Even though Israel was under Roman rule; it was basically as happy a time as could be expected. At least the most religious were. The High Priest, the Pharisees, Saducees and the scribes along with the Sanhedrin was content. They had respect and they were in control. If only the Romans would leave, everything would be great.
Then came Jesus. Jesus was one of them. He was just another face in the crowd to them. But one day when Jesus went down to the Jordan River where John the Baptist was preaching and baptizing, something happened. By the Spirit John recognized that Jesus was the Christ, the Messiah. In accordance with their law and custom Jesus was baptized but when He came up out of the water something different happened. There came a voice from Heaven declaring “This is my beloved Son in whom I am well pleased.” Not only that but the Holy Spirit descended upon Him in a bodily form as a dove.
Nothing like this had ever happened before. What could it mean?
That day Jesus began His earthly ministry. He was immediately led by the Spirit and was also attacked by the devil. The devil (Satan) tried every way to defeat Jesus and destroy His ministry but totally failed.
Jesus came forth preaching the Word of God and demonstrating the glory and power of love as He did so. Jesus was focused, committed and intent on doing the Father’s will. That was the only agenda Jesus had. What Jesus said was what He heard the Father say. What Jesus did was what He saw His Father do.
When Jesus’ mission was finished (crucifixion, ascension, appearances) He passed His ministry on to the disciples. Before they were released to do what God had called them to do, Jesus had a command for them. Jesus told the disciples not to leave Jerusalem until they had been endued with power from on high. They were to receive the Holy Spirit just as Jesus had. They would need the Holy Spirit’s guidance, teaching and power. It happened in the upper room on the day of Pentecost. Remember, Peter had denied even knowing Jesus just a few days before but on the day of Pentecost a holy boldness stirred in his soul and he came forth preaching the Word of God and 3000 souls were brought into the Kingdom of God.
It hasn’t changed much since then. Today, religion still opposes the moving, power and guidance of the Holy Spirit. He is acknowledged as long as He is not in charge. Tradition must prevail or people get nervous.
Even though the baptism of the Holy Ghost (Holy Spirit) is shunned, every book of the New Testament was written by Holy Spirit filled believers. Every one! Those who believe that God has not changed are ridiculed, shunned or looked down upon. However, just as the moving of the Spirit of God on the day of Pentecost caused many to open their hearts to God and His Word, God is not finished. He is not willing that any should perish. That special anointing given by the Spirit of God is moving across the land and around the world today. Let God have His way and He will change your life and give you a life worth living. To God be the glory!
Maranatha!
