Church with Spirit

Acts 11 : 19 - 26

...evidence of the grace of God...

The NT passage in the daily readings during this Easter season is taken from the book of Acts. I have not been reading them consistently, but today as I read, something made me stop and take note. The early church at Antioch, was one where "the grace of God" was evident. It was a church with "Spirit", one in which a "great number of people were brought to the Lord". And Barnabas who was sent to "check it out" was himself a "good man, full of the Holy Spirit and faith".
I have not had personal experiences of the Spirit in the ways people usually talk about. Coming from a rather conservative church background, it was always stressed that we should avoid "emotionalism", meaning we should not seek certain manifestations that are associated with the Spirit. We were told that after all, what is important is faith and right doctrine. In fact, one could get misled by all the manifestations and end up with a distorted faith.

Well, that consideration served me well for many years, and I have not been keen to explore this unfamiliar area. But recently, I have been curious perhaps, but more than that..seeking what I have not explored all these years. The early church as portrayed in Acts was a very Spirit filled one...not only in terms of signs and wonders but also in a strong and deep faith. The 'warnings' have served a purpose but I feel free enough to test out new experiences.

In my search, I have decided to visit some 'charismatic' churches when I can. I was at one for a Saturday service last week. The songs were mostly unfamiliar - but since the usual style is to repeat songs several times, I managed to catch some of the choruses. The sermon was Biblically sound. When I reviewed my experience, I noted that there was a moment when song and prayer and Scripture came together and that was when I was moved. That was when it came together for me - and I felt a deep sense of God's gracious love.

An 'emotional high'? Some would say so. But by reflecting on my experience, I find a way to treasure it in my heart. It will be there for me to recall when doubts arise and times of desolation come as they inevitably will.