REFLECTIONS FOR SUNDAY 8 JUNE 2025 – PENTECOST SUNDAY
at West Dean Breakfast Church, King George VI Hall, West Dean, Wiltshire
I am always slightly concerned when people say to me that whilst they read the New Testament they really don’t have time for the Old. Indeed, I have often heard it said that as the New Testament means the “New Covenant” there is no longer need to look at the Old. For me, you cannot read the New in the context in which it was written or events occurred without having a knowledge of the Old and in particular the prophesies which it contains. The latter part of the Old Testament contains the writings of both the Major and the Minor Prophets, one of the latter being Joel and, as we celebrate Pentecost and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit to the followers at Jerusalem, it is wonderful to think of the continuity which exists between Old and New with the scripture for Joel which we have just heard.
This is a profound passage that also speaks to hope, renewal and divine presence. These verses prophetically describe the future outpouring of God’s Spirit, emphasising that God’s grace and power will extend to all people, sons and daughters, young and old, servants and free individuals, This inclusive promise reflects God’s desire for a universal renewal that transcends social and cultural boundaries. Prior to this, we read of specific outpourings of the Spirit to specific individuals f or specific purposes e.g. Moses, Elijah and Elisha, David and so on.
This morning’s passage begins with the declaration that “I will pour out my Spirit on all people” (Joel 2:28). This invocation of the Spirit signifies a transformative movement where divine power is no longer restricted to prophets or leaders as I mentioned above, but becomes accessible to everyone. It suggests that God’s presence is not limited but available to all those seeking renewal and guidance. This idea resonates deeply, especially considering the historical context where the Spirit was often seen as a special gift for prophets and a select few.
The promises of prophecy, dreams and visions in this passage highlight a time of Divine Communication and revelation. These spiritual experiences serve to inspire and guide individuals and communities, fostering faith and hope. The universal nature of these manifestations indicates that God’s plans and purposes are inclusive and meant for all people, regardless of age and status. It underscores the theme that divine intervention is for collective renewal and salvation.
Verses 30 and 31 describe phenomenal signs in the heavens and on the Earth – “blood, fire and billows of smoke” – which serve as cosmic signs of divine activity. These vivid images evoke a sense of urgency and anticipation emphasising that God’s intervention is both powerful and transformative. It also reminds me of the wonder and awe of God’s Creation which I feel when observing the heavens through my love of astronomy and it never ceases to amaze me how vast and awesome God’s creation really is and how privileged we are to be living on this wonderful and unique planet in the vastness of the expanse of the Universe. These images which are conjured up by Joel also serve as warnings indicating that the outpouring of God’s Spirit is also associated with significant change and probably judgment but ultimately with hope, available to those who call on the Lord irrespective of their background and situation. This reflection encourages us to remain faithful and dependent on God’s grace recognising his sovereignty over all creation. It inspires hope and reassurance that in the midst of chaos, sincere faith and prayer can lead to deliverance and divine protection.
Acts 2:1-16
Following on from the prophesy of Joel which we examined a moment ago we now turn to the day of Pentecost itself. In Acts 2:1-16, we see the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles, marking the birth of the church and the beginning of our mission to share the Gospel with the world. This day reminds us of the power, promise, and purpose of the Holy Spirit in our lives.
I am going to split the scripture up into a number of parts, reminding ourselves of what is written, giving my own reflection and then asking you what it means to you.
1. The Setting of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-4)
Key Point:
Pentecost was a Jewish festival, a time of
celebration and remembrance. But on this day, it became a day of divine
revelation and empowerment. The Holy Spirit was poured out, filling the
disciples and giving them the ability to speak in different languages. This was
not just a miraculous event; it was a divine appointment to equip the church
for its mission. It should be noted that
the true translation of “tongues” in this passage is not the one which is often
given by Pentecostal churches as some unknown language spoken by angels, but
the known languages of the Earth at that time – such as if I were to speak
fluent Chinese without having learned or spoken the language before.
Application:
Are we open to the Holy Spirit’s work in our lives? Like the disciples, we need the Spirit to fill us, to empower us for service, and to guide us in truth.
2. The Spirit’s Power and Presence (Acts 2:5-13)
“Now there were staying in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven... When they heard this sound, a crowd came together in bewilderment, because each one heard their own language being spoken... Some, however, made fun of them and said, ‘They have had too much wine.’”
Key Point:
The Spirit’s power was evident. It transcended language and cultural barriers, uniting people from diverse backgrounds. The initial reactions ranged from awe to skepticism, but the Spirit’s work was undeniable.
Application:
The Holy Spirit breaks down barriers—racial, cultural, social—that divide us. As followers of Christ, we are called to be witnesses to the unity and love that the Spirit brings. How in this modern day and age can we do this? What are you going to do after we leave this Hall this morning?
3. Peter’s Boldness and the Gospel Declared (Acts 2:14-16)
“Then Peter stood up with the Eleven, raised his voice and addressed the crowd: ‘Fellow Jews and all of you who live in Jerusalem, let me explain this to you...’”
Key Point:
Empowered by the Spirit, Peter boldly proclaimed the Gospel. The Spirit transforms fear into courage and enables us to testify to Christ.
Application:
Are we willing to be filled with the Spirit and share the Good News? The same Spirit that empowered Peter is available to us today. We are called to be witnesses, speaking truth and love into our communities.
Conclusion:
Pentecost and Joel’s writings are a reminder that the Holy Spirit is active and available to all believers. It is the Spirit who empowers us to live out our faith, to love others, and to fulfil God's mission in the world.
Call to Action:
This week, pray earnestly for the Holy Spirit to fill you anew. Seek the courage to share your faith, and open your heart to the Spirit’s guidance. Let us remember that we are not alone—God has given us His Spirit to be with us always.
Closing Prayer:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit. Fill us anew, empower us to be faithful witnesses, and unite us in love and purpose. May we, like the disciples on Pentecost, be bold in proclaiming Your Word. In Jesus’ name, we pray.
Amen.
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