Walking Under the Influence

Walking Under the Influence

“But you will receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you will be my witnesses…” Acts 1:8a

School shootings and stabbings, deadly disasters, AWOL airplanes. News stories abound with scary situations. There is much to be afraid of in 2014 A.D.

Two thousand years ago, the disciples and early church also had much to fear. The Bible records and history supports that early believers were speared, stoned, beheaded, and crucified. John, the beloved, disciple, died a natural death; yet, it is believed that he was boiled in hot oil before being exiled to Patmos. Scary scenarios.

The ESV uses the phrase “do not be afraid” thirty-three times. God also encouraged His people to “be strong and courageous” ten times in the OT. Yet we do not see either of these phrases after the book of Acts in the NT. After Christ’s ascension, we are told Paul was encouraged not to be afraid. Only two times.

Why the shift? Times are still terrifying.

The transition came when the Spirit came. We are now under His influence. He indwells. When Christ’s followers receive His salvation, they also receive His Spirit. No longer does the encouragement come from on high, it comes from within.

The epistles do not tell us to “fear not”, but show believers who walked in the Spirit became bold. The Spirit within enables our actions to speak as well as our words.

Times are tough, yet we do not have to cower in fear. We can boldly walk with the Spirit in His enabling power, knowing our purpose is to be Christ’s witness to our world.

“… and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and continued to speak the word of God with boldness.” Acts 4:31b

photo by Jen Griffin