Pentecost: The Evidence Of The Holy Ghost

PENTECOST: THE EVIDENCE OF THE HOLY GHOST

By Rev. Samuel Arimoro

Main Text: Acts 1:8

Supporting Texts: Galatians 5:22-23, Romans 8:14-16, John 16:13-14, 1 Corinthians 12:7-11

INTRODUCTION:

The coming of the Holy Ghost is not just a spiritual event but a transformational experience that changes a person’s nature, lifestyle, and power to live as a true witness of Christ. Many today claim to have the Holy Ghost, but the real question is: what is the evidence of His presence in a life?

The Holy Spirit is not just for speaking in tongues, although that is one of the initial signs. His presence should bring about visible fruits, godly character, power for service, and deep spiritual discernment. The Holy Ghost comes not just to thrill us but to fill us, equip us, and send us.

In this sermon, we shall look at how a person who is truly filled with the Holy Ghost will show it in their daily life, through evident spiritual fruit, divine guidance, and supernatural power. Let us examine the marks that follow a Spirit-filled life.

1. THE HOLY GHOST PRODUCES GODLY CHARACTER

When the Holy Spirit dwells within a person, the transformation becomes visible through their attitude and behaviour.

a) The Fruit of the Spirit becomes evident (Galatians 5:22-23):

Love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, and self-control become part of a believer’s lifestyle—not just occasionally, but consistently.

b) The believer grows in holiness (Hebrews 12:14):

The Holy Ghost compels a life that pleases God, separating us from sin and drawing us into a closer walk with God.

c) The inner man is strengthened (Ephesians 3:16):

The Holy Ghost renews strength from within, enabling us to overcome temptations and trials.

d) A transformation in speech and conduct (Colossians 4:6):

A Spirit-filled person does not speak carelessly; their words build, encourage, and glorify God.

Biblical Example: Peter, who once denied Jesus, stood boldly after Pentecost and preached with authority and grace (Acts 2:14-41).

2. THE HOLY GHOST EMPOWERS FOR SERVICE

The Holy Spirit does not come just for comfort, but for commissioning—He sends us out in power.

a) He gives boldness to witness (Acts 1:8):

A Spirit-filled believer is not ashamed of the Gospel and shares the truth with confidence.

b) He stirs spiritual gifts (1 Corinthians 12:7):

The manifestation of gifts like prophecy, healing, and word of knowledge flow naturally.

c) He strengthens for spiritual warfare (Ephesians 6:10-11):

We are empowered to stand firm against the enemy, clothed in God’s full armour.

d) He helps us to serve others in love (1 Peter 4:10-11):

Spirit-filled people don’t just attend church—they serve and minister in love and humility.

Biblical Example: Stephen, full of the Holy Ghost, served with power and performed great wonders even as a deacon (Acts 6:5-8).

3. THE HOLY GHOST LEADS AND GUIDES

The Spirit is a divine navigator—He directs the steps of those who yield to Him.

a) He leads into truth (John 16:13):

The Holy Ghost helps believers discern between truth and error, especially in a world full of deception.

b) He speaks through inner witness (Romans 8:16):

Believers receive confirmation in their spirit concerning God’s will and decisions.

c) He gives divine direction (Acts 16:6-7):

Sometimes the Spirit prevents or redirects us for a greater purpose.

d) He reveals things to come (John 16:13):

The Holy Ghost may give warnings, visions, or divine instructions about the future.

Biblical Example: Paul was directed by the Holy Ghost on his missionary journey, avoiding places where ministry would not be fruitful (Acts 16:9-10).

4. THE HOLY GHOST UNITES AND BUILDS THE BODY

The Spirit of God brings unity, not confusion. He empowers believers to walk in harmony and love.

a) He binds believers in love (Romans 5:5):

The love of God is poured into our hearts by the Holy Spirit, enabling us to love others deeply.

b) He helps maintain unity (Ephesians 4:3):

Strife and division are signs of flesh; unity is a sign of the Spirit’s presence.

c) He breaks barriers of race, tribe, and class (Galatians 3:28):

The Spirit-filled church is diverse but united.

d) He raises spiritual leaders for edification (Ephesians 4:11-13):

The Holy Spirit calls and equips apostles, pastors, and teachers for the perfecting of the saints.

Biblical Example: At Pentecost, people from every nation heard the same message in their own language—a sign of unity through the Spirit (Acts 2:5-11).

CONCLUSION:

The evidence of the Holy Ghost is not merely in emotional expressions or speaking in tongues. While those are valid signs, the deeper and lasting evidence lies in transformed character, effective service, divine direction, and unity among believers. A Spirit-filled life is a visible testimony to the power and presence of God.

Let us therefore seek not just to feel the Spirit but to live by the Spirit. Let His presence in us bear fruit, manifest gifts, lead our steps, and connect us with the larger Body of Christ. May our lives be living proof that the Holy Ghost is real and active today.