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Hitting plateaus is a common milestone in business, but there’s a difference between stability and a rut. In the last installment of this season, we’ll dive into the ways small business owners push beyond plateaus and find new ways to achieve revenue growth. Jannese and Austin wrap up their time in Nashville, Tennessee with a wonderful visit to N.B. Goods to speak with owner Camille Alston . Camille details the times where she hit a wall with profits, the strategies she implemented to increase revenue, what worked, what didn’t, and the important lessons she learned in the process. You won’t want to miss this informative final chapter! Learn more about how QuickBooks can help you grow your business: QuickBooks.com See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.…
Innhold levert av Praise Tabernacle. Alt podcastinnhold, inkludert episoder, grafikk og podcastbeskrivelser, lastes opp og leveres direkte av Praise Tabernacle eller deres podcastplattformpartner. Hvis du tror at noen bruker det opphavsrettsbeskyttede verket ditt uten din tillatelse, kan du følge prosessen skissert her https://no.player.fm/legal.
Innhold levert av Praise Tabernacle. Alt podcastinnhold, inkludert episoder, grafikk og podcastbeskrivelser, lastes opp og leveres direkte av Praise Tabernacle eller deres podcastplattformpartner. Hvis du tror at noen bruker det opphavsrettsbeskyttede verket ditt uten din tillatelse, kan du følge prosessen skissert her https://no.player.fm/legal.
Bold Faith, Boundless Spirit: Acts 8 Living in the Spirit Series Key Theme: The Holy Spirit moves beyond boundaries, empowering bold faith to spread the gospel with supernatural power and divine direction. I. Bold Faith in the Face of Persecution (Acts 8:1-8) Acts 1:8 declares that the Holy Spirit will empower believers to be witnesses in Jerusalem, Judea, Samaria, and to the ends of the earth. Until Acts 8, the Spirit’s work had been primarily centered in Jerusalem. However, the fulfillment of this promise began unexpectedly—through persecution. Hardship scattered the believers, ultimately expanding the gospel’s reach. The early church had just been established, and with so many new believers, the focus was likely on strengthening the faith community rather than venturing beyond Jerusalem. Yet, God used persecution to advance His kingdom, ensuring that the message of salvation would not remain confined to one city. One of the key figures leading the charge against the church was Saul. Verse 3 describes his relentless mission: “He was going everywhere to destroy the church, dragging out both men and women and throwing them into prison.” Saul was determined to eradicate what he viewed as a dangerous sect. However, despite his violent efforts, the gospel continued to spread. The word “but” in this passage marks a divine reversal—what was meant for harm only fueled the mission of Christ. The scattered believers did not retreat in fear; instead, they boldly proclaimed the gospel, accompanied by signs and wonders. We see this example with Philip, who preached in Samaria, casting our devils, bringing healing, and it says joy came to the city. Their unwavering faith in the face of persecution demonstrates that the power of the Holy Spirit cannot be silenced. What the enemy intended for destruction, God used for multiplication. Application: The Spirit turns obstacles into opportunities. Bold faith steps beyond comfort zones to reach others. II. Boundless Power: The Spirit Cannot Be Bought (Acts 8:9-25) The things of this world can be bought and sold, but the Holy Spirit is not of this world. His power cannot be earned, traded, or purchased—it can only be received by faith. Simon’s Conversion and Misunderstanding Simon, a well-known sorcerer known as the “Great One,” had long captivated the people with his magic. However, when he witnessed Philip operating in true power—miracles, signs, and the undeniable work of the Spirit—he recognized a power far greater than his own. Although he believed in Jesus and was baptized, his understanding of the Holy Spirit remained flawed. Thinking in earthly terms, he offered money to the apostles, hoping to buy the ability to impart the Spirit. The Necessity of the Spirit’s Baptism Philip’s initial message focused on salvation in Christ. He preached repentance and faith in Jesus, and as a result, many, including Simon, believed and were baptized. However, the fullness of the Spirit had yet to be imparted. When the apostles arrived, they discerned this and prayed for the new believers to be baptized in the Holy Spirit to operate in the fullness of God’s power. This passage highlights an important truth: while receiving Jesus brings new birth through the Spirit, there is also a second immersion—a baptism in the Spirit—that must be taught and received by faith. This empowerment enables believers to be bold witnesses for Christ, just as Jesus promised in Acts 1:8. Peter’s Rebuke and Simon’s Response Peter