Main Thought
Some sporting events or concerts are only available to those who purchase a pay per view or a ticket. They’re limited by nature. On the other hand, other events - like the Super Bowl - are available more widely on cable television. They’re meant to be experienced by as many people as possible. They’re “for all to see.” The movement of God’s Spirit is something that’s meant for all to see! The Holy Spirit wants to be as real to us as if Jesus Himself were present in our midst. We’re meant to experience the Spirit’s presence privately (in our own time with God) and publicly (in settings like a Sunday worship service). When the Spirit moves, He changes lives. What will you do in order to see God move?
Main Passages
When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. 2 And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. 3 And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.
- Acts 2:1-4
On the evening of that day, the first day of the week, the doors being locked where the disciples were for fear of the Jews, Jesus came and stood among them and said to them, “Peace be with you.” 20 When he had said this, he showed them his hands and his side. Then the disciples were glad when they saw the Lord. 21 Jesus said to them again, “Peace be with you. As the Father has sent me, even so I am sending you.” 22 And when he had said this, he breathed on them and said to them, “Receive the Holy Spirit.
- John 20:19-22
16 Rejoice always, 17 pray without ceasing, 18 give thanks in all circumstances; for this is the will of God in Christ Jesus for you. 19 Do not quench the Spirit. 20 Do not despise prophecies, 21 but test everything; hold fast what is good. 22 Abstain from every form of evil.
- 1 Thessalonians 5:16-22
Discussion Questions
What stands out to you in the Main Thought or Passages above?
What do you think it means to experience the presence of God? What makes you say that?
Reflect on the passages from 1 Thessalonians 5. Can you do any of these things as you spend time with God, in order to experience Him more?