23/04/2026
Date : 19/04/2026
Sermon Title : Newness Through the Fruit and Gift of the Spirit
Texts : Acts 1:8; Galatians 5:22-23
Theme: God gives us power through the Gift and character through the Fruit, producing true newness.
INTRODUCTION
A farmer can have the best tractor in the county — that’s power. But if the soil is bad, nothing grows – that's character. For a harvest, you need both the tractor and good soil. In the Kingdom, we need both the Gift and the Fruit to enter into our newness, aligned with the Nigerian Baptist Convention 2026 emphasis on the effective propagation of the gospel. The Holy Spirit doesn’t just make us different. He makes us new: empowered to serve and transformed to reflect Christ.
I THE GIFT OF THE SPIRIT – POWER FOR NEWNESS
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses...” (Acts 1:8)
1. The Promise of Power
- Jesus didn’t say “try harder.” He said “wait for power.”
- Dunamis means dynamite, dynamic ability. It is divine energy for divine assignments.
- Illustration: Before Pentecost, the disciples locked doors in fear. After Pentecost, they opened graves with their words. Same men, new power.
2. The Purpose of Power
- Not for show, but for witnesses. Power is given to point to Jesus.
- Jerusalem is your home, Judea is your region, Samaria is your enemies, and the ends of the earth are your calling.
3. The Proof of Power
- Boldness: Peter preached and 3,000 were saved.
- Miracles: Lame men walked.
- Endurance: They rejoiced in persecution.
II. THE FRUIT OF THE SPIRIT – EVIDENCE OF NEWNESS
“But the fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness and self-control.” (Galatians 5:22-23)
1. One Fruit, Nine Flavors
- Not “fruits” plural. It grows together as one cluster when we abide.
- Illustration: An orange doesn’t choose to be sweet, or juicy. If it’s healthy, it’s both. A S