rebuked Simon sharply, exposing the corruption in his heart. The power of God is not a commodity to be bought but a gift of grace to be received. Simon’s request revealed that he still viewed power through a worldly lens rather than as a divine gift for God’s purposes. Convicted by Peter’s words, Simon humbled himself and asked for forgiveness. The Right Posture Toward the Spirit’s Power The Holy Spirit is given freely, and we are called to walk in His power by faith—not for personal gain, recognition, or influence, but for the glory of God alone. As Jesus reminds us in John 15, we can do nothing apart from Him. True greatness is found not in possessing power but in surrendering fully to the One who gives it. Application: The Spirit discerns the heart—genuine faith leads to repentance. The gifts of the Spirit are for God’s glory, not personal status. III. Boundless Spirit: The Gospel Reaches the Nations (Acts 8:26-40) The Holy Spirit directs believers to those whose hearts are ready to receive the gospel. God knows who is seeking truth, and He calls us, like Philip, to be faithful evangelists—always prepared, filled with the Word, and sensitive to His leading. Philip’s encounter with the Ethiopian eunuch demonstrates how divine appointments work. The Spirit led Philip to a man of significant influence, a high official in Ethiopia who was already searching for truth in the Scriptures. Philip’s obedience allowed him to explain the Word correctly, leading the eunuch to salvation and baptism. As evangelists, we must be ready to reap the harvest and plant and water seeds. Some people are prepared to receive Christ immediately, while others need time. As Paul reminds us, “Some plant, others water, but God gives the increase” (1 Corinthians 3:6). Every soul is precious in God's eyes—whether they go on to influence nations, like the Ethiopian eunuch, or live a quieter life of faith. What seems excellent in the world’s eyes may be insignificant in eternity, and what appears small may be of immense value in God’s kingdom. Our role is not to measure impact but to love unconditionally, trust in God's perfect timing, and faithfully share His truth, knowing He will accomplish His purpose in every life. Call to Action: Pray for boldness, discernment, and obedience to the Spirit’s leading. -- Praise Tabernacle Dr. Joshua Kennedy, Pastor 2235 Ocean Heights Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 pastorjosh@praisetabernacle.com praisetabernacle.church (609) 927-4560(w)…
Challenges of Church Growth Multiplication and Division Acts Focus Passage: Acts 6:1-5 1. The Importance of Unity in the Church * Acts 6:1: “But as the believers rapidly multiplied, there were rumblings of discontent. The Greek-speaking believers complained about the Hebrew-speaking believers, saying that their widows were being discriminated against in the daily food distribution.” * Growth often brings healthy challenges, and with challenges come opportunities for solutions shaped by God’s wisdom. As leaders, we must remember that the same God who brings increase also provides answers. Rather than succumbing to panic, we are called to seek His guidance with faith, trusting that His hand will resolve difficulties when we ask, seek, and knock. * The tension between the Hellenistic Jews and Hebraic Jews regarding the daily distribution of food underscores the importance of addressing cultural and community-specific needs within the church. This conflict wasn’t just logistical—it revealed the more profound need for sensitivity, understanding, and intentional inclusion. * The Holy Spirit equips us to be witnesses to all people (Acts 1:8), and He also empowers us with grace to bridge cultural differences, relate to diverse perspectives, and find Spirit-led solutions. Unity is not just a goal; the Church needs to embody the fullness of God’s presence. As Jesus prayed in John 17:21, "that all of them may be one, Father, just as you are in me and I am in you," unity is the key to effective witness and sustained growth. 2. Spirit-Led Delegation and qualifications for leadership. * (Acts 6:2-4).2 So the Twelve called a meeting of all the believers. They said, “We apostles should spend our time teaching the word of God, not running a food program. 3 And so, brothers, select seven men who are well respected and are full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will give them this responsibility. 4 Then we apostles can spend our time in prayer and teaching the word.” * Every leadership role in the body of Christ should require spirit-filling. Spiritual wisdom is needed to discern God’s will and make decisions according to God’s heart, not man’s. * The Apostles understood their primary responsibility with the early church was prayer and teaching of the Word, especially with the rapid growth, so other vital tasks like assisting widows had to be designated to others who had to be spirit-filled. * In Christ, all we do is go unto Him, in the power of the Spirit. Nothing should be seen as less a duty than something else just because of one’s title. 