As we wrapped up our sermon series on the Holy Spirit, we turned our attention to a critical but often misunderstood aspect of the Spirit’s work: spiritual gifts. These gifts are not about personal glory or talent showcases. They are the Holy...
Why does the Holy Spirit seem to act so differently in the Old Testament than in the New? That question kicked off a powerful night of teaching and testimony in our church community. And it’s one that deserves thoughtful reflection—not just for the...
In this follow-up reflection to Sunday’s message on Acts 1:1–11, Pastor Matt Ayars explores the significance of the 40 days between Jesus’ resurrection and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Why did Jesus wait? What do the...
We often long for more of God in our lives—for clarity, strength, power, joy. We say we want the Holy Spirit, but how do we actually prepare ourselves to receive Him? As we approach Pentecost, Acts 1:1–11 gives us a clear and challenging blueprint...
We talk a lot in the Church about Christmas, Good Friday, and Easter. But one of the most overlooked essentials of our faith is the Ascension of Jesus. It tends to fly under the radar—no major holiday, no hallmark decorations, no big public...
It’s good to pause sometimes and reflect on how God actually saves us. What does it mean to be “born again”? What is the Holy Spirit doing in our lives when we come to Christ—and even long after we’ve made that initial decision to follow...
When Jesus stood on the mountain in Galilee and gave His final instructions to His disciples, He didn’t tell them to stay put. He didn’t say, “Build something comfortable.” He said, “Go.” Go and make disciples. Baptize them. Teach them to...
The Spirit Who Unites: How the Holy Spirit Begins the Work of Salvation Last week, we explored the gifts of the Spirit, particularly the “sign gifts” like tongues, prophecy, and healing. We discussed the theological debate...
Every year on Mother’s Day, we reflect on the incredible gift and calling of motherhood. But this year, our Scripture reading may have surprised you: Revelation 12. Yes—that Revelation 12, with the woman clothed in the sun, the red dragon, and...
We didn’t expect it. Stacey and I were visiting our sending church, giving a missions update on a Wednesday evening. As the service closed, the pastor invited people forward to be prayed for—just a time of commissioning and spiritual encouragement...