The Work of the Holy Spirit
… all the Jews and Greeks who lived in the province of Asia heard the word of the Lord. God did extraordinary miracles through Paul,
(Acts 19:10-11)
Talk of sending as sheep among wolves, and Paul exemplifies this well. This Apostle’s mission in Ephesus was transformational. It touched the city’s life religiously, socially and economically. Ephesus was “the guardian of the temple of the great [goddess] Artemis and of her image, which fell from heaven” – so they believed, and her worship was widespread; the business of idols was booming, with natives and visitors buying these idols and relics to worship this goddess. Even after Apollos’ mission and the formation of the 12-man Christian fellowship, there seems to have been no significant effect on the life of this city. They had believed, were baptized, they probably met regularly, but in terms of effects on city life, there was nothing to write home about.
That city’s foundations were spiritual, and only the Holy Spirit could move them. It is not uncommon that we try to do in our own human might and wisdom things that are beyond that realm; truly there is a breakthrough that requires the power of the Holy Spirit – in your career, or your relationships, or in your finances, or your business; but more significantly in the extension of the Kingdom of God among different peoples and places, the power of the Holy Spirit is indispensable. Don’t try to convert hard hearted people by your clever and articulate preaching or rivers of baptism; do not try drive out evil spirits using chloroquine injections or radiotherapy machines! Only the power of the Holy Spirit can shake such foundations, and we need Him even today.
In Ephesus, when the work of the Holy Spirit was manifested, when the believers were filled, the power released lifted a blockade and the Word of God was preached and received by all. To teach and preach the powerful gospel, we need the Holy Spirit. People came to repent and confessed their sins and gave them up; they were unashamed and bold to accept the Lord Jesus as Saviour in public. For that boldness to give up sin and receive salvation, we need the Holy Spirit. Healings and deliverances were witnessed as the Name of Jesus was invoked in prayers; there were extraordinary miracles as well; for convincing signs and total healing of body and soul, we need the Holy Spirit. The city’s economy changed; the business of idols started a sharp decline as many people turned to and worshipped the Almighty God. For cleansing and positive transformation of our cities and villages, we need the Holy Spirit. He has work in your life as an individual, as a family, and as a community. God bless you all.