We read in Luke 24:46-49, “Thus it is written, and thus it behoved Christ to suffer, and to rise from the dead the third day: And that repentance and remission of sins should be preached in his name among all nations, beginning at Jerusalem. And ye are witnesses of these things. And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be endued with power from on high.”
Jesus completed his wondrous work on Earth. His death is a full atonement, and his resurrection is life. However, that gospel must be spread across the globe. The number of people who will be saved must hear the gospel and receive new life. But this is a supernatural work! None of us can give spiritual life to dead sinners. We are powerless when it comes to saving ourselves or others. Yet, even in the Old Testament, God promised to give His Spirit, who would do the impossible. Consider the amazing promise in Joel 2:28, “And it shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out my spirit upon all flesh.” Isaiah 44:3, “I will pour my spirit upon thy seed, and my blessing upon thine offspring.”
So, the wonder of Pentecost took place. The ascended and exalted Christ poured out His Spirit. The Spirit performs a double work. On one hand, He makes the Word effectual. He transforms the proclaimed Word from mere human speech into God’s life-changing truth (1 Thessalonians 2:13). On the other hand, the Holy Spirit opens the hearts of the hearers (Acts 16:14). He softens their hearts, so they receive the living Word of God. He opens hearts so that God's word is embraced. Without His work, the Word of God would fall on deaf ears.
How wondrous is the work of the Holy Spirit! He provides the truth through the Word and applies it to the hearts of believers. That Spirit is the same Spirit today. What a comfort for believers who can feel cold and still sin. The Holy Spirit works uniquely in our hearts. Let us pray for His work in and among us.