What does "power when the Holy Spirit comes" mean for believers' daily lives? Setting the Scene Acts 1:8 lays out Jesus’ final, unconditional promise before His ascension: “But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be My witnesses…”. Scripture states this as fact—no guesswork, no symbolism. The Spirit’s coming equals power, period. Tracking the Word “Power” • Greek “dynamis” ⇒ inherent ability, might that produces results • Same word for Jesus’ miracles (Luke 5:17), the gospel’s efficacy (Romans 1:16), and the believer’s inner strengthening (Ephesians 3:16) What Kind of Power Is Promised? 1. Power to testify • Acts 4:31—“they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and spoke the word of God boldly.” 2. Power over sin • Romans 8:11—“He who raised Christ… will also give life to your mortal bodies.” 3. Power for holy living • Galatians 5:22-23—Spirit produces fruit, not self-effort. 4. Power in weakness • 2 Corinthians 12:9—“My power is perfected in weakness.” 5. Power that endures • 2 Timothy 1:7—“For God has not given us a spirit of fear, but of power…” How This Power Shows Up in Everyday Life • Courage to speak Christ’s name at work or school when nerves hit • Ability to forgive offenses that normally fester • Strength to resist habitual sin—pornography, gossip, anger • Perseverance during illness or financial strain without collapsing into despair • Insight to serve with spiritual gifts—teaching, mercy, giving—beyond natural talent Practical Steps to Walk in the Spirit’s Power 1. Believe the promise literally—Acts 2 proves God kept His word; He still does. 2. Yield daily—Ephesians 5:18, “be filled with the Spirit.” Voluntarily place plans, emotions, and tongue under His control. 3. Saturate in Scripture—His sword (Ephesians 6:17) sharpens discernment and boldness. 4. Pray expectantly—Luke 11:13 assures the Father delights to give the Spirit’s fullness. 5. Obey promptly—power flows along tracks of obedience (John 14:21). 6. Fellowship consistently—Spirit-empowered service thrives in the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12). Cautions and Encouragements • The promise is not a license for pride; the spotlight stays on Jesus (John 16:14). • Power is given for witness and holiness, not personal status. • Every believer possesses the Spirit (Romans 8:9); fullness can and must be renewed daily. • When weakness feels overwhelming, remember Ephesians 3:20: He “is able to do immeasurably more than all we ask or imagine, according to His power that is at work within us.” |
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