The Pentecost Experience

Fifty days after the resurrection of Jesus Christ from death and the grave, and ten days after He ascended up into heaven, a great event took place, the equal of which the world has not witnessed since. This event is designated in the Bible as “the day of Pentecost” (Acts 2:1). It was the day on which the Holy Spirit made a unique visit, not just a visit, but transfer to the earth to stay.

In the old testament, on different occasions, the Holy Spirit had visited (Gen. 1:2, 2 Chron. 15:1, 2 Chron. 20:14, Ex. 31:3; 35:31, Num. 11:25-27, Num. 24:2, 2 Chr. 18:20, 1 Sam. 16:13, Neh. 9:20, Num. 27:18, etc.), the visits were only temporary.

Jesus said: “It is better for you that I leave. If I do not leave, the Friend will not come. Nevertheless, if I go, I will send him (The Holy Spirit) to you. When he comes, he will expose the error of the godless world's view of sin, righteousness, and judgment… (John 16:7-11, MSG).

The Holy Spirit gives access to God (Eph 2:18), anoints for service (Luke 4:18), assures (Rom 8:15-16) Authors Scripture (II Pet 1:20-21), inspires prayer (Eph 6:18, Jude 20), Intercedes (Rom 8:26), interprets Scripture (I Cor 2:1, Eph 1:17), Leads (Rom 8:14), Liberates (Rom 8:2) and Baptizes (John 1:23-34, I Cor 12:13-14). The Spirit of God gives birth to believers (John 3:3-6), Calls and Commissions (Acts 13:24, 20:28), Cleanses (I Thes 3:13, I Peter 1:2), Convicts of sin (John 16:9,14). He helps in weakness, indwells believers, moulds character, produces fruit, empowers believers, raises from the dead, regenerates, sanctifies, seals, strengthens, teaches, testifies of Jesus, gives victory over flesh, helps in worship, and the list goes on and on.

Many have not received the Holy Spirit, many who had, are not using it to full potential. Is the Holy Spirit at fault? Indeed not! We, who are the temples of the Holy Spirit are at fault. We have grieved Him by our sins and our selfishness. We have failed to acknowledge the absolute necessity of His operation in the sinner’s heart. We have not recognized that His sovereign and gracious work of convicting and converting the lost must be carried out through us. Let us use all the skill and wisdom and natural ability that we possess remembering that the abiding results are manifest where the Spirit is honoured.