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 th...
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.
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