Up the Holy Spirit Within Us
Summary
### Summary
Welcome, everyone. Today, we delve into the transformative power of the Holy Spirit and how it stirs up our faith. We begin by acknowledging that without God, we are spiritually dead, but with Him, we are translated from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light. This transformation gives us a new identity in Christ, as stated in 2 Corinthians 5:17, where the old is gone, and the new has come. We are new creations with a new purpose and belonging in Christ ([02:12]).
Continuing our Pentecost series, we focus on being "Stirred Up" in our faith. Last week, we talked about being fueled up for God, and today, we build on that by stirring up the gift of the Holy Spirit within us. Paul, in his letter to Timothy, reminds him to stir up the gift of God through the laying on of hands, emphasizing that God has given us a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind ([03:16]). This gift is the baptism in the Holy Spirit, a gift that empowers us to live a dynamic and impactful spiritual life.
We all start with a small ember of faith, which has the potential to become a great, burning fire. This ember needs to be fanned into flame, turning potential into kinetic energy, making our spiritual lives powerful and dynamic. This transformation allows us to shine the light of Jesus in our communities, workplaces, and schools ([05:01]). The baptism in the Holy Spirit equips us with power and boldness to be effective witnesses for Christ.
The day of Pentecost, as described in Acts 2, is a pivotal moment where the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues. This event signifies the importance of being baptized in the Holy Spirit, which is available to all believers. Jesus instructed His disciples to wait in Jerusalem until they received this gift, which would empower them to be His witnesses to the ends of the earth ([06:29]). This same power is available to us today, enabling us to share our faith boldly and effectively.
Speaking in tongues is a significant aspect of the baptism in the Holy Spirit. It is a supernatural response to the Holy Spirit, allowing us to communicate directly with God. This personal prayer language edifies our spirits, aligns us with God, and renews our minds ([10:04]). In a corporate setting, the gift of tongues, paired with the interpretation of tongues, serves to edify and strengthen the entire congregation ([18:13]).
We are encouraged to contend for the baptism in the Holy Spirit in our lives, churches, and the world. This baptism provides us with the power to be effective witnesses for Christ, fulfilling the Great Commission. It is not just about speaking in tongues but about being filled with the Holy Spirit to live a life of power and boldness ([21:24]).
In conclusion, the baptism in the Holy Spirit is a gift that empowers us to live a dynamic and impactful spiritual life. It transforms our small ember of faith into a great, burning fire, enabling us to shine the light of Jesus in our communities. Let us stir up this gift within us, pray in tongues, and seek the baptism in the Holy Spirit to be effective witnesses for Christ.
### Key Takeaways
1. Transformation in Christ: Without God, we are spiritually dead, but with Him, we are translated from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light. This transformation gives us a new identity, purpose, and belonging in Christ. We become new creations, and the old is completely removed. This new identity empowers us to live a life that reflects God's love and purpose. [02:12]
2. Stirring Up the Gift: Paul reminds Timothy to stir up the gift of God within him, which is the baptism in the Holy Spirit. This gift is not just for personal edification but for empowering us to live a dynamic and impactful spiritual life. It gives us a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind, enabling us to be effective witnesses for Christ. [03:16]
3. The Ember of Faith: Our faith starts as a small ember with the potential to become a great, burning fire. This transformation requires us to fan the flame, turning potential into kinetic energy. As we stir up the gift of the Holy Spirit within us, our spiritual lives become powerful and dynamic, allowing us to shine the light of Jesus in our communities. [05:01]
4. The Day of Pentecost: The day of Pentecost is a pivotal moment where the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues. This event signifies the importance of being baptized in the Holy Spirit, which empowers us to be effective witnesses for Christ. This same power is available to us today, enabling us to share our faith boldly and effectively. [06:29]
5. Speaking in Tongues: Speaking in tongues is a significant aspect of the baptism in the Holy Spirit. It is a supernatural response to the Holy Spirit, allowing us to communicate directly with God. This personal prayer language edifies our spirits, aligns us with God, and renews our minds. In a corporate setting, the gift of tongues, paired with the interpretation of tongues, serves to edify and strengthen the entire congregation. [10:04]
### Youtube Chapters
[0:00] - Welcome
[02:12] - Transformation in Christ
[03:16] - Stirring Up the Gift
[05:01] - The Ember of Faith
[06:29] - The Day of Pentecost
[10:04] - Speaking in Tongues
[18:13] - Corporate Use of Tongues
[21:24] - Contending for the Holy Spirit
[30:29] - Closing Prayer
Study Guide
### Bible Study Discussion Guide
#### Bible Reading
1. 2 Corinthians 5:17 - "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, the new creation has come: The old has gone, the new is here!"
