Podcast appearances and mentions of christ john

  TOPIC: Understanding Christian Fruitfulness — Part 1 PREACHER: Rev. Dr. Ebenezer Okronipa SCRIPTURES: John 15:1–8 Jeremiah 3:15 Matthew 25:14–30 KEY POINTS (PART 1) 1. Introduction to Christian Fruitfulness Fruitfulness is God's expectation for every believer. God does not save us to remain barren or unproductive. Jesus introduces the foundation of fruitfulness in John 15:1, describing: Himself as the True Vine The Father as the Vine Dresser Believers as the branches The health and productivity of the branch depends entirely on its connection. 2. The Parable of the Talents — A Picture of Fruitfulness

  TOPIC: Understanding Christian Fruitfulness — Part 1 PREACHER: Rev. Dr. Ebenezer Okronipa SCRIPTURES: John 15:1–8 Jeremiah 3:15 Matthew 25:14–30 KEY POINTS (PART 1) 1. Introduction to Christian Fruitfulness Fruitfulness is God's expectation for every believer. God does not save us to remain barren or unproductive. Jesus introduces the foundation of fruitfulness in John 15:1, describing: Himself as the True Vine The Father as the Vine Dresser Believers as the branches The health and productivity of the branch depends entirely on its connection. 2. The Parable of the Talents — A Picture of Fruitfulness

THE BODY OF CHRIST - John 19:31-42 I. The Body of Christ Was Dead; vs.31-33 II. His Body Was Pierced; vs.34-37 III. His Body Was Buried; vs.38-42 After declaring from the cross "It is finished" Jesus gave up his spirit. What happened to his body afterwards fulfilled scripture.

Video Recording Permalink

Sunday, November 9, 2025

Pastor Will continues through the Book of John with a message entitled "The Heart Of Christ" - John 13:1-11. Audio Nov 9th am - "The Heart Of Christ" - John 13:1-11.mp3File Size: 22578 kbFile Type: mp3Download File [...]

Pastor Jerrill Wyler | John Series (AM)

This discussion focused on the believer's secure position in Christ and the joy that flows from understanding God's finished work. We reflected on reconciliation and justification as complete realities—not goals to reach but gifts already received. Through Romans 5 and John 10, we explored what it means to “enter in” through the Door, where Christ Himself keeps us. Once we enter by faith, we do not leave His presence—wherever we go, He goes with us. The teaching emphasized the difference between our unchanging position in Christ and our daily experience, reminding us that even when we stumble, the Holy Spirit remains present to guide and restore us. Joy in God, freedom from fear, and confidence in His unbreakable fellowship define the life of those who have truly “gone in.”Romans 5:1–11, joy in God; finished reconciliation/justification Romans 7:22, delight in God's law in the inward man 2 Corinthians 4:16, inner man renewed Psalm 16:8, 11, set the Lord before us; fullness of joy Psalm 37:4, delight in the Lord; desires shaped by Christ John 10:8–11, the Door and Good Shepherd; abundant life Philippians 4:13, “I can” through Christ Ephesians 4:29–30, words from grace; do not grieve the Spirit Hebrews 13:5, never leave nor forsake (triple emphasis) Psalm 139:7–12, God with us in every depth 1 John 2:1–2, advocacy and provision when we sin.ThemesFinished, not ongoing: reconciliation and justification are settled facts in Christ.Joy shared: we “delight” with God in what satisfies Him about His Son.Entered through the Door: once we go in, wherever we go, He goes with us.Thief vs. Shepherd: any thought placed ahead of Christ is a thief/robber.Position vs. experience: struggle happens in the flesh, not in who we are.Don't grieve the Spirit: He longs to show us the things of Christ.Trust equals rest: “I can” because He is with us.Fellowship builds us: each joint supplies encouragement and perspective.What We LearnedGod's joy in His Son is the source and stability of our joy in Him.Our desires are transformed as we delight in the Lord—not by striving.Experiential ups and downs don't alter our position; they invite deeper fellowship.Corrupt communication starts with corrupt thoughts; grace speech edifies.The Spirit's grief is our missed experience of love already secured for us.We never face “out there” alone; He never leaves nor forsakes us.

