Pentecost

Pentecost

A Sermon by Brenard Rowe, Elder at Victory Church in Providence, RI.

 

Introduction and Opening Remarks

• Expression of gratitude for the opportunity to minister.
• Acknowledgement and prayer for the pastor’s recovery.
• Personal anecdote about being asked to preach on short notice.

Setting the Context: Pentecost Sunday

• Explanation that Pentecost is recognized as the birth of the church and a pivotal event in Christian doctrine.
• Emphasis on the empowerment of the disciples by the Holy Spirit and the ongoing relevance of Pentecost.

The Role and Power of the Holy Spirit

• The Holy Spirit transforms believers from fearful followers to bold witnesses.
• The Holy Spirit provides strength, peace, wisdom, unity, and equips believers for service.

Biblical Foundation

• Reference to Acts 2:1-4 describing the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
• Jesus’ instructions to wait in Jerusalem for the Holy Spirit (Acts 1:4-5, Acts 1:8).
• Importance of receiving the Holy Spirit before undertaking ministry.

The Experience of the Early Church

• Disciples' state of confusion and despair after Jesus' death.
• Fulfillment of Jesus’ promise through the coming of the Holy Spirit.
• The supernatural signs accompanying the Spirit’s arrival (wind, tongues of fire, speaking in tongues).

Speaking in Tongues

• Definition: A supernatural language for worship and communication with God.
• Old Testament examples of the Spirit coming upon individuals (e.g., Moses’ elders, Gideon, Samson, Saul’s messengers).
• New Testament affirmation of speaking in tongues as evidence of Holy Spirit baptism.

Instances of Holy Spirit Baptism in the New Testament

• Jerusalem (Acts 2:4): Disciples receive the Holy Spirit.
• Samaria (Acts 8:14-17): Believers receive the Spirit through the apostles’ laying on of hands.
• Saul/Paul (Acts 9:17): Receives the Spirit after Ananias lays hands on him.
• Cornelius’ house (Acts 10:44-48): Gentiles receive the Holy Spirit while Peter preaches.
• Ephesus (Acts 19:1-6): Believers receive the Holy Spirit through Paul.

Benefits of Being Filled with the Holy Spirit

• Power for ministry (Acts 1:8).
• Spiritual refreshing (Isaiah 28:11).
• Ability to witness and reveal Christ (John 16:13-14).
• Inner strength and comfort (John 15:26).
• Spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:4-11).
• Fruit of the Spirit (Galatians 5:22).
• Spiritual quickening (Romans 8:11).

Who Can Be Filled with the Holy Spirit?

• Everyone: Rich, poor, young, old, sinners, saints, children, etc.
• Reference to Psalm 81:10 as encouragement to receive.

Who Cannot Be Filled with the Holy Spirit?

• Those satisfied with mere salvation and unwilling to serve.
• Disobedient and unyielding Christians.
• Those who do not believe or are closed off to the Holy Spirit.

Conditions for Receiving the Holy Spirit

• Repentance and baptism (Acts 2:28).
• Asking God with faith (Luke 11:13).
• Deep conviction, consecration, and willingness to live for God (John 7:37-39).

The Ongoing Work of the Holy Spirit in Believers

• Teaches and makes believers teachable.
• Enables true worship and confession.
• Guides prayer and leads by God’s word.

Conclusion

• The Holy Spirit is the comforter and helper sent by God.
• Encouragement to be open to the Holy Spirit’s work and to fulfill commitments in service to God and the church.