November 2

The Message Of Pentecost

And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them. — Acts 2:4 BSB

Do not get drunk on wine, which leads to reckless indiscretion. Instead, be filled with the Spirit. — Eph 5:18 BSB

It’s wonderful to know that the presence of the Holy Spirit is just as real today, wherever two or three gather in Christ’s name, as it was in the upper room in Jerusalem. The difference is in our receptiveness. We cannot say that there’s more of God in one place than another, or that He is more present at one moment than another. He is infinite and always everywhere. But when hearts are as ready as the disciples were, the experience of Pentecost can happen again. We, too, can experience the Spirit’s inspiration, the fire of divine love in our hearts, and newfound power in sharing the works of God.

They were all filled with the Spirit, and this is what we are also commanded to seek. Let us ask ourselves if this is our ongoing experience. It’s not just for apostles or prophets, but for mothers with their children, businessmen in their work, and young people in offices and shops.

The result of this spiritual baptism was remarkable. Thousands were converted and baptized, and they continued steadfastly. Such conversions are a blessing to any church, giving it divine attractiveness and unity.

The teaching of doctrine, breaking of bread, and fellowship in prayer were the early ordinances of the Church. When new converts are added to a church, there should be opportunities for them to take part in these practices. The idea of holding everything in common was necessary for a time to train the new converts in Christian living, but it was eventually set aside because it could be misused by lazy or dishonest people. It's likely better to manage our resources wisely for God than to give them away carelessly (see Matthew 25:20-21; Luke 12:42-44).

Notice the exuberant joy of the early believers (Acts 2:46-47). Joy is a characteristic of the Holy Spirit’s presence in a life, leading to love, joy, peace, and more, which is incredibly attractive.

Prayer

Heavenly Father, we ask for and claim by faith the best of all gifts—Your Holy Spirit. May He abide with us always, and may the fruits of the Spirit abound in our lives. Amen.