Powerful Witness | Acts 1:8

Pastor Kevin Long walked through Acts 1:8 to show how God empowers every believer to be a powerful witness for Christ. He shared stories from Trinity’s recent mission trip to Guatemala, highlighting how the Holy Spirit equips ordinary people, how the gospel meets real human needs, and how missions reflect the heart of God.

The promise of power

• • Jesus told His disciples they would receive power when the Holy Spirit came upon them. Pastor Kevin emphasized an important truth
    • Power is received, not achieved. We do not fulfill God’s mission by working harder or relying on natural ability. True Christian witness flows from Spirit given strength
  • The same Holy Spirit who empowered the first disciples now lives in every believer. He equips us, emboldens us, and gives us the words and courage we need.

The purpose of power

• • Jesus said ” You will be my witnesses.”
  • The Spirit empowers believers not for performance but for witness. We testify to what we have seen and experienced in Christ. Our words and our lives both speak.
  • Neighbors see us leave for church. Coworkers observe our responses to hardship. A consistent life marked by joy, integrity, and love confirms the message of the gospel.
  • Witnessing is not optional. Every believer is called to share Christ, not just pastors and missionaries. God’s heart beats for missions, and He invites the entire church to participate.

The pattern of our witness

• • Jesus gave a clear pattern for how the gospel spreads.
    • Jerusalem
      • Our witness begins at home with our closest circle. Family, friends, neighbors, and coworkers are our first mission field.
    • Judea
      • This represents our broader community and nation.
    • Samaria
      
      • This includes people unlike us. Different cultures, backgrounds, worldviews, and even people we tend to avoid. The gospel breaks down barriers and Pastor Kevin challenged the church to love those who may be difficult or different.

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