Jesus says that He has overcome the world. So what does that mean for us who believe in Him? We talk about that and more in this episode.   LTS Website: https://www.lovingthescriptures.com/   Gospel of John Playlist: https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLo4qXfT78rv1sllXLvq1uvxwrmaUG7XIB   Music: http://www.purple-planet.com   Reunited Kevin MacLeod (incompetech.com) Licensed under Creative Commons: By Attribution 3.0 http:creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0

Pastor Brandon Bellomo 10/26/25

The Victorious Prayers of Christ (John 17:6-19) Rivertown Church is a Christ-centered community that exists to worship God and make disciples of Jesus for the glory of God and the joy of all peoples. For more about our church, please visit our ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠website⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or join us Sundays at 10:30am at 28 Birge Street in Brattleboro, VT for our worship gathering.

Pastor Jerrill Wyler | John Series (AM)

_19 And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” 21 And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.” 22 So they said to him, “Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” 23 He said, “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,' as the prophet Isaiah said.”__24 (Now they had been sent from the Pharisees.) 25 They asked him, “Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” 26 John answered them, “I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know, 27 even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” 28 These things took place in Bethany across the Jordan, where John was baptizing._Also on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G419epWPAZESunday, October 19, 2025Pastor Kevin PierpontCalvary Church, Webberville, Michiganhttps://webbervillechurch.org

"The beautiful thing about going through crisis is that you're forced to pause. The Lord uses those experiences to burn everything away that's not necessary and needed in our life and leaves us really clinging to Him." —Tanya PrinceSHOW NOTES EPISODE HIGHLIGHTS Your "Rubble" is Sacred Ground: The moments of absolute failure are where true faith begins to be rebuilt. Stop Striving, Start Resting: Purpose is not sprinted toward; it's received in the rest that comes from remaining in Christ (John 15:5) Practice Open-Ended Prayer: Say, "Lord, what do you want to tell me about this?" and wait in the silence for the answer. Write Down the Whispers: Journaling records divine communication, making the Conversations with Jesus tangible and trackable over a season. Heal the Roots: Identify the generational or cultural lies (such as the bootstrap mentality) that prevent you from fully receiving help and surrender them to healing and transformation. Outpouring, Not Performance: Let your actions be a natural outflow of Who Jesus says you are, not a desperate attempt to earn His favor. Your vision will become clear only when you can look into your own heart. Who looks outside, dreams; who looks inside, awakens." —Carl Jung

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2025-10-12 - One With Christ - John 14v20 - Calvyn Jonker.Edited by Weekly Sermon from Whanganui East Baptist Church

19 And this is the testimony of John, when the Jews sent priests and Levites from Jerusalem to ask him, “Who are you?” 20 He confessed, and did not deny, but confessed, “I am not the Christ.” 21 And they asked him, “What then? Are you Elijah?” He said, “I am not.” “Are you the Prophet?” And he answered, “No.” 22 So they said to him, “Who are you? We need to give an answer to those who sent us. What do you say about yourself?” 23 He said, “I am the voice of one crying out in the wilderness, ‘Make straight the way of the Lord,' as the prophet Isaiah said.”24 (Now they had been sent from the Pharisees.) 25 They asked him, “Then why are you baptizing, if you are neither the Christ, nor Elijah, nor the Prophet?” 26 John answered them, “I baptize with water, but among you stands one you do not know, 27 even he who comes after me, the strap of whose sandal I am not worthy to untie.” 28 These things took place in Bethany across the Jordan, where John was baptizing.Also on YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eAoD8Wci2t4Sunday, October 12, 2025Pastor Kevin PierpontCalvary Church, Webberville, Michiganhttps://webbervillechurch.org

Luke 22.31-62. His threefold denial, predicted beforehand by Jesus with pinpoint accuracy, is probably the thing Peter is most remembered for. Despite his protests that he would never deny his Lord, fear overtakes him and his night ends in catastrophic failure. What instruction and hope can we take from this story? 5 October 2025.

