Bro Stephen Machuke's sermon revolves around the theme of being filled with the Holy Spirit, drawing insights from biblical references, particularly emphasizing the significance of the number 7 as a symbol of completion or perfection. The key verse guiding the sermon is Isaiah 11:2-3 and Revelation 5:6.
The Spirit of the Lord:
- Bro Stephen highlights the characteristics of individuals who are filled with the Spirit of the Lord, including:
- A distaste for sin and a strong dislike towards it.
- A passionate pursuit of righteousness, as exemplified by the verse "blessed are they that hunger and thirst for righteousness."
- A focus on seeking the Kingdom of God, understanding that Kingdom currency involves giving and receiving, and recognizing the importance of forgiveness and repentance to gain an audience with God.
- A compassionate heart for the lost, showing empathy and concern for those who are spiritually lost.
- Bearing the scars of love, indicating a willingness to sacrifice and endure difficulties for the sake of love.
The Spirit of Wisdom:
Bro Stephen explains that wisdom is reflected through four distinct aspects, symbolized by the four faces of a man mentioned in Ezekiel 1:10 and Revelation 4:5:
- The face of a man represents love, social capital, and the ability to build meaningful relationships with others.
- The face of a lion represents courage, signifying strength and willingness to face challenges even in difficult circumstances.
- The face of an eagle, known for its far-sightedness, represents wise individuals who have vision and foresight.
- The face of an ox or donkey symbolizes hard work, and wise individuals are diligent and avoid laziness as depicted in Scripture.
The Spirit of Understanding:
- Bro Stephen emphasizes the importance of understanding, stating that people of understanding are those who:
- Listen attentively and are receptive to wisdom and knowledge.
- Perceive and see things beyond the surface, gaining deeper insights.
- Express their understanding through effective communication.
Overall, the sermon encourages believers to seek the filling of the Holy Spirit and demonstrates that a life filled with the Spirit involves qualities such as righteousness, wisdom, and understanding, which lead to a meaningful and impactful Christian journey.