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The Book of Acts is an important New Testament text that unveils the early church's journey! Grab your Bible as we examine key themes such as authorship, historical significance, and relevant lessons for today.Overview of the Book of ActsThe Book of Acts bridges the Gospels and the Epistles, showcasing how Jesus' call to "Go therefore and make disciples of all nations" (Matthew 28:19-20) is realized within the early church. This compelling narrative highlights the church's mission to disseminate the Gospel and share Christ's message of love and salvation among diverse communities.Authorship: Commonly Attributed to LukeTraditionally, the Book of Acts is credited to Luke, the physician and companion of the Apostle Paul. Church tradition asserts that the Gospel of Luke and Acts form a unified account, emphasizing Luke's commitment to ministry and the inclusive outreach to marginalized groups, such as women, the poor, and Gentiles. This inclusivity echoes Acts 2:21: "Everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved," reinforcing the Gospel's universal appeal.Purpose: Documenting the Growth of the Gospel and Early Church HistoryThe purpose of the Book of Acts is to document the extraordinary expansion of the Christian church, propelled by the Holy Spirit. Significant events like Pentecost (Acts 2) and Paul's missionary journeys (chapters 13-21) showcase God's transformative power as believers share the Gospel. Acts 1:8 encapsulates this mission: "You will receive power... and you will be my witnesses."Key Lesson: The Need for Community and Collective MissionOne of the central lessons from our exploration of Acts is the importance of community and a shared mission among believers. The early church serves as a model of unity and support, as illustrated in Acts 2:42-47, which emphasizes the significance of fellowship and communal prayer. This series will explore how these foundational principles can be adapted to our modern lives.
Joel's Prophecy was fulfilled by (1) the Signs in the Heavens (Dark Sun & Blood Moon) at the Cross, (2) Christ's glorious Resurrection, and (3) the Outpouring of His Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2:16-21).
Joel's Prophecy was fulfilled by (1) the Signs in the Heavens (Dark Sun & Blood Moon) at the Cross, (2) Christ's glorious Resurrection, and (3) the Outpouring of His Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2:16-21).
A really challenging saying of Jesus is, “If anyone thirsts let him come to me and drink. Whoever believes in me, as the Scripture has said, ‘Out of his heart will flow rivers of living water'” [John 7 v.37-38] Jesus is obviously NOT speaking of literal rivers. What does Jesus give people to drink?We recall the conversation Jesus had with the Samaritan woman, when he said he could provide “living water” to drink – if the woman had asked for it! [John 4 v.10] What did he mean? How can “rivers of living water” flow from the human heart? This gospel of John is a rich source of nutrients for a thirsty mind!We must ask ourselves. ‘Is my mind thirsty?' Remember what Jesus taught in the Sermon on the mount? “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst after righteousness, for they shall be satisfied” [Matt.5v.6] To do that you have to recognise you have a hunger and a thirst of that nature. How do you recognise that?Well, are you satisfied with the way you think, the things that occupy your mind? Do you go to bed at night thinking, that it had been a worthwhile day – spiritually?It is sad that many people do not realize they are suffering from spiritual malnutrition. It is tragic, especially among young people, that so many today are looking for “kicks” and their lives are largely froth and bubble, the very opposite of “living water”.John's Gospel shows this “water” is related to “the spirit, whom those who believed in him were to receive” [7 v.39]. Now it is obvious this refers to far more than the disciples being able to speak in other languages as happened on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2).Paul wrote that “in Christ Jesus the blessing of Abraham might come on the Gentiles, so that we might receive the promised spirit through faith.” [Gal.3v.14]; this is the wonder of spiritual fellowship with the divine [2 Cor.13 v.14]. Alongside this we must put the words of Hebrews 6 v.5 that those who experienced Holy Spirit power in those days have “tasted the goodness of the word of God and the powers of the age to come.”Finally, in the Bible's last message we have God on the throne saying, “To the thirsty I will give from the spring of the water of life without payment. The one who conquers will have this heritage, I will be his God and he will be my son … “ [Rev. 21 v.6-8]How beyond imagining to have this as your heritage! Are you making progress in conquering (or overcoming) the polluted waters of this life? Are you thirsting for righteousness?
Message from Mike Seaver on April 6, 2025
*Listen to the Show notes and podcast transcript with this multi-language player. SUMMARY: The door was opened to resurrection life on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2). The Lord sent the Holy Spirit to those who had gathered in the upper room, and they received power. The spirits of those believers were born again, that day. The Holy Spirit is Christ's Advocate to give life. Anyone who has been born again has the resurrection life of Christ in him. SHOW NOTES: Jesus is the way, the truth, and the life. What life? Resurrection life. Jesus raised Lazarus from the dead after he had been in the tomb for four days. What is resurrection life? It's going to be so simple; it'll be like walking through one door into the next. We are to follow in Christ's footsteps. The Holy Spirit is to guide us into all the truth. The potential for resurrection life has already been imparted to those who have been reborn and have experienced their personal cross experience. Resurrection life is coming first in the spirit, but the promise is that He will give life to our mortal bodies. QUOTATIONS: Christ opened the door for our spirits to be in resurrection life before He went to the cross. If you've been born again, you already have resurrection life; the life of Christ is in us. You have resurrection life—it is something that you have to claim and believe that the Lord has already put that life in you. Do you have it in your physical body? I don't know how to answer that. All I know is in the spirit, we have resurrection life. When the Holy Spirit was given to those believers on the day of Pentecost, they were filled with the Holy Spirit. If we go through the cross, resurrection is up the Father, because we have done everything we can. Without the cross experience, we can't be resurrected, because we haven't “died” , but once the cross experience is complete, you move on without fear. I believe in the whole realm of the worldwide body of Christ, God has imparted it to His people already. We don't have to wrestle with God to bring it down on the...
