Pentecost: an often overlooked holiday on the church calendar, barely celebrated (or mentioned) in non-liturgical settings. Yet this holiday is the anniversary of the church, the “birthday”, if you will, of the Spirit-led Body!
In Jewish tradition Pentecost marked the giving of the Law. It is no coincidence that it also marks the Law written on our hearts.
By the power of the Spirit, all that could not be done on human effort becomes possible by the Spirit of God; the goodness of God, written not on tablets of stone but on hearts of human flesh (2 Cor. 3:3). Pentecost is a celebration of the law of God as revealed by the Spirit. This holiday should be remembered – and I would love to celebrate it this year with you!
Our team put together an amazing, free Pentecost guide linked below. But perhaps you're wondering why the Holy Spirit matters so much in the first place. Maybe you're from a church tradition that didn't talk about Him at all. Maybe you're from a church tradition that abused the theology of the Spirit to the point you get nervous when He's even mentioned! I've seen both extremes and I understand how hard it can be to build a healthy pneumatology. So here are some encouragements – no matter what end of the spectrum you're on.
First: remember that the Spirit is the ADVANTAGE of the Christian life. Without the Spirit, the gospel is just another works-based religion. Jesus did for your sins by grace, yes, but without the Spirit, there is no way for you to become like Christ, overcome sin, or find freedom from bondage. He is the one who daily transforms you, guides you, counsels and comforts you (John 15-16). You can't do this life without Him!
Second: remember the Spirit's primary role is to sanctify you. Before healing, granting gifts, and moving in powerful, visible ways, the Spirit's main role is to make us like Christ. This quiet work is His main work, but we must submit to it to see change. He is the one who forms us into the patterns of godliness we so long to know.
Third: remember that the Spirit sometimes comes like a rushing wind and fire, and other times like quiet voice after the storm. Don't put Him in a box. He leads how He chooses, and like the wind He blows where He wishes (John 3:8). If you only expect the Spirit to do massive works, you'll fail to obey His still, small voice. If you refuse to believe He can still heal, teach, and speak today, you'll probably feel some distance from God. Neither extreme is healthy.
