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Pentecost
Nearly 2000 years ago on Pentecost Sunday (8th June this year) the Holy Spirit transformed a small group of faithful, but uncertain disciples into bold, outspoken, inspired Christians. They spoke out to a large group of strangers who, when they heard the message, were ‘cut to the heart’ and asked what should they do? Peter told them to ‘Repent and be baptised in the name of Jesus Christ so that your sins may be forgiven and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit’.
Peter goes on to say that the promise is for all of them and their children and for all who are far away – that means you and me! Peter also quotes from Joel, a book in the Old Testament, in which Joel prophesies about this gift of the Holy Spirit being poured out on all flesh… your sons and daughters shall prophesy and the young men shall see visions and your old men shall dream dreams and that everyone who calls on the name of the Lord shall be saved.
In John’s Gospel Jesus says: “ And I will ask the Father, and he will give you another comforter to help you and be with you forever- the Spirit of truth.
The problem is when most of us think of comfort we think of the luxuries of life or being wrapped up in a warm blanket or duvet. We also think of comfort as something that consoles us when we are upset or in need. Whilst all these things are true the word used in the New Testament has a completely different meaning to those we might expect. The word comfort is the same word that we find in relation to prodding, strengthening or stirring into action. The Bayeux Tapestry has a wonderful panel of Bishop Odo, forcing his men into battle, at the end of his battle club, with the abbreviated Latin words: which when translated means: “ Here, Bishop Odo, comforts his troops.” As individuals we might not find such ‘comfort’ comforting but the Holy Spirit is given to equip and spur us into action! In fact, the word comfort has traditionally also meant to give or add strength to someone or to encourage, urge or exhort. When we see the coming of the Holy Spirit in that way it makes much more sense of both Jesus words and what we see in the book of Acts as the early church begins to emerge.
The Holy Spirit is given freely to all of us as a free gift from God. Jesus promised his disciples that we would receive this gift so that we might know his presence with us as we live out our faith on a daily basis.
As Christians, we believe the answer to the question ‘What should we do?’ Is the same today as it was 2000 years ago: Say sorry to God, believe in Jesus and be baptised, so that your sins will be forgiven and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.
How amazing is that?
2000 years ago the Bible says: ‘On that day 3000 persons were added to their number”.
Whether you’ve found this year to be a baptism of fire or you’ve enjoyed the still small voice, hear Jesus’ words: ‘ Believe and be baptised’. If you believe and haven’t been baptised we’d love to help you take that next step in your journey of faith. Do contact Ian or me if you would like to chat more about this.
Martin
