Pentecost – What’s That?

The day of Pentecost was observed in Jerusalem 50 days after the celebration of the Passover, which commemorated Israel’s deliverance out of Egypt. It is significant that this day was chosen by the Lord to begin the fulfillment of Joel 2:28 “I will pour out my Spirit on all flesh…” The Spirit came upon the waiting, praying disciples in an overwhelming manner. Their complete commitment to Christ and His commission evoked a mighty baptism of God’s power. This was evidenced initially by their speaking in tongues [Acts 2:4]. The Spirit was resident in their lives from that moment. The Spirit-filled early church witnessed many outstanding miraculous happenings [Acts 3:1-7; 4:31]. They were able to lead victorious lives as a result of their Pentecostal experience. Two baptisms were disclosed on the day of Pentecost. There was a baptism in the Holy Spirit, and in the Apostle Peter’s message that followed, water baptism in the name if Jesus Christ was commanded [Acts 2:38]. This outward, physical baptism mysteriously merges with that of the Spirit, and is the “one baptism” of Ephesians 4:5. This is what Jesus referred to as being “born again” in John 3:3-7 and how wonderful to be born into the family of God-changed, transformed, and made a “new creature in Christ Jesus”. Pentecost is not a denomination. It is a new birth experience. It is primitive Christianity made relevant to today’s world. The people referred to as Pentecostal simply believe, teach, and receive all that transpired on that birthday of the church…Pentecost, 33A.D. New Life is a church that embraces these basic Christian truths and experiences, and is intentionally inclusive of ALL people. We believe you can experience your own personal Pentecost. “For the promise is to you and to your children, and to all who are afar off, as many as the Lord our God will call.” [Acts2:39]

Pastor Randy