Acts 2:2-3 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.… I. THE ESSENTIAL VIRTUE OF THE DIVINE COMMUNICATION. "They were all filled with the Holy Ghost." What is it that God does for us when He thus acts upon us? He has, in His heavenly wisdom and in His parental love, left a way open between Himself and ourselves by which He can act upon us not indirectly, but directly, not mediately, but immediately; this is by the gentle, gracious, efficient action of His own Spirit on our spirit. 1. It is surely natural that He should do so; most likely, most credible it is that the Infinite Father of mankind should, while giving to His children a large measure of freedom, responsibility, and so of spiritual dignity, hold Himself free to touch, to quicken, to restrain, to incite, to restore, to ennoble. 2. It is surely desirable in the last degree that He should do so. Whence, otherwise, should we gain the spiritual force which gives life to the dying, energy to the languishing, sanctity and peace to the stained and struggling spirit? II. ITS MANIFESTATIONS. 1. This manifestation was remarkable; it excited a large amount of attention. 2. It was also beneficent. 3. It will be abundantly evident to all that God is with us and in us; our new and nobler life will make that clear, and will not only invite but compel attention. 4. And the influence will be beneficial; we shall lead men's thoughts upwards, Godwards. III. THE CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH WE MAY LOOK FOR THE DIVINE OUTPOURING. (W. Clarkson, B. A.) Parallel Verses KJV: And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting. |
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