Pentecost Sunday: The Birth of the Church

“…I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” Matthew 16:18 ESV 

BIRTH OF THE CHURCH

 “When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one 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 

It is generally agreed that the church was birthed on the Jewish feast Day of Pentecost, seven days after Jesus ascension into heaven. It was at that time the Holy Spirit was poured out upon 120 of Jesus followers that had gathered together. As they were awaiting the promise of the Father the Church was birthed. The word Pentecost, which means “fiftieth” is so named because it is the 50th day after Passover when Jesus was crucified. “Being therefore exalted at the right hand of God, and having received from the Father the promise of the Holy Spirit, he has poured out this that you yourselves are seeing and hearing.” Acts 

When you consider the significance of that day, its impact changed the course of human history. The Holy Spirit has never left but continues to move and operate in the earth today. He brings power and healing and freedom and is still active among believers and in the church. God longs to move in the world the same way He moved in the days of the early Church. In Matthew 6:18 Jesus stated, “…I will build my church, and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it.” ESV 

The debate over tongues has been controversial by those who fail to recognize its relevance for today. The fact is that millions of believers have experienced its personal impact in their lives. We cannot deny that it is a true and genuine experience for the believer. To reject it or deny its significance is a disgrace to the Father who promised it and to Jesus who spoke of it.  Scriptural evidence clearly states that this promise is for you and your children and for all who are far off, which speaks generationally for everyone who the Lord calls, which includes us. “And Peter said to them, "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. For the promise is for you and for your children and for all who are far off, everyone whom the Lord our God calls to himself."” 

TODAY’S PRAYER

Lord, thank you for Your church that You are building and the blessing to be part of it. Help me to walk in the fullness of what You have promised and all that You have made available for me to be a faithful witness. Thank You for the infilling of the Holy Spirit that gives me power to testify for You.

God bless.

Pastor Matt