Embracing the Holy Spirit!
A 4 Part Series that can be used during Sunday Gatherings or as a Week-end Retreat or Summer Camp
In the same way that a digital recording is identical in quality to the original, the book of Acts is in some respects an identical or, exact replica of its original volume – the Gospel of Luke. Acts, very clearly, continues the purpose and content of its predecessor – telling us about transformational life and ministry of Jesus on earth. In Acts however, it involves the continuing life and ministry of Jesus through His Church, as it’s empowered by the Holy Spirit. This series will explore what can happen when a church embraces the presence and power of the Holy Spirit.
(This series can also be used as part of a series on the book of Acts called Lessons from the First Church)
Embracing the Holy Spirit (Part 1) (Acts 2:1-6) – In this sermon, we look at how the Holy Spirit comes upon the early believers in Jerusalem, empowering them for worship and ministry. As we explore this topic, we’ll look at the difference between being indwelled by, and, filled with the Spirit of God, concluding with two probing questions: Is God revealing anything which would indicate that I’m not treating my body as a temple of the Holy Spirit? Is there any area of my life that the Holy Spirit does not have control over?
Embracing the Holy Spirit (Part 2) (Acts 2:1-18) – To be filled with the Spirit is to experience God in ways that you may never have experienced Him before. The story in Acts 2 tells us of the first instance in Church History where that took place. In exploring this story, we will discover what it actually means to be filled by the Holy Spirit, in the process identifying what was of lesser importance in this story and what was of greater or lasting importance. In conclusion we’ll ask ourselves the question: What do I need to let go of and surrender to God, so that I can be filled with His Spirit?
Embracing the Holy Spirt (Part 3) (Luke 19:28-44; Acts 1 & 2) – On Palm Sunday, Jesus wept over the city of Jerusalem because of their rejection of Him. Is it possible that Jesus also weeps over the church in North America today because we often reject (or neglect) the fullness and power of His Holy Spirit? In this sermon we’ll uncover ways in which we might hinder the Holy Spirit’s filling and then look at ways in which to prepare for His filling. We’ll then provide opportunity for people to ask for the Spirit’s fullness and empowerment.
Embracing the Holy Spirit (Part 4) (Acts 2:14-41) – When God fills us with His presence and power through His Holy Spirt, not only do we experience greater intimacy with God; but we feel compelled to respond to His call – to share the good news of Jesus with others. This sermon will explore the implications of obeying this call with and without the Holy Spirit’s fullness and empowerment.