Clothed with Power from On High

The Holy Spirit is a mystery to many of us. He does not follow a formula. He comes where He wants, when He wants. He is like the wind. We know when He is present and has passed but not exactly when He is coming. He may be gentle or a very strong gale.

Jesus told His followers to stay in Jerusalem until the Holy Spirit came upon them. Why did they need to wait? Why didn't the Holy Spirit arrive right away? What was the purpose in waiting?

I am sure that there is someone who will explain this. I just don't know how anyone could definitely know.

These believers waited for the Holy Spirit to arrive. They were not disappointed. He came with such a power that thousands gave their hearts to Christ. The Holy Spirit has done similar works several times. History records many times how the Spirit moved with thousands giving their souls to Christ.

But what about now? Is there any hope that the Spirit will move in your church? Are you more concerned that your pastor is charismatic than Spirit filled? Are churches going to continue to live on gimmicks to see people reached? Why won't the Spirit come to do an incredible work which will not deny the power of God to work?

Maybe we are uncomfortable with the idea of letting the Spirit work. He will do things we can't control. He may kill off some of the "sacred cows" at the church.

Maybe we are afraid to let the Spirit work in us. We may be the ones who need to be changed before the Spirit can do a mighty work in our churches.

On the other hand, what would you do if the Spirit started working in church this next Sunday? Would you stand back or join in? Would you declare what He could or could not do? Would you criticize those who did things you have never seen before in church? Would you fall down before Him?

Does the idea of the Holy Spirit coming scare you half to death?

Luke 24:49 (ESV)
And behold I am sending the promise of my Father upon you. But stay in the city until you are clothed with power from on high.