Longing for More

Sermon Summary

Main Message

This message emphasizes the longing for a deeper experience with God, beyond mere feelings and experiences. It encourages believers to seek the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit, who dwells within them. We are reminded that Jesus' presence was accompanied by remarkable miracles, and we should expect similar manifestations in our lives as followers of Christ.

Key Scripture References

• Romans 8:11 - "The Spirit himself testifies with our spirit that we are God's children." This verse reminds us that the Holy Spirit is present within us, and He desires to work through us for His glory. It connects to the main message by emphasizing the need to tap into this supernatural power.
• John 14:12 - "The one who believes in me will also do the works I've been doing." This verse highlights Jesus' promise that His followers would be able to perform miracles and demonstrate God's power in their lives. It connects to the main message by emphasizing the expectation of supernatural manifestations.
• 2 Corinthians 4:7-12 - "But we have this treasure in clay jars, so that the surpassing greatness of the power is shown to be from God and not from us." This passage reminds us that our weakness and limitations are actually a demonstration of God's power at work. It connects to the main message by emphasizing the need to trust in God's sovereignty rather than relying on human effort.
• 1 Corinthians 2:4-5 - "My message and preaching were not with persuasive words of wisdom, but with a demonstration of the Spirit's power." This verse highlights the importance of depending on the Holy Spirit for effectiveness in ministry. It connects to the main message by emphasizing the need to seek the supernatural power of God.
• Galatians 5:16-18 - "But I say, walk by the Spirit, and you will certainly not carry out the desire of the flesh." This passage reminds us that we have a choice between living according to our sinful nature or walking in the power of the Holy Spirit. It connects to the main message by emphasizing the need to surrender to God's power.
• Matthew 7:11 - "If you then, being evil, know how to give good gifts to your children, how much more will your Father who is in heaven give what is good to those who ask him?" This verse reminds us that our heavenly Father delights in giving us good things. It supports the main message by emphasizing God's desire to bless and empower His children.
• John 15:7 - "If you remain in me and my words remain in you, ask whatever you wish, and it will be done for you." This verse emphasizes Jesus' promise that if we abide in Him and His Word abides in us, we can have our desires fulfilled. It supports the main message by emphasizing the importance of abiding in Christ.

Key Takeaways

• We should expect a deeper experience with God, beyond mere feelings and experiences, as we seek to tap into the supernatural power of the Holy Spirit. This requires surrendering to God's sovereignty and trusting in His goodness. We need to recognize that our weakness and limitations are actually a demonstration of God's power at work.
• We should not try to muster up miracles or rely on human effort, but rather depend on the Holy Spirit for effectiveness in ministry. This means walking by the Spirit and allowing Him to guide us in our daily lives.
• As followers of Christ, we should expect supernatural manifestations in our lives, just as Jesus' presence was accompanied by remarkable miracles. We need to trust in God's promise that He will give us good things if we ask Him.
• We must abide in Christ and His Word, allowing it to shape our desires and actions. This means asking for God's power and guidance in our daily lives, rather than relying on human wisdom or effort.

This Week's Challenge

Take time this week to reflect on your relationship with the Holy Spirit. Ask yourself: "Am I trusting in His sovereignty and goodness?" "Am I allowing Him to guide me in my daily life?" Make a specific plan to seek God's power and guidance, whether through prayer, Bible study, or service to others.

Reflection Questions

• What areas of your life do you feel stuck or stagnant? How can you ask the Holy Spirit for His supernatural power to break through in those areas?
• Think about a time when God answered a prayer or provided a miracle in your life. What was that experience like, and how did it shape your relationship with Him?
• How can you prioritize abiding in Christ and His Word this week? What specific steps will you take to allow His power and guidance to shape your daily life?