Pentecost Sunday – May 19, 2024

Prepare to be Empowered

Contrary to common perception, Jesus’ disciples weren’t frightened and hiding during the 10 days between Ascension and Pentecost. Instead, they were actively preparing for the promised gift of the Holy Spirit. They “all joined together constantly in prayer” (Acts 1:14, NIV) and took steps to replace Judas.

After that inward focus, the disciples were ready to boldly burst forth on Pentecost, empowered and “enabled” (Acts 2:4) by the Spirit. They proclaimed Christ’s death and resurrection, leading 3,000 people to faith that day, now known as the church’s birthday.

“A great wave of faith and love swept through this newborn community,” writes Suzanne de Dietrich in. Free Men. “These Christians could not keep silent. Their joyful liberty had broken down all the walls behind which people would like to keep them; no prison could silence them.”

 

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