In this continuing Abounding Love episode, I finish up a two-part series on Twelve Levels of Faith from the KJV Bible. Level #7 Perfected Faith [James 2:21-22, 26]; Level #8 Strong Faith [Romans 4:18-20]; Level #9 Great Faith [Matthew 8:5-10]; Level #10 Rich Faith [James 2:5]; Level #11 Full of Faith [Acts 6:3-5; 11:22-24]; Level #12 Overcoming Faith [1 John 5:4-5; 4:4; Revelation 2:7; 11; 17; 26-28; 3:5; 12; 21], plus as a bonus, The Most Holy Faith [Jude 20-23]. As you study these Scriptures, I pray you'll determine your level. Our goal is to grow to the highest level, doing the works of Christ [John 14:12]. We ". . . walk by faith, not by sight" (2 Corinthians 5:7). Our faith pleases God, and He rewards us as we ". . . diligently seek Him" (Hebrews 11:6). The righteous live by faith in the victory we received through Jesus' death, burial and resurrection [Romans 1:17; Hebrews 10:38]. We're ". . . looking unto Jesus, the author and finisher of our faith" (Hebrews 12:2). Like Him, we overcome the Devil ". . . by every word that proceeds from the mouth of God" [Matthew 4:4; Psalm 107:20]. Join me as we conclude these levels of increasing faith. Remember, it takes time in God's Word to grow from one level to the next. Selah! [For more: Copy and Paste or Enter into ChatGPT.com, "Create a Study Guide for episode #191 Twelve Levels of Faith #2 from Abounding Love Ministries" ].      www.aboundinglove.org

Preacher: Michael Warren

Pastor Jay Song

The time is now to choose Christ. In this week’s message from our new series The Time is Now, Pastor John teaches how God’s kingdom is spiritual—not political—and how Jesus calls us to live in His truth today. Learn what it means to follow Jesus fully and walk as children of God. This week in The Time is Now:Discover the difference between God’s truth and Satan’s liesLearn why choosing Christ changes everythingFind hope and courage to stand firm in faith in a divided world Revival begins when believers rise up to follow Jesus fully. The time is now—to choose Christ. NEXT STEPSHave you made a decision to follow Jesus and now wondering what your next step is? We want to help! https://www.connectionpointe.org/nextsteps/ ABOUT CONNECTION POINTEAt Connection Pointe, our mission is to connect people to Jesus and each other. Whether you've been around church your whole life or this is a brand new journey, we have a place for you and we hope your journey will include joining us at a Connection Pointe location or online at https://connectionpointe.org/live Find locations, videos, and more info about us at https://www.connectionpointe.org/ FIND US ON SOCIAL MEDIAFacebook: https://www.facebook.com/connectionpointeInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/connect_cp Find out more about our lead pastor, John S. Dickerson: https://www.connectionpointe.org/leadpastor

In this episode, Apostle Kingsley Ajei-Godson unveils the mystery of **Divine Positioning**—God's intentional design to place His children at the right place, with the right mind, and the right perspective. For the believer, nothing happens by accident; every step is ordered to bring forth a fruitful harvest that glorifies God. (John 10:10, Romans 12:2, 2 Corinthians 10:5). To enjoy divine positioning and harvest, one must abide in Christ, cultivate godly virtues, and operate with the mind of Christ (John 15:4-5, 1 John 2:6). The believer is God's co-laborer (1 Corinthians 3:9), called to build wisely and walk in alignment with His will. **Conditions for Positioning:** 1. Believe in Jesus as Lord and Savior. 2. Place total faith in God's sovereignty (Colossians 3:23-24). 3. Maintain a resolute mindset (Luke 9:23). 4. Understand God's time and will (Habakkuk 2:14; 1 John 2:20; Ephesians 5:15). 5. Refuse to be distracted by life's storms (Ecclesiastes 11). **Benefits of Divine Positioning:** * Ensures victory. * Releases divine enablement and increase. * Guarantees guidance and supernatural assistance. When rightly positioned, the child of God cannot miss their harvest. ---

