Untitled Sermon

Pauls Missionary journeys   •  Sermon  •  Submitted   •  Presented
0 ratings
· 1 view
Notes
Transcript

Empowered for Purpose: The Birth of the Church

Bible Passage: Acts 1:1-13

Summary: Acts 1–13 narrates the crucial establishment of the early church, highlighting the disciples' obedience to Jesus' command, the filling of the Holy Spirit, and the beginning of the apostles' ministry in witness, prayer, and service.
Application: Understanding the early church's reliance on prayer and the Holy Spirit empowers Christians today to seek God’s guidance and boldness in their own lives. It encourages believers to embrace their purpose in witness and community.
Teaching: This passage teaches that the Holy Spirit is essential for effective ministry, emphasizing the importance of prayer, unity, and obedience to Christ in fulfilling the mission of the church.
How this passage could point to Christ: Through the ascension and the sending of the Holy Spirit, this passage reveals Jesus as the exalted Savior who empowers His followers to carry on His mission, pointing to His ongoing presence and authority in the church.
Big Idea: Believers are called to live in the power of the Holy Spirit, committed to prayer and witness, as they step into their God-given roles in the life of the church.
Recommended Study: As you prepare this sermon, consider exploring the cultural and historic context of first-century Jerusalem as discussed in Logos tools. Examine the significance of the Feast of Pentecost and its implications on the early church's mission. It would also be useful to dissect the exegetical nuances of key words related to empowerment and witness in the passage.

1. Promise of Power

Acts 1:1-5
You could emphasize how these verses set the stage for the early church's mission, highlighting the transition from Jesus' earthly ministry to the apostles' preparation. Perhaps focus on the promise of the Holy Spirit as essential for the church's empowerment, encouraging believers today to seek this empowerment for their own lives. The prophecy and promise show Jesus' ongoing presence and authority, urging commitment to prayer and anticipation of the Spirit's work.

2. Purposeful Commissioning

Acts 1:6-8
Perhaps discuss how these verses clarify the mission given by Christ, correcting misconceptions about the kingdom. You could underscore the universality of the mission and the empowerment by the Spirit as vital elements. This point might inspire the congregation to embrace their calling as witnesses, understanding that the power to fulfill this role comes from Christ’s authority, evident in His commissioning of the apostles.

3. Promise of Return

Acts 1:9-11
Maybe reflect on the ascension and the angelic message affirming Jesus' return, which assures believers of His present heavenly power and future return. This assurance could motivate the church to live expectantly and purposefully. By pointing to Christ's lordship, the sermon might remind believers to rely on His ongoing presence as they pursue their mission.

4. Prayerful Preparation

Acts 1:12-13
You could explore the disciples' obedience and unity as they returned to Jerusalem, waiting in prayer for the Spirit’s arrival. Emphasize the role of prayer and obedience as foundations for receiving the Spirit. This point could challenge the congregation to cultivate prayerful dependence and unity, which are key to experiencing God’s power and direction in their church and personal lives.
Related Media
See more
Related Sermons
See more
Earn an accredited degree from Redemption Seminary with Logos.