Saturday 14 June 2025
Live by the Spirit, I say. (v. 16)
Background
Running throughout our theme of Pentecost this week is encounter and transformation. The disciples may have been changed by the teaching of Jesus but, even then, as we saw at the start of the week, Philip still asked how he could see God. It wasn’t truly until Pentecost when the Spirit of God descended upon them (and others) that the real encounter took hold. Their experiences and understanding of Jesus became more vivid and colourful. Words of parables and teachings became clearer. Their calling was crystalised and bravery overtook them. They recognised the character of God, as revealed in Jesus, and understood the power God had poured into their lives. They began to be led by the Holy Spirit, and not by their human nature, as their lives took on new purpose.
The story of Pentecost can be likened to all who encounter and are transformed by Jesus. When we become Christians, we may experience much of the same for ourselves. Sometimes it is instantaneous, while for others it may be more gradual. The result is always one of transformation and change. Our approach to life becomes different and our very way of life may be altered. The act of repentance is not so much a conscious desire to do better, but more a response to walk God's way. We are not blind to the dangers, but we move ahead anyway as we align with the same Spirit that raised Jesus from the dead and was given at Pentecost.
Our final reading simply encourages us to walk by the Holy Spirit and is a fitting last word for the week. Where we go from here, as individuals or as churches, is in God’s hands and we are encouraged to walk alongside. We are encouraged to go deeper into our relationship with God, through prayer, study and fellowship, so that we might be prepared. Our calling is that of all disciples – to listen to the voice of our teacher and to be sent in God's name.
To Ponder:
- How has the story of Pentecost changed how we see our own discipleship?
Prayer
At the end of this week, we pray that God will equip us for all that is to come and will refresh our souls again with the Holy Spirit. We pray that we will seek God's face and follow his instruction in order to bring his purposes and plans to fruition. Amen.
Bible notes author: The Revd Mark Carrick
Mark is a presbyter in the Derbyshire North-East Circuit and is currently the minister of seven churches in the Chesterfield area. His passion is for ministry within the community and growing disciples within the Church. Mark has now served five years in the Methodist Church and is preparing to become Superintendent in September.