Empowerment by the Holy Spirit
Empowerment by the Holy Spirit43
Empowered by the Holy Spirit Part 4
By Phil Beach Jr.7653:02ZEC 4:6JHN 3:3ROM 8:261CO 2:91CO 15:50GAL 5:16EPH 5:181PE 2:1Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the vital role of the Holy Spirit in the life of a believer, asserting that we are not alone in our Christian walk. He explains that the Holy Spirit is the initiator and performer of our salvation and spiritual growth, urging Christians to yield to His guidance. Beach highlights the importance of cooperation with the Holy Spirit in various aspects of life, including the new birth, walking in faith, prayer, and worship. He reassures the congregation that through the Holy Spirit, they can overcome sin and experience a deeper relationship with God. Ultimately, he encourages believers to recognize their dependence on the Holy Spirit for every step of their spiritual journey.
Progressive Sanctification
By Zac Poonen0PRO 4:18MAT 28:20JHN 14:21ROM 8:132CO 7:1GAL 3:24PHP 2:121TH 5:23HEB 8:10Zac Poonen emphasizes the process of progressive sanctification, explaining that while the Law revealed humanity's inability to meet God's standards, it also pointed to the need for a Savior. Under the new covenant, believers are empowered by the Holy Spirit to not only understand God's commandments but also to desire and fulfill them. Poonen highlights that sanctification is a cooperative process where God works in us, and we must actively participate in cleansing ourselves from sin. The ultimate goal is to reflect the character of Christ, producing the fruit of the Spirit in our lives. This journey leads to increasing light and transformation into Christ's likeness.
Spiritual Gifts: Wisdom, Knowledge, Faith, and Healing
By Shane Idleman151:09:001CO 12:1Shane Idleman discusses the spiritual gifts of the Holy Spirit, emphasizing the importance of understanding and applying these gifts in today's church. He addresses the diversity of beliefs within the congregation regarding supernatural gifts, urging a balanced approach that neither dismisses nor overemphasizes them. Idleman highlights specific gifts such as wisdom, knowledge, faith, and healing, explaining their significance and how they can be manifested in the lives of believers. He encourages the church to seek these gifts for the edification of the body of Christ, while also acknowledging the need for maturity and discernment in their use. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper reliance on the Holy Spirit to guide and empower believers in their spiritual journey.
Power for Life and for Service
By Zac Poonen0ZEC 4:6LUK 11:13JHN 14:12ACT 1:8ROM 8:261CO 2:42CO 12:9GAL 5:16EPH 3:20PHP 4:13Zac Poonen emphasizes that both our need for salvation and the ability to live a life pleasing to God can only be met through His power, not our own strength. He notes that while some believers recognize this early and seek God's power, others struggle for years before turning to Him, and some resign themselves to a life of defeat. Poonen highlights the importance of the Holy Spirit, explaining that being born of the Spirit makes us children of God, but being baptized in the Holy Spirit empowers us to fulfill God's will and serve effectively. He encourages believers to seek the Holy Spirit's power to become bold witnesses for Christ, rather than accepting limitations as part of their personality. Ultimately, the sermon calls for reliance on God's strength to live victoriously and serve faithfully.
The Supernatural Body
By A.B. Simpson0JHN 11:25ROM 8:11A.B. Simpson emphasizes the concept of the supernatural body, asserting that the Holy Spirit not only promises future resurrection but also empowers believers in their mortal bodies now. He contrasts the belief that redemption is solely a future event with the understanding that Christians can experience a foretaste of divine life and strength in the present. Simpson illustrates this through biblical examples, such as Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, who all exemplified reliance on God's supernatural provision. He encourages believers to claim the present blessings of resurrection life, rather than postponing them to the future, and to recognize the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in their lives. Ultimately, he calls for a deeper experience of divine life that enhances both personal strength and the effectiveness of service in the world.
Love
By Andrew Murray0JHN 13:34Andrew Murray emphasizes the centrality of love in the Christian life, highlighting Jesus' new commandment to love one another as He has loved us. He explains that true brotherly love stems from the love of the Father, which is made manifest in our hearts by the Holy Spirit. Murray encourages believers to act in love, not based on feelings but on faith, trusting that the Holy Spirit empowers them to fulfill this command. He asserts that love is the essence of discipleship and must be expressed in action, reflecting the character of Christ. Ultimately, Murray calls Christians to live in the love of God, allowing it to flow through them to others.