Fear of people or praise from God? John 9 tests our hearts; Ephesians 4 shows the worthy walk.Today Pastor Roderick Webster continues Practical Christian Living in Ephesians 4:1–3 (KJV). Paul's “I therefore” turns doctrine (ch. 1–3) into daily life (ch. 4–6): humility, meekness, longsuffering, forbearance, and unity in the bond of peace. We also visit John 9 and John 12:42–43—some believed yet kept silent, loving human praise more than God's. Finally, Titus 2:10 reminds us to adorn the doctrine—live in a way that makes truth beautiful.Takeaway: Right living needs right doctrine; unity isn't built by ditching truth but by wearing it with grace.Scriptures (KJV): Ephesians 4:1–3; Ephesians 1–3 (context); John 9; John 12:42–43; Titus 2:10; 2 Corinthians 4:6.If this helped, like & share to bless someone today. Subscribe and follow the playlist.#PracticalChristianLiving #Ephesians4 #AdornTheDoctrine #KJVBible #DailyDevotion0:00 Rejoice & welcome; thanks for sharing0:28 Hymn: “Heavenly Sunlight” (stanza 2; 2 Cor 4:6)1:39 “Jesus is mine”—assurance in Christ2:02 Read Ephesians 4:1–3 (KJV)2:37 Recap: cost of confessing Christ (John 9)3:42 Sabbath controversy & division over Jesus4:56 Parents' fear of synagogue expulsion6:21 Third interrogation; bold testimony7:25 Loved praise of men more than God (John 12:42–43)7:48 Benefits and obligations of believers8:16 “I therefore” — doctrine → practice8:44 Humility: Paul's “prisoner of the Lord”9:11 Right doctrine → right living9:39 Titus 2:10: purloining, fidelity, adorn10:30 Why unity can't ignore doctrine10:53 Tease next: “prisoner of the Lord” focus; closing prayer

 “RENEW: The Best Version of You” By Pastor Bryan Hudson, D.Min. Theme: The sermon centers on the biblical principle of renewal—God's continual work of making believers into the best version of themselves through inward transformation, endurance through shaking, and daily spiritual renewal. Introduction Renewal is necessary for personal growth, relationships, and the world at large. Everyone has “different versions” of themselves across stages of life. God desires to bring out the best versionthrough His Spirit. Key text: 2 Corinthians 4:16 – “Though our outward man perishes, the inward man is renewed day by day.” Renewal Illustrated Renewal parallels physical projects: tearing out old concrete, replacing screens, removing flags. Renewal often requires breaking up and removing old things before the new can be established. Biblical principle: You cannot put new wine into old wineskins (Matt. 9:17).   Renewal in the Midst of Shaking Text: Hebrews 12:26–29 – God shakes what is man-made so that what is God-made may remain. Shaking exposes what is unstable or superficial. Believers rooted in God endure shaking because they are God-made, not man-made. Renewal involves cost, disruption, and difficulty, like construction work—yet produces lasting change. Renewal Defined Renewal = being made new, renovated, refreshed continuously. It is God's work, not human self-effort. Believers cooperate with God by trusting and yielding. Renewal is daily, regardless of circumstances: “Don't ask, How do I feel? Ask, What do I believe?”   Five Keys to Renewal (R.E.N.E.W.) R – Rest and Repent Rest = entering God's finished work (Hebrews 4:10). Repent = change your mind and position yourself to receive from God (Acts 3:19). Rest includes physical rest—sleep is God-given and essential. E – Experience Fullness In God's presence is fullness of joy (Psalm 16:11). Joy is deeper than happiness—an inward assurance of being in God's will. Believers receive fullness from Christ (John 1:16). N – Never Cease Prayer Prayer sustains renewal. “Pray without ceasing” (1 Thess. 5:16-18). Thanksgiving and prayer cultivate resilience in every circumstance. E – Endure (Cast Cares on the Lord) Endure hardship as a soldier (2 Tim. 2:3). Do not become entangled with the world's cares. Cast cares on God because He cares for you (1 Peter 5:6-7). W – Wait on Exchange of Strength Those who wait on the Lord renew their strength (Isaiah 40:30-31). Waiting = lingering in God's presence, binding your life to Him. Renewal involves exchange—our weakness for God's strength, our struggles for His victory. Practical Insights Renewal is ongoing, disruptive, sometimes painful—but it leads to vitality, clarity, and endurance. Renewal impacts spirit, soul, and body. Even physical practices like rest and good sleep are part of God's care. God uses challenges and even sorrow to lead us toward repentance and transformation. Conclusion Renewal helps us become the best version of ourselves—rested, filled with joy, prayerful, enduring, and strong in the Lord. Renewal is God's work, requiring our cooperation, humility, and willingness to embrace the process—even when it involves shaking or breaking. Final encouragement: Trust God's renewing work daily. Don't measure by feelings—live by faith.