2. 2 Timothy 1:5-7 - "I am reminded of your sincere faith, which first lived in your grandmother Lois and in your mother Eunice and, I am persuaded, now lives in you also. For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands. For the Spirit God gave us does not make us timid, but gives us power, love and self-discipline."
3. Acts 2:1-4 - "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."
#### Observation Questions
1. What does 2 Corinthians 5:17 say about our identity in Christ? How does this verse describe the transformation that occurs when we become believers?
2. According to 2 Timothy 1:5-7, what does Paul remind Timothy to do with the gift of God within him? What characteristics does the Spirit give us? [03:16]
3. Describe the events that took place on the day of Pentecost as recorded in Acts 2:1-4. What was the immediate result of the disciples being filled with the Holy Spirit? [06:29]
#### Interpretation Questions
1. How does the transformation described in 2 Corinthians 5:17 impact a believer's daily life and purpose? What does it mean to be a new creation in Christ?
2. In 2 Timothy 1:5-7, Paul emphasizes the importance of stirring up the gift of God. How can believers today actively fan into flame the gift of the Holy Spirit in their lives? [03:16]
3. The day of Pentecost was a significant event for the early church. How does the baptism in the Holy Spirit, as experienced by the disciples, empower believers to be effective witnesses for Christ today? [06:29]
#### Application Questions
1. Reflect on your own spiritual journey. How have you experienced the transformation described in 2 Corinthians 5:17? What changes have you noticed in your identity and purpose since becoming a believer?
2. Paul encourages Timothy to stir up the gift of God within him. What practical steps can you take this week to fan into flame the gift of the Holy Spirit in your life? [03:16]
3. The sermon mentioned that our faith starts as a small ember with the potential to become a great, burning fire. What are some ways you can fan the flame of your faith to make it more dynamic and impactful? [05:01]
4. Speaking in tongues was highlighted as a significant aspect of the baptism in the Holy Spirit. Have you experienced this gift? If so, how has it impacted your prayer life and relationship with God? If not, what are your thoughts or questions about this gift? [10:04]
5. The sermon emphasized the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit to live a life of power and boldness. In what areas of your life do you need more boldness to share your faith? How can you seek the Holy Spirit's empowerment in these areas? [21:24]
6. The day of Pentecost was a pivotal moment for the early church. How can you create an environment in your small group or church that encourages the baptism in the Holy Spirit and the use of spiritual gifts? [06:29]
7. The sermon concluded with a call to contend for the baptism in the Holy Spirit in our lives, churches, and the world. What specific actions can you take to pursue this baptism and encourage others to do the same? [21:24]
Devotional
Day 1: Transformed Identity in Christ
Description: Without God, we are spiritually dead, but with Him, we are translated from the kingdom of darkness into the kingdom of light. This transformation gives us a new identity, purpose, and belonging in Christ. We become new creations, and the old is completely removed. This new identity empowers us to live a life that reflects God's love and purpose. As stated in 2 Corinthians 5:17, "Therefore, if anyone is in Christ, he is a new creation. The old has passed away; behold, the new has come." This transformation is not just a change in behavior but a complete renewal of our inner being, aligning us with God's will and purpose for our lives. [02:12]
Ephesians 2:4-5 (ESV): "But God, being rich in mercy, because of the great love with which he loved us, even when we were dead in our trespasses, made us alive together with Christ—by grace you have been saved."
Reflection: Think about an area of your life where you still feel bound by your past. How can you embrace your new identity in Christ and let go of the old today?
