The Power of God's Spirit

I was reading an article this past week that suggest that less than 20% of people in America attend church on any given Sunday. As I read this article I thought to myself, “what do we offer people that do attend each week?” Do we offer uplifting music? An encouraging sermon? Prayer? Community? These are natural expectations but are they compelling enough to make church attendance a vital part of their lives

Several years ago people attended church because the church was considered an authoritative source of truth. People believed that the Bible was the very Word of God and they came to church with the expectation that God would speak to them. They confessed their sins and sought forgiveness from their Creator. They were hungry for a prophetic message that would transform them, give them direction, hope, and courage.

Last week we celebrated Easter but don’t forget this amazing message that is often overlooked: “You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit comes on you, and you shall be my witnesses” to the world (Acts 1:8) The Spirit came on the day of Pentecost, and His power for witnessing to the world has been present ever since. For two thousand years, the power of the Spirit has been central to the Christian life and message. The power of the Spirit in the believers life is an important topic we still need to consider. Focus on these words from Francis Chan and pray that God’s Spirit would move powerfully in our lives.
​
“God put His Spirit in us so we could be known for our power. Sadly, most believers and churches are known for talent and intellect rather than supernatural power. What’s worse is that we’re okay with it…I’m willing to bet there are millions of churchgoers across America who cannot confidently say they have experienced His presence or action in their lives over the past year. And many of them do not believe they can. (Forgotten God - Reversing Our Tragic Neglect of the Holy Spirit)”— Francis Chan

Pastor Billy