Sermon Recap
This week we were reminded that the Church was never launched by human strength, strategy, or brilliance, but by the power of the Holy Spirit. Acts 2 is not just history, it is the birth of a living, advancing movement fueled by God’s presence dwelling in His people. Jesus commanded His followers to wait for power because the Kingdom of God was never meant to operate through human effort alone. From the very beginning, you see that the Church is designed to move forward only through the supernatural empowerment of the Holy Spirit.
The Holy Spirit is essential to your identity as a Christian. When you receive Christ, the Spirit takes up residence within you, marking you as one who belongs to Jesus. You cannot follow Christ, walk in victory, or live transformed without Him. The Holy Spirit is not an impersonal force to be used, but a personal, relational member of the Trinity who lives in you, guides you, teaches you, and empowers you. Without the Holy Spirit, you have no authority, no power, and no true understanding of what it means to live the Christian life.
As you look at Pentecost, you see the dunamis—explosive, world-changing—power of the Holy Spirit unleashed. Fearful disciples become bold witnesses. Cultural and language barriers collapse as the gospel is heard by people from every nation. Ordinary men and women are transformed into powerful agents of God’s Kingdom. We see the same Holy Spirit turn weakness into courage, silence into proclamation, and everyday people into vessels of supernatural impact.
We are ultimately called to recognize that this power is not just for the early church—it is for us today. True life transformation, bold witness, and Kingdom impact flow from intimacy and obedience to the Holy Spirit. The Church is not sustained by human might but by God’s Spirit alone. The same Spirit who filled the upper room now fills you, empowering you to live differently, love boldly, walk in freedom, and carry the light of Christ wherever you go.
Key Scripture
Discussion Questions
Jesus told the disciples to wait for the Holy Spirit before moving forward. In what ways do you find yourself relying on your own strength instead of waiting on and depending upon the Spirit’s power in your daily life?
The dunamis power of the Holy Spirit transformed fearful disciples into bold witnesses. Where do you sense fear, hesitation, or insecurity holding you back from living or speaking boldly for Christ, and how might the Holy Spirit want to empower you in that area?
The sermon emphasizes intimacy and obedience as the pathway to spiritual power. What does intentional intimacy with the Holy Spirit look like for you right now, and what is one practical step of obedience you can take this week to host His presence more fully?
Prayer
Holy Spirit, we invite You to fill us afresh with Your dunamis power and draw us into deeper intimacy with You. Teach us to stop relying on our own strength and to walk in obedience, boldness, and trust as You lead us each day. May our lives reflect Jesus clearly as You empower us to be lights in the darkness and witnesses of Your Kingdom.
Life Application
Prioritize daily intimacy with the Holy Spirit. Set aside intentional time each day to pray, listen, and surrender, asking the Holy Spirit to lead your thoughts, decisions, and actions instead of relying on your own strength.
Step out in Spirit-empowered obedience. Identify one area where fear or comfort has held you back from living or speaking boldly for Christ, and intentionally act in faith this week, trusting the Holy Spirit to supply the power you need.
Don’t Forget!
Rooted is Sunday Jan 18th after 11am service
Life in the Spirit Wed night class w/Pastor Rob McCorkle Jan 21st
Also register your kids for Kids Club
Starting Point Class Jan 25th
Additional Resources
Sermon Playback & Video Resources | Spotify Playlist | Church Center App