Understanding the Coming of the Holy Spirit in Everyday Language
The Background: Promises and Preparations
Before Pentecost, there were a few important things to know: John the Baptist introduced Jesus as the one who would baptize people with the Holy Spirit. Throughout His ministry, Jesus depended completely on the Holy Spirit for power and guidance. He also promised His followers that, after He returned to heaven, He would send the Holy Spirit to be with them—a helper, comforter, and counselor.
The Promise Unfolds in Phases
The promise of the Holy Spirit didn’t happen all at once. The first phase took place on Easter Sunday, the day Jesus rose from the dead. According to the Bible, Jesus appeared to His disciples, breathed on them, and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” This act was more than symbolic—it was the moment the disciples truly believed Jesus had overcome death, and they entered into what Christians call “New Testament salvation.” Basically, they became new people on the inside, just like how God breathed life into Adam at the beginning of creation.
The Main Event: The Day of Pentecost
Even after Easter, the full promise hadn’t happened yet. Jesus told His disciples to stay in Jerusalem and wait for something special: to be “clothed with power from on high.” About forty days later, on Pentecost Sunday, the disciples were all gathered together. Suddenly, there was a loud sound like a rushing wind, and something like tongues of fire appeared on each of them. Everyone was filled with the Holy Spirit and started speaking in languages they had never learned before! This was the big moment—the Holy Spirit finally came down from heaven, just as Jesus promised.
What Was the Significance?
Peter, one of the disciples, explained what was happening: Jesus, who had been raised from the dead and was now with God, sent the Holy Spirit down to earth. On Pentecost, the Holy Spirit arrived as a person, becoming the personal representative of God on earth. While Jesus had lived on earth for a while, He returned to heaven and sent the Holy Spirit to stay with believers forever.
Where Does the Holy Spirit Live Now?
The Holy Spirit now lives in two places. First, He lives in the church—the group of people who believe in Jesus. Second, and even more amazing, the Holy Spirit lives inside each individual believer. The Bible says that our bodies are like temples where God Himself, through His Spirit, chooses to live. This is a huge deal: it means believers are never alone, and God’s presence is with them every day.
Why Does Pentecost Matter?
Pentecost marked a turning point. Before, God’s presence was limited in certain ways. After Pentecost, God’s Spirit became available to everyone who believes in Jesus—offering help, comfort, guidance, and power. It’s a promise that continues for all believers today, making Pentecost one of the most important events in Christian history.
In closing, the coming of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost is a reminder that God keeps His promises and desires an ongoing relationship with each of us. The presence of the Holy Spirit means we are empowered, guided, and never alone as we walk out our faith. Let us remember that this gift is for everyone who believes, offering hope and strength every day.
Let us pray:
Heavenly Father, thank You for the incredible gift of Your Holy Spirit. We are grateful that You dwell within us, offering guidance, comfort, and power. Help us to be sensitive to Your presence and bold in sharing Your love with others. Empower us to live out our faith daily, trusting that You are always with us. In Jesus’ name, Amen.
Minister A Francine Green
February 2026
afrancinegreen.com 