Leviticus 23 deals with the feasts of Yahweh, of which there were 8 – the weekly Sabbath, the Passover and the Feast of Unleavened Bread, the Feast of Weeks, the festival of the Blowing of Trumpets, the Day of Atonement, the Feast of Tabernacles and lastly the Feast of the Eighth Day (called by the Jews Shemini Azaret, or Day of the Righteous). Note the repetition of patterns of 7 and 8 associated with these Feasts. The term “convocation” used of the Feasts means “an appointment”, or a “rehearsal”. These were typical of our Lord Jesus Christ. They were the shadow, he was the reality. The chapter breakdown is as follows: Verses 1-2 the holy convocation; Verse 3 the Sabbath; Verses 4 to5 the Passover; Verses 6 to 8 the feast of unleavened bread; Verses 9 to 14 the sheaf of the first fruits; Verses 15to 21 the feast of weeks; Verse 22 the gleanings of the stranger; Verses 23 to 25 the feast of trumpets; Verses 26 to 32 the Day of Atonement; Verses 33 to 44 the feast of Tabernacles; Verse 36 the feast of the eighth day. Eight is the number in the New Testament, which speaks of our Lord Jesus Christ. The following analysis of the Feasts is presented for the reader's' consideration: The weekly Passover spoke of the rest Christ at initially gives to the followers – Matthew 11 verses 28,30 to 12 verse 8; and finally completed in the Kingdom rest Hebrews 4 verses 7 to 11. The Passover and the Feast of unleavened bread 1 Corinthians 5 verses 7 and 8. (Christ the sheaf of the first fruits 1 Corinthians 15 verse 23) The Feast of Weeks (called in the New Testament, “Pentecost”) the time when the old covenant, or the Ten Commandments, was first given at Sinai; and the ecclesia founded by the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost (Acts 2 the entire chapter). These all related to our Lord's first advent. Then the Feast of Trumpets speaking of the judgments at the commencement of Jesus' coming and preliminary to the setting up of his kingdom – Revelation 10, 11 verses 15 to19. The Day of Atonement speaks of the sacrifice of Christ, in which God's righteousness is upheld, revealed and demonstrated, and by which God has reconciled the world to Himself. It also speaks of Israel's national conversion; their acceptance of the Lord Jesus Christ as their Saviour – Zechariah 12 verse 7-13. The Feast of Tabernacles, or booths, tells us that our Lord Jesus Christ has found rest for his faithful followers and they must come apart and contemplate the grace of their God and His incomparable Son. It will also be the festival observed by the mortal nations during the Kingdom Age – Zechariah 14 verses 9, and 16 where the nations of the entire earth will have their minds focused on the same lessons. The eighth day speaks of the fulfilling of God's purpose after the Millennium, and the following resurrection and judgment when every remaining mortal person, will be immortalised – 1 Corinthians 15 verses 24 to28. Psalm 128 talks of the blessing to those who reverence their God and walk before Him in the paths of righteousness. The labours of the faithful will be productive and their will blessings on family life. But the ultimate blessing is peace ie fellowship with our Sovereign in the Kingdom Age; for says the Psalm, the blessings flow from Zion (Isaiah 2 verses 1 to 4). Psalm 129 tells us that the path of the righteous is strewn with obstacles and trials. But never lose heart for in due season we shall reap if we faint not (Galatians 6 verses 6 to10). Psalm 130 provides us with great consolation. It was the Apostle John who said, “if your heart condemns you, Fear not for God is greater than your heart”. The Psalmist tells us that the LORD does not mark sin against those who have confessed to Him and been forgiven. What an awesome God is ours. But this forgiveness brings immense responsibility for His children, who reverence Him; who desire to walk faithfully wrapped in His love; and whose conscience smites them when they fail their gracious Father, so they immediately turn to God, and confess and acknowledge their sin; they repent and renounce their sin, and they humbly seek forgiveness of their sin. Luke chapter 6 tells us of the rebuke that our Lord Jesus' foes issues to Jesus' disciples for supposedly breaking the Sabbath. The Lord shows from the Scriptures that, based on the record of David in 1 Samuel 21 – the disciples, like David were blameless and that the Son of God was “the Lord of the Sabbath”. Next our Lord cures a man with a withered hand, again on the Sabbath. This man had undoubtedly been placed in the synagogue to trap the Lord. Instead Jesus' enemies found that they themselves had the tables turned on them. Jesus uses the occasion to teach the lessons of the Sabbath. The Sabbath is for helping and healing: Isaiah 561-8; 58 verses 6 to14. Read those words aloud and ponder their meaning for the way we must live. After a night in prayer to His Father Christ chose his twelve Apostles. The record says that multitudes come to him and are cured. The chapter follows by outlining our Lord Jesus Sermon on the Plain. No doubt this is a separate occasion from Matthew 5-7. The themes are common as the message did not change. The Beatitudes, or blessings producing happiness, to the citizens of Zion who will be granted glory in Messiah's kingdom are outlined. They present a complete picture of the character of our Lord Jesus Christ. On this occasion the counterpart of the curses upon the enemies of the Kingdom are enumerated. Like the Matthew record, we are once more told, that we 1) need to love our enemies in order to be as our Father; 2) must not to be censorious and hypocritical by finding fault in others; 3) a tree is be known by its fruits ie the outcomes, or behaviours, of our lives; 4) need to build our faith and lives on the rock that is our Lord Jesus Christ: Ephesians 2 verses 17 to 22.
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At Hatfield, worship and prayer are at the heart of who we are. We believe in the baptism of the Holy Spirit, empowering believers to be Christ's witnesses. The gifts of the Spirit are given for the building up of the Church, and we make space for His presence both in our gatherings and daily lives.
When we come to Luke 11:28-32, it appears that Jesus has finishedHis lessons on the subject of prayer and a crowd of both curious people and contentiousreligious leaders have “thickly gathered together” around Him and His disciples. It appears at the point thecrowd really begins to press in upon Jesus on every side and then He gives thema message of condemnation and judgement (vv. 29-36). Jesus was not impressed by the big crowds, but most likely,the disciples were. And because Jesus knew what was in their hearts of thereligious leaders and the crowd, in order to keep the Twelve from being swayedby "success," Jesus gave them some insights into what was reallyhappening as they ministered the Word to the large crowds of people thatsurrounded them. He reveals the unbelief of their hearts despite the signs thatHe had already given them over the past three years of His ministry in Galilee. Like so many people today who say, “Show me a miracle and Iwill believe”, the Jewish leaders kept asking Jesus for a sign to prove that Hewas the Messiah. The only sign He promised was "the sign of Jonah theprophet." What was the sign of Jonah? What was his story? Remember he disobeyGod's command to go to Nineveh and went the opposite direction to Tarshish. Godpunished him by putting him the belly of whale for three days and three nights.He repented and went to Nineveh with a message of coming judgement, and theyrepented. How interesting that Jonah was as displeased by the repentance ofNineveh as the religious leaders of the Lord's generation were at therepentance of people in all parts of the country! Jonah was a sign to the Ninevites. He had been three daysand nights in what he called "the belly of hell." When he marchedthrough their streets, it was with a face livid and terrifying from the fierceaction of the gastric juices of the great fish. The man himself was as much themessage as the words that he proclaimed; he was a sign. "God will punishsin!" It was written all over the disobedient prophet. But there he was,alive from the dead, a living epistle. They could infer from that the fact that"God will pardon sinners." But Jonah was also a sign of the coming death, burial andresurrection of Jesus Christ! This is the greatest sign given by “a greaterthan Jonah”, Jesus Christ! It is the resurrection of our Lord that proves He isthe Messiah, the Son of God (Rom. 1:4), and this is what Peter preached toIsrael on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:22ff). The witness of the early churchwas centered on Christ's resurrection (Acts 1:22; 3:15; 5:30-32; 13:32-33).Jonah was a living miracle and so is our Lord Jesus Christ. Jesus also reminded them of Solomon and the “Queen of theSouth”. The emphasis here is on the wisdom of a king, not the works of aprophet. The Queen of Sheba traveled many miles to hear the wisdom of Solomon(1 Kings 10), but here was the very Son of God in their midst, and the Jewswould not believe His words! Even if Jesus had performed a sign, it would nothave changed their hearts. They needed the living wisdom of God, but they werecontent with their stale religious tradition. When Jonah preached to theGentiles in Nineveh, they repented and were spared. When a Gentile queen heardSolomon's wisdom, she marveled and believed. If, with all their privileges, theJews did not repent, then the people of Nineveh and the Queen of Sheba wouldbear witness against them in the last judgment. The Lord gave Israel so manyopportunities, yet they would not believe (Luke 13:34-35; John 12:35-41). Today, we have the complete Bible, and the historical factsof the resurrection of Jesus Christ, yet still so many chose their sins andreligion over believing and putting their faith in Jesus Christ. How great willtheir condemnation and judgment be?