Preacher: Russell Horner

Pastor Jason Fest provides some better context for the famous but oft-misinterpreted passage of John. Listen above or download the audio file here. Photo by Casey Horner on Unsplash The post The Glorious Grace of God in Christ — John 3:16–18  first appeared on Trinity Reformed Church.

     When reading through the New Testament, we see that God provides both general and specific directives to Christians. General directives include learning and applying God's Word (Rom 12:1-2; Col 3:16; 2 Tim 2:15; 1 Pet 2:2; Jam 1:22), loving others as Christ has loved us (John 13:34), being filled with and walking by the Spirit (Eph 5:18; Gal 5:16), submitting to governing authorities and paying taxes (Rom 13:1, 6), stimulating one another to love and good deeds (Heb 10:24), and not forsaking our assembling together (Heb 10:25). Believers are also called to live by faith (Heb 10:38; 11:6), seek godly wisdom (Jam 1:5), pursue peace with others (Rom 12:18), forgive one another (Col 3:13), speak graciously (Col 4:6), and show kindness (Eph 4:32; cf. Prov 3:3-4). Additional directives include edifying others (Rom 14:19; 1 Th 5:11), serving in love (Gal 5:13), doing good to all (Gal 6:10), seeking the best interests of others (Phil 2:3-4), rejoicing always, praying without ceasing, and giving thanks in everything (1 Th 5:16-18), and doing all for the glory of God (1 Cor 10:31).      Other instructions involve the inward spiritual life. Believers are to abide in Christ (John 15:4-5), present their bodies as living sacrifices (Rom 12:1), and renew their minds through Scripture so that they are transformed and not conformed to this world (Rom 12:2; Eph 4:23). We are to set our minds on things above (Col 3:1-2), and put on the new self—marked by compassion, humility, gentleness, patience, and love (Col 3:10-14). Paul urges believers to live without grumbling or disputing, so that we shine as lights in the world (Phil 2:14-15). We are also to restore sinning believers in gentleness (Gal 6:1), bear one another's burdens (Gal 6:2), and practice hospitality without complaint (Rom 12:13; 1 Pet 4:9). The Christian life is marked by moral purity—fleeing sexual immorality, glorifying God with our bodies (1 Cor 6:18-20; 1 Th 4:3-5), and remaining spiritually vigilant and prayerful (1 Pet 5:8; Eph 6:10-18).      Some directives are role-specific. Husbands are to love their wives as Christ loves the church, and wives are to submit to their husbands' loving spiritual leadership and show them respect (Eph 5:22, 25, 33; 1 Pet 3:1-2). Children are to obey and honor their parents (Eph 6:1-4). Employees are to serve their supervisors with sincerity (Eph 6:5-8; Col 3:23-24), and supervisors are to treat their workers with fairness and integrity (Eph 6:9; Col 4:1; Jam 5:4). Older women are to teach younger women to love their husbands and children, and to be pure and sensible (Tit 2:3-5), while older men are to be dignified, temperate, and sound in faith (Tit 2:2). Younger men are to be self-controlled, an example of good deeds, and sound in doctrine (Tit 2:6-8). Church members are instructed to support their pastors materially and respectfully (Gal 6:6; 1 Tim 5:17-18), and to use their spiritual gifts for the edification of the body (Rom 12:4-8; 1 Pet 4:10). We are to sing with thankfulness (Eph 5:19; Col 3:16), care for orphans and widows (Jam 1:27; 1 Tim 5:3-16), pray for all people—including leaders (1 Tim 2:1-2), and carry out church discipline when needed, with love and humility (1 Cor 5:1-13). Finally, Paul urges believers to flee youthful lusts and pursue righteousness, faith, love, and peace with a pure heart (2 Tim 2:22). Steven R. Cook, D.Min., M.Div.

