TOPIC:

PENTECOST: POWER TO
WALK IN THE LIGHT (1 John 1:7, Acts 2:2-4, Ephesians 5:8)

INTRODUCTION

Pentecost marks the fulfillment of Jesus promise to send the Holy Spirit to empower and guide believers.

In Acts 2:14, the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples in the form of tongues of fire empowering them to speak in different languages and giving them boldness to proclaim the gospel. This event is seen as the birth of the Church and the beginning of the spread of the gospel to all nations.

WHAT IT MEANS TO WALK IN THE POWER OF PENTECOST

1. Walking in the power of Pentecost can be understood as living a life empowered and guided by the Holy Spirit just as the early disciples were after the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the day of Pentecost.
This is characterized by the following: Being filled with the Holy Spirit.
Allowing the Spirit to use and guide one's thoughts, actions, and decisions.
Actively participating in the work of God's kingdom on earth.
Embracing the fruit of the Holy Spirit (Love, Joy, Peace, Patience, Kindness, Goodness, Faithfulness, Gentleness and Self-control as described in Galatians 5:22-26

2. Walking in the power of Pentecost is about living in alignment with the dealings and guidance of the Holy Spirit and allowing His transformative influence to shape one's life.

3. It also means being submissive to the guidance, inspiration and empowerment of the Holy Spirit in every aspect of one's life in prayer, worship, service and relationship.

4. Walking in the power of Pentecost also entails being open to the transformative work of the Holy Spirit, allowing Him to illuminate our understanding of scripture, empower the believer to bear Spiritual fruits and equip us for ministry and missions.

5. It is about embracing the Spiritual gifts bestowed by the Holy Spirit and using them to build up the body of Christ and advance God's kingdom on earth.

SIGNIFICANCE OF WALKING IN THE POWER OF PENTECOST

The significance of walking in the light of Pentecost is multifaceted.Pentecost which derived from the "fiftieth" is a
Greek word (Pentekoste) meaning significant event that is celebrated 50 days after Easter. The significance in the Christian faith includes.

1. EMPOWERMENT:

Walking in the light of Pentecost signifies being empowered by the Holy Spirit to live a life of faith, courage and obedience. Believers are equipped with Spiritual gifts to fulfil their calling and mission in the world.

2. UNITY:

Pentecost promotes unity among believers, as the Holy Spirit unites individuals and communities under the common bond of faith. Power of Pentecost transcends cultural, social and ethnic differences, fostering a sense of community and fellowship among believers (Acts 2:4).

3. WITNESSING

Pentecost enables believers to be effective witnesses for Christ,sharing the Gospel with boldness, clarity and conviction. The Holy Spirit empowers believers to testify to the truth of the Gospel and lead others to faith in Christ.

4. TRANSFORMATION AND RENEWAL

The power of the Pentecost brings about personal transformation in the lives of believers, as the Holy spirit works to sanctify, purify and renew them from within. It leads to a life of holiness, righteousness and spiritual maturity (Roman 12:2).

5. MISSIONS

The power of Pentecost propels believers into missions and service,as they are sent out into the worid to proclaim the good news of Jesus Christ and make disciples of all nations. The Holy Spirit empowers believes to engage in evangelism,social works and compassionate outreaches to those in need.

CONCLUSION

In conclusion,the power of Pentecost is a transformative and empowering experience that shapes the lives of believers, strengthen the Church and advances the kingdom of God on earth.

Exclusive publication of the General Council of Assemblies of God Nigeria.

[GENERAL OFFICERS OF ASSEMBLIES OF GOD NIGERIA]