A journey through the book of Acts.
The Holy Spirit Comes at Pentecost Acts 2:1-13 Pastor Jae Lee
3000 people have just repented, forgiven of their sins, and received the Holy Spirit. Now What?
Sunday Sermon from the book of Acts from John Bourgeois on January 26, 2025. Our hope for you is that you will know, love, and follow Jesus Christ -- leading to personal transformation, intimate community, and a life of radical mission. You are always welcome to join us for worship at West End Community Church.For more info, please visit the WECC website at westendcc.org
This week we consider the Spirit filling the disciples and the disciples speaking in tongues. Speaker: Jude St. John
This week we consider the Spirit filling the disciples and the disciples speaking in tongues. Speaker: Jude St. John
The Church Age is the period of time from Pentecost (Acts 2) to the Birth Pangs (Matthew 24:3-14 & Revelation 6:1-11).
Colossians 1:17 – “He is before all things, and in Him all things hold together.” John 8:58, when Jesus is standing before the Pharisees. He says, “before Abraham was, I WAS.” That's not how it went, right? No, He said, “Before Abraham was, I AM.” Present tense verb. Indicating the timelessness of His deity. Similar concept here, with Paul saying, “He is before all things.” A present tense statement. But Christ was not only before Abraham though. Here it says He's before “all things.” Including creation. Jesus Christ, being eternal, existed before there was any creation to speak of. 1:17 He is before all things: He existed in the beginning and he holds it all together by his power. The significance of that, of what's being conveyed here. Is the timelessness of Christ's deity John 1:1 In the beginning was the Word, and the Word was with God, and the Word was God. 2 The same was in the beginning with God. 3 All things were made by Him, and without Him was not anything made that was made. He was in the beginning with God.” Now, while the universe has a beginning, even the atheistic big bang people would believe that. Christ has always existed. While the universe is temporal. With a definite start date and with a definite, one day end date. Christ is not. He is eternal. Micah 5:2, it's a prophetic passage relating to Christ's first coming. Speaking of Him being from Bethlehem. It says, “His going forth are from long ago, from the days of eternity.” Or Christ Himself would say in Revelation 22:13 – “I am the Alpha and the Omega, the first and the last, the beginning and the end.” Not only though, did the Lord Jesus exist before there was any creation. We see here that it is in Him that all things consist. Look at the second half of verse 17 – “and in Him all things hold together.” It means that the Lord Jesus is the sustainer of the universe, the Source of its perpetual motion. He maintains just the right amount of power and balance needed to ensure life's existence and continuity. Hebrews 1:3 – He “ upholds all things by the word of His power.” The only reason that this planet hasn't exploded or imploded or dissolved. The only reason our whole galaxy hasn't just been dumped into a black hole somewhere is because of Christ. He's upholding everything right now. He's keeping the planets spinning. He's keeping the stars burning. He's keeping the ocean waters from flooding. He's keeping the rain cycles going. He's keeping our hearts beating. He's providing brain activity to every single one of us here this morning. Not just to us, to those out in the world, who in foolishness, reject Him. He's even giving life and breath and movement and existence to those who strongly oppose and hate Him. He didn't wind up the universe like a clock and then walk away from it. Not at all. No, He continues to sustain it all. His power upholds and guides what His hands have formed. You know the old song, maybe it is still a current song . . . “He's Got the Whole World in His Hands.” That's true! Harry Ironside wrote this, he said: “It is His hand that holds the stars in their courses, directs the planets in their orbits, and controls the laws of the universe. In verse 18. We get to our third “He is” statement. Col 1:18 And He is the head of the body, the church, who is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, that in all things He may have the preeminence. 1:18 He is the Head of the Body: Ephesians 1:22 And God hath put all things under His feet, and hath given Him to be the head over all things to the church, Ephesians 5:23 for the husband is the head of the wife, even as Christ is the head of the church, and He is the savior of the body. There is a sudden shift in focus from all the things we've been considering in verses 15, 16 and 17. Paul goes from this discussion of Christ being the eternal image of the invisible God. And the firstborn of all creation. And the Creator of all things. And all things being created by Him and through Him and for Him. Now, it says, oh yeah, He's also the head of the body, the church. As this section of Colossians 1 is taking off. As he's powerfully assembling these thoughts, one after the other on top of each other. We would expect that Paul here would say something like, Christ is the supreme ruler of the universe. Or the king of the cosmos. But that's not what we see. Instead, what we see here, verse 18, “He is also the head of the body, the church.” Now, the references to “the body” here, “the church” here. Those are references to the universal church. That is, all around the world who have believed in the Lord Jesus Christ for salvation. from the Day of Pentecost, all the way up to the Rapture. This organism . . . this “assembly” of believers . . . which is expressed in local assemblies, like what we're doing today. That assembly, over which Christ is, look at the word there, He's “the head.” Now, a few key details and for many of us, reminders about this thing called the “church” over which Christ is the “head” . . . First, the church is described in this way, in I Corinthians 12, all believers are baptized into it. We're baptized into this body, the church, by the Holy Spirit, the moment we believe in Christ. I Corinthians 12:13 says, “For by one Spirit we were all baptized into one body, [placed into on body] whether Jews or Greeks, whether slaves or free, and we were all made to drink of one Spirit.” Second, another reminder about the church, is that it is an especially diverse body. It always has been. There is “neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free man, [and] there is neither male nor female.” Galatians 3:28 Third, the church is a mystery not made known to previous generations. In fact, drop down to Colossians 1:25, just a few verses down, it says, “Of this church I was made a minister according to the stewardship from God bestowed on me for your benefit, so that I might fully carry out the preaching of the word of God, that is, the mystery which has been hidden from the past ages and generations, but has now been manifested to His saints, to whom God willed to make known what is the riches of the glory of this mystery among the Gentiles, which is Christ in you, the hope of glory.” So, the church is a mystery, revealed in these times to the Gentiles. Fourth, as we're seeing from our passage, verse 18, the Head of the church is the Lord Jesus Christ. Ephesians 1:22-23 says, “He put