THE GOSPEL OF JOHN: THE DEITY AND TEACHING OF JESUS CHRIST"The Tragedy of Belief - Rejecting the Light of Christ"John 12:32-41 NKJVChrist's Bible Fellowship - Barrigada, Guam USASpeaker: Pastor Avery FerrerasSunday, August 31, 2025

The Forgiveness of Christ (John 7:53-8:11)

The Proclamation of Christ (John 1:29-34)

Sermons, July 2025, John, Fruitful, Disciples, Pastor Leighton Lindo

The CLAIMS OF CHRIST John 14:1-14

Weekly Sunday sermons from Pastor Mike Powers and other members of our Pastoral Body. Richland Creek Community Church gathers to glorify God in worship, grow as disciples of Jesus, and go on mission with the gospel. For more, visit richlandcreek.com.Main Idea: Believers in Christ can rest in the work of Christ.Jesus frees you from the trap of materialism.Jesus frees you from the trap of performance.Jesus frees you from the trap of perfection.Jesus frees you from the trap of doubt.

"If the only voice you trust is your own—you're being discipled by a liar and a fool." Oof. That one left a mark. We all want to believe we're following truth… but how do you know who to trust anymore? Politicians? Influencers? Yourself? Your spiritual Spotify playlist? This week at NewChurch, we talked about competing voices, the lies we buy into, and what happens when God's truth disrupts the noise.

www.gnosticacademy.org

A @Christadelphians Video: The Reel Review: The Gospel of Peace – 6 Videos by Dr. Jason Hensley | Revealing Biblical Insights ### **Video Description:**

The Parable of the Wedding Feast and the Authority of Christ | John Kirkpatrick | 06.15.25 by Capshaw Baptist

From Death to Life: Your New Identity in Christ In this moving and powerful message, Evan Wilkerson opens up about his personal journey through addiction, shame, and hopelessness—and the overwhelming mercy and love of God that brought him back to life. Preaching from Ephesians 2, Evan reminds us that we were once dead in sin, but God, rich in mercy, raised us up and seated us in heavenly places with Christ. You are no longer defined by your past. You are now a beloved child of God, fully forgiven and deeply loved.

In John 7 and 8, Jesus makes many straightforward statements about who He is, though many of the Jews were taken aback by His claims. Join us as we examine our own beliefs about Jesus as we continue our series, "Behold the Lamb of God." with guest speaker, Cameron Jones.

As He concludes His public ministry, Jesus declares that the time has come for Him to be glorified. Some see Jesus as a threat to their personal glory. Others project their own expectations of glory onto Jesus. However, the way in which Jesus is glorified subverts all expectations. Jesus is glorified through His sacrificial death on the cross which secures the path for salvation. We share in the glory of Christ by rightly recognizing His glory in faith and walking as His disciples.

As He concludes His public ministry, Jesus declares that the time has come for Him to be glorified. Some see Jesus as a threat to their personal glory. Others project their own expectations of glory onto Jesus. However, the way in which Jesus is glorified subverts all expectations. Jesus is glorified through His sacrificial death on the cross which secures the path for salvation. We share in the glory of Christ by rightly recognizing His glory in faith and walking as His disciples.

