Welcome to New Covenant Church!

We are so glad you have joined us to celebrate the Risen Lord! This week, we will hear a lesson from Fr. Christopher Caudle called "With."  Here are the scriptures for this week:

Scriptures
Psalm 149
Ephesians 1.11-23
John 14.15-27

We look forward to seeing you online with us!

Hear the sermon "The Holy Spirit: Our Ever-Present Advocate" - Fr. Christopher Caudle

Summary of the Sunday Sermon: “We Believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the Giver of Life”

Introduction: The Nicene Creed and the Holy Spirit

Fr. Christopher opens the sermon by inviting the congregation to reflect on John 14 and the third article of the Nicene Creed, which begins, “We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life.” This marks a transition in the church’s teaching series, “We Believe,” focusing on the Holy Spirit’s role in Christian faith. The Creed, he explains, is not just a statement for worship but also a declaration to the world about what Christians believe regarding God, Jesus Christ, and the Holy Spirit.

The Holy Spirit’s Identity and Unity in the Trinity

The sermon emphasizes the Holy Spirit’s divinity and unity within the Trinity. The Creed’s use of “Lord” for both Jesus and the Holy Spirit highlights their shared authority, sovereignty, and substance. Fr. Christopher notes that the term “Lord” is not a duplication or editorial oversight but a deliberate affirmation of the Spirit’s full participation in the Godhead. The three persons—Father, Son, and Holy Spirit—are distinct yet united, sharing the “goodness” of God. The Spirit is not merely a force or energy but is fully God, present wherever God is present.

The Spirit as Giver of Life

A central theme is the Spirit’s role as the giver of life. This encompasses both the life of creation and the life of new creation—resurrection life. The Spirit is the source of all life, able to bring into being what does not exist and to raise the dead, both physically and spiritually. The sermon addresses the theological controversy surrounding the Spirit’s procession from the Father and the Son, acknowledging historical divisions within the church while promising further exploration in subsequent weeks.

Worship, Prophecy, and the Church

Fr. Christopher explains that the Spirit is worshiped and glorified alongside the Father and the Son. The Spirit’s presence is a call to worship, and wherever the Spirit is at work, God’s glory should be recognized. The Spirit inspired the prophets, ensuring that their words aligned with God’s plan and that the revelation in Scripture remains consistent with God’s ongoing purpose. The Spirit’s work is not limited to the past; it continues in the church today, making the church truly the Body of Christ. Without the Spirit, the church lacks sanctity, unity, and the fulfillment of God’s promises.

Baptism and the Communion of Saints

The sermon connects these theological truths to the practical celebration of Lottie’s baptism. Baptism is not merely a ritual involving water and a willing participant; it is a sacrament in which the Holy Spirit is present and active, bringing the baptized into the family of God. The Spirit also holds together the communion of saints, promising resurrection and eternal life to all believers.

The Spirit as Advocate and Comforter (John 14)

Drawing from John 14, Fr. Christopher highlights Jesus’ promise to send the Holy Spirit as an “advocate” who will be with believers forever. The Spirit is not a lesser substitute for Jesus but carries the same authority and ministry. Jesus assures his disciples, “I will not leave you as orphans. I will come to you,” emphasizing the Spirit’s ongoing presence and comfort. The Spirit will remind believers of Jesus’ teachings and will teach them all things, bridging the gap between divine wisdom and the realities of daily life.

Peace and Assurance

A significant portion of the sermon focuses on the peace that Jesus gives through the Spirit—a peace unlike what the world offers. Jesus instructs his followers not to let their hearts be troubled or afraid, grounding their assurance in the presence of the Spirit. This peace is enduring and transformative, enabling believers to face life’s challenges with confidence and hope.

Living with the Spirit: From Martyrdom to Christlikeness

Fr. Christopher reflects on the historical evolution of Christian teaching. In the early church, believers were taught how to die bravely as martyrs. As Christianity spread, the focus shifted to living with the Spirit’s presence, growing in Christlikeness and character. The Spirit’s grace enables both courageous death and faithful living, helping believers bring glory to God in all circumstances.

Personal Application: Lottie’s Baptism and the Promise of Presence

The sermon concludes with a personal application, praying that Lottie, who was baptized—and all believers—will know the constant presence of the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit. The world may require discernment and caution, but believers should never doubt that God is with them, offering strength, guidance, and love. The Spirit’s presence is not just a theological concept but a lived reality, empowering believers to navigate life’s complexities with faith and assurance.

Conclusion

This sermon offers a rich exploration of the Holy Spirit’s role in Christian faith, emphasizing the Spirit’s divinity, presence, and transformative power. It connects deep theological truths with practical assurance, encouraging believers to trust in the Spirit’s guidance, comfort, and peace. Through baptism, worship, and daily life, the Spirit remains the advocate, teacher, and giver of life, ensuring that believers are never alone and always empowered to live for God’s glory.

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