The Power to Face the Impossible
By David Wilkerson0MAT 28:19MRK 16:15LUK 19:10LUK 24:49David Wilkerson emphasizes the mission of Jesus to seek and save the lost, which extends to all believers today. He highlights the daunting task given to the early disciples, who were ordinary individuals tasked with preaching the gospel in a world dominated by powerful empires and false beliefs. Despite their feelings of inadequacy, Jesus assured them of the Holy Spirit's empowering presence to fulfill this mission. Wilkerson encourages modern believers to embrace this same challenge, trusting in the Holy Spirit to guide and empower them to accomplish the seemingly impossible. The call to action remains: to preach the good news and demonstrate the power of the risen Savior.
Empowered by the Spirit
By Shane Idleman131:05:09ISA 57:15LUK 11:13JHN 14:26ACT 1:8ROM 8:262CO 12:9GAL 5:22EPH 5:181TH 5:19JAS 4:10Shane Idleman emphasizes the necessity of being emptied of self to be filled with the Holy Spirit, highlighting that true empowerment comes from surrendering our self-will and pride. He illustrates the importance of preparing our hearts to receive God's Spirit, comparing it to tilling soil to allow rain to nourish it. Idleman warns against the dangers of besetting sins that block the Spirit's power and encourages believers to seek humility and spiritual disciplines to experience a vibrant Christian life. He stresses that the Holy Spirit empowers us to live boldly and effectively for Christ, urging the congregation to remove any barriers to the Spirit's work in their lives.
A Challenging Message
By Zac Poonen0LEV 11:1JHN 14:6ACT 10:2Zac Poonen delivers a challenging message on the significance of the gospel reaching non-Jews, as illustrated in Acts Chapter 10. He emphasizes that God listens to the prayers of sincere non-Christians like Cornelius, who was devout and generous, and that God can change our perceptions about others. Poonen highlights Peter's transformation through a divine vision, which taught him that God does not consider anyone unclean whom He has cleansed. He stresses the importance of personal experience in sharing the gospel, noting that only those who have been saved by grace can effectively communicate salvation. Ultimately, Poonen encourages believers to be empowered by the Holy Spirit to help those oppressed by sin and to fulfill their ministry with God's presence.
The Spirit of Power
By Andrew Murray0MAT 28:19LUK 24:49JHN 15:26ACT 1:5ACT 1:81CO 2:32CO 4:72CO 12:9EPH 1:17EPH 3:16Andrew Murray emphasizes the necessity of being baptized with the Holy Spirit to receive divine power for witnessing Christ. He explains that the Holy Spirit empowers believers not just for personal holiness but for effective service in glorifying Jesus and fulfilling the Great Commission. Murray highlights that true power comes from surrendering to the Holy Spirit, who works through our weaknesses to accomplish God's purposes. He urges the Church to seek this power with the intent of being effective witnesses for Christ, as the world awaits the manifestation of God's power through His people. Ultimately, the sermon calls for a deep dependence on the Holy Spirit to enable believers to live out their calling as witnesses of Jesus.
Filled to Overflowing
By Alan Redpath0COL 2:9Alan Redpath emphasizes the concept of being 'Filled to Overflowing' with the fullness of Christ, explaining that this fullness encompasses the complete character of God and is made available to believers through the Holy Spirit. He highlights that as we trust in Jesus and live out His words, we are continuously filled and empowered for every need and ministry. Redpath encourages a moment-by-moment faith that allows us to receive this divine fullness, ensuring that we lack nothing necessary for our spiritual journey.
The Message of Acts
By G. Campbell Morgan0ACT 1:1G. Campbell Morgan emphasizes the enduring values found in the Book of Acts, focusing on the Church's origin, nature, and function as established by Christ. He highlights the perils of prejudice, passion, and pride that threaten the Church's mission, while urging that the Church's master passion should be the glory of God. Morgan asserts that the Church is empowered by the Holy Spirit to continue Christ's work, revealing the importance of loyalty to the Lord and the necessity of yielding to the Spirit. He concludes that the Church's activities should be motivated by the glory of God and conducted through the work of the Son, ultimately appealing to the world through a Spirit-filled life. The message of Acts serves as a vital link between the Gospels and the epistles, illustrating the ongoing work of Christ through His Church.
