Discussion Guide | April 26th, 2026

April 28th, 2026

Being Filled with Pentecost Power | Dr. Bill Shuler Discussion Guide

Summary

This sermon explores the second chapter of Acts and the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost. Dr. Bill Shuler emphasizes that the Book of Acts is ongoing today, and believers can partner with the Holy Spirit to see God move powerfully. The message focuses on the difference between passive waiting and active expectation of God's movement. At Pentecost, 120 followers gathered in unity when the Holy Spirit came with signs of violent wind and tongues of fire, enabling them to speak in other languages. The pastor explains that we must not just learn about the Holy Spirit but experience Him personally. The Holy Spirit empowers believers for witness, righteous living, and supernatural works - even greater than those seen in New Testament times. The message concludes with three key points: tune in to the Spirit's work, be bold despite our weaknesses, and embrace community support. Pastor Bill calls for a fresh infilling of the Holy Spirit and emphasizes that experiencing God should not be diminishing in our generation but increasing as we carry the baton of faith.

Intro Prayer

Heavenly Father, we come before You with expectant hearts, knowing that You are the same God who moved powerfully at Pentecost. As we gather together in community today, we ask that You would open our hearts and minds to what You want to teach us. Holy Spirit, we welcome You into our discussion and ask that You would help us not just learn about You, but truly experience Your presence and power in our lives. Remove any barriers that would keep us from receiving all that You have for us today. In Jesus' name we pray, Amen.

Ice Breaker

If you could instantly learn to speak any language in the world fluently, which language would you choose and why?

Main Study

Key Verses

Acts 1:4
Acts 2:1-4
John 16:7-8
Romans 8:5
Zechariah 4:6
2 Timothy 1:7
Galatians 5:22-23
1 Corinthians 13:1
1 Corinthians 14

Questions

What does it mean to 'wait on God' with active expectation rather than passive waiting? How can we apply this in our daily lives?
The pastor mentioned that Jesus said 'it is for your good that I am going away.' Why do you think Jesus' departure was necessary for the Holy Spirit to come?
How does the unity of the 120 believers in the upper room relate to the effectiveness of the Holy Spirit's work? What threatens unity in the church today?
The sermon describes the Holy Spirit as wind, fire, and living water. Which of these images resonates most with you and why?
Pastor Lisa shared stories of people speaking in languages they didn't know. How do these modern examples encourage or challenge your faith?
What's the difference between seeking the gifts of the Spirit versus seeking the giver of the gifts? Why is this distinction important?
The pastor mentioned that experiencing God seems to be diminishing in our generation. Do you agree? What factors might contribute to this?
Looking at the fruit of the Spirit in Galatians 5:22-23, which fruit do you most need the Holy Spirit's help to develop in your life right now?

Life Application

This week, begin each day by saying 'Good morning, Holy Spirit' and inviting Him to guide your agenda. Choose one fruit of the Spirit from Galatians 5:22-23 that you want to see grow in your life, and specifically ask the Holy Spirit to help you demonstrate that quality in your interactions with family, coworkers, and others you encounter.

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Closing

Key Takeaways

The Book of Acts continues today as believers partner with the Holy Spirit to see God move powerfully
Waiting on God means having active expectation of His movement, not passive hoping
The Holy Spirit empowers believers for witness, righteous living, and supernatural works greater than those in New Testament times
We must seek to experience the Holy Spirit personally, not just learn about Him intellectually
Unity in the church is essential for the Holy Spirit's effective work and movement

Ending Prayer

Holy Spirit, we thank You for this time of discussion and fellowship. We ask that You would take the truths we've shared and plant them deep in our hearts. Help us to live with active expectation of Your movement in our lives and in our world. Give us boldness to be Your witnesses and unity as Your body. May we seek You as the giver of all good gifts, and may we experience Your refreshing presence throughout this week. Fill us continually with Your power, love, and self-discipline. In Jesus' name, Amen.

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Posted in Life Groups, Sermon Blog