The Promise of Pentecost | Jonathan Howes

In this final message of the 'Go' series, Jonathan Howes explores the transformative power of the Holy Spirit, focusing on the promise of Pentecost as recorded in Acts 2. He recounts the events of Holy Week, from Jesus' triumphal entry on Palm Sunday to His crucifixion and resurrection, emphasizing that the resurrection makes possible the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. The sermon highlights how the Holy Spirit transformed the disciples—from fearful followers to bold witnesses—culminating in the explosive growth of the early church, with 3,000 people baptized in one day. Howes emphasizes that God uses ordinary people to do extraordinary things through the Holy Spirit, and he unpacks the biblical basis for spiritual