Ye Shall Receive Power
By Smith Wigglesworth0LUK 11:13JHN 14:26JHN 16:13ACT 1:8ACT 2:4ROM 8:111CO 2:12GAL 5:22EPH 3:202TI 1:7Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the transformative power of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers, asserting that receiving the Holy Ghost equips them with divine power to witness and act according to God's will. He recounts personal experiences where the Holy Spirit brought healing and profound changes in individuals, illustrating the stark contrast between the power of God and the power of Satan. Wigglesworth stresses the necessity of being cleansed and fully surrendered to God for the Holy Spirit to work effectively in one's life. He encourages believers to seek the Holy Spirit earnestly, as true empowerment leads to a life that reflects Christ's love and authority. Ultimately, he affirms that the Holy Spirit not only empowers but also reveals Christ more vividly to the believer.
Matthew 5:38
By Chuck Smith0MAT 5:38Chuck Smith emphasizes the radical teachings of Jesus in Matthew 5:38, focusing on the principles of non-retaliation, generosity, and going the extra mile. He explains that true transformation comes from a new nature that desires to respond with love rather than vengeance, illustrating this with biblical examples. Smith challenges the audience to reconsider their attitudes towards material possessions and legal rights, urging them to embody the spirit of Christ by exceeding expectations in their actions. He concludes that living out these principles requires the empowerment of the Holy Spirit, as they are not achievable through human effort alone.
The Freedom of the Christian
By Andrew Murray0JHN 8:36ROM 6:18ROM 7:6ROM 8:21CO 15:562CO 2:142CO 3:17GAL 5:18PHP 4:13Andrew Murray emphasizes the profound privilege of freedom for Christians, illustrating that true freedom is liberation from sin, the law, and the law of sin through Christ. He explains that while sin seeks to dominate, believers can claim their freedom by faith, recognizing that they are no longer under the law's condemnation. Murray highlights that the Holy Spirit empowers Christians to live in this freedom, enabling them to fulfill their God-given potential without hindrance. He draws parallels between the Israelites' exodus from Egypt and the believer's spiritual liberation, underscoring the importance of understanding and embracing this freedom. Ultimately, he calls for believers to live joyfully in the freedom provided by Christ, serving God without restraint.
Grace and Apostleship From the Risen Christ
By G.W. North0JHN 20:21ROM 1:5G.W. North emphasizes that Paul and the other apostles received grace and apostleship from the risen Christ, marking a significant transformation in their roles after His resurrection. He explains that their apostleship was renewed and expanded, highlighting the importance of the Holy Spirit's anointing, which they had not received during their initial calling. North draws attention to the distinction between their previous and current status, suggesting that their former calling was not permanent and could be forfeited, as exemplified by Judas. The sermon underscores that apostles are primarily devoted to Christ, receiving their authority and mission directly from Him, and that the empowerment of the Holy Spirit is essential for fulfilling their commission. Ultimately, North calls for a spirit of holiness to permeate the lives and preaching of the apostles and believers alike.
Things That Are Impossible With Men Are Possible With God
By Andrew Murray0ISA 40:31MAT 19:26MRK 16:15LUK 1:37JHN 14:12ACT 1:8ROM 8:312CO 5:17EPH 3:20PHP 4:13Andrew Murray emphasizes that while certain things may seem impossible for men and women, they are entirely possible with God. He encourages believers to seek and welcome revival, highlighting the promise of the Holy Spirit as a source of power for the church to fulfill its mission. Murray asserts that this divine empowerment is the heritage of the church, contingent upon its willingness to claim it. The sermon calls for readiness among God's people to embrace this promise and act as witnesses to the world.
A Heart to Know Him
By David Wilkerson0ISA 41:10JER 24:7EZK 36:26JHN 14:26ROM 8:112CO 5:17GAL 5:22PHP 2:132TI 1:71JN 4:4David Wilkerson emphasizes God's promise to give us a new heart that desires to know Him and obey His commands. He highlights the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, who not only teaches us about God's nature but also empowers us to overcome sin and live a life reflective of Christ. Wilkerson reassures believers that God is merciful and patient, providing the strength needed to fulfill His demands. He encourages listeners to rely on the Holy Spirit in times of temptation and to fully surrender to God's promises for a new life. Ultimately, through faith in Christ, we become new creations, leaving behind our old selves.
