Sunday Service - “Alive & Empower: From Resurrection to Renewal” Part 4

In part four of “Alive & Empower: From Resurrection to Renewal,” entitled “The Promise of the Holy Spirit,” Pastor Darcey Stewart Jr. explores Acts 1:4-8, emphasizing that the disciples needed the power of the Holy Spirit before continuing the ministry of Jesus Christ. In the same way, we need God’s empowerment to live a resurrected life. The sermon also referenced John 16:7-13.

While the disciples were initially focused on the restoration of Israel, God’s greater purpose extended far beyond a single nation. As Acts 1:7–8 explains, God redirected their focus, promising that they would receive power through the Holy Spirit to become witnesses. “And he said unto them, It is not for you to know the times or the seasons, which the Father hath put in his own power. But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.”

In direct connection to this promise, John 16:13 reminds us that the Spirit of truth is the Holy Ghost. "Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will shew you things to come." The Holy Spirit, our Comforter and Teacher, assures us that all things against God's will can be removed. Through His guidance, we walk in the fulfillment of His promises.

Thank you, Pastor Stewart, for this powerful word from God. We can now understand how to be alive and empowered: by denying ourselves and learning to surrender to His will, we become people who bear lasting fruit in God’s Kingdom Community.