If you read through the book of Acts, you will see how involved the Holy Spirit was in the formation of the church. In Chapter 2, on the day of Pentecost, the disciples were all together when they heard a sound like rushing wind and tongues of fire appeared and resting on each of them.
“And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Acts 2:4 They begin to peak to the crowd that gathers in a variety of languages (note that these were known languages), so that each person can hear and understand the Gospel. This leads into Peter’s sermon in which the Spirit lays out pattern for conversion for us to follow. First, he cites the prophecy of Joel that extends the Lord’s plan of salvation to all of mankind:
” And in the last days it shall be, God declares, that I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh …. And it shall come to pass that everyone who calls upon the name of the Lord shall be saved.” Acts 2:17 & 21
He begins by addressing “Men of Judea”(Acts 2:14), proceeds to “Men of Israel”(Acts 2:22) and finally “Brothers”(Acts 2:29), once again showing that the message of the Gospel is for all. Many are convicted of their sin when he tells them:
“this Jesus, delivered up according to the definite plan and foreknowledge of God, you crucified and killed ….” Acts 2:23
When they ask, what they can do, he replies:
“Repent and be baptized, every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you will receive the gift of the Holy Spirit.” Acts 2:38
The Spirit gives the Word, convicts the heart of each sinner, and leads to repentance.
“So those who received his word were baptized, and there were added that day about three thousand souls” Acts 2:41
The birthday of the church, the coming of the Spirit, forever linked.
For more on the book of Acts see:
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