Day 27: Unstoppable
“And the Lord added to their number daily those who were being saved.” – Acts 2:47, New International Version
Powerless
It’s a disaster when the battery on my computer or phone goes out. These beautiful tools become useless when they have no power. It makes me think of the church today.
When I look at my church, I see attractive, well-educated and wealthy people. But many of us lack power. This contrasts sharply with the early church. The book of Acts describes a group of believers who, with little formal training and few resources, became unstoppable.
Supernatural
Supernatural living takes supernatural power. The 28 chapters of the book of Acts refer to the Holy Spirit over 60 times. The Holy Spirit energized the early church. Jesus said, “It is to your advantage that I go away, for if I do not go away, the Helper will not come to you” (John 16:7, New International Version).
The Holy Spirit empowers us to live supernaturally, convicting our hearts, illuminating God’s truth, helping us obey, and giving confidence to those who share His message.
Today?
Is the Holy Spirit the forgotten member of the Trinity? Some may be wary of the spiritual wackiness that is sometimes associated with the Holy Spirit today. Perhaps we’re just ignorant of the tremendous power available to us.
Empowered
The early church lived and breathed the Holy Spirit. Jesus told the disciples, “You will receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you; and you will be My witnesses in Jerusalem, and in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth” (Acts 1:8, New International Version).
Indeed, the previously confused disciples became bold and powerful orators of the gospel. Through them, the Holy Spirit healed, spoke the truth and guided every move. Some sold their belongings and shared with anyone who had a need. Wherever the Holy Spirit moved, people repented, believed and united for God, accomplishing His glorious plans. They became unstoppable.
I Can’t
I cannot live the Christian life in my own strength and power. It’s too hard. I’m no good at being good. I need supernatural power. I need the Holy Spirit. He’s much more than a feeling. When I trust the Holy Spirit, I become His witness in word and deed. And if enough of us do this, maybe the church will become unstoppable once more.
Next: Of the “unstoppable,” there was none greater than the apostle Paul. God used him to almost single-handedly transform the church and send the gospel to the ends of the earth.
Questions:
- Why do people not know about the Holy Spirit? What are your questions about the Holy Spirit?
- My former pastor always said, “We need to ask Jesus to be in and through us what we could never be on our own.” In what way do you need the Holy Spirit?
- Why are Spirit-filled believers bold in sharing their faith?
Going Deeper:
- Read the Book of Acts, chapters 1-12
- Read The Wonderful News of the Spirit-Filled Life