Day 2: Stirring Up the Gift
Description: Paul reminds Timothy to stir up the gift of God within him, which is the baptism in the Holy Spirit. This gift is not just for personal edification but for empowering us to live a dynamic and impactful spiritual life. It gives us a spirit of power, love, and a sound mind, enabling us to be effective witnesses for Christ. The Holy Spirit equips us with the necessary tools to fulfill God's purpose in our lives and to impact those around us positively. By stirring up this gift, we activate the power within us to overcome challenges and to be bold in our faith. [03:16]
2 Timothy 1:6-7 (ESV): "For this reason I remind you to fan into flame the gift of God, which is in you through the laying on of my hands, for God gave us a spirit not of fear but of power and love and self-control."
Reflection: What specific steps can you take today to stir up the gift of the Holy Spirit within you? How can you use this gift to impact someone in your community?
Day 3: Fanning the Ember of Faith
Description: Our faith starts as a small ember with the potential to become a great, burning fire. This transformation requires us to fan the flame, turning potential into kinetic energy. As we stir up the gift of the Holy Spirit within us, our spiritual lives become powerful and dynamic, allowing us to shine the light of Jesus in our communities. The process of fanning the flame involves consistent prayer, reading the Word, and seeking God's presence. This daily commitment helps our faith grow stronger and more vibrant, enabling us to be effective witnesses for Christ. [05:01]
1 Thessalonians 5:19-21 (ESV): "Do not quench the Spirit. Do not despise prophecies, but test everything; hold fast what is good."
Reflection: Identify one practical way you can fan the flame of your faith today. How can you make this a daily habit to ensure your faith continues to grow?
Day 4: Empowered by the Day of Pentecost
Description: The day of Pentecost is a pivotal moment where the disciples were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues. This event signifies the importance of being baptized in the Holy Spirit, which empowers us to be effective witnesses for Christ. This same power is available to us today, enabling us to share our faith boldly and effectively. Jesus instructed His disciples to wait in Jerusalem until they received this gift, which would empower them to be His witnesses to the ends of the earth. The baptism in the Holy Spirit is essential for living a dynamic and impactful spiritual life. [06:29]
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: Reflect on your own experience with the Holy Spirit. How can you seek a deeper infilling of the Holy Spirit to empower you in your daily walk with Christ?
Day 5: Speaking in Tongues and Edification
Description: Speaking in tongues is a significant aspect of the baptism in the Holy Spirit. It is a supernatural response to the Holy Spirit, allowing us to communicate directly with God. This personal prayer language edifies our spirits, aligns us with God, and renews our minds. In a corporate setting, the gift of tongues, paired with the interpretation of tongues, serves to edify and strengthen the entire congregation. This practice helps build a stronger connection with God and enhances our spiritual growth. It is a powerful tool for personal and communal edification. [10:04]
1 Corinthians 14:4-5 (ESV): "The one who speaks in a tongue builds up himself, but the one who prophesies builds up the church. Now I want you all to speak in tongues, but even more to prophesy. The one who prophesies is greater than the one who speaks in tongues, unless someone interprets, so that the church may be built up."
Reflection: If you have the gift of speaking in tongues, how can you use it to edify yourself and others today? If not, how can you seek this gift and its benefits in your spiritual life?
Quotes
### Quotes for Outreach
1. "We all start with that little ember of faith. We all start with a well of salvation inside of us when we believe in Jesus. And that well of salvation is there when we read Scriptures and we put water into that well. And we feed on His Word and we spend time in prayer. And we feed into that well that we have. But when we're baptized in the Holy Spirit, that well becomes a river of living water. On the day of the Tabernacles of the Feast, Jesus got up and He stood on the table. That's how I picture it. And He's making a big scene and He says, Out of me will flow rivers of living water. He wants us all to have that well, but He wants us to have that well to be turned into rivers of living water. Like a mighty rushing wind, like a mighty rushing river in our lives. It makes an impact." [24:00]
2. "We become supernatural beings, because without God, we are spiritually dead. We're spiritually separate from Him for eternity. But with God in our lives, when we believe in Him, we are transmitted. We are translated and transported from that kingdom of darkness into that kingdom of light. Now, I've got a lot of scripture verses for you. So we have spiritual life in Christ. Amen? And Galatians 2.20, it's already been said this morning. I have been crucified. have a new identity in Christ. It says in 2 Corinthians 5.17 that we are new creations in Christ. Therefore, the old is gone. It is completely removed. It is marked out, and the new is here, and we are a spiritual being. We have a new identity in Christ." [02:12]