3. The Power of Spirit-Filled Ministry * Acts 6:5-8"Everyone liked this idea, and they chose the following: Stephen (a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit), Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas of Antioch (an earlier convert to the Jewish faith). These seven were presented to the apostles, who prayed for them as they laid their hands on them. So, God’s message continued to spread. The number of believers significantly increased in Jerusalem, and many of the Jewish priests were converted, too." * The power of God is not reserved for a select few but is available to all believers. As Jesus declared in Mark 16:17, the signs accompanying those who believe in Him include casting out demons, laying hands on the sick, and more. The early church leaders, like Stephen and the others chosen, exemplified the qualifications required for leadership: being full of faith and the Holy Spirit. Without these essential traits, we are unprepared to represent Jesus effectively and bring glory to His name. * Furthermore, the act of elders laying hands on new leaders serves as a vital moment of consecration and empowerment, setting them apart for their God-given role. This practice reinforces the spiritual significance of stepping into leadership with prayerful preparation. * When more believers rise to accept their calling and step into leadership, the Lord multiplies His work. As each vessel contributes to the mission, the Kingdom advances, and the message of God continues to spread powerfully, just as it did in the early church. 4. Opposition to Spirit-Filled Witness * Acts 6:9-14"But one day, some men from the Synagogue of Freed Slaves, as it was called, began to debate with Stephen. These were Jews from Cyrene, Alexandria, Cilicia, and the province of Asia. Yet, none of them could stand against the wisdom and the Spirit with which Stephen spoke. So they persuaded others to lie about Stephen, claiming, 'We heard him blaspheme Moses and even God.' This stirred up the people, elders, and teachers of religious law. As a result, they arrested Stephen and brought him before the high council. The false witnesses testified, 'This man constantly speaks against the holy Temple and the law of Moses. We even heard him say that this Jesus of Nazareth will destroy the Temple and change the customs Moses handed down to us.'" * No one can stand against the wisdom of God. When we operate as Stephen did—full of faith and the Spirit—we are empowered to answer any question, speak boldly, and remain unmoved by human opposition, aligning ourselves with God's purpose. However, this does not guarantee that others will respond positively. Some hearts are so hardened and consumed by evil that nothing we say or do will move them. * Opposition may come, often in the form of lies, schemes, and attempts to stop us at any cost. But we must remember that we are not wrestling against flesh and blood but against spiritual forces and principalities of darkness (Ephesians 6:12). Because of this, we should not take persecution personally. Instead, we are called to rejoice when we suffer for Christ's sake. By doing so, we share in the fellowship of His suffering and stand in solidarity with all the saints who have endured before us. 5. A Glimpse of Glory Amid Trials * Acts 6:15: “At this point, everyone in the high council stared at Stephen because his face became as bright as an angel’s.” * Final Charge:We are called to shine like the sun’s rays, reflecting the light of the Son’s presence. When our eyes are fixed on Jesus, no earthly opposition or suffering can diminish the glory of God radiating through us. Stephen’s face, shining like an angel’s, was a testament to his communion with the Lord, even in the face of persecution. * With suffering comes glory! Let us boldly pursue the Lord and His will, keeping our gaze fixed on Him. No matter what happens on earth, we walk in the reality of Heaven. May our lives bear witness to His name, reflecting His light and His love, even in the darkest moments. -- Praise Tabernacle Dr. Joshua Kennedy, Pastor 2235 Ocean Heights Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 pastorjosh@praisetabernacle.com praisetabernacle.church (609) 927-4560(w),…