all things in subjection under His feet and gave Him as head over all things to the church.” Or Ephesians 5:23 says, “For the husband is the head of the wife, as Christ also is the head of the church.” So, the dominion then, the Lord Jesus Christ extends not only through the natural universe, but it extends to the spiritual realm. He is ruler, simultaneously of the cosmos, as He is the head of the church. Now, how are we to take that, in terms of how this passage, verse 18, ties into what we've just looked at in verses 15-17? Where we see these sweeping claims about Christ's rulership over all creation. Is what he's saying now in verse 18, somehow lessen what has already been said? Is this making Christ smaller by localizing Him in the church? Not at all! If anything, what this passage does, verse 18, when we consider in conjunction with verses 15-17, is really expand the significance of the claims that are being made of Christ's role vis-à-vis the church. He is sovereign over creation, just as He is over the church. They go hand in hand. He is doubly preeminent. Preeminent over all creation. But also preeminent in the church. What that really ought to do for us, who are the church, is highlight the privilege that it is to be a part of God's family. To be a part of the church. To be a part of this family of redeemed people. To know that Christ is as intimately involved in ruling and governing the church. As He is in all of creation. The church is no “side project” for Jesus Christ. It's no “Plan B” for Jesus Christ. He loves the church . . . so much that He gave Himself for the church. He's building the church. He's protecting the church. He will pull the church out of the coming tribulation to come. He's going to return and reign with the church. See, the church is not a place. It's not an address. It's not a thing we do or a place we go. It's the body of Christ, with Christ as it's head. As His act of love for the church, He exercises control over it and direction over it. Conforming each one of its limbs and organs. That's you and me, into His image. That brings us to our fourth “He is” statement, which comes at the end of verse And He is the beginning, the firstborn from the dead, so that He Himself will come to have first place in everything.” He is the beginning of the church That word that you see there, where it says, “He is the beginning”, it can actually be translated either “beginning” or originator, “rulership”, or “rule”. We see it here as “beginning.” We see it in Matthew 19:4 as “beginning” where it says, “Have you not read that He who created them from the beginning made them male and female[?]” But the same word here, for “beginning” can also be translated “rule” or “ruler” in other places. So, which is it? Is Christ here, being described as the “beginning? Or is He being described as “ruling?” The answer is – “yes.” I think there's a trace of truth to both definitions. Christ. The preeminent Christ . . . not only created everything that we see around us in the cosmos . . . He also established His church . . . and in that sense, He's the beginning of both. But at the same time, He is ruler, as we've seen, both of the cosmos and of the church. He's the head of both realms. This work of the Spirit began on the day of Pentecost (Acts 1:5; 2:1–2; 11:15–16). It is a special body in which there is “neither Jew nor Gentile” (Gal. 3:28) but a whole new creation of God (Eph. 2:15). The church is a “mystery … which was not made known to men in other generations” (Eph. 3:4–5; cf. Rom. 16:25–26; Col. 1:26). and the firstborn from among the dead: Christ is the first person to die and be resurrected who will never die again Now, we see that Christ is “the firstborn from the dead.” It's a clear resurrection reference when it mentions “from the dead.” But what about that word “firstborn”? We've encountered it already in verse 15. But how about here? Is this a matter of laying out a timeline? Is this saying that Christ is the first person to have every been raised from the dead? Definitely not that. We know that Jesus was not the first to be raised from the dead. We know that Elijah raised the widow's son. We know that Jesus Himself raised Jairus's daughter. We know that Jesus Himself raised Lazarus. So then what does “firstborn from the dead” mean here? It means, “firstborn” here, is that, of all those who have been raised from the dead. . . the Lord Jesus Christ ranks first in importance among them. He was the first to rise in an immortal body. I Corinthians 15:20 says, “But now Christ has been raised from the dead, the first fruits of those who are asleep.” His resurrection marked triumph over death, the way other resurrections didn't. Hebrews 2:15 says, “. . . through death he might render powerless him who had the power of death.” It's by virtue of Christ's resurrection, that He's been elevated to a rank and a position higher than anyone else who rose from the dead. Romans 1:4 says, he was “declared the Son of God with power by the resurrection from the dead. Philippians 2:9 says, “. . . God highly exalted Him, and bestowed on Him the name which is above every name.” He was the “Firstfruits” of those who die (1 Cor. 15:20) since, unlike others, He rose never to die again. [i] It's only through Christ's resurrection that the future resurrection of others is secured. John 5:28 says, “Do not marvel at this; for an hour is coming, in which all who are in the tombs who will hear His voice and will come forth; those who did the good deeds to a resurrection of life, those who committed the evil deeds to a resurrection of judgment.” All of this is so that He might be known . . . Christ might be known and seen as preeminent in all things. “So that” “He Himself will come to have first place in everything.” Christ is given first place over all Creation. He is preeminent. The same eternal Logos (John 1:1) who “became flesh” (John 1:14) and “humbled Himself” (Phil. 2:8) is now “exalted” by God the Father “to the highest place” and has been given “the name that is above every name” (Phil. 2:9).[ii] What an answer that would have been to those who, in Paul's day, were trying go bring Christ down a few notches. To strip Him of His preeminence, as though they could. They promoted their heretical teachings there in Colossae. To those who have presented such a false Christ, a weakened Christ, a cheap Christ. Paul here says “no.” Christ is preeminent. He is the image of the invisible God. He is the firstborn of all Creation. He is the Creator of all things. All things were created by Him, through Him, and for Him. He's the sustainer of all things. He is the head of the body, the church. He is the beginning. He is the firstborn of the dead. He is, as we see at the end of verse 18 here, to have “first place” in everything. We've considered here in these verses, the extent and the range of Christ's preeminence in the creation and in the church. Now we need to ask ourselves Does Christ have preeminence in My life? The question we have to ask ourselves, as we've taken these truths. Does Christ have preeminence in My life? Or are there other That are crowding Him out? As you leave here this morning. Ask yourself, sincerely. Am I so stuck in my own little world, my own little fishbowl. My own little bubble, that I've failed to bow my knee, daily, to the One