Acts 2:1-4 (ESV) 1 When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.
Today we encounter a compelling narrative of a Spirit-filled church that transformed its immediate community and left a lasting impact. At the heart of this church’s effectiveness was their obedience to the commandment to be filled with the Holy Spirit. Let’s examine the evidence of a Spirit-filled church and the empowerment of the Holy Spirit for effective ministry.
Empty Vessels for God’s Filling:
Acts 2:4 (ESV) – “And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
To become empowered witnesses, believers must first empty themselves. The Lord cannot fill a vessel that is already filled with worldliness, pride, selfishness, and sin. Just as the early believers were in one accord, eagerly awaiting the promise of being filled, we must continually surrender to God’s Spirit. We Pour out worldly desires and self-focused contamination by the washing of God’s word to cleanse us for use.
Ephesians 5:15-18 (ESV) – “Look carefully then how you walk, not as unwise but as wise, making the best use of the time because the days are evil. Therefore, do not be foolish, but understand what the will of the Lord is. And do not get drunk with wine, for that is debauchery, but be filled with the Spirit.”
This emphasizes the importance of being filled with the Spirit as a New Testament commandment, guiding believers to walk wisely and align their actions with the will of the Lord.
The Power of One Accord:
Acts 2:1-2 (ESV) – “When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting.”
The essence of effective witnessing lies in unity. Being in one accord involves prayer, support, fellowship, and preaching—all with the common goal of making a profound impact for Christ.
The Effect of Spirit-Filled Preaching:
Acts 2:14 (ESV) – “But Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted up his voice and addressed them: ‘Men of Judea and all who dwell in Jerusalem, let this be known to you, and give ear to my words.'”
Spirit-filled preaching, as demonstrated by Peter, leads to Holy Spirit conviction. It prompts individuals to question their actions, as seen when the crowd asks, “What shall we do?” (Acts 2:37 ESV). Peter the denier is now Peter the bold. He is standing up proclaiming God’s word in a dangerous environment. No longer afraid. All twelve disciples stood together to proclaim the convicting message. We must be unashamed as we proclaim the gospel with love and compassion for the lost.
Testimony Empowered by the Holy Spirit:
Acts 2:41 (ESV) – “So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls.”
The power of testimony, empowered by the Holy Spirit and grounded in God’s Word, leads to repentance and the remission of sins. When the message is empowered the effect is profound. Three thousand souls in a day. What are the ingredients that go into this kind of evangelism? That is the answer we seek today,
Living in Our Soul Purpose:
Acts 2:42 (ESV) – “And they devoted themselves to the apostles’ teaching and the fellowship, to the breaking of bread and the prayers.”
Commitment to living out the teachings, fellowship, and prayer results in unity and joy, with the Lord adding to the church daily. The primary focus is the word of God, fellowship, communion, and prayer. This is the example of the first church living a Spirit-filled life. Focus brings clarity. When we keep the main thing the main thing we are empowered and effective. Ask yourself today “What am I doing and why am I doing it?”
The Impact of Living in Soul Purpose:
Acts 2:43-47 (ESV) – “And awe came upon every soul, and many wonders and signs were being done through the apostles. And all who believed were together and had all things in common.”
Living in soul purpose creates an atmosphere where the Holy Spirit’s power is evident through signs, wonders, and a selfless, united community that has favor with all people. It is amazing the things that God does when we live in obedience to this purpose
The evidence of a Spirit-filled church centers on the empowerment by the Holy Spirit for effective witnessing. By surrendering to God, fostering unity, engaging in Spirit-filled preaching, and sharing impactful testimonies, believers can leave an enduring mark on the world for Christ. May our lives be a testament to the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, empowering us to be effective witnesses and bring others to salvation.