Title: Understanding the Person of the Holy Spirit Series: Living in the SpiritFocus Scripture: Acts 2 Introduction * Acts 2 marks the fulfillment of Jesus' promise to send the Holy Spirit, empowering believers for ministry and revealing the person and work of the Spirit profoundly. This chapter serves as a foundation for understanding the Holy Spirit's role in the life of the church and the believer. * Objective:To explore the Holy Spirit’s identity, nature, and mission as revealed in Acts 2 and how this understanding transforms our daily walk with God. I. The Identity of the Holy Spirit 1. The Holy Spirit as God: * Acts 2:4: "All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit..."The Spirit’s divine nature is evident in His ability to fill believers and empower them with supernatural gifts. * The gifts of the Holy Spirit are an extension of the person of the Holy Spirit present within us. * The Holy Spirit is not a force but a person of the Trinity with intellect, will, and emotions - 2. The Promise of the Father: * Acts 2:33 33 Now he is exalted to the place of highest honor in heaven, at God’s right hand. And the Father, as he had promised, gave him the Holy Spirit to pour out upon us, just as you see and hear today. * The Spirit fulfills the Old Testament promises * (Joel 2:28-29) - 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. 17 He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you. II. The Work of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2 1. Empowering Believers: * Acts 2:3-4: 3 Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. 4 And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability. * The gift of diverse tongues and interpretation manifested because people of many nations/languages were gathered. * Application: The Spirit equips us for ministry and mission, giving gifts for service (1 Corinthians 12). 2. Revealing God’s Glory: * Acts 2:11: "We hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!" * The Spirit's work is always centered on glorifying God and revealing His nature to the world. 3. Convicting and Drawing People to Christ: * Acts 2:37: Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” * The Spirit convicts hearts, leading people to repentance and faith (John 16:8). 4. Building Unity in the Church: * Acts 2:44-47: 44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. 46 They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity[a]— 47 all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. * The Spirit creates a community of believers through generosity, worship, and fellowship. * The Spirit binds believers together in one body (Ephesians 4:3) - Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. III. Living in the Spirit Today 1. Continual Filling: * The Spirit’s presence in Acts 2 wasn’t a one-time event but the beginning of ongoing empowerment (Ephesians 5:18). 18 Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, * Daily surrender and openness to the Spirit are essential. God’s mercies are fresh and new every day. Like the children of Israel in the wilderness, we need fresh manna daily, 2. Boldness in Witnessing: * Acts 2:14-41: Peter’s boldness in proclaiming the Gospel came from the Spirit’s power. * Application: The Spirit emboldens us to share our faith in love and truth. 3. Transformation of Lives: * Acts 2:42-47: 42 All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper[a]), and to prayer. 43 A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. 44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. 46 They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity[b]— 47 all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day, the Lord added those who were being saved to their fellowship. * The Spirit transforms believers, resulting in worship, generosity, and a communal lifestyle. * Personal Reflection: How is the person of the Holy Spirit transforming our hearts, habits, and relationships? Conclusion * Call to Action: * Let’s reflect on our relationship with the Holy Spirit. Are we yielding to His leading, seeking His filling, and walking in His power? * Let’s pray for a fresh outpouring of the Spirit in our lives, just as in Acts 2. * Encouragement: * The same Spirit who moved powerfully at Pentecost is alive and at work today. He longs to empower, guide, and transform each of us into the likeness of Christ.…
Title: "Leadership Passed Down: Moses and Joshua" Be Fruitful & Multiply Series Introduction * Moses and Joshua’s relationship offers a powerful biblical example of mentorship and succession. Their dynamic demonstrates the importance of intentionally preparing the next generation to accomplish God’s mission. We are called to leave a legacy—not just to achieve for ourselves but to invest in others, passing on wisdom, faith, and leadership that will continue to impact the world long after we are gone. I. Moses’ Perspective: The Mentor 1. Recognizing the Potential in Joshua * Exodus 17:8-13: Exodus 17:8-13: 8 The Amalekites came and attacked the Israelites at Rephidim. 9 Moses said to Joshua, “Choose some of our men and go out to fight the Amalekites. Tomorrow I will stand on top of the hill with the staff of God in my hands.”10 So Joshua fought the Amalekites as Moses had ordered, and Moses, Aaron, and Hur went to the top of the hill. 11 As long as Moses held up his hands, the Israelites were winning, but whenever he lowered his hands, the Amalekites were winning. 12 When Moses’ hands grew tired, they took a stone and put it under him and he sat on it. Aaron and Hur held his hands up—one on one side, one on the other—so that his hands remained steady till sunset. 