Pentecost Sunday

Pentecost Sunday

Introduction

The Holy Spirit's presence and work are not only confined to the New Testament but also manifest powerfully throughout the Old Testament, demonstrating the divine breath of life and inspiration that permeates every inch of sacred history.

From the very beginning, in Genesis 1:2, it is the Spirit of God that hovers over the face of the waters, bringing order to chaos and life to the earth.

• The Holy Spirit is seen bestowing wisdom, strength, prophecy, and leadership upon chosen individuals. For instance, in Exodus 31:3, Bezalel is filled with the Spirit of God, endowing him with skill, ability, and knowledge in all kinds of crafts to build the Tabernacle.

• Similarly, the judges like Gideon (Judges 6:34) and Samson (Judges 14:6) are invigorated by the Spirit to deliver Israel from its enemies.

• In the realm of prophecy, the Spirit's role is prominently featured; prophets like Isaiah (Isaiah 61:1) experience the Spirit of the Lord descending upon them, enabling them to proclaim God's word.

• Moreover, the Holy Spirit acts as a guiding presence, leading and instructing God's people. In Nehemiah 9:20, we see the Spirit providing guidance during the Israelites' journey through the wilderness.

• Job 42:3 Who is he that hideth counsel without knowledge? therefore have I uttered that I understood not; things too wonderful for me, which I knew not.

This underscores the Holy Spirit's multifaceted role in guiding, empowering, and sanctifying individuals in accordance with God’s will. The Old Testament thus lays the groundwork for a deeper understanding of the Holy Spirit's work, preparing the way for the monumental events of Pentecost in the New Testament.

I. Meaning of the Feast of Pentecost in the Old Testament

• Origin: Known as the Feast of Weeks (Shavuot)

• Reference: Leviticus 23:15-21

• Timing: Celebrated 50 days after Passover

• Purpose: A celebration of the firstfruits and a reminder of God's provision and faithfulness to His people.

• Harvest Festival: Thanksgiving for the first fruits of the wheat harvest

• Spiritual Significance: Renewal of the covenant and giving of the Torah at Mount Sinai

II. New Testament Fulfillment of Pentecost

• Holy Spirit's Descent:

• Acts 2:1-4: The 120 in the Upper Room are filled with the Holy Spirit

• The Beginning of the Church: Birth of a new community empowered to witness

III. Speaking with Other Tongues in Scripture

• Acts 2:1-4: The 120 from the Upper Room speak in various languages as the Spirit enables them

• Acts 10:44-46: Gentiles receive the Holy Spirit and speak in tongues

• Acts 19:6: Ephesian believers speak in tongues and prophesy after receiving the Holy Spirit

• 1 Corinthians 12:10, 28: Paul mentions speaking in tongues as a spiritual gift

IV. The Significance of Speaking in Tongues

Speaking in tongues is often considered the primary evidence of being filled with the Holy Spirit. It serves several purposes.

1. Personal Edification - 1 Corinthians 14:4

2. Spiritual Warfare and Intercession - Romans 8:26-27

3. Prophetic Utterance – Acts 2:17-18, Joel 2:28-29

4. Unites Believers Across Language Barriers – Acts 2:6,11

5. Brings Boldness for Evangelism – Acts 4:31

V. Application for Today

• Personal Empowerment: Encouragement to seek the Holy Spirit's presence in one's life

• Unity in Diversity: Emphasis on the Spirit uniting believers across languages and cultures

• Mission: Inspired to spread the message of Jesus with boldness

Conclusion

• Summary of Main Points

• Call to Response: Invitation to receive the Holy Spirit

• Closing Prayer