For God is not the author of confusion but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints.
—1 Corinthians 14:33
In the summary conclusion of Paul’s three-chapter discourse on the person, work, and gifts of the Holy Spirit, the apostle concludes with this simple statement. The word confusion really says it all, as it can be translated “instability” or “disorderly commotion.” God the Holy Spirit is not the author of disorderly commotion in any church. If we understand this, we can better pray and seek the Lord’s will and work in our lives by the power available in Him.
We might well understand the work of the Holy Spirit by simply remembering that His power is what enables us to be used by Him. Therefore, when considering what is of the Holy Spirit and what is not, we could well ask ourselves this simple question: Is this action or experience stopping with me, or is it flowing through me to benefit others? Examine whether it is just experiential commotion or whether He is flowing through you to bring peace to others.
It is a sad commentary that churches today are often categorized by the place they give to the person and work of the Holy Spirit. Paul says the Spirit works the same way in every church; therefore, every church ought to be sharing the same perspective on the Holy Spirit. But we know this is not the case, and there is much confusion on this subject.
So in the midst of all the commotion today, let’s remember one thing, John 15:26: “But when the Helper comes, whom I shall send to you from the Father, the Spirit of truth who proceeds from the Father, He will testify of Me.” The Holy Spirit empowers God’s people to give testimony of Jesus in the way they live, act, and do church. So rather than putting ourselves in one camp or the other or taking sides on the issue, let us unite as Christians on the side of the Holy Spirit. Let’s not get sidetracked by a denominational stance or a nondenominational perspective, but let’s get back to the true purpose of the Spirit’s power: to tell the world about Jesus.
You will have all of heaven behind you and the Holy Spirit’s power within you when you step out to bring the peace of God to a lost sinner already drowning in the midst of great commotion. This is the work of the Holy Spirit in every church and in every saint. The rest is just commotion!
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As the church continues to go out with the gospel, opposition begins to set in. Take a look at how Peter, John and the church handle this onset of persecution. Bible Text: Acts 4:1-31 Acts 2 is a pivotal chapter in the Bible. It s the beginning of the church and the issuing of the power they ll need through the Holy Spirit to go with the gospel. We look today at the baptism of the Holy Spirit: what it is, what it means, and why we need Him. Bible Text: Acts 2:1-21