13 So Joshua overcame the Amalekite army with the sword. Moses trusts Joshua to lead the Israelites in battle against Amalek. * A mentor recognizes the potential in a disciple and actively creates opportunities for their growth. Success is not a solo endeavor—we can only go as far as our team. If we operate alone, our capacity is limited. For actual multiplication, we must intentionally choose trustworthy individuals who, in turn, will disciple others with integrity. The body of Christ thrives only when all its members function together in unity and purpose. As leaders, our foremost responsibility is to identify the right people, position them effectively, and empower them to carry out the work with excellence. 2. Teaching Through Example * Exodus 24:13-18: 13 Then Moses set out with Joshua his aide, and Moses went up on the mountain of God. 14 He said to the elders, “Wait here for us until we come back to you. Aaron and Hur are with you, and anyone involved in a dispute can go to them.”15 When Moses went up on the mountain, the cloud covered it, 16 and the glory of the Lord settled on Mount Sinai. For six days the cloud covered the mountain, and on the seventh day the Lord called to Moses from within the cloud. 17 To the Israelites the glory of the Lord looked like a consuming fire on top of the mountain. 18 Then Moses entered the cloud as he went on up the mountain. And he stayed on the mountain forty days and forty nights. * A mentor invites their disciple into God’s presence and demonstrates spiritual leadership through example. The goal of discipleship is not to draw people closer to themselves but to lead them closer to the Lord. We are not seeking to create replicas of ourselves; we aim to help others become more like Jesus. Discipleship is about more than transferring knowledge—facilitating encounters with God. Transformation happens as we behold the glory of the Lord, and worship is one of the primary ways God reshapes us. The effectiveness of our leadership and the grace we carry depend significantly on our ability to practice and dwell in the presence of God. 3. Empowering for Leadership * Numbers 27:18-23: 18 So the Lord said to Moses, “Take Joshua son of Nun, a man in whom is the spirit of leadership,[a] and lay your hand on him. 19 Have him stand before Eleazar the priest and the entire assembly and commission him in their presence. 20 Give him some of your authority so the whole Israelite community will obey him. 21 He is to stand before Eleazar the priest, who will obtain decisions for him by inquiring of the Urim before the Lord. At his command, he and the entire community of the Israelites will go out, and at his command, they will come in.” 22 Moses did as the Lord commanded him. He took Joshua and had him stand before Eleazar the priest and the whole assembly. 23 Then he laid his hands on him and commissioned him, as the Lord instructed through Moses. * A mentor ensures that their disciple is well-prepared and accepted by others. Effective discipleship results in others recognizing the same wisdom, authority, and grace in our disciples that they see in us. Through Christ, we can impart what He has entrusted to us into the lives of those He places before us. Standing alongside those we have raised affirms our support and signals to others that these individuals are worthy of their trust and leadership. Commissioning is a powerful act that releases God’s anointing and calling upon the individual, inspiring confidence and alignment among those who will follow them. 4. Releasing with Confidence * Deuteronomy 34:9: 9 Now Joshua son of Nun was filled with the spirit[a] of wisdom because Moses had laid his hands on him. So, the Israelites listened to him and did what the Lord had commanded Moses. * * Effective discipleship involves entrusting the disciple with opportunities to lead. The more individuals carry what the Lord has imparted, the further His work can reach. However, just as a vessel cannot be filled until it is emptied, disciples must be led to surrender themselves entirely to God. Only then can they be genuinely filled with the Spirit and fully embrace their calling. When we see those we disciple walking in the power of the Holy Spirit and firmly placed in the Lord’s hands, we can confidently trust that they will fulfill their God-given mission. II. Joshua’s Perspective: The Disciple 1. Learning Through Service * Exodus 33:11: 11 The Lord would speak to Moses face to face, as one speaks to a friend. Then Moses would return to the camp, but his young aide Joshua, son of Nun did not leave the tent. * Time spent alone in God’s presence is the most vital preparation for fulfilling the divine purpose of our lives. As ambassadors of Christ, our primary responsibility is to reflect His character and represent Him to the world. The depth of our impact is directly tied to the depth of our relationship with Him; the more intimately we know Christ, the more effectively we can carry out His mission. 