The sermon “Developing a Sensitivity to the Holy Spirit (Afterglow)” centered around the crucial question of whether we are sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s guidance in our lives. The introduction began with the illustration of a car alarm—something that can be highly sensitive to even the smallest disturbances. This analogy highlighted how we, as believers, ought to be just as sensitive to the Holy Spirit’s prompting. But how does one develop such spiritual sensitivity?

The sermon explored several key scriptures to emphasize the necessity of being in prayer to cultivate this sensitivity. Acts 1-2 was referenced to illustrate how the early believers were gathered in prayer, waiting in one accord, when the Holy Spirit descended upon them on the Day of Pentecost. The result was a powerful move of God, as they were filled with the Holy Spirit, speaking in tongues and proclaiming the works of God. This passage underscored the importance of being filled with the Holy Spirit, as Peter’s boldness to preach, leading to the salvation of 3,000 souls, stemmed from his Spirit-filled state (Acts 2:38-39). His sensitivity to the Spirit empowered him not only to preach but also to heal, as demonstrated in Acts 3:1-10, when Peter and John healed the lame man at the temple gate. Their prompt obedience led to the healing of the man and the salvation of 5,000 more (Acts 4:4).

Another notable example was Philip’s sensitivity to the Spirit in Acts 8:26-40, where he was led by an angel and the Spirit to share the Gospel with the Ethiopian eunuch. Paul, too, demonstrated sensitivity when he cast out a demon from a slave girl in Acts 16:16-18. These examples illustrated that sensitivity to the Holy Spirit is not only about recognizing His voice but also about taking action in obedience, which can lead to miraculous outcomes.

To develop sensitivity to the Holy Spirit, the sermon outlined several practical steps. First, believers are called to purify their hearts through repentance, as sin can hinder one’s relationship with God (Isaiah 59:1-3). Next, it is vital not to resist the Holy Spirit’s promptings but rather to obey His guidance, whether it is to pray for someone, reach out, or preach with boldness. The message also emphasized the significance of praying in the Spirit, as explained in 1 Corinthians 14:14-15. Praying in the Spirit aligns our mind, heart, and will with God’s, leading to deeper communion and more effective prayers.

The sermon further examined why praying in the Spirit is essential. According to 1 Corinthians 2:9-12, the Spirit knows the deep things of God, and praying in the Spirit reveals these truths to us. Additionally, 1 John 5:14-15 assured that God answers prayers that are led by the Spirit, as they align with His will. The best way to pray in the Spirit is by praying the Scriptures, as the Word of God never returns void (Isaiah 55:10-11). Believers were encouraged to use scriptural prayers as a foundation, as demonstrated in Jeremiah 1:12 and John 15:7, which affirm that God is ready to fulfill His promises as we abide in Him.

Lastly, the sermon encouraged believers to pray for people, whether for their salvation, healing, or other needs, as instructed in various scriptures such as Philippians 1:3, Romans 1:8-9, and 1 Timothy 2:1-2. The message closed with a call to pray for leaders, security, and peace, referencing scriptures like Psalm 122:6 and Acts 20:28, which emphasize the importance of interceding for others in the Spirit.

Pastor Allen Victor, from Calvary Chapel West Jacksonville, delivered this message, urging the congregation to seek a deeper sensitivity to the Holy Spirit through prayer, repentance, and obedience.

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