7 Characteristics of a Spirit-Filled Church

Mtbethelchurch February 11, 2025

In this series on evangelism, we’ve explored the following topics so far:

Today, we’ll discuss the foundation of evangelism: the power to effectively proclaim it.

This power isn’t something we muster on our own. It’s the same power that parted the Red Sea, turned water into wine, healed the sick, and raised Jesus from the dead. It’s the power of the Holy Spirit—the driving force behind every successful act of evangelism.

In Acts 1, just before His ascension, Jesus commands His disciples to be His witnesses “in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” But He instructs them to wait for the Holy Spirit to empower them for the task. Only after Pentecost (Acts 2), when the Holy Spirit fills the disciples, do they become the Apostles who ignite the Early Church. Through the Spirit’s power, the gospel spreads, transforming lives across the Roman Empire and beyond.

As believers, we, too, have access to this power. The Holy Spirit enables us not only to live the Christian life but also to share the gospel effectively. Without Him, our efforts are fruitless; with Him, success is assured. Acts 2 provides us with an encouraging picture of what happens when we are filled with the Holy Spirit:

Wonder (Acts 2:42-43)

A Spirit-filled life is anything but stale. The Holy Spirit reveals Himself as you worship, study the Word, and see others through His eyes—as souls in need of God’s love and grace.

Miracles (Acts 2:43)

Through the Holy Spirit, miracles still happen. They may be subtle, like forgiving someone who’s hurt you deeply, or more dramatic, like physical healing. Either way, they’re evidence of His power at work.

Prayer (Acts 2:42)

Prayer isn’t a precursor to action—it IS action. The Holy Spirit works through prayer to align us with God’s will, remind us of His promises, and strengthen our faith.

Fellowship (Acts 2:44-46)

The Spirit draws believers together in genuine community. He fosters unity, accountability, and joy as we seek Him together.

Generosity (Acts 2:45)

Spirit-filled believers are compelled to give—of their time, resources, and love. The church becomes a hub of generosity, sending people out to share the gospel and meet needs.

Worship (Acts 2:47)

The Holy Spirit draws us to worship. As we experience His presence and power, our natural response is to glorify Him.

Growth (Acts 2:47)

When the Holy Spirit moves, growth follows. The Early Church grew as believers proclaimed the gospel and lived it out authentically. Today, the same Spirit continues to draw people to Christ.

If the Holy Spirit Ensures Evangelism Success, What About When Someone Rejects the Good News?

When the gospel goes out–when it is preached or taught or explained or illustrated–it never comes back void. It always accomplishes the very purpose for which it is intended.

Sometimes that purpose is a life and heart changed through a profession of faith in Christ. This is an exciting, joy-filled reaction to the beginning of a new relationship with their Savior.

Other times that purpose is to challenge someone’s attitudes and behaviors when they’re contrary to the absolute truth of the gospel. When this happens, people often respond in anger or apathy to the message, but that doesn’t mean the Holy Spirit isn’t working.

The truth is, when we step out to join God in the work He is doing, we can’t see what’s really going on. But through faith, we know He is using our obedience to share the Good News to bring glory to Himself.

Lean Into the Spirit’s Power

The power of evangelism doesn’t rest on us—it’s all about the Holy Spirit. When we surrender to His guidance, He equips us to share the gospel boldly and effectively. Let’s lean into this power and watch God work wonders, change hearts, and grow His kingdom.

Inspired by message five of Mt. Bethel Church’s “That’s Good News” sermon series by Dr. Jody Ray. Find resources at our Invitation Stations to encourage and help you in sharing your faith by inviting others to church.