Pentecost Year B | Austin Becton

Summary:

Today's sermon explores the profound significance of Pentecost, tracing its origins from a Jewish agricultural festival to the transformative moment when the Holy Spirit empowered the disciples to spread the gospel. This divine power, often misunderstood and misused, calls us to be Christ-like beacons of hope and healing in a world riddled with political corruption, social injustice, and racial discrimination. This sermon invites us to ponder and participate in the greatest story ever told, challenging us to live out our part in God's ongoing epic adventure.

Outline:

Historical Context:

• Pentecost was originally a Jewish festival celebrating the first fruits of the harvest and the giving of the law to Moses.
• The disciples of Jesus were in Jerusalem awaiting the Holy Spirit, as promised by Jesus at his ascension.

The Power of the Holy Spirit:

• The Holy Spirit descended with a rush of wind and tongues of fire, enabling the disciples to speak in various languages and proclaim God’s deeds.
• True power should bring life, hope, and healing.

The Last Days:

• Early Christians believed they were living in the "last days," a period between Jesus' ascension and his eventual return when God's promises were being fulfilled.
• Christians are called to participate in God's work during this time, empowered by the Holy Spirit.

Modern Relevance:

• The power of the Holy Spirit enables us to engage contemporary issues such as political corruption, financial uncertainty, social injustice, and racial discrimination

Living Out the Fifth Act:

• We are living in a Shakespeare play with a missing final act. Christians should be committed to continuing the story of God’s work in the world.
• We must live faithful lives, guided by the Holy Spirit, to embody Christ's message and participate in the ongoing divine narrative.

Action Items:

• Read the book "Pentecost" by Emilio Alvarez to learn more about Pentecost.
• Reflect on how to "turn up the volume on the Holy Spirit, and turn down the volume on everything else" in one's life.
• Consider how to faithfully "work out the fifth act" and participate in God's story in the world today through the empowering of the Holy Spirit.

 

 

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