The Church was formed when the disciples received the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4). From this point on, believers formed the body of Christ--having the communion of the Spirit (see Ephesians 1:22,23; 1 Corinthians 12:13; 2 Corinthians 13:14). From that time onward, believers have experienced fellowship with one another by the power of the indwelling Holy Spirit. By the power of the Holy Spirit, believers now have the ability to build the Kingdom of God—to evangelize (Acts 1:8). Believers have power to remain faithful to God. Christians want to do what is right, and the Holy Spirit gives Christians the power to do what is right. Consider an example of the change that the Holy Spirit brings. Prior to receiving the Holy Spirit, three times the Apostle Peter denied knowing Christ (see Matthew 26:69-75). After receiving the Holy Spirit, Peter preached boldly, and immediately about 3,000 people received Christ (Acts 2:14-41). Prior to receiving the Holy Spirit, Peter was ineffective due to fear of crucifixion. After receiving the Holy Spirit, Peter risked his life to spread the Gospel (see Acts 4:8,13,18-20) . In the
Share with your friends: |