Tag Archives: the outpouring of the Holy Spirit

The House of God

Posted on August 5, 2023 by expressyourself4him

While attending large Christian gatherings at the University of Delaware, I was introduced to the concept that God is in the house tonight. Perhaps this was merely a hip expression student leadership was trained to say to energize the crowd. Yet, the phrase “the House of God” was first used by Jacob in the passage below.

And God said to him, I am God Almighty. Be fruitful and multiply; a nation and a company of nations shall come from you and kings shall be born of your stock; 12 The land which I gave Abraham and Isaac I will give to you, and to your descendants after you I will give the land. 13 Then God ascended from him in the place where He talked with him. 14 And Jacob set up a pillar (monument) in the place where he talked with [God], a pillar of stone; and he poured a drink offering on it and he poured oil on it. 15 And Jacob called the name of the place where God had talked with him Bethel [house of God], Genesis 35:11-15.

God spoke to Jacob directly, calling him to go to Bethel. Upon reaching this destination, Jacob built an altar as God had requested and called this El-bethel, the House of God. Jacob wasn’t dreaming or hallucinating, the God of his fathers was reminding him of His promises made to Abraham and Isaac. This one moment likely stuck Jacob for the rest of his life.

But if [one is ill-treated and suffers] as a Christian [which he is contemptuously called], let him not be ashamed, but give glory to God that he is [deemed worthy to suffer] in this name. 17 For the time [has arrived] for judgment to begin with the household of God; and if it begins with us, what will [be] the end of those who do not respect or believe or obey the good news (the Gospel) of God? 18 And if the righteous are barely saved, what will become of the godless and wicked? 19 Therefore, those who are ill-treated and suffer in accordance with God’s will must do right and commit their souls [in charge as a deposit] to the One Who created [them] and will never fail [them], 1 Peter 4:16-19.

Unless you attend a spiritual retreat or outdoor chapel, modern altars are typically found inside of traditional sanctuaries. Over the years, I have been inside of a church when God was truly present. Whether through the outpouring of the Holy Spirit or a Spirit of Confession, the House of God isn’t limited to Bethel. May you find a church where the presence of the Lord is sensed like in the days of Jacob.

by Jay Mankus

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A Revolution Deep Within

Posted on June 6, 2020 by expressyourself4him

The book definition of revolution is a forcible overthrow of a government in favor of a new system or social order. Synonyms include insurrection, rebellion, revolt and uprising. As the United States prepares for the 2020 Presidential Election, cable news networks are suggesting that a political revolution is about to occur. The more capitalism is demonized and communism is glorified by public education, potential voters will decide the future of this nation.

I indeed baptize you in (with) water because of repentance [that is, because of your changing your minds for the better, heartily amending your ways, with abhorrence of your past sins]. But He Who is coming after me is mightier than I, Whose sandals I am not worthy or fit to take off or carry; He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and with fire, Matthew 3:11.

The Bible refers to a different kind of revolution, one that is deep inside the human soul. A first century prophet refers to this spiritual revolution in the passage above. John the Baptist understood his limited role of a forerunner, preparing the way for a great spiritual leader. While John practiced a traditional baptism in water, Jesus introduced the baptism of the Holy Spirit. One of Jesus’ disciples refers to this concept in the passage below. First century conversions were always followed by public baptisms.

And Peter answered them, Repent (change your views and purpose to accept the will of God in your inner selves instead of rejecting it) and be baptized, every one of you, in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of and release from your sins; and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit, Acts 2:38.

Unfortunately, the Baptism of the Holy Spirit has created division and turmoil within modern Christian churches. While some denominations encourage the baptism of the Holy Spirit, others claim that if you haven’t experienced or received the baptism of the Holy Spirit, you aren’t saved. Several theologians suggest that the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at the Pentecost was unique, limited to that period in history. Whatever you may believe, spiritual revolution begins deep within human hearts that accept and embrace God’s free gift of eternal life as their own, Romans 6:23.

by Jay Mankus

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The Last Gift

Posted on November 4, 2013 by expressyourself4him

hersheygolfcollection.com
Since my father’s dad and mother’s mom died prior to my birth, I only knew 2 grandparents.  While my grandmother spoiled me with donuts and money, Grandpa Kautz and I developed a special bond through golf.  In his retirement, he worked part time at Hershey Country Club as a marshal and starter, able to play golf with his friends after each shift.  Before his health quickly faded, my wife and I were invited up for the day to play 18 holes on the East Course, a cherished memory I keep to this day.  A month following his funeral, my Aunt Marcia pulled me aside saying, “Paul wanted you to have this”, pointing to his set of Tommy Armour 845 irons.   Only a few years old, he knew I would appreciate them more than any other relative.  This was the last gift I received.

 
Beginning in John 12:20-36, Jesus pulled his disciples aside, revealing God’s plan for his life.  Trying to comfort their souls, Jesus conveys a message of hope, promising the Holy Spirit in John 14:15-31.  Jesus refers to a counselor who serves as a spirit of truth.  Continuing, Jesus makes a comparison to an orphan, vowing to provide relief to those who miss Jesus, John 14:18-19.  This promise became reality in Acts 2:1-4, as the Holy Spirit was poured out upon the apostle.  The man whom weeks earlier denied Jesus, afraid of being arrested or possibly meeting the same fate of Jesus, Peter is transformed by the Holy Spirit in Acts 2:14-39.  Jesus’ last gift provided a confidence his followers did not possess until after his ascension.

As time passed, some began to wonder if a Pentecost like Spirit was still possible.  The apostle Paul addresses this concern in Ephesians 19:1-6.  Verse 2 implies some believers had not even heard of the Holy Spirit.  However, when examining the original Greek text, the verse actually refers to receiving confirmation, a word from the Lord, on whether or not the Holy Ghost has ceased or continues to move as in the days of Pentecost.  Although this debate continues today, with most theologians clinging to the ceasing side, Joel 2:28 promises a mighty conclusion.  This prophet suggests that God’s last gift, will be poured out upon all people.  May you experience the presence of God like 2 Peter 1:3-4.

by Jay Mankus

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