who created the world and sustains the world? Do I have such a slender view of the church, as being a place full of programs and rhythms and people I've been around my whole life . . . that I fail to acknowledge, daily, that it's the Lord Jesus Christ who governs and reigns in His church? Am I allowing . . . in what I read, or what I watch, or who I associate with . . . influences in my life that would take away from Christ's preeminence over my life? Or at least my recognition of His preeminence over my life? It surely is through His death and resurrection that we have been saved. We praise Him for that. But the Christian life doesn't end there. It really starts there, and it demands, once we acknowledge His death and resurrection, that we live in light of, His preeminence. Mark 8:36 "For what will it profit a man if he gains the whole world, and loses his own soul? John 14:6 Jesus said to him, “I am the way, the truth, and the life. No one comes to the Father except through Me. Have you trusted Him as your Savior? He can Save you if You ask Him based on His death, burial, and resurrection for your sins. Believe in Him for forgiveness of your sins today. “And you shall know the truth, and the truth shall make you free.” -John 8:32 Our mission is to spread the gospel and to go to the least of these with the life-changing message of Jesus Christ; We reach out to those the World has forgotten. hisloveministries.podbean.com #HLMSocial hisloveministries.net https://www.instagram.com/hisloveministries1/?hl=en His Love Ministries on Itunes Don't go for all the gusto you can get, go for all the God (Jesus Christ) you can get. The gusto will get you, Jesus can save you. https://www.facebook.com/His-Love-Ministries-246606668725869/?tn-str=k*F The world is trying to solve earthly problems that can only be solved with heavenly solutions [i] Geisler, N. L. (1985). Colossians. In J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck (Eds.), The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures (Vol. 2, p. 673). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books. [ii] Geisler, N. L. (1985). Colossians. In J. F. Walvoord & R. B. Zuck (Eds.), The Bible Knowledge Commentary: An Exposition of the Scriptures (Vol. 2, p. 673). Wheaton, IL: Victor Books.
Send us a textFor an ad-free version of the podcast plus the opportunity to enjoy hours of exclusive content and two bonus episodes a month and also help keep the Bible Project Daily Podcast free for listeners everywhere at;patreon.com/JeremyMcCandlessSubscribe here to receive my new church history podcast every few weeks at.https://thehistoryofthechristianchurch.buzzsprout.comWelcomeIf you've ever wondered about the baptism of the Holy Spirit and its significance in the life of a believer, this episode is for you. We'll look at this scriptural account of Pentecost and discuss its implications for us today. Let's dive in!Episode Notes: A Biblical View of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-12)IntroductionReflect on a personal experience with a conversation about the baptism of the Holy Spirit and speaking in tongues.Mention the common questions and curiosity about this topic among Christians.Brief overview of Pentecostal and charismatic beliefs regarding the baptism of the Holy Spirit.Pentecostal DoctrineOutline of the classic Pentecostal teaching:Necessity of the baptism of the Holy Spirit after salvation.Association of this baptism with speaking in tongues as a heavenly language.Key QuestionsTiming of the baptism of the Holy Spirit: at conversion or after?Significance of the baptism: does it provide power, and are believers powerless without it?Nature of speaking in tongues: human language or heavenly language?Scriptural Examination: Acts 2:1-12Context of Pentecost:Meaning of "Pentecost" and its occurrence fifty days after Passover.Historical significance of Passover and Pentecost in the Old Testament.Event Description:Coming of the Holy Spirit.Reactions of people in Jerusalem: confusion and amazement.Key Verses:Acts 2:1-4: Sound of a rushing mighty wind, appearance of tongues of fire, filling with the Holy Spirit, speaking in other tongues.Acts 2:5-12: Multinational audience hearing their own languages, amazement, and the question, "What does this mean?"Baptism vs. Filling of the Holy SpiritDistinction between baptism and filling of the Holy Spirit.Biblical evidence and theological explanations from the Epistles.Baptism of the Holy Spirit:Unites believers into the Body of Christ.Empowers for service.Occurs at conversion.The Filling of the Holy Spirit:Continuous experience for empowerment and service.Speaking in TonguesActs 2:5-12: Evidence that the tongues spoken were known human languages.Examination of 1 Corinthians 13 and Romans 8 regarding the concept of heavenly languages.Clarification that biblical instances of tongues are intelligible human languages.Theological Significance of PentecostHistorical and prophetic fulfillment of Pentecost.The baptism of the Holy Spirit as the initiation of the church.Unity in the Body of Christ:Importance of unity among believers.Illustration of interdependence within the Body of Christ.ConclusionAppreciate the unity and completeness we have in Christ.Reflecton the importanSupport the showJeremy McCandless is creating podcasts and devotional resources | PatreonHelp us continue making great content for listeners everywhere.https://thebibleproject.buzzsprout.com
These words of Jesus to Nicodemus, the Jewish teacher who came to him by night, challenge our thinking and understanding. We need to understand them within the context of the unfolding words of Jesus. Many Christians like to say they are “born again,” but what did Jesus mean? Nicodemus admitted. “Rabbi, we know that you are a teacher come from God, for no one can do these signs that you do unless God is with him” [John 3 v.2] His words lead Jesus to respond, “unless one is born again he cannot see the kingdom of God” [v.3]. The ESV footnote says, ‘the Greek is purposely ambiguous and can mean both again and from above” This means, we believe, the action of God in responding to what he sees in the heart of the one seeking to be re-born. We recall God's words through Isaiah, “I dwell in the high and holy place, and also with him (or her) who is of a contrite and lowly spirit, to revive the spirit of the lowly, and to revive the heart of the contrite.” [57 v.15] Thus there is a ‘rebirth' in the heart of one who is fully “born again” because of the action of he who is above. The visible action of this is then created by the person themselves in being ‘born of water' as happened on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2 v.37,38). Later in the chapter we note that John Baptist's disciples comment on how “all are going to him” (Jesus) and “look he is baptising” [v.26,22; 4 v.1,2 – the disciples of Jesus doing the baptising] However, many were “not receiving his testimony”! Then the comment is made, “Whoever receives his testimony sets his seal to this, that God is true” [v.33] This reaction to Jesus' teaching is evidence that one is also born of the spirit. The opposite of this is, “He who is of the earth, belongs to the earth and speaks in an earthly way” [v.31]. We must ask ourselves – in what way do we speak? This is evidence we been born of water and of the spirit?
