From Ben – 5 June 2022

This is Pentecost Sunday, the Sunday where we remember that, after the ascension of our Lord to Heaven, He sent the Holy Spirit to the new church to be their companion, comforter, empowerer and guide. Acts 2 tells us of the dramatic event that shook the building where the disciples were meeting and transformed their lives forever. The result of the coming of the Holy Spirit to the small, weak, new church was that it became a catalyst for change in the first century. Every Christian who has fully surrendered to the Lord has the Holy Spirit living in them. Most of us do not experience the outward drama that the Holy Spirit displayed at Pentecost, but the effect of the Holy Spirit remains the same in our lives.

For one thing, the Holy Spirit strengthened their faith and reassured them, moving them from fear to boldness and courage. The Holy Spirit also motivated them to speak up and speak out for the Lord, telling of His work of salvation and His triumphant resurrection. We too who have the Holy Spirit resident in our lives need to look out daily for opportunities to speak up for our Lord. 

The Holy Spirit also drew the early Christians into a deeper and richer relationship with God. No longer was it a system of laws and rules, but now a real, deeper, personal friendship was made possible. Lastly, the Holy Spirit guided and led the early church to navigate their new faith, avoiding false teaching and deceivers who were prolific at that time. The Holy Spirit was their guide within, as He is our guide today.

Let us ask the Holy Spirit this Pentecost to be increasingly evident in our lives, energising us in our walk with God and strengthening us afresh to be unashamed to confess our Lord before a watching world. 

Acts 1:8 But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.”