Message Title: Who The Church is Called to Be
Sermon Series: Ekklesia | Week 1
Scripture: Acts 2:1-4 NRSV
Bottom Line: The church is called ot be powerful.
Other Scripture References:
Exodux 19:16-18
Acts 2:42-47
Acts 3
Acts 4:31-32
Group Check in:
How is it with your soul?
Prayer Request? Praises?
Ice Breaker:
What was your earliest memory of church?
Overview:
Ekklesia is the Greek word for church.
Jesus brought us back to the abundant life for which we were created, and the Holy Spirit gives us the power to begin creating a well-ordered life that we failed to do on our own.
These four verses in the book of Acts 2:1-4 move us quickly to the story of the spirits powerful effect in the community’s mission. It’s obvious from the story that the Holy spirit is powerful and now this same power is given to us!
5 Things the Holy Spirit gives us power to do:
1. To care for others. God gives us the power to care for others. All of Israel had gathered in the holy city to celebrate God's providential care, the gift of the law, bringing structure to the chaos, and now the Holy Spirit gave them the power to care for others. Immediately afterwards, we see the church serving others. At the end of Acts 2, we see the church acting like this (v42-47).
2. To be more like God. God's nature is within us now. While your spiritual gift may not be healing, God has gifted you with something that reminds others of Jesus. Use your gifts and show the world what God is like.
3. To grow. God is the one that grows, not us. However, we have the power to make it possible. We are a vessel of God's growth. (Acts 4:1-4)
4. To speak up. Ask God to help you and be courageous enough to step out in faith. He will give you the words and he will give you everything you need to fulfill His calling on your life. (Acts 4:31)
5. To unite with others. The power to unite with others is a precious gift. The Holy Spirit offers us this power, so that we can be one in Christ. When we are united with others in the church, we can experience the fullness of God's love. As we open our hearts to the Holy Spirit, we will be transformed and empowered to build relationships of unity and peace. (Acts 4:32)
Discussion Questions:
What does church mean to you?
Has your definition of church changed throughout your life? If so, how?
Who is the church called to be?
What does it mean to be filled with the Holy Spirit?
How does God use us to be a witness to others?
Are you feeling called to speak up for God?
Do you ever feel like you just don't know what to say?
When has God enabled you to do something that you didn't think you could do?
What areas of unbelief must you deal with to become more open to the movement of God in your life?
What can you do each day to invite the Holy Spirit to use you?
Challenge:
The Holy Spirit gives us the power to be more like God. God's nature is within us now. While your spiritual gift may not be healing, God has gifted you with something that reminds others of Jesus. Use your gifts and show the world what God is like. This week, take the time to take this spiritual gifts inventory. After, pray and ask God how you can use these spiritual gifts to help others. Pray for the Holy Spirit to give you strength as you continue your journey. Ask for guidance as you discern what your next step should be. And remember, no matter where you are or what you’re doing, you are never alone. The Holy Spirit is always with you, guiding and supporting you on your path.