In this episode, we delve into the spiritual gift of speaking in tongues, a fascinating and often misunderstood aspect of Christian spirituality, as described in 1 Corinthians 12:10. We'll explore its biblical foundation, purpose in the church, and how it differs from other spiritual gifts.Our springboard for today's discussion is: 1 Corinthians 12:10: "To another miraculous powers, to another prophecy, to another distinguishing between spirits, to another speaking in different kinds of tongues." This passage highlights the diversity of gifts bestowed by the Holy Spirit, including the ability to speak in tongues.The gift of tongues is a supernatural ability that enables believers to speak in languages they have not learned, serving various functions within the church body and in the individual's spiritual life.Exploring the Biblical Foundation and Purpose:* Biblical Instances: The New Testament records several instances of believers speaking in tongues, most notably at Pentecost (Acts 2), where the apostles spoke in languages understood by people from various nations.* Purpose in the Church: Speaking in tongues serves multiple purposes, including edification of the church when accompanied by interpretation, and as a sign to unbelievers.Role of Speaking in Tongues in Worship and Prayer:* Enhanced Worship: Speaking in tongues can be a form of worship that expresses the inexpressible, allowing believers to connect with God beyond the confines of human language.* Dynamic Prayer Life: It often enhances prayer life by enabling a direct, spirit-led communication with God, which may bypass the limitations of the intellect.Distinctions Between Speaking in Tongues and Other Spiritual Gifts:* Private vs. Public Use: Unlike many spiritual gifts designed primarily for public edification, speaking in tongues is often used for personal spiritual edification unless interpreted in a congregational setting.* Sign Gift: Speaking in tongues is sometimes seen as a sign gift, particularly noted in the context of apostolic ministry and evangelistic settings, marking the presence of the Holy Spirit.ConclusionThe gift of speaking in tongues is a profound manifestation of the Holy Spirit's work within a believer, providing unique ways to worship, pray, and edify the church. Understanding and responsibly exercising this gift can significantly enhance one's spiritual experience and contribute to the building up of the church.A Question of the Day: What has been your experience with the gift of speaking in tongues, and how has it impacted your spiritual life?Growth Challenge: If you have never experienced the gift of speaking in tongues but are open to it, spend this week seeking God in prayer about it. Ask for understanding and the possible reception of this gift if it is His will for you. Keep a journal of your prayers and any experiences or insights that arise during this time.Let's Pray: Lord, we thank You for the gift of speaking in tongues and the depth it adds to our spiritual lives. Help us to understand and embrace this gift in a way that honors You and builds up our fellow believers. May we be open to all the gifts You have for us, using them to glorify Your name and spread Your love. Amen.As we continue our journey in faith, let's remain open to the diverse ways the Holy Spirit moves among us, embracing each gift with reverence and a heart for God's kingdom. Stay encouraged, and keep seeking God in all things. Let's get to work.My Reasons To Believe is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit myr2b.substack.com/subscribe
Jon Paul, Senior Pastor
Sermons By Antioch Community Church in Waltham, MA (Boston Area)
Are signs and wonders still relevant to contemporary church? What does healing the sick look like today? David's message reminds us of who we are, what we are called to do, and practically how we walk it out today.
Sermons By Antioch Community Church in Waltham, MA (Boston Area)
Listen to Mark's message on the Pentecost, the significant event in God's plan and the fulfillment of prophecies. This is what we believe and what shapes our church. Let this message reminds us of why we gather on Sundays and what following Christ is all about.
The first group of Christians are no different from us. They have the same worries and pressures and fears that you do. Their culture is not easier or harder than ours. They were doing the same church things as we do. But they got filled with the Holy Spirit, and the rest of the book of Acts tells the story of the results. We are meant to ask ourselves the same question they will ask: Are we filled with the Holy Spirit?
Today we read the completion of Paul's earnest advice to the Corinthians to cease their misuse of the gift of speaking in tongues, that is, other languages, as had taken place in Jerusalem on the day of Pentecost (Acts 2). He sets the gift of tongues in contrast to the gift of prophecy – this gift did not give the ability to predict future events, but, as Paul expresses it, “the one who prophecies speaks to people for their upbuilding and encouragement and consolation.”[14 v.3] and “the one who prophesies builds up the church.” [v.4]. Only one man, Agabus, (Acts 21 v.10) is mentioned in New Testament times, apart from the Apostles, as making predictions about the future. It is worth noting that Paul says, “I thank God I speak in tongues more than all of you. Nevertheless, in church I would rather speak five words with my mind in order to instruct others, than ten thousand words in a tongue.” [v.18,19]. It is evident that, because of Paul's widespread travels, he had need to be able to speak in many different languages. Now note his ‘punch' line in the next verse, “Brothers, do not be children in your thinking. Be infants in evil, but in your thinking be mature.” [v.20] The way to be mature today is to prayerfully read the word of God every day, and really think about what you read.. Paul goes on to tell them, “What then brothers? When you come together … let all things be done for building up” [v.26]. If someone did have the gift of tongues they were to keep silent unless there was someone who could give a translation. [v.28] The best procedure in their gatherings was to “let two or three prophets speak, and let the others weigh what was said.” [v.29] How excellent is such a procedure, that of weighing up what is said in Bible Classes and at other times – it is not a matter of having a ‘minister' who does all the talking and all the rest ,the listening: but sadly that is largely the way in churches today – there is rarely any weighing up of what is said as to whether it is soundly based on the word of God. The last 2 verses in the chapter tell us, “ … my brothers, earnestly desire to prophesy, and do not forbid speaking in tongues. But all things should be done decently and in order.” We have seen that phrase about not forbidding to speak in tongues repeatedly quoted by those who advocate Pentecostalism today! But Paul had written [Ch. 13 v. 8] “as for tongues, they will cease” and the last verse of that chapter name the 3 things that were to abide! Do you possess those 3 things? We must be mature in our thinking – let us all feed ever more zealously on God's word.
