Getting Connected to the Presence and Power of Jesus Christ

by | Aug 16, 2026 | Mt Pleasant Sermons

Bible Study

Don’t just take our word for it . . . take His! We would encourage you to spend time examining the following Scriptures that shaped this sermon: Ephesians 1:15-23; Matthew 28:16-20.

Sermon Notes

Core Purpose Statement: “To connect people to the presence and power of Jesus Christ.”

1. Introduction & Historical Context

  • Local History: St. Andrew’s roots date back to 1834 ($250 lot purchase in Old Village, Mount Pleasant) and its growth through 1858 (Historic Church on Whilden Street).
  • The Legacy: Nearly 200 years of faithful worship, keeping Christ at the center through life’s milestones and hardships.
  • The Question: Why do we exist as a church today, and where are we going?

2. First Element: “Jesus Christ”

  • Christ-Centered Anchor: Everything at St. Andrew’s centers on Jesus, avoiding vague or trend-based spirituality.
  • Exclusive Authority: Jesus is the only Savior and source of life (Acts 4; John 14:6).
  • Loving Mission: Pointing people to Jesus—the source of abundant life—is the kindest and most loving thing the church can do.

3. Second Element: “Presence and Power”

  • Presence (Living Person): Because Jesus rose from the dead, believers can experience a real, living relationship and friendship with Him today (Emmanuel, “God with us”).
  • Power (Life-Changing Action): The power that raised Jesus from the dead works in believers by:
    • Awakening faith in those who are spiritually dead.
    • Overcoming sin, destructive habits, and addiction.
    • Equipping believers for ministry, service, and daily work.

4. Third Element: “Connect People”

  • The Agent of Connection: The Holy Spirit sovereignly, creatively, and personally connects individuals to Jesus.
  • Four Primary Channels of Connection:
    1. Scripture: Engaging the inspired Word of God.
    2. Spiritual Gifts: Exercising gifts (prophetic words, healing, teaching, serving, generous giving) for the good of others.
    3. Prayer: Engaging in persistent, practical Kingdom business.
    4. Fellowship: Living out faith together (“y’all”) through Life Groups, as well as Children’s and Youth Ministries.
  • Target Audience (“People”): All people—regardless of age, background, status, or spiritual starting point—because everyone shares the same need for salvation and grace.

5. Conclusion

  • Call to Action: Participate in the ongoing mission by serving, leading Life Groups, and investing in the next generation.
  • Future Vision: A prayer that 200 years from now, faithful believers will still gather in this place to connect all people to Jesus.

Discussion Questions

1. What was your first impression of St. Andrew’s when you visited (whether on a Sunday or a ministry event)?
2. Why might it be offensive to some to focus on the exclusivity of Jesus Christ? As a church, how can we be both sensitive to various viewpoints while also bold in proclaiming the offer of life found only in Jesus?
3. How have you experienced the presence and power of Jesus?
4. In what ways does the Holy Spirit connect us to Jesus?

Questions?

Do you have a question about today’s sermon? Email Randy Forrester (RForrester@StAndrews.Church).

Audio & Video

You can listen to the sermon by using the player below or via the St Andrew’s Sermon Podcast on iTunes and Spotify.