Pentecost Power: Unleashed And Harnessed

Power can be used in at least two ways: it can be unleashed, or it can be harnessed. The energy in 5 gallons of gasoline, for example, can be released explosively by dropping a lighted match into a can. Or it can be channeled through the engine of a Shelby Cobra (top 5 on my list of classics) in a controlled burn and used to travel hundreds of miles...or for racing, depending on your interest. Explosions have their place; they are impressive in movies but can be dangerous in real life. On the other hand, controlled burns have lasting effect, staying power.

The Holy Spirit works both ways. At Pentecost, he exploded (came suddenly) on the scene; His presence was like "tongues of fire" (Acts 2:3). Hundreds, and later thousands, were impacted by one burst of God's power. But He also works through the Church, today --- the institution God began to channel the Holy Spirit's power throughout generations. Through teaching, worship, fellowship, Evangelism, service, and more, Christians are provided with staying power so that they, in turn, can be a source of light and heat to the world around them.

Keep the fire burning,
Danny