The Power of the Holy Spirit to Change Lives

“Then Peter said to them, Repent, and let every one of you be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.”      Acts 2:38   (NKJV)   

Reading: Acts 2:1-47

       

It was the day of Pentecost (Festival of Harvest) in Israel. The disciples of the Lord Jesus were gathered in Jerusalem since He had instructed them to wait there (Acts 1:4-8). About 120 of the followers of the Lord Jesus and eyewitnesses of His resurrection gathered in the Upper Room. As they prayed and worshipped, the power of the Holy Spirit came upon them. Each of them received the gift of speaking in tongues (Acts 2:3-4).

The Holy Spirit’s touch and power came to the disciples of the Lord Jesus on the day of Pentecost. They spoke a new language or spoke in tongues and gave witness to Jesus’s power and resurrection. The disciples obeyed the instruction of the Lord Jesus to wait in Jerusalem for the coming of the Holy Spirit.

About 53 days prior to this event, the disciples were all bereaved and bewildered with the death of their Lord Jesus on the cross. They were frightened for their lives and were in hiding (John 20:19). Then when they saw Jesus was alive and had risen from the dead, they rejoiced! However, after Jesus went back to heaven, they were not sure what to do. They went back to fishing (John 21). Even when Jesus commanded them to go and make disciples, they were still uncertain. But when they waited for the promise of the Lord Jesus, they all received the touch and the power of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4). Almost instantly they received power – new courage, strength, and boldness. Peter also received wisdom and knowledge in the Scriptures. The Holy Spirit gave Peter strength and boldness. Before the day of Pentecost, the zealousness and boldness of Peter were from his natural abilities and was limited. When Jesus was arrested and was on trial, Peter even denied Jesus. But when the power of the Holy Spirit came upon Peter, he became a changed man. First Jesus restored Peter and their relationship (John 21). Then through the power of the Holy Spirit, Peter became bold, courageous, and full of wisdom. He was able to stand up and witness for Jesus in front of many people. He became anointed and a powerful preacher for Jesus. On that day 3000 souls were added to the disciples!

Thoughts and Reflection:

Jesus changed Peter as well as the other disciples through the power of the Holy Spirit. As a follower of Jesus, the Holy Spirit can change me, too. Through the power of the Holy Spirit, the followers of Jesus can be empowered to be strong and courageous witnesses for Him so that others can know Him, too.

Prayer:

Dear Jesus, I praise You for sending Your Holy Spirit. Holy Spirit, please fill me like Peter with your spirit of wisdom, courage, and strength to be a witness for Jesus and to share your Word with others.

Your Thoughts:

Your Prayer: