In the Old Testament, Pentecost or the Feast of Weeks (Shavuot in Hebrew), was an annual celebration of the giving of the First Covenant. It was a feast of joy and gratitude, celebrating God’s provision for the harvest and his covenant with Israel. According to tradition, the Ten Commandments, were given to Moses on Mount Sinai on this day, 50 days after the Exodus from Egypt, creating a direct parallel to the New Testament, Pentecost, which marks the New Covenant.
The coming of the Holy Spirit (Acts 2:1-4) on the Feast of Pentecost, 50 days after Jesus’ resurrection, marked the out pouring of the Holy Spirit as per Jesus’ promise, on his followers in Jerusalem. The Spirit came and “rested on each one,” at Pentecost. (Acts 2:3). The sound as of a mighty rushing wind and the cloven tongues as of fire, were signs that accompanied, giving the indication of the coming of the Holy Spirit.
This is an outward manifestation of what is taking place among them, as all those gathered in the room were “filled with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:4) enabling them to speak in different languages. Peter preached a defining sermon and 3,000 people were baptized, marking a dramatic expansion of the Christian movement through faith and shared communal life – what Jesus promised them at his Ascension, now takes place.
On the Pentecost, the Church was born in Jerusalem. It’s recognised as the “Birthday of the Church.” and the start of the Global Mission. Through the Holy Spirit, the believers were empowered to bear witness to the saving grace of our Lord Jesus Christ. This chapter marks the transition from the Ministry of Jesus to the Ministry of the Church through the power of the Holy Spirit.
Living in the Spirit, means, allowing the Holy Spirit to guide, empower, and transform a believer’s life, resulting in godly
character (fruit of the Spirit) rather than fulfilling selfish desires. It involves setting one’s mind on spiritual things, walking in obedience, and experiencing freedom from the bondage of sin.
It’s a contrast to living by the “flesh,” or “sinful nature.” It involves a daily surrender to the Spirit’s control and guidance, often signalled by a heart filled with worship, gratitude and love. Where the Spirit is present, holiness abounds too. The Holy Spirit is a precious prayer partner in a believer’s life. As we live in the Spirit, he helps us to pray more effectively according to God’s will. Living by the Spirit, is living in the way of obedience and holiness.
Let us therefore, allow the Holy Spirit to guard and guide our thoughts, words and deeds that we reap the fruits of the Spirit. Not just living by the Spirit but also, ‘keeping in step’ or ‘walking’ in the Spirit, implying a daily submission, prioritizing God’s perspective, to be true witnesses of Christ.
Romans 8:14; “For all who are led by the Spirit of God are sons of God.”
Sherida De Souza, Catechist