Pentecost
Over the past two Wednesday nights, our small group has been studying the gifts of the Holy Spirit. Last night we specifically looked at, what have been called, the nine manifestation gifts of the Holy Spirit (see 1 Corinthians 12:8-10).
In talking about the first two gifts, words of wisdom and words of knowledge, I remarked that it would have been nice if the Apostle Paul would have taken some time to describe these gifts in detail (including examples). Rather, it seems that Paul just took for granted the fact that everyone would already know what he was writing about. Think about it... These gifts were such a normal part of the early church's experience that, in many situations, explanations were not needed.
Similarly, my dream is that the Holy Spirit would move upon Journey Church in such a way that, without our having to give lengthy explanations and formulas, our people would actually encounter the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Not to thump their chests while bragging about their spiritual superiority, rather to be empowered to humbly serve God in radical obedience.
I long for a place where authentic giftings of the Holy Spirit are sought and encouraged. I dream of a place where Spirit-filled, Christ-followers are empowered so much so that their lives actually impact families, schools, work-places, and ultimately cities and counties. I long for a Pentecost that is so legitimate and Christ-honoring that outsiders to the Christian faith are actually attracted.
Interestingly enough, many of these 9 manifestation gifts were never utilized within the four walls of a temple or synagogue... they seem to be meant more for homes, factories, offices, grocery stores, and schools.
"God, remove my pride, arrogance, and selfishness, so that I can be filled with your HOLY Spirit. Let the revolution begin inside of me!"
In talking about the first two gifts, words of wisdom and words of knowledge, I remarked that it would have been nice if the Apostle Paul would have taken some time to describe these gifts in detail (including examples). Rather, it seems that Paul just took for granted the fact that everyone would already know what he was writing about. Think about it... These gifts were such a normal part of the early church's experience that, in many situations, explanations were not needed.
Similarly, my dream is that the Holy Spirit would move upon Journey Church in such a way that, without our having to give lengthy explanations and formulas, our people would actually encounter the fullness of the Holy Spirit. Not to thump their chests while bragging about their spiritual superiority, rather to be empowered to humbly serve God in radical obedience.
I long for a place where authentic giftings of the Holy Spirit are sought and encouraged. I dream of a place where Spirit-filled, Christ-followers are empowered so much so that their lives actually impact families, schools, work-places, and ultimately cities and counties. I long for a Pentecost that is so legitimate and Christ-honoring that outsiders to the Christian faith are actually attracted.
Interestingly enough, many of these 9 manifestation gifts were never utilized within the four walls of a temple or synagogue... they seem to be meant more for homes, factories, offices, grocery stores, and schools.
"God, remove my pride, arrogance, and selfishness, so that I can be filled with your HOLY Spirit. Let the revolution begin inside of me!"
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