2. Observing and Emulating * Numbers 11:28-29: 28 Joshua son of Nun, who had been Moses’ aide since youth, spoke up and said, “Moses, my lord, stop them!”29 But Moses replied, “Are you jealous for my sake? I wish that all the Lord’s people were prophets and that the Lord would put his Spirit on them!” * Joshua speaks up and tries to stop leaders who were prophesying; Moses rebukes Joshua, displaying his heart that he wished all of his leaders could prophesy. Joshua may have thought only Moses should be prophesying, for this was the first occurrence of anyone else operating in this gift. Yet Joshua’s perspective did not fit the heart of Moses or God. A disciple learns humility and patience under a mentor's guidance. 3. Growing in Courage * Joshua 1:6-9: 6 : “Be strong and courageous, for you are the one who will lead these people to possess all the land I swore to their ancestors I would give them. 7 Be strong and very courageous. Be careful to obey all the instructions Moses gave you. Do not deviate from them, turning either to the right or the left. Then, you will be successful in everything you do. 8 Study this Book of Instruction continually. Meditate on it day and night so you will be sure to obey everything written in it. Only then will you prosper and succeed in all you do. 9 This is my command—be strong and courageous! Do not be afraid or discouraged. For the Lord your God is with you wherever you go.” * A disciple must embrace their calling with unwavering confidence and courage, fortified by the preparation and guidance of their mentor. In this passage, God emphasizes three essential principles for spiritual leadership: a. Obedience to God’s Word: Success comes from diligently knowing, meditating on, and applying God’s instructions. A leader’s strength lies in their alignment with God’s truth. b. Faithful adherence to mentorship: Joshua is urged to follow Moses’s instructions, recognizing the wisdom passed down through godly mentorship. c. Dependence on God’s presence: True courage flows from the assurance that the Lord is always with us, empowering and guiding us every step of the way. * Spiritual leaders are not called to rely solely on their abilities but on God’s promises and presence. Time spent alone with the Lord and a commitment to His Word prepares leaders to step boldly into their divine purpose. * 4. Carrying the Vision Forward * Joshua 24:14-15: 14 “So fear the Lord and serve him wholeheartedly. Put away forever the idols your ancestors worshiped when they lived beyond the Euphrates River and in Egypt. Serve the Lord alone. 15 But if you refuse to serve the Lord, then choose today whom you will serve. Would you prefer the gods your ancestors served beyond the Euphrates? Or will it be the gods of the Amorites in whose land you now live? But as for me and my family, we will serve the Lord.” * A disciple’s success is measured by their faithfulness and ability to inspire and lead others to follow God wholeheartedly. Spiritual leaders are not focused on drawing people to themselves but on pointing them to the Lord. Joshua sets a powerful example of spiritual leadership by explicitly declaring that his allegiance and that of his household is to the Lord. He challenges the people to make a definitive choice, laying out the stark consequences of serving idols and the blessings of serving God. Leaders must similarly emphasize the urgency and gravity of choosing whom to serve. As disciples of Christ, we are called to lead others toward complete devotion to Jesus, rejecting any allegiance to idols or worldly influences. True discipleship prioritizes Christ as Lord, ensuring that those we guide are rooted in faithfulness to Him alone. III. Lessons for Modern Discipleship 1. For Mentors: * Identify and invest in potential leaders. * Walk alongside disciples, modeling a life centered on God. * Empower and release them with faith that God will continue the work through them. 2. For Disciples: * Serve faithfully in preparation for leadership. * Learn from the mentor’s strengths and weaknesses. * Seek God’s guidance as you step into more significant responsibilities. Conclusion * The relationship between Moses and Joshua demonstrates the power of discipleship to ensure the continuation of God’s work. * Actual multiplication happens when leaders invest in disciples who, in turn, become leaders themselves. * Challenge: Who are you mentoring, and who is mentoring you in your walk with God? -- Praise Tabernacle Dr. Joshua Kennedy, Pastor 2235 Ocean Heights Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 pastorjosh@praisetabernacle.com praisetabernacle.church (609) 927-4560(w…
