Filled with the Spirit

Acts 13 

Check out the activity of the Holy Spirit in this chapter. He speaks to the church in Antioch, instructing them to set apart for Him Barnabas and Saul (Paul) for the work to which He has called them (v. 2). By the Holy Spirit, the church sends them out (v. 4). In the power of the Spirit, they proclaim the Word of God. Filled with the Holy Spirit, Paul calls out Elymas with stronger words than I’ve ever even thought about saying to anyone (vv. 9-10). The Spirit is at work in a big way!

I have to laugh a little in verse 15. Paul and Barnabas are in attendance at the synagogue when the rulers ask them if they have any word of encouragement for the people. If? I only wonder if these rulers had any idea what they were asking for!

Needless to say, Paul accepts the invitation and preaches a bold Spirit-filled message of God’s plan of redemption through the nation of Israel culminating in the person and work of Jesus Christ, emphasizing His death and resurrection. This is the “good news” of God’s promises now fulfilled, and, yes, a word of encouragement to the people!

Paul then warns them of the danger of rejecting this message and the incredible work that God is doing in their midst. They beg him to come back next week, which he does, much to the displeasure of some of the Jews. Even though the crowds are incited against them, they leave the city filled with joy and with the Holy Spirit. O Lord, fill us today with Your Spirit!