This weekend, Pastor Matt kicks off a new series entitled “Roots”, exploring five characteristics of the Church. In today’s message, we look at how the Church is activated by the Holy Spirit by studying Acts 1:11 and 2:1-13.
The early church waited upon the Spirit, was filled up by the Spirit, was strengthened in the Spirit, was led by the Spirit, listened to the Spirit, was interrupted by the Spirit, and relied upon the Spirit. Without the Holy Spirit, there would be no church. That was true then, and is also true now.
SERMON OUTLINE
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” (Acts 1:8)
The Holy Spirit Is…
- Like Wind – beyond our control and powerful (Acts 2:1-2; John 20:22)
- Like Fire – consuming and invigorating (Acts 2:3-4; Luke 3:16)
- Like the Water – life-giving and transforming (Acts 1:5; 2:17)
The Holy Spirit Activating the Church (Acts 1:8; 2:1-13)
- Presence of God: The Holy Spirit births the church
- Power of God: The Holy Spirit indwells the church
- Mission of God: The Holy Spirit leads the church
Living with the Holy Spirit Today
- Not grieving the Holy Spirit (Ephesians 4:30)
- Cultivating holiness in life
- Quick to repent
- Keeping in step with the Holy Spirit (Galatians 5:25)
- Cultivating attentiveness in prayer
- Quick to respond
DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
- How familiar are you with the topic of the Holy Spirit? Would you say that discussing or relating to the Holy Spirit is confusing or encouraging for you? Why or why not?
- This weekend at Eastbrook we begin a new series, entitled “Roots,” looking at five essential characteristics of the church. This weekend, we will explore how the church is activated by the Holy Spirit by studying Acts 1:11 and 2:1-13. Begin this study in prayer, asking God to speak to you as you read His word. Then read those portions of Acts out loud.
- Luke, the writer of the book of Acts, sets the stage for what will happen in the entire book of Acts in Acts 1:1-11. What do these verses tell you about Jesus’ identity and mission? What does that tell you about the Holy Spirit’s identity and mission?
- What were the disciples to do in light of Jesus’ words (you also may want to look at Luke 24:45-49)?
- Turning to Acts 2, we find the disciples waiting in prayer. Suddenly, loud and startling sights appear as they are filled with the indwelling Holy Spirit. What would you say is the significance of these sights and sounds? Why might these be connected with the filling of the Holy Spirit?
- The Holy Spirit is compared to three different elements: wind, fire, and water. Look up the additional Scripture references for further background as you try to determine what these elements tell us about the nature of the Holy Spirit:
- The Holy Spirit like wind (Acts 2:1-2): Genesis 1:1-2; Ezekiel 37:1-14; John 20:22-23
- The Holy Spirit like fire (Acts 2:3-4): Luke 3:15-18; Psalm 104:4; Isaiah 6:1-7
- The Holy Spirit like water (Acts 1:5; 2:17): John 4:13-14; 7:37-39; 1 Corinthians 12:13
- Background: Pentecost is the Greek name for the Feast of Weeks, or Shavuot, which occurs 50 days after the festival of Passover. The Feast of Weeks is described in Leviticus 23 in connection with the grain harvest and bringing the first fruits of the harvest to God as a thanksgiving offering. In later Jewish tradition, Pentecost is linked with God giving the law to Moses and the people at Mount Sinai.
- Because of the festival of Pentecost, many Jews and God-fearing Gentiles from around the Mediterranean gathered in Jerusalem. Why do you think the disciples are gifted with language along with the indwelling Holy Spirit? What does this relate to Jesus’ commission in Acts 1:7-8?
- As the disciples move out from the upper room to speak to others, those gathered around them have a wide variety of responses. What are the responses? What sort of responses do you think we should expect when we step forward as witnesses of Jesus?
- How is God speaking to you about waiting for the Holy Spirit’s power in your life? What is one specific thing that God is speaking to you? How might your life look different because of what you are considering with God? If you are with a small group, discuss that with one another and pray for one another. If you are studying on your own, write it down and share it with someone this week.