At Liberty, our mission is to change lives, communities, and the world, for Jesus Christ. That last part is key. Many organizations want to change the world. But we do it for Jesus Christ. That’s the difference.
Our mission comes straight from Jesus’ final words before He ascended:
“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come on you, and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”
— Acts 1:8
This is a three-fold mission: Jerusalem (Changing Lives), Judea & Samaria (Changing Communities), and Ends of the Earth (Changing the World). Today, let’s focus on that second part, Changing Communities.
1. The Fear of the Lord
Real community change doesn’t start in politics or programs; it starts in the presence of God. Acts 9:31 says:
“Then the church throughout Judea, Galilee and Samaria enjoyed a time of peace and was strengthened. Living in the fear of the Lord and encouraged by the Holy Spirit, it increased in numbers.”
Too often, we skip over that word living. This isn’t just about church services on Sunday. It’s how we live Monday through Saturday. The early church walked in the fear of the Lord, a deep reverence, awe, and respect for God. Not fear of punishment, but the awareness that God sees everything and deserves our full obedience.
Our world has lost that kind of fear. But Scripture makes it clear:
“The fear of the Lord is the beginning of wisdom…”
— Proverbs 9:10
“Fear God and keep His commandments, for this is the duty of all mankind.”
— Ecclesiastes 12:13
When we walk in holy fear, we raise the standard in our communities. We shine brighter. We stand stronger. Fear of God drives out fear of man.
2. The Power of the Holy Spirit
The early church didn’t have big budgets, flashy buildings, or social influence, but they had power. When Peter was thrown in jail, the church prayed him out. When Paul preached, hearts were cut to the core.
“For the kingdom of God is not a matter of talk but of power.”
— 1 Corinthians 4:20
The American church has too often settled for form without fire, godliness without power. We’re afraid of wildfire, so we’ve ended up with no fire at all.
But the Holy Spirit is not optional. He is essential.
“Be filled with the Spirit.”
— Ephesians 5:18
He comforts, convicts, empowers, and sends. When He moves, people are healed. Families are restored. Churches come alive. Ministries multiply. It’s not about emotionalism, it’s about empowerment. And if Jesus needed the Spirit, how much more do we?
3. The Growth of the Church
When the church lives in the fear of God and the power of the Spirit, the result is unmistakable growth. Acts 9:31 ends with:
“…it increased in numbers.”
At Liberty, we’ve seen it firsthand. From Hampton to Suffolk, Williamsburg to Smithfield, communities are being changed. We’ve planted new campuses, reached into correctional facilities, fed the hungry, bought cars for single moms, and helped the hurting. Whether it’s 250+ local events, 11,000 church plants through NAMB, or 16,891 shoeboxes sent with Operation Christmas Child, we are seeing the gospel go forward with power.
It’s not always easy. When God sends revival, the enemy brings resistance. Everywhere Paul went there was either a riot or a revival or both! For every action from heaven there is a reaction from hell.
But we’re not stopping. Because changing communities isn’t just about buildings or budgets, it’s about hearts. People far from God are finding life in Jesus.
“Repent and be baptized… and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”
— Acts 2:38
Final Challenge
Are you living in holy fear? Are you walking in the Spirit’s power? Are you part of growing the Church? Now’s the time to step up.
Let’s keep changing communities for Jesus Christ.
If you’re ready to take your next step, fill out a Connection Card or visit one of our campus locations. We would love to pray with you, baptize you, or help you get connected.