Enduement for Service
By D.L. Moody0LUK 24:49JHN 14:12JHN 20:22ACT 1:8ACT 2:4ACT 4:31ACT 10:44ROM 8:141CO 12:7EPH 5:18D.L. Moody emphasizes the necessity of being filled with the Holy Spirit for effective service, arguing that many Christians today live beneath their privileges by not seeking this power. He reflects on the experiences of the Apostles, who, despite having the Holy Spirit, were commanded to wait for a special endowment of power before embarking on their mission. Moody challenges believers to examine their readiness to be used by God and to actively seek the Holy Spirit's empowerment for witnessing and ministry. He asserts that true effectiveness in spreading the Gospel requires supernatural power, which is available to all who earnestly seek it. Ultimately, he calls for a commitment to be ready to go wherever God leads, filled with the Spirit to bear fruit for His kingdom.
Disciples of Jesus
By Robert Coleman0JHN 14:16Robert Coleman emphasizes that the disciples of Jesus were ordinary men, lacking formal education and societal status, yet chosen by Christ to fulfill a monumental mission. Despite their impulsive and temperamental nature, these common laborers represented a diverse cross-section of society, demonstrating that God can use anyone for His purpose. The sermon highlights the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, which empowers believers to witness for Christ, regardless of their background or qualifications.
Neither Shall Any Plague Come Nigh Thy Dwelling
By A.B. Simpson0PSA 91:101JN 5:18A.B. Simpson emphasizes the power of being filled with the Holy Spirit, which enables believers to be 'sin proof' and protected from the attacks of the enemy. He illustrates that just as fireproof and waterproof materials resist harm, a life empowered by the Spirit can repel sin and evil influences. Simpson encourages Christians to cultivate a deep relationship with Jesus, allowing His presence to shield them from spiritual dangers and to walk confidently even in challenging circumstances. He reminds us that through Christ, we can maintain our purity and resist temptation, as we are nourished by His life.
Isaiah 61:13
By Chuck Smith0ISA 61:1Chuck Smith emphasizes that all believers are called to be ministers of God, highlighting the necessity of relying on the Holy Spirit for true ministry. He warns against the dangers of ministering in the flesh, stressing that self-confidence can lead to ineffective service. The purpose of ministry is to share the good news, heal the brokenhearted, and proclaim liberty to the captives, while the results of true ministry bring beauty, joy, and praise to those in need. Ultimately, the goal of ministry is to glorify God, not ourselves.
They Became Fearless
By David Wilkerson0MAT 28:19JHN 14:26ACT 1:8ACT 2:4ACT 2:41ACT 10:15ACT 13:4ROM 1:161CO 2:4EPH 6:19David Wilkerson emphasizes that when the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples, they became fearless and empowered to preach the gospel with conviction and authority. This led to a remarkable revival, with thousands being saved, including priests and Gentiles, as the Spirit directed their every action. The disciples overcame cultural prejudices through divine revelation, as seen in Peter's vision, which opened the door for the gospel to reach all nations. The sermon highlights the necessity of prayer and fasting to receive guidance from the Holy Spirit before taking action. Ultimately, the message is that true direction and power come from being in communion with God.
Living in the Spirit
By A.B. Simpson0ISA 40:31EZK 36:26JHN 3:6JHN 7:38JHN 14:17ROM 8:2ROM 8:112CO 5:17GAL 5:251JN 3:1A.B. Simpson emphasizes the profound significance of living in the Spirit, which begins with being born of the Spirit and receiving a new spiritual life. He explains that true Christianity transcends intellectual and moral achievements, as it introduces believers into the family of God through a divine nature. Simpson further elaborates on the necessity of being baptized in the Holy Spirit, which empowers believers to live a life of holiness and strength, free from the power of sin. He illustrates that living in the Spirit involves a continuous relationship with the Holy Spirit, who sanctifies and quickens both the mind and body. Ultimately, he calls believers to embrace this divine life, recognizing the Holy Spirit as the source of their strength and vitality.
The Christ-Life
By F.B. Meyer0JHN 14:16ROM 6:11ROM 7:24ROM 8:1ROM 8:17ROM 8:26ROM 8:37GAL 5:16EPH 4:27COL 2:14F.B. Meyer explores the transformative power of the Christ-life, emphasizing that believers are saved by Christ's life both in heaven and within them through the Holy Spirit. He highlights the importance of living a holy life as a result of understanding our standing in Christ, which frees us from the power of sin and allows us to bear fruit for God. Meyer encourages believers to present their whole being to God, ensuring that every aspect of their lives is dedicated to His service. He stresses the role of the Holy Spirit in empowering believers to overcome self and live in victory, reminding them that there is no condemnation for those in Christ Jesus. Ultimately, Meyer reassures believers of their secure position in Christ and the abundant resources available to them through the Spirit.
