DIGGING DEEPER

WEEKEND OF APRIL 4 & 5, 2026

SERMON NOTES

Easter 2026

Acts 2


Big idea: the resurrection of Jesus was the trigger for the Gift that keeps on giving.


Two reasons to repent and be baptized:

  1. You will receive forgiveness of sins
  2. You will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit


Why the Holy Spirit Is a Great Gift From God (Even If You’re Not Religious):

  • You can be clean on the inside—not just try to look good on the outside (Ezekiel 36:26, Titus 3:5)
  • You’re never alone—even in your worst moments (John 14:16-18)
  • You don’t have to guess your way through life (John 14:17, 26)
  • You can change in ways you’ve failed to change before (2 Corinthians 3:18)
  • Your mind can finally experience real peace (Romans 8:6, 16)
  • The same power that raised Jesus is now at work in you (Romans 8:11)
  • You are empowered for a purpose that’s far bigger than yourself (Acts 1:8)


The Holy Spirit is Jesus with you and in you, helping you become who you were meant to be.


Challenge:

  1. Repent of your sins and turn to God and be baptized for the forgiveness of sins and gift of the Spirit.
  2. Seek the fullness of the gift of the Spirit.


New Button

DIGGING DEEPER

To what extent was Easter associated with gifts when you were growing up? What kinds of traditions, memories, or expectations come to mind? 


What are some different theories for how a small, fearful group of disciples became a worldwide movement that changed history? Which seems most compelling to you?


Read Acts 1:1–9. Why do you think Jesus told them to wait instead of immediately going out to spread the message? What does that tell us about the role of the Holy Spirit? 


Read Acts 2:1–13. What stands out to you most about what happened that day? 


Read Acts 2:32–39. According to Peter, what are the two gifts people receive when they turn to God and are baptized? Why do you think both are important? 


The message described some deep human longings: a clean start, guidance, real change, peace, strength, and purpose. Which of these longings do you relate to the most right now? Why? 


Read John 14:16–18 and Romans 8:6, 11, and 16. How does the idea that God’s Spirit lives in you change the way you think about following Jesus or facing everyday life? 



Peter’s response to the crowd was clear: repent, be baptized, and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. What might your next step be in response to this invitation? What would it look like to take that step this week? 



Looking for questions based on a past sermon?

Digging Deeper Archive