Quizzes
The Biblical Framework for Pentecost
What is Pentecost?
And what does it mean to be Pentecostal?
Pentecost is a foundational theological concept for the ACOP (obviously, since it is in the name!). But where does the concept of Pentecost come from? And what does it mean?Â
As you might expect, Pentecost is biblical. It has its roots in the Old Testament but found renewed meaning and importance in the New Testament, and has profound reverberating effects for all Christians and churches, today.
So, what exactly is the meaning? And why is Pentecost so important for us?
What does the biblical foundation of Pentecost have to do with today?
After the initial outpouring in Acts 2, the Holy Spirit continued to be poured out in chapters 4, 8, 10, 19, and all throughout the book of Acts, and the story of the early Christian church as we see it in the New Testament epistles, and in early church history.Â
Over the past 2000 years, the Holy Spirit continues to be poured out as the church grows and expands.Â
"And afterward, I will pour out my Spirit on all people. Your sons and daughters will prophesy, your old men will dream dreams, your young men will see visions."
Test Yourself
Answer
Talk it Through
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1.2 The Biblical Framework for Pentecost
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By being baptized in the Holy Spirit myself, accessing the gifts of the Spirit, and praying for others to receive the Holy Spirit as well.
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It's vital that we experience this – that the infilling of the Holy Spirit – as it was poured out in the upper room – becomes part of our daily lives. As in Romans 8:26 "we do not know what we ought to pray for – but the Spirit Himself intercedes for us…". I find it is easier to pray/intercede in tongues when we do not know how to put into 'words' how to pray.
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It means spending intentional time with the Holy Spirit every morning. This time would give the Holy Spirit space to correct things in my heart and mind, prepare me for the day ahead, no matter what I am facing and fill me with love, peace and joy. It would also allow for the Holy Spirit to empower me to take on everything I am being called to in that day as well.
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I am reminded of the words of Jesus in John 16:7 "I tell you the truth. It is better for you that I go away. If I do not go, the Helper will not come to you. If I go, I will send Him to you." This statement establishes how essential the Holy Spirit is to the life of believers. As amazing as it must have been for the disciples to have had Jesus with them in the flesh, He was telling them that what they were about to receive was so valuable, that it was better that He should go, so they could receive it!
As a foundational concept of the ACOP, the outpouring of the Holy Spirit is a gift to us both personally and corporately as a fellowship of like-minded believers. The corporate aspect is something that can encourage and strengthen our own personal conviction and serve to further allow the power of Holy Spirit to lead, guide and move through us in every area of our lives.
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