God Requires Only Himself
By Jessie Penn-Lewis0EPH 5:1Jessie Penn-Lewis emphasizes that God desires us to imitate Him as beloved children, living a life of love through the Holy Spirit's empowerment. She explains that true obedience and praise come not from obligation but from being filled with God's Spirit, which transforms our hearts and actions. The sermon highlights the importance of removing obstacles to God's spirit by going to the Cross and seeking a new life that produces good fruit. Penn-Lewis encourages believers to lead others into this new life, allowing God's unique expression to manifest in each individual rather than conforming to a single pattern.
Living Epistles of the Living Christ
By Smith Wigglesworth02CO 3:2Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes that believers are living epistles of Christ, transformed by the Holy Spirit who writes God's law on their hearts. He explains that through the crucifixion of the old nature and the indwelling of Christ, believers can live a life empowered by the Spirit, leading to a ministry filled with signs and wonders. Wigglesworth encourages reliance on the Holy Spirit for prayer and compassion, highlighting the importance of being filled with God's love to effectively minister to others. He calls for a life of humility and dependence on God, urging believers to embrace the transformative power of the Holy Spirit to become true representatives of Christ. Ultimately, he stresses the necessity of continually seeking God's presence to fulfill His divine purpose in our lives.
The Daunting Task
By A.W. Tozer0MAT 28:19JHN 14:12ACT 1:8ACT 2:4ROM 1:161CO 2:4GAL 5:22EPH 3:20PHP 4:132TI 1:7A.W. Tozer emphasizes the monumental task of the Church in spreading the gospel of Christ, which is the power of God for salvation. He reflects on the Church's reliance on the Holy Spirit, who empowered it at Pentecost, enabling it to achieve remarkable moral victories in a short time. Without this divine empowerment, Tozer argues, the Church would have failed like many sects before it. He calls for the same power today, recognizing that without the Holy Spirit, the Church remains incapable of fulfilling its mission. The sermon concludes with a prayer for empowerment to continue the work of spreading the gospel.
Our Daily Homily - Acts
By F.B. Meyer0ACT 1:8ACT 2:33ACT 4:31ACT 5:4ACT 6:4ACT 7:55ACT 9:31ACT 10:6ACT 20:282CO 3:18F.B. Meyer emphasizes the call for believers to be witnesses of Christ, contrasting this role with the priestly functions of the time. He highlights that true witness-bearing stems from a close relationship with Jesus, which transforms us and enables us to reflect His light. Meyer encourages believers to start witnessing in their immediate circles before expanding outward, asserting that the Holy Spirit empowers this mission. He also discusses the importance of prayer and the continuous filling of the Holy Spirit for effective ministry. Ultimately, Meyer calls for a life of obedience to God's will, urging believers to recognize their role in the ongoing story of the Church.
3. Empowered by the Spirit
By Chuck Smith0JHN 7:37JHN 14:16ACT 1:8ACT 2:37ACT 8:15ACT 9:17ACT 10:441CO 6:192CO 3:18EPH 5:18Chuck Smith emphasizes the necessity of being empowered by the Holy Spirit, which is a distinct experience from the indwelling of the Spirit that occurs at conversion. He explains that the Holy Spirit's empowering presence enables believers to be effective witnesses for Christ, flowing out of their lives to impact the world. Smith highlights biblical examples, such as the apostles and the Samaritans, to illustrate this separate experience of receiving the Holy Spirit. He encourages believers to seek this empowering relationship, which he describes as an overflow of the Spirit, essential for ministry and transformation into the image of Christ. Ultimately, he challenges the congregation to reflect on whether they have experienced this empowering of the Holy Spirit in their lives.
Dry Bones Can Live!
By David Wilkerson0EZK 37:4David Wilkerson emphasizes God's desire for believers to embrace the promises of His new covenant as illustrated in Ezekiel 37, where dry bones are called to life. He highlights that although these bones were under the covenant, they had not yet experienced its blessings, reflecting the struggle many believers face in fully accepting the Holy Spirit's indwelling. Wilkerson encourages believers to prophesy and invite the Holy Spirit to breathe life into their spiritual deadness, leading to transformation and empowerment. The sermon illustrates that through obedience to God's command, believers can rise as a powerful army, fully alive in Christ. Ultimately, it is about entering into the fullness of the new covenant and experiencing the life-changing power of the Holy Spirit.
