Power to Be

 

The Bible Study class at our church has been teaching about the word “Power” and Old Testament scripture references about that word. 

It is interesting to note there is natural power from a position, such as Kings, Presidents, owner of a company and those placed in authority for example the police and military.

I thought about the time Jesus breathed on the disciples and said receive ye the Holy Ghost.

John 20:21-22  “Then said Jesus to them again, Peace be unto you: as my Father hath sent me, even so send I you. And when he had said this, he breathed on them, and said unto them, Receive ye the Holy Ghost:”

Some scholars explain this away by saying Jesus meant - - Later after his resurrection they would receive the Holy Spirit.  I am inclined to believe that Jesus was imparting into them the Born again Experience and they received the Holy Spirit in their human spirit on that day in the salvation experience. 

After Jesus rose from the dead, He spent 40 days with many of his followers.  We can only speculate that he probably explained more fully from the Old Testament all that His death and resurrection accomplished.  His final words prior to his ascension was for them to return to Jerusalem and WAIT for the Holy Spirit.

Acts 1:8  But ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judaea, and in Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth.

The 500 were instructed to pray and wait for the Holy Spirit.  They were not seeking power but were seeking after God.  They were surprised when the Holy Spirit fell on them and the power that came with the infilling.

Always worship and seek Jesus and he will pour into you His Spiritual Gifts that will allow you to become bold witnesses for Him.

Expect Power when you minister and witness in the name of Jesus. 

Now, Lord, look on their threats, and grant to Your servants that with all boldness they may speak Your word, by stretching out Your hand to heal, and that signs and wonders may be done through the name of Your holy Servant Jesus (Acts 4: 29-30).