a) Jesus Ascends to Heaven (Acts 1:1-11)b) The Spirit Descends at Pentecost (Acts 2:1-13)c) Peter Interprets the Spirit's Descent (Acts 2:14-21)d) Peter Proclaims Christ's Resurrection (Acts 2:22-41)
Acts 2:1-4
Geoff Thomas: The Holy Spirit – Chapter 19: “The Holy Spirit and Revival”Opening verses: Titus 3:5-6PEOPLE OF HISTORIC REVIVALThe history of the church was shaped by some great leaders and memorable spiritual breakthroughs, which, in turn, shaped the history of nations.Think of Saint Patrick's work in Ireland in the fifth century and Saint David's labors in sixth-century Wales. Patrick broke the back of heathenism in Ireland, and David did the same in Wales. The greatest outpouring of the Holy Spirit since the apostolic era was the Reformation in the sixteenth century.In the seventeenth century, Puritans such as John Bunyan and John Owen preached and wrote extensively about the Scriptures, influencing many people for generations to come in Great Britain and North America.EXAMPLES OF REVIVAL IN THE OTJosiah's discovery of the Book of the Law. When King Josiah was twenty-six years old, an ancient copy of God's Word was found in the temple of Israel. For centuries, the Scriptures had gone missing, and no one, not even the priests, had seemed to notice. When the book of the law was rediscovered, it had a profound effect on the king, the priests, and all the people of Israel. We read in 2 Chronicles 34:14–21 Jonah's mission to Ninevah. God directed Jonah to preach repentance to Israel's arch-enemy, Ninevah. The prophet rebelled against that order by taking a ship in the opposite direction. But after nearly drowning, Jonah returned to the Lord and went to Ninevah, where he began to proclaim to the residents of that great city, “Yet forty days, and Nineveh shall be overthrown” (Jonah 3:4).The rebuilding of God's temple. The people of God had been in exile in Babylon for seventy years. Now, through God's miraculous intervention, specifically in the heart of Cyrus, king of Persia, many of the exiles had returned to Israel. But it was hard for these exiles to live for the Lord and support themselves in a ruined land that was surrounded by enemies who thwarted and sabotaged whatever they did. It took all their energy to look after themselvesREVIVAL IN THE NEW TESTAMENTPeter's sermon at Pentecost (Acts 2)Philip goes to Samaria (Acts 8)Paul's mission efforts (Acts 13 - 28)WHY REVIVAL IS SHUNNEDRevivals are poorly defined. The word revival is not found in the New Testament. Thus people use the word to describe any event that makes them feel blessed. The problem is that some people describe a meeting where they experienced the nearness of God as a revival, while others who went to the same meeting felt it was dull and uninspired. One man's feast was plain soup to another.Revivals are illusive. For a church member sitting in a pew, revivals never seem to be for the here and now. They appear to be events that happened a hundred years ago or that will occur sometime in the future. If they are occurring now, they are ten thousand miles away from where we live. So an ordinary Christian is restlessabout sermons on revival, Many revivals are not revivals. Many people today claim to be experiencing revivals in places such as Toronto, Kansas City, or Pensacola, Florida. For more information about this group, please visit their website at reformationboise.com. Every weekday at 8:00am you can listen to The Gospel for Life on 94.1 The Voice in the Treasure Valley, Idaho, USA. If you have a question, comment, or even a topic suggestion for the Pastors, you can email them. There is only one rule: Be Kind! Phone: (208) 991-3526E-mail: thegospelforlifeidaho@gmail.comPodcast website: https://941thevoice.com/podcasts/gospel-for-life/
During a Jewish festival in Jerusalem, the Holy Spirit came upon the apostles. This fulfills Jesus' promise that the Spirit would come in power to enable them to be his witnesses.
Dennis & Benedicta discuss Pentecost (Acts 2).To find out more about Dennis & Benedicta Pollock please visit the Spirit of Grace website, where you can find other wonderful resources such as videos and articles. You will also find out how you can support the work of Spirit of Grace by becoming a Friend of Grace .Please send questions, comments, and feedback with us at grace@spiritofgrace.org.
Acts 2:1-13We also would like to invite anyone who lives in the Philadelphia area to worship and study God's word with us at our in-person meeting that takes place every-other Monday night at 7:30pm. Visit phillyyoungadults.com for additional information about our ministry.Feel free to message us on instagram (@phillyyoungadultscc) with any feedback, questions, or topics you want to hear about on the podcast or you can shoot an email to ya@ccphilly.orgVisit our website here.
Clyde Kilough discusses Acts 2:1—“When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.”NOTE: It's unclear whether the number of disciples changed between Acts 1:15 (where Luke describes them as “about a hundred and twenty”) and Acts 2:1 (where they gather together for Pentecost some number of days later), but 120 is the closest number we're given in the Bible.This episode is a companion to the following Daily Bible Verse post: https://lifehopeandtruth.com/bible/blog/the-importance-of-pentecost/Verse by Verse releases every Monday, Wednesday and Friday. Be sure to subscribe in your player of choice to hear each new episode as soon as it's released!
In this sermon we celebrate Pentecost, the arrival of the Holy Spirit on God's people and throughout the creation. With a little help from a scene in the film Arrival, a story about the time Derrida kept saying ‘cows' in a lecture, the Truth and Reconciliation commission in South Africa, and all things Willie James Jennings we find ourselves drawn into the good news of the Holy Spirit drawing up close to God and one another in Christ.
Today's program looks at everything you wanted to know about Pentecost in Acts 2.
Opening Song: Holy Spirit (https://open.spotify.com/track/1AtwsVXr1zaZf4YgIEOlDK?si=49259ae05fee4537) by Bryan and Katie Torwalt Lyrics: There's nothing worth more that will ever come close No thing can compare You're our living hope Your Presence I've tasted and seen of the sweetest of loves Where my heart becomes free and my shame is undone In Your Presence Lord Holy Spirit You are welcome here Come flood this place and fill the atmosphere Your glory God is what our hearts long for To be overcome by Your Presence Lord Your Presence Lord Your Presence Lord Your Presence Oh God how we love Your Presence Lord Let us become more aware of Your Presence Let us experience the glory of Your goodness (Lord) Passage: When the day of Pentecost had arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 Suddenly a sound like that of a violent rushing wind came from heaven, and it filled the whole house where they were staying. 3 They saw tongues like flames of fire that separated and rested on each one of them. 4 Then they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in different tongues, as the Spirit enabled them. 5 Now there were Jews staying in Jerusalem, devout people from every nation under heaven. 6 When this sound occurred, a crowd came together and was confused because each one heard them speaking in his own language. 7 They were astounded and amazed, saying, “Look, aren't all these who are speaking Galileans? 8 How is it that each of us can hear them in our own native language? 9 Parthians, Medes, Elamites; those who live in Mesopotamia, in Judea and Cappadocia, Pontus and Asia, 10 Phrygia and Pamphylia, Egypt and the parts of Libya near Cyrene; visitors from Rome (both Jews and converts), 11 Cretans and Arabs — we hear them declaring the magnificent acts of God in our own tongues.” 12 They were all astounded and perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean? ” 13 But some sneered and said, “They're drunk on new wine.” -- Acts 2:1-13 (CSB) Musical Reflection: “Be Thou My Vision,” old Irish folk tune Reflection Notes: The hymn commonly known as “Be Thou My Vision” is set to the tune SLANE, which is an old Irish folk tune. It samples both major and minor tonalities, with a perfect balance between the two. Prayer:
Pentecost | Acts 2:1-12 | Psalm 104:24-34, 35b | John 15:25-27; 16:4b-15 | May 19th, 2024 | St. Mary of Bethany Parish (Nashville, TN) In this homily, Danny, Flo, and Kelley discuss St. Mary's move from an Anglican church to an ecumenical Eucharistic community.
