Empowered for Mission

Sermon for Emmanuel June 8, 2025 Acts 2:1-21 Empowered for Mission

Reverend Fred Okello

There are times in life when everything changes in an instant. These are the times that surprise us, change our habits, and make us see the world in a new way.

The COVID-19 lockdown was one of such times. Life as we knew it came to a stop almost instantly. The schools were closed. The churches were empty. No more travel. Hugs transformed into waves. For a lot of people, it was a scary, lonely, and uncertain period. But something unexpected happened in the middle of all that darkness: family got back in touch, neighbors checked on each other, individuals took time to think, and churches discovered new ways to worship, like on porches, online, and in parking lots. For some, what we thought was just a crisis turned out to be a spiritual awakening.

The disciples also had an unexpected occasion in Acts 2. They were all together, not knowing what would happen next, when the Holy Spirit arrived like a strong wind. That heavenly interruption changed everything. The church was born, power was set free, and the hearts of Jesus' disciples, who had once been afraid, were filled with courage.

Today, when we think about the moment of Pentecost, we ask ourselves, “What is God trying to wake up in us right now?”

I talked about Jesus’ sincere plea in John 17 last Sunday. He asked that His followers be one, just like He and the Father are one. He prayed that we would all be one, so that the world would know that God sent Him. That prayer wasn’t just for the disciples back then; it was for the Church today.

Unity is not something you hope for; it’s something you do. And we can see that clearly in Acts 2. The first Christians were not split, scattered, or distracted. They were all in one location, waiting, praying, and hoping. The Holy Spirit arrived like a rushing wind when they were all together in that location. Heaven answered when the people of God were together in flesh and spirit.

The Lord calls us for revival. Not just as a custom, but as a holy time when people of all ages, churches, and backgrounds come together to be in God’s presence. I think God still values unity. I think the Holy Spirit still comes when we make time to look for Him together. Think about revival: Pentecost didn’t happen all by itself. It came in a group. We need to create time to come together in one place and wait on the Lord if we want to see God move in our churches, families, and communities.

Are we ready to put aside our plans and come together in prayer and worship so that God can meet us again?

God broke down the walls. Something amazing happened on Pentecost. The Holy Spirit didn’t just come down to bless the disciples; it also gave them the power to speak across cultures, languages, and divisions. People from all over the world came to Jerusalem, and they everyone heard the gospel in their own language. Language and cultural differences used to be a barrier, but now they are where God revealed His strength.

But even though the Spirit was moving, some people were still bewildered. Some people laughed and said, “What does this mean?” and “They’ve had too much wine.” But Peter spoke up with clarity and conviction. He told them what was going on. The Spirit turned the unknown into meaning and the chaotic into a clear message.

We often mention our limitations: we are aging, don’t have enough young people, don’t have enough money, or don’t have enough people. The Holy Spirit, on the other hand, waits upon us to work miracles.

There weren’t many people in the upper chamber, but the Spirit made them the start of a movement that spread over the world. It wasn’t how big they were that mattered; it was how much they gave up. God showed His grandeur through what looked like uncertainty and weakness.

How old are we? That’s not a problem. The Spirit talks to people of all ages. What are our numbers? That isn’t a problem. The original church had 120 members. It’s not important how many of us are here; what’s important is how receptive we are to what God can do when we all get together. The Spirit converts things that we think are problems into open doorways. God uses what we think are disqualifications to make announcements. Are we ready to allow the Spirit turn our limits into a launching pad for revival?

Our God keeps His word. Peter said, “This is what the prophet Joel said about God’s word, “In the last days, I will pour out my Spirit on all people...” Sons and daughters would make predictions. People of all ages would have dreams and visions. Men and women, no matter what their job or background, would have power.

That day marked the start of a new age. God’s power would no longer be limited to a small group of people; it would be available to everyone who calls on the name of the Lord. The same Spirit that gave the Church the strength to grow is still at work today.

And so I ask: What promise do you want God to keep? Is it a revival in your family or in our church? Is it healing, restoration, or a new calling? Is it the courage to speak, lead, and serve?

God’s promise is the same yesterday, today, and forevermore. All He needs is people who are willing and waiting together on the promise. Let’s ask the Spirit to move again in our time—to break down walls, make things clear, and keep God’s promise. Come, Holy Spirit. Come.