The
Holy Spirit wants to help us overcome every obstacle posed by language and culture.
Unlike Islam, which requires seekers of truth to study the Koran in Arabic,
the good news of Christ is to be shared in the idiom and within the cultural
norms of peoples around the world.
Was
it comfortable for the disciples to speak a language they had never learned?
I doubt it, but the greater purpose of proclaiming the “wonderful works
of God” (v. 11) overwhelmed all personal preferences and tastes. Are we
willing to do whatever it takes to communicate the gospel in terms others can
easily understand?
When
I accept that some people will reject me and my message. (v. 12-13)
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In
verse 12, some people are asking “what does this mean?” In verse 13,
others are mocking the disciples, accusing them of being drunk.
Some people will reject and ridicule you and your message. Paul taught we should
expect persecution whenever we begin to live our lives with reference to Him
in all we do and say. (2 Timothy 3:12)
However,
there will also be those who want to know more. Endure those who reject you
so that you can impact those who respond positively to you.
When
I embrace a deep sense of evangelistic urgency. (v. 14-21)
Quoting
from Joel 2, Peter announces to the crowds that the arrival of the Holy Spirit
is the fulfillment of prophecy. Everyone willing to call on the name of the
Lord (v. 21) could be saved and subsequently filled with the Spirit (v. 18).
He also explains that these are the last days, describing signs and wonders
which will immediately precede the “day of the Lord.” (v. 20).
Life
is short and time is short. Anyone and everyone can now call on the name of
the Lord. Armed with the leading and power of the Holy Spirit, God’s people
ought to be deeply motivated to broadcast the good news.
Let’s
go to the starting line for effective ministry and allow Him to launch us into
His work — just like He did for the church at Pentecost.
_______________________
Sermon
brief provided by: Don Pucik, Associate Executive Director of the Arkansas Baptist State Convention,
Little Rock, AR