“Holy Risk” Sermon Series, Week 4, Pentecost – Rev. Kristyl Kepley (First Sanctuary)

First Cary UMC’s First Sanctuary Sermon – Rev. Kristyl Kepley – May 24, 2026

The Risk of Witness: Speaking Boldly Through the Spirit
On the day of Pentecost (Acts 2), God’s Spirit breaks in, empowering the timid disciples to become witnesses as tongues fall like fire. There is amazement, there is confusion, and there is skepticism. Peter, the same man who denied Jesus now risks everything to proclaim him. In a moment of boldness, Peter preaches the first sermon of the church. This risk of witness ripples out to renewal and transformation in others as 3,000 are baptized in the name of Jesus Christ and receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. How is the Spirit filling us not for comfort, but for courage?

Scripture: Acts 2: 1-24