Featuring information gleaned from the book, “I Believe in the Holy Spirit” by Michael Green, copyright 1975.

Review:

Holy Spirit in the old testament was temporary and sporadic to achieve God's purpose.
From Bethlehem to Pentecost. The Holy Spirit was wrapped up in Jesus life and was still temporary when applied to others.
Since Pentecost. The power of the Holy Spirit is applied to the church as well as individuals on a permanent basis.

Today, Keith examines What is happening “Since Pentecost”.

1 The Mission of the Holy Spirit

Create quality of life. Unite believers in fellowship.
To equip believers for mission.
The comforter doesn't come to make comfortable, but to equip.
Not an internal gift to be quietly kept inside church doors.

1. The Era of the Spirit Begins

   Gospels mention testimony given to individuals (Mark 13:9-13). Equipping to heal (Matthew 10). Also to go, make, disciples in Jesus power. (Matthew 28:18-20). The Holy Spirit is still given in sporadic, and temporary ways. Jesus is definitely central to the attention of the Holy Spirit, but it’s the same spirit who equips Jesus, who equips the apostles.
   Paul claims individual believers are a priestly service, sanctified by the Holy Spirit, and the credit goes to Christ (Romans 15:16-18).

2. Beginning at Jerusalem

   Jesus life linked with Holy Spirit, and Jerusalem. Right up to resurrection account, the coming of the Holy Spirit is foreshadowed.
   Jesus work is final with the crucifixion. Jesus returning in power to gods right Hand.
   Acts 2 raises the curtain on the church. Where the Holy Spirit, and the apostles witness marks the age of church (Acts 1:8).
   Spreading from Jerusalem, but also to the gentiles. The Holy Spirit initiating the spread along the way.

   Peter is inspired (Acts 4:8 ff)

   Inspires teaching Samaritans, and a Eunick , (Acts 8:4-8, Acts 8:26-44).
   Moves at the same time in both Peter and Cornelius (Acts 10:1-33).

3. The Spirit initiates Mission

   Mission is not organized by humans, or churches. The apostles were quiet, until the Holy Spirit moved. The church didn’t leave Jerusalem, until the Spirit led Peter and Paul. The Holy Spirit moved, even if it took scattering through persecution. The Church is only effective when following the spirit.

4. The Spirit universalizes Mission

   John’s prediction is fulfilled. the fiery baptism of the Holy Spirit. Tongues of fire and rushing wind,
   Joel’s prophecy fulfilled. Spirit comes on all flesh. Men, women, the young, and the old.
   The purpose: To equip for mission.

   Pentecost is the first fruit offering. First fruit of spirit as well. 3000 added in one day.
   14 nations were present (Acts 2:5-11).

7, Testimony

When church officials are elected, it facilitates administering the word to the individual (Acts 6:1-7).
Steven testifies, and is killed (Acts 7:54-60).
When men and women flee from Jerusalem by the persecution, they spread the word (Acts 8:1-3).

Apostles and individuals are witnesses through the Holy Spirit who Is given to the obedient.
Witness is not silent.

1. The Spirit enlivens the Word

   “Word” is closely related with the definition of “”Spirit,” wind, or breath). You can’t form words without breath and intellect.

   Believers preach (proclaim) the word (Acts 8:4).
   They were Gripped (occupied) by the word (Acts 18: 5).
   New believers heard the word of the lord (Acts 19: 10).
   New believers receive the spirit through words (Acts 10:44).

   Satan blinds and deafens, but the Holy Spirit uses foolish words of preachers to enlighten, convict the listener. Human words can’t save, but it’s the Holy Spirit who transforms.
   Requirements for Gospel:

   Holy Spirit,
   Message,
   Messenger,
   Either the messenger or messenger may be weak or flawed.
   only the Holy Spirit is indispensable.

9,. The Spirit convicts and attracts