Pentecost People
Read: Acts 2:1-2
 The Christian Church “was born” on the day of the mighty rushing wind and the flames. Appropriately it happened on the biblical festival of Pentecost–a celebration of first fruits, and a fitting day for the “harvest of souls” who became the core of the postresurrection Christian community.
The newborn Church’s heartbeat was the risen and reigning Lord. Its first cry was the proclamation of the power of God in Christ Jesus. The growth rate was phenomenal–3,000 the first day. It continued to grow, from Jerusalem, to Judea, and far beyond.
Through the years the Church has thrived with vibrant health. It has also slumped in depressing sickness. Some feel it reached its zenith in the past; others see its excitement still to come.
We’ve moved from the postresurrection era to the postmodern era, and today, many are looking with curious eyes toward the emerging church. It’s labeled a “conversation” by many of its proponents, to differentiate between the emergent and the established groups. While the core Christian message remains unchanged, people in the emerging church value authentic experience over that which is scripted or superficial. Whether through worship or service, postmoderns seek relevance. Effective teaching focuses on narrative presentations of faith and Word. Outreach is central. Christians go out in the world to serve God, rather than remain in country-club-like communities populated by like-minded people. This all sounds pretty biblical, doesn’t it?
While some postmoderns attend local independent churches specifically identified as “emergent,” others join the “conversation” from within existing mainline churches. Look around you and listen carefully. Do you hear the voices of emerging church proponents? Is every voice being heard? Take the time to listen, because. . .
When the Holy Spirit moves, something happens!
When the Holy Spirit moves, there is a new center, a new dynamic.
When the Holy Spirit moves, we have new vitality and new vision.
When the Holy Spirit moves, the church (re)emerges.
Prayer: We thank you, God, for the power of your Spirit. Move among us, once again, and transform us to be Pentecost People.
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Ingrid Dvirnak
ABCRM Newsletter Editor
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