We had such a wonderful spirit in the service as Andy Hoffecker and the worship team led us in singing praises to the Lord.  Immediately after that, people filled the altar for a time of prayer and repentance.   Rebecca Brewer, Valerie Hoffecker and Pastor Josh, accompanied by Andy Hoffecker on the piano, sang “I am Persuaded.” 

     Pastor Roger’s message was appropriate for Pentecost Sunday.  We in the Assemblies of God are called “Pentecostals.”  Pentecostals are simply people who believe in a personal, vibrant, lively and overflowing faith inspired by the Holy Spirit.   We desire to share with others what God has done for us.  A Pentecostal is a participant in the worship service and not just an observer.  Pentecostals believe that the baptism of the Holy Spirit as detailed in Acts 2 is available to every Christian today and that Jesus is the baptizer. 

     However, the Holy Spirit takes up residence in every individual when they receive Christ as their personal Lord and Savior.  The Holy Spirit redeems and makes us alive and convicts of sin, righteousness and judgment.  Jesus commanded the disciples to wait for the Holy Spirit.  The Holy Spirit is a promise of God.  It is the power that enables us to boldly proclaim the gospel.  We see especially how Peter was mightily enabled to speak boldly before the Sanhedrin in Acts 4 when the Holy Spirit came upon him.  The Holy Spirit is also the presence of God with us and comes to glorify Christ.   The Holy Spirit gives to each believer gifts that further equip the believer to edify the body or church and to introduce others to Jesus.  As Pentecostals we not only believe the baptism of the Holy Spirit is for believers today but that God continues to operate through the gifts of the Spirit given to every Christian.  So God not only wants to use us but He equips or gives us what we need to be used by Him.