Sermon Summary
In the sermon, Pastor Jenny discusses the concept of the "Empowered Life," which is part of a series focusing on "Real Life." She begins with a childhood story about setting fire to her bathroom floor, using it as a metaphor for how people often hide in shame when they make mistakes. She argues that hiding is a temporary solution and that shame can only offer an illusion of power.
Jenny then delves into the culture of contempt, where people are quick to judge and condemn others, especially leaders. She warns against settling for contempt instead of seeking true empowerment through the Holy Spirit. She introduces the term "shamedification" to describe how shame can shape our lives.
The sermon shifts to the concept of sanctification, or becoming holy, which is not about surface-level cleanliness but about being set apart for God. Jenny emphasizes that holiness is about producing life and is empowered by the Holy Spirit. She also talks about the importance of being mindful of what we consume, both physically and spiritually, as it shapes our worldview and habits.
Jenny concludes by encouraging the congregation to face their "bones," or the things that weigh them down, and to seek the empowering presence of the Holy Spirit to bring life where there is decay.
Study Questions
- How does the culture of contempt differ from living an empowered life through the Holy Spirit? (Refer to Galatians 5:22-23 for the fruits of the Spirit)
- What does sanctification mean to you, and how does it manifest in your daily life? (Refer to Romans 12:1-2 for transformation through renewal)
- How do your daily habits reflect or contradict your pursuit of holiness? (Refer to Colossians 3:1-2 for setting minds on things above)
- What are some "bones" in your life that you need to face and bring before God? (Refer to Ezekiel 37:1-14 for the vision of the dry bones)
- How can the church community help each other in the journey of sanctification? (Refer to Hebrews 10:24-25 for encouraging one another)
Practices for the Church Family
- Accountability Partners: Pair up with someone to discuss your struggles and triumphs in your journey toward sanctification.
- Mindfulness Audit: Take some time this week to evaluate what you are consuming in terms of media, relationships, and activities. Are they drawing you closer to God or pushing you away?
- Prayer Circles: Form small groups that meet specifically for the purpose of prayer, focusing on asking the Holy Spirit to empower each member.
- Scripture Immersion: Commit to reading a chapter of the Bible daily, focusing on passages that speak about the Holy Spirit and sanctification.
- Community Outreach: As a church, identify a local need and organize a service day, putting the fruits of the Spirit into action.
