Episodes

Sunday Jun 08, 2025
Pentecost
Sunday Jun 08, 2025
Sunday Jun 08, 2025
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.
Version: 20241125
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