This week we dive into the book of Acts as we celebrate Pentecost Sunday!
Sermons and Audio of Covenant Presbyterian Church of Chicago
Follow the order of worship below along with streamed service above. Feel free to view the order online or download it here. Live-streamed service available Sundays 9am until 12:30pm CST. If you're traveling or homebound and miss that window, you can email streaming@covenantchicago.org to get a link to the service. PentecostSunday_2024
The weekly adult Sunday School class at OAG taught by long-time teacher, Mrs. Jeanie Davis. Title: Experiencing the Supernatural Power of God: Lessons from Scripture Summary: This week's message by Jeanie Davis focused on the dynamic demonstrations of faith and God's provision in the scriptures. We looked at two main stories: the prophet Elijah being miraculously fed by ravens, as ordained by God in 1 Kings, and the widow of Zarephath who, by obeying God's command through Elijah, saw her meager supplies of flour and oil never run out. These narratives led us to understand that when God commands, He also provides. The message underlined the importance of obedience, faith, and trust in God's instructions, no matter how unusual they seem, with the assurance of His supernatural provision. The core takeaway of the sermon was about the vitality of active faith and expectation in God's ability to provide and perform wonders in our lives. Outline: Opening Prayer Invocation of God's presence and healing Prayer for wisdom and guidance Invocation of the Holy Spirit Introduction Importance of expecting God's presence and action Reference to previous lesson on Rhoda's expectation The Glory of the Lord Appears Leviticus 9:22-24: Aaron and Moses bless the people, and the Lord's glory appears The significance of God's glory appearing to the whole community Imagining the scene of God's fire consuming the offering The Budding of Aaron's Staff Numbers 17:1-11: God ends murmuring with a miraculous sign The sprouting, budding, blossoming, and fruit-bearing staff of Aaron Lessons on God's chosen leaders and supernatural signs Elijah and the Ravens 1 Kings 17:1-6: Elijah is fed by ravens during a drought The supernatural provision of bread and meat by ravens Trusting in God's specific guidance and provision The Widow of Zarephath 1 Kings 17:7-16: Elijah and the miraculous provision for the widow The widow's act of faith and God's continuous supply of flour and oil The importance of sacrificial giving and trust in God Jesus Feeds the Five Thousand Matthew 14:14-21: Jesus multiplies five loaves and two fish The compassion of Jesus and the miraculous feeding God's ability to provide abundantly and meet every need The Temple Tax and the Coin in the Fish Matthew 17:24-27: Jesus instructs Peter to find a coin in a fish's mouth The supernatural provision for paying the temple tax Lessons on obedience, provision, and the supernatural in everyday life The Role of the Holy Spirit John 15:18-27: Jesus promises the Advocate, the Holy Spirit The Holy Spirit's role in teaching, comforting, and guiding believers The importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit The Day of Pentecost Acts 2:1-4: The outpouring of the Holy Spirit on all believers The supernatural signs of wind and fire and speaking in tongues The inclusivity of the Holy Spirit's filling for all believers The Vision of Peter and the Gentiles Acts 11:4-18: Peter's vision and the inclusion of the Gentiles The Holy Spirit's instruction to Peter and the acceptance of Gentiles The breaking of barriers and the universal offer of salvation Conclusion The importance of seeking the fullness of the Holy Spirit Encouragement to step out in faith and expect God's supernatural work Reminder to stay connected to the community of believers and support each other Closing Prayer Thanksgiving for the lesson and God's presence Prayer for the infilling of the Holy Spirit and boldness in faith Encouragement to live out the lessons learned in daily life
The sermon podcast of Redeemer City Church in Tampa, FL
Acts 2:1-21
Genesis 11:1-9; Acts 2:1-21; John 14:8-17
Readings for the Feast of Pentecost - Acts 2:1-11; John 20:19-23This weekend, we celebrate one of the high feast days of the Church - the coming of the Spirit to the early Christian gathering. How did the Spirit come? Well, through a strong driving wind in an upper room, of course. We hear that in Acts. Or was it through the breath and forgiveness of Jesus that Easter Sunday night? Which one is true? Of course the answer is both. But as always, we don't merely celebrate an event that took place 2,000 years ago. We celebrate an event that continues to take place here and now within and among us.Special thanks to Bridget Zenk for her composition and performing of our intake and outtake music. Thank you for continuing to break open God's Word alongside me. I am humbled and honored. Have a question or comment? I can be reached at pdjoezenk@gmail.com. Happy celebration of the presence of the Spirit!
Question: We have a rare difference of opinion concerning your assertion that Old Testament saints are a part of the Church resurrected at the time of the Rapture. Certainly, they are saved by faith alone in the shed blood of Christ…. However, they are, as John the Baptist described himself, “friends of the Bridegroom” (John 3:29). The Church, Christ's bride, was born on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2). At the Wedding Feast of the Lamb, He will have many “friends” in attendance.Response: I appreciate your position, but there are serious problems with it. Old Testament saints could only be resurrected at the Rapture:Our main website: www.thebereancall.orgStore: store.thebereancall.orgDownload our app: www.thebereancall.org/appIn-depth research on a variety of Bible topics: https://www.thebereancall.org/topicsSign up for our email updates: https://www.thebereancall.org/subscribe
Join us as we look at the Redemption - Revelation - Responsibility paradigm again and discuss whether baptism is a part of salvation or not. https://longhollow.com/theforgottenjesuspodcastshownotes
David Johnson discusses Acts 20:16—“For Paul had decided to sail past Ephesus, so that he would not have to spend time in Asia; for he was hurrying to be at Jerusalem, if possible, on the Day of Pentecost.”