This Sunday we will end our journey through the Book of Acts where we began – with an outpouring of the Holy Spirit. In chapter 19 we have sort of a mini Pentecost, but this time involving the apostle Paul. Returning from his mission at Ephesus, Paul encounters a group of “disciples” whose theological training seems to be sadly lacking. Specifically, they were clueless about having any experience of receiving the Holy Spirit. They even denied ever hearing about the existence of the Holy Spirit. Wow, how was that possible?
However, Paul doesn’t voice dismay at their ignorance nor does he question their salvation, but moves quickly to explain what they were missing and to rectify the situation (Acts 19:1-7). I am left wondering if we in mainline Christianity sometimes miss the fullness of our salvation. In other words, are we enjoying the fruits of the Spirit of God which gives love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, goodness, faithfulness, gentleness, and self-control (see Galatians 5:22-26)? In other words, are we missing out on all that God intends for us to have?
Yes, salvation is a gift of God and we are saved by grace through faith (as Paul explains in Ephesians 2:8), but God has so much more in store as we journey with Jesus.
Come and see,
Pastor Rob