Title: Understanding the Person of the Holy Spirit Series: Living in the SpiritFocus Scripture: Acts 2 Introduction * Acts 2 marks the fulfillment of Jesus' promise to send the Holy Spirit, empowering believers for ministry and revealing the person and work of the Spirit profoundly. This chapter serves as a foundation for understanding the Holy Spirit's role in the life of the church and the believer. * Objective:To explore the Holy Spirit’s identity, nature, and mission as revealed in Acts 2 and how this understanding transforms our daily walk with God. I. The Identity of the Holy Spirit 1. The Holy Spirit as God: * Acts 2:4: "All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit..."The Spirit’s divine nature is evident in His ability to fill believers and empower them with supernatural gifts. * The gifts of the Holy Spirit are an extension of the person of the Holy Spirit present within us. * The Holy Spirit is not a force but a person of the Trinity with intellect, will, and emotions - 2. The Promise of the Father: * Acts 2:33 33 Now he is exalted to the place of highest honor in heaven, at God’s right hand. And the Father, as he had promised, gave him the Holy Spirit to pour out upon us, just as you see and hear today. * The Spirit fulfills the Old Testament promises * (Joel 2:28-29) - 16 And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another Advocate, who will never leave you. 17 He is the Holy Spirit, who leads into all truth. The world cannot receive him, because it isn’t looking for him and doesn’t recognize him. But you know him, because he lives with you now and later will be in you. II. The Work of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2 1. Empowering Believers: * Acts 2:3-4: 3 Then, what looked like flames or tongues of fire appeared and settled on each of them. 4 And everyone present was filled with the Holy Spirit and began speaking in other languages, as the Holy Spirit gave them this ability. * The gift of diverse tongues and interpretation manifested because people of many nations/languages were gathered. * Application: The Spirit equips us for ministry and mission, giving gifts for service (1 Corinthians 12). 2. Revealing God’s Glory: * Acts 2:11: "We hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!" * The Spirit's work is always centered on glorifying God and revealing His nature to the world. 3. Convicting and Drawing People to Christ: * Acts 2:37: Peter’s words pierced their hearts, and they said to him and to the other apostles, “Brothers, what should we do?” * The Spirit convicts hearts, leading people to repentance and faith (John 16:8). 4. Building Unity in the Church: * Acts 2:44-47: 44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. 46 They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity[a]— 47 all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. * The Spirit creates a community of believers marked by generosity, worship, and fellowship. * The Spirit binds believers together in one body (Ephesians 4:3) - Make every effort to keep yourselves united in the Spirit, binding yourselves together with peace. III. Living in the Spirit Today 1. Continual Filling: * The Spirit’s presence in Acts 2 wasn’t a one-time event but the beginning of ongoing empowerment (Ephesians 5:18). 18 Don’t be drunk with wine, because that will ruin your life. Instead, be filled with the Holy Spirit, * Daily surrender and openness to the Spirit are essential. God’s mercies are fresh and new every day. Like the children of Israel in the wilderness, we need fresh manna daily, 2. Boldness in Witnessing: * Acts 2:14-41: Peter’s boldness in proclaiming the Gospel came from the Spirit’s power. * Application: The Spirit emboldens us to share our faith in love and truth. 3. Transformation of Lives: * Acts 2:42-47: 42 All the believers devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching, and to fellowship, and to sharing in meals (including the Lord’s Supper[a]), and to prayer. 43 A deep sense of awe came over them all, and the apostles performed many miraculous signs and wonders. 44 And all the believers met together in one place and shared everything they had. 45 They sold their property and possessions and shared the money with those in need. 46 They worshiped together at the Temple each day, met in homes for the Lord’s Supper, and shared their meals with great joy and generosity[b]— 47 all the while praising God and enjoying the goodwill of all the people. And each day the Lord added to their fellowship those who were being saved. * The Spirit transforms believers, resulting in worship, generosity, and a communal lifestyle. * Personal Reflection: How is the person of the Holy Spirit transforming our hearts, habits, and relationships? Conclusion * Call to Action: * Let’s reflect on our relationship with the Holy Spirit. Are we yielding to His leading, seeking His filling, and walking in His power? * Let’s pray for a fresh outpouring of the Spirit in our lives, just as in Acts 2. * The same Spirit who moved powerfully at Pentecost is alive and at work today. He longs to empower, guide, and transform each of us into the likeness of Christ. -- Praise Tabernacle Dr. Joshua Kennedy, Pastor 2235 Ocean Heights Egg Harbor Township, NJ 08234 pastorjosh@praisetabernacle.com praisetabernacle.church (609) 927-4560(w)…
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