Bible Study - Acts 2: 1-13

Read Acts chapter 2 verses 1-13

Drunk at nine o'clock in the morning - what have they been drinking? Well "Spirit" was certainly involved, but not the sort that causes long term damage to the liver! This was the Holy Spirit of God moving in power and authority.

The presence of a mighty wind and tongues of fire were recognisable signs of the Spirit's presence and those who were "all together in one place" (v1) found their lives transformed. It's interesting that the Christian mission to the world began with about one hundred and twenty people staggering out into the street addressing a mystified crowd of onlookers in multiple languages!

God's Spirit brings change. That was proved on the day of Pentecost when those 120 faithful followers suddenly became 3000! For many of those present in the upper room the call of the Holy Spirit would ultimately lead to martyrdom. Being filled with the Spirit is not a free lunch, it is a call to service. As Christians today we need to believe with all our hearts that "the Spirit is with us". He is still active; he still calls his people to serve him in the church and the world.

As we read about the "Spirit-filled church" in the following chapters of Acts, let's find inspiration in the story of ordinary people (like us) who were led by an extraordinary God to do extraordinary things by his Holy Spirit.

To think about

What does it mean to be "filled with the Spirit"? Is that how I would describe myself?

In what ways do I serve God? How do I hear the call to service?

Prayer

Lord, you filled your disciples with great joy as the Holy Spirit came to them with tongues of fire and a mighty wind. May we know the fullness of your Spirit and be filled with love for you. Amen

Norbury Parish Church, Hazel Grove, Stockport, Cheshire. Telephone: 0161-483 8640