Pentecost A Sermon by Brenard Rowe, Elder at Victory Church in Providence, RI.   Introduction and Opening Remarks Expression of gratitude for the opportunity to minister. Acknowledgement and prayer for the pastor's recovery. Personal anecdote about being asked to preach on short notice. Setting the Context: Pentecost Sunday Explanation that Pentecost is recognized as the birth of the church and a pivotal event in Christian doctrine. Emphasis on the empowerment of the disciples by the Holy Spirit and the ongoing relevance of Pentecost. The Role and Power of the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit transforms believers from fearful followers to bold witnesses. The Holy Spirit provides strength, peace, wisdom, unity, and equips believers for service. Biblical Foundation Reference to Acts 2:1-4 describing the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Jesus' instructions to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-5, Acts 1:8). Importance of receiving the Holy Spirit before undertaking ministry. The Experience of the Early Church Disciples' state of confusion and despair after Jesus' death. Fulfillment of Jesus' promise through the coming of the Holy Spirit. The supernatural signs accompanying the Spirit's arrival (wind, tongues of fire, speaking in tongues). Speaking in Tongues Definition: A supernatural language for worship and communication with God. Old Testament examples of the Spirit coming upon individuals (e.g., Moses' elders, Gideon, Samson, Saul's messengers). New Testament affirmation of speaking in tongues as evidence of Holy Spirit baptism. Instances of Holy Spirit Baptism in the New Testament Jerusalem (Acts 2:4): Disciples receive the Holy Spirit. Samaria (Acts 8:14-17): Believers receive the Spirit through the apostles' laying on of hands. Saul/Paul (Acts 9:17): Receives the Spirit after Ananias lays hands on him. Cornelius' house (Acts 10:44-48): Gentiles receive the Holy Spirit while Peter preaches. Ephesus (Acts 19:1-6): Believers receive the Holy Spirit through Paul. Benefits of Being Filled with the Holy Spirit Power for ministry (Acts 1:8). Spiritual refreshing (Isaiah 28:11). Ability to witness and reveal Christ (John 16:13-14). Inner strength and comfort (John 15:26). Spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-11). Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22). Spiritual quickening (Romans 8:11). Who Can Be Filled with the Holy Spirit? Everyone: Rich, poor, young, old, sinners, saints, children, etc. Reference to Psalm 81:10 as encouragement to receive. Who Cannot Be Filled with the Holy Spirit? Those satisfied with mere salvation and unwilling to serve. Disobedient and unyielding Christians. Those who do not believe or are closed off to the Holy Spirit. Conditions for Receiving the Holy Spirit Repentance and baptism (Acts 2:28). Asking God with faith (Luke 11:13). Deep conviction, consecration, and willingness to live for God (John 7:37-39). The Ongoing Work of the Holy Spirit in Believers Teaches and makes believers teachable. Enables true worship and confession. Guides prayer and leads by God's word. Conclusion The Holy Spirit is the comforter and helper sent by God. Encouragement to be open to the Holy Spirit's work and to fulfill commitments in service to God and the church.  

Lee didn’t believe in God, and he didn’t believe in the resurrection of Jesus. But Lee was a journalist with an analytical mind. When his wife believed in Jesus, he decided to study her new faith for himself. After two years of research, he gave in—to God, to the resurrection, to faith in Christ. The change in him was noticeable. After a few months, his five-year-old daughter said to his wife, “Mommy, I want God to do for me what he’s done for Daddy.” And the daughter of Lee Strobel put her faith in Jesus too. Many people refuse to believe in the resurrection. But reputable eyewitnesses saw the risen Jesus. One of those eyewitnesses, the disciple Peter, told a large crowd that King David was certainly dead and buried (Acts 2:29). Then Peter pointed to a prophecy David had made. “[David] spoke of the resurrection of the Messiah,” he said (v. 31). Peter concluded, “God has raised this Jesus to life, and we are all witnesses of it” (v. 32). The best evidence for the resurrection is the changed lives of the eyewitnesses, including Peter. At the crucifixion, the disciples had gone into hiding. Peter actually denied Christ (John 18:15-17; 25-27). Once they saw Jesus alive, everything changed. Filled with courage, they began to share the truth of the one great hope of the world—the risen Christ.