Experiencing the Power of the Holy Spirit

Faith family, thank you for joining with my family and I this day as we celebrate God’s presence, power, and blessing during my pastoral tenure at Faith. Words will always fall short as I attempt to communicate my love for you all, your faithfulness and generosity to the mission and ministry at Faith, and your support you have shown to me and my family. - Pastor John

1 Corinthians 2:1-5

1 And I, when I came to you, brothers, did not come proclaiming to you the testimony of God with lofty speech or wisdom. 2 For I decided to know nothing among you except Jesus Christ and Him crucified. 3 And I was with you in weakness and in fear and much trembling, 4 and my speech and my message were not in plausible words of wisdom, but in demonstration of the Spirit and of power, 5 so that your faith might not rest in the wisdom of men but in the power of God.

For Adult Homes and Groups

1. Describe a time in your life when you experienced the presence of evil, and then also the presence of God. What was the difference?

2. Read 1 Corinthians 2:1-5. Without a doubt, the Apostle Paul was one of the most educated scholars of his time, yet he communicates tremendous humility in his ability to share “Christ and Him crucified.” What is the overall message he is conveying to his listeners?

3. How have you personally experienced God’s presence and power during times of praise and worship, through God’s people, times of prayer, or hearing God’s Word proclaimed?

4. Read Isaiah 66:2. Discuss the importance and difficulty of coming to God humble and contrite in spirit.

For Families with Kids

1. Read 1 Corinthians 2:1-5 together.

2. What did Paul say was the most important thing for him to share? Why do you think he made sure not to use fancy words when he shared it?

3. What do you think are the differences between God’s power and man’s wisdom?

4. Why is it important for all of us to remember we are sinners who need Jesus?

5. How does remembering Jesus on the cross help us today?

6. Pray the Lord’s Prayer together as a family.