How Do You Receive the Work of the Holy Spirit?

May 29, 2023

By Brooke Holt

“Both Jews and proselytes, Cretans and Arabians – we hear them telling in our own tongues the mighty works of God.’ And all were amazed and perplexed, saying to one another, ‘What does this mean?’ But others mocking said, ‘They are filled with new wine.’” Acts 2:11-13

Do you believe in miracles? I mean, do you really believe the Lord can and does work miracles in the lives of his people today? Have you personally experienced physical or emotional healing or seen someone else healed? Jesus told his followers that once the Holy Spirit had come, they would do even greater works than he had done (see John 14:12). These disciples had seen Jesus heal the sick and infirmed, drive out demons, raise the dead, feed the multitudes, calm the winds and the waves – how could they do these mighty works? Only by the power of the Holy Spirit!

And oh, how they experienced power on the day of Pentecost! The Holy Spirit fell upon them like a “mighty rushing wind” and “divided tongues of fire.” Beyond hearing and seeing these phenomena, these simple Galilean men began to speak in other languages. Each group heard about the mighty works of Jesus in his or her own language. They marveled at what they heard! Galileans were known to be uncultured; thus, they did not have highly acclaimed language skills making this even more of a marvel as it clearly exceeded their intellect and power.

Those gathered had two distinct responses to this work of the Holy Spirit – some were curious and showed some interest in knowing more while others mocked and accused the disciples of being drunk. Peter addressed both groups. After his sermon, those open to understanding the work of the Spirit were “cut to the heart” and ready to receive salvation and the Holy Spirit. Three thousand people were baptized that day.

We don’t read of what happened to the mockers. Maybe the Spirit softened some of their hearts though many continued to resist Jesus, the Holy Spirit, and the advancement of his kingdom. These same people rejected Jesus throughout his earthly ministry. disbelieving the miraculous work he did while on earth and continued to deny the miraculous work being done by the Holy Spirit right in front of them that day.

Your response to the word of God and the work of God is crucial! The Holy Spirit is poured out upon all those who put their trust in Jesus Christ as their Savior. You are his disciple - called to proclaim the Gospel, pray for the sick and infirmed, drive out demons, feed the hungry, and build the kingdom of God. This is the work of the Spirit in you and through you.

God continues to work miracles today! May you join in his work and see his power and glory displayed.

Reflection:

Will you receive his power today? Will you go out and do these mighty works that demonstrate the glory of God? We would love to hear your thoughts in the comments.

Related Resource:

Jesus calls the Holy Spirit a "gift" who will guide us, lead us, and empower us. Yet many believers don't experience the power and presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives. This unique Christian small group Bible study provides a space in which we can explore what it truly means to "walk in the Spirit" on a daily basis. The Spirit-Filled Life small group curriculum centers on a 6-part video teaching series examining the life-giving and creative work of the Holy Spirit in our lives. Begin to experience the gift today!