3. "It's great. You're spiritually alive. You're seated with me in heavenly realms. But wait. He said, wait in the city of Jerusalem until you will receive from me the gift, until you receive from me the promise that my Father is going to send you. In Acts chapter 1, He talks about, Jesus says, Do not leave Jerusalem, but wait for the gift my Father has promised. You have heard me speak about this before. For John baptized with water. In a few days, you will be baptized in the Holy Spirit. And in Luke chapter 24, He says, I'm going to send you what my Father has promised you. But wait until in the city, until you are clothed with power from on high. So it's a gift of power that God is going to give them. And He performs that and gives them that on the day of Pentecost." [09:20]
4. "Because in Pentecost here, on this day, they only heard them speak the wonders of God, and it says they were amazed, and perplexed, they were confused. They couldn't understand fluently what these guys were actually talking about, and that's why they would joke and say some of them have been filled with too much wine, they're drunk, they're babbling. But that's not what the baptism in the Holy Spirit is for, because Peter stood up in boldness and in power, and then he preached to them in the common language for all to hear and understand. He didn't get up and preach to them all in tongues to understand. He preached in the common language." [12:47]
### Quotes for Members
1. "We all start with a small ember of faith, which has the potential to become a great, burning fire. This ember needs to be fanned into flame, turning potential into kinetic energy, making our spiritual lives powerful and dynamic. This transformation allows us to shine the light of Jesus in our communities, workplaces, and schools. The baptism in the Holy Spirit equips us with power and boldness to be effective witnesses for Christ." [05:01]
2. "Paul writes here, Therefore, I remind you to stir up the gift of God that is in you through the laying on of my hands. Now, what gift is this talking about here? It says, For God did not give us a spirit of fear, but one of power, one of love, and one of a sound mind. Now, the gift that is given by the laying on of hands, and it is given by Jesus, is the baptism in the Holy Spirit. And through Scripture as well, you can read Luke 11, 13, where it says, If you then who are evil know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father in Heaven give the Holy Spirit to those who ask Him? It's a gift. The baptism in the Holy Spirit is a gift given to believers." [04:09]
3. "So what we want to do this morning and what we want to do throughout this whole series is we want to contend for the baptism of the Holy Spirit in our lives. We want to contend for the baptism of the Holy Spirit in our churches. We want to contend for the baptism of the Holy Spirit for our world because to be able to go out there, we need to be filled with power just like the disciples were. In Acts 1, verse 8, it says, But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in Judea, in Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Now Jesus knew He was going to use us, His disciples, His believers to propagate His gospel and His mission across this world. That's why He gave us the Great Commission. But He didn't want us to be helpless in that. He didn't want us to be powerless in that. And that's why He said, You've got to receive the baptism in the Holy Spirit because that's when you receive power to be my witnesses, to be His living witnesses." [21:24]
4. "And every time I spend time with God, every time I stir my own faith up with God by praying in tongues, this fire inside of me just builds and it builds and it builds and I grow weary of holding it in. I just have to tell somebody. And it's not like in an awkward way when I go up to somebody in the street and say, Do you know Jesus? You have to know Jesus. You have to make Him your Lord. No, it's in a natural way. God has done so much for me in my life. Guess what, man? I'm just so blessed because God has done this in my life. And you know what? He loves you too. It's just a natural way we can be living witnesses for Jesus. So I just encourage you this morning, if you are baptized in the Holy Spirit, to stir that gift up within you. To pray in tongues in your own personal devotional lives. Just really stir that up within you and build from that well to the rivers of living water and build from that ember to the big burning bonfire within you." [26:04]
5. "So on the day of Pentecost, as our example, the disciples, they got baptized in the Holy Spirit, and they began to speak out in other tongues. Now, these tongues was the ability that came not from their own, their own understanding, it came not from their own strength, but it was a specific language, and it wasn't a specific language, but it was a supernatural response to the Holy Spirit. So these tongues, they didn't know what they were saying. They didn't understand what they were saying. They were just responding to the supernatural experience they just had being baptized in the Holy Spirit. So they began to speak out in these other tongues that they didn't understand. And what happened was, all the people around them, around the city, all the people around the upper room where they were, they began to hear these people speak out in other tongues. And what they heard was their own language coming from these people's mouths, from these disciples' mouths who were baptized in the Holy Spirit." [11:28]
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