Building the House of God - Asking for the Holy Spirit
By Phil Beach Jr.2853:52ACT 1:8ACT 2:4ACT 4:19Phil Beach Jr. emphasizes the vital role of the Holy Spirit in the life of believers, highlighting that the Spirit is given not for personal gain or status but to empower individuals to live for Christ and obey God's commandments. He warns against the superficial association of the Holy Spirit with success and popularity, urging believers to seek a genuine relationship with God that transforms their hearts and lives. The sermon reflects on the early church's reliance on the Holy Spirit, illustrating how true empowerment leads to a passion for God's word and a commitment to obey Him above all else.
(Power From on High) 7. Waiting for the Spirit
By A.B. Simpson0LUK 24:49ACT 1:4A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of waiting on God for the filling of the Holy Spirit, illustrating that spiritual growth often requires time and preparation. He draws parallels between natural processes and spiritual waiting, highlighting that just as seeds need time to germinate, believers must also wait to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Simpson teaches that this waiting is not passive but an active posture of receiving and claiming God's blessings, which leads to a deeper understanding of our need for Him and His fullness. He encourages believers to embrace this waiting period as a time for self-examination, listening to God's voice, and preparing for the work He has for them. Ultimately, waiting on the Lord is portrayed as essential for spiritual empowerment and readiness for service.
(Power From on High) 4. the Parable of the Pounds; Or, Power for Service
By A.B. Simpson0MAT 7:7LUK 19:13JHN 14:13ACT 1:8ROM 8:261CO 12:7GAL 5:22EPH 4:302TI 4:71PE 4:10A.B. Simpson emphasizes the importance of utilizing the resources given by God, represented by the pound in the Parable of the Pounds, to serve faithfully until Christ's return. He explains that every believer is endowed with the same Holy Spirit, which empowers them for service, and that spiritual effectiveness comes from this divine enabling rather than personal talent. Simpson urges Christians to actively engage in their callings, viewing all work as sacred and a means to glorify God, while also preparing for Christ's second coming. He warns against complacency and encourages believers to be diligent in their spiritual responsibilities, as the reward for faithfulness will be significant in the eternal kingdom.
Aflame for God
By Smith Wigglesworth0ISA 40:31MAT 28:19MRK 16:17LUK 3:16JHN 10:10ACT 1:8ROM 8:371CO 12:42TI 1:7HEB 1:7Smith Wigglesworth emphasizes the necessity of being empowered by the Holy Spirit to be effective witnesses for Christ, just as the early disciples were on the day of Pentecost. He asserts that the same anointing and power are available today, urging believers to be flames of fire, filled with faith and the presence of God. Wigglesworth shares personal testimonies of miraculous healings and the transformative power of God, encouraging Christians to live in a state of readiness to manifest God's power in their lives. He calls for a passionate and active faith that reflects the glory of Christ and meets the needs of the world. Ultimately, he reminds us that through the Holy Spirit, we can experience life abundantly and be instruments of healing and hope.
A Safe Messiah
By Shane Idleman1749:49LUK 1:26Shane Idleman emphasizes the concept of a 'Safe Messiah,' warning against the cultural tendency to sanitize Jesus and make Him palatable, rather than acknowledging His true nature as both a gentle lamb and a powerful lion. He reflects on C.S. Lewis's insights about the demonic realm's efforts to distract believers from the true meaning of Christmas, urging the congregation to embrace the unsanitized reality of Christ. Idleman encourages believers to confront their fears about meeting Jesus, highlighting that true safety is found in a relationship with Him, who holds all authority and power. He calls for a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit's role in empowering believers to live boldly and proclaim the Gospel. Ultimately, he invites listeners to run to the 'very safe Messiah' who offers salvation and hope amidst a world filled with darkness.
"Filled With the Holy Spirit"
By F.B. Meyer0LUK 1:17ACT 2:4ACT 4:31GAL 5:16EPH 5:18F.B. Meyer emphasizes the transformative power of being filled with the Holy Spirit, illustrating how one individual can become a powerful conduit for God's grace and strength. He reflects on the life of Elijah, who, despite the overwhelming idolatry of his time, was able to turn the tide back to God through the Spirit's empowerment. Meyer urges believers to seek this filling not for personal gain but for the glory of God, highlighting the necessity of purity and surrender to the Holy Spirit's work. He reassures that this filling is available to all believers, as it was in the early Church, and that it leads to victory over sin, the indwelling of Christ, and empowerment for service. Ultimately, Meyer calls for a renewed commitment to being filled with the Holy Spirit to fulfill God's purpose in the world.
Ungifted Hands
By A.W. Tozer0ROM 12:61CO 12:4EPH 4:11PHP 2:131PE 4:10A.W. Tozer emphasizes the necessity of the Holy Spirit's control in the lives of believers, illustrating this with the metaphor of his own 'ungifted hands' that lack the ability to perform skilled tasks. He argues that it is unwise to expect spiritual results from those who are not empowered by the Spirit, and he challenges the church to recognize the importance of utilizing the gifts that God has given to each member. Tozer calls for a movement of the Holy Spirit within the church so that every believer can actively serve and contribute their unique gifts for God's glory.
Encouragement When There Is Defeat
By Peter Brandon745:50ZEC 4:6ZEC 4:10MAT 17:20JHN 7:39ACT 1:8ROM 8:311CO 1:272CO 12:9EPH 5:14PHP 4:13Peter Brandon emphasizes the need for encouragement in times of defeat, drawing from Zechariah 4 to illustrate that true strength comes not from human might or power, but from the Spirit of the Lord. He highlights the historical context of the Israelites returning to rebuild Jerusalem amidst despair and opposition, reminding listeners that God can use small beginnings to achieve great outcomes. Brandon encourages believers to remain steadfast in their service to God, regardless of their circumstances, and to seek the Holy Spirit's empowerment for revival. He concludes with a call to recognize the potential of small acts of faith and the importance of humility in God's work.
Ye Shall Receive Power
By A.B. Simpson0ZEC 4:6JHN 14:26ACT 1:8ROM 8:111CO 12:72CO 12:9GAL 5:22EPH 3:20PHP 4:132TI 1:7A.B. Simpson emphasizes that the Holy Spirit empowers every Christian to make a significant impact in their lives and the lives of others. He asserts that God has equipped each believer with the necessary power to fulfill His commands and to be effective in their Christian work. Simpson encourages Christians to embrace the resources provided by Christ and the Holy Spirit, which are sufficient for all challenges. He calls for a complete surrender to the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to control and work through believers. The message is a reminder that failure is not an option when one relies on God's enabling power.
Anointed for Battle - Reinhard Bonnke
By From the Pulpit & Classic Sermons1.5K50:012KI 13:14Reinhard Bonnke delivers a powerful message titled 'Anointed for Battle,' emphasizing the importance of being equipped with God's anointing to face life's challenges. He draws from the story of King Joash and the prophet Elisha, illustrating how God provides us with the tools (bow and arrows) necessary for spiritual warfare. Bonnke encourages believers to reclaim their spiritual weapons, overcome fear, and open their hearts to the Holy Spirit's guidance. He passionately calls for action, urging the congregation to shoot their arrows of faith without hesitation, as the anointing of God empowers them to achieve victory over the enemy. The sermon culminates in a call for the Holy Spirit to move among the people, breaking chains of bondage and igniting a spirit of revival.
Are You a Witness in Your City?
By David Wilkerson0ACT 1:11ACT 2:4David Wilkerson emphasizes that God transforms cities not through supernatural events or judgment, but by using ordinary people filled with the Holy Spirit. He calls believers to seek God earnestly in prayer, preparing themselves to be His witnesses. Instead of being passive and gazing at glory, Christians are urged to take action and engage in spiritual warfare with faith and power. The sermon highlights the importance of being usable by God and the impact of a bold witness, which can lead to either repentance or anger. Ultimately, believers are encouraged to spread the light of Jesus in their communities.
Something Happened to Peter - Pentecost
By Major Ian Thomas1039:21MRK 14:27Major Ian Thomas discusses the transformation of Peter from a man who tried to live the Christian life in his own strength to one who was empowered by the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. He emphasizes that many Christians fail because they attempt to live a life they do not possess, and that true Christian living comes from allowing Christ to live through us. Thomas illustrates this with Peter's denial of Jesus and his eventual realization of the necessity of being born again, highlighting that the Christian life is not about our efforts but about Christ's life within us. The sermon concludes with the affirmation that Jesus knows our failures and still loves us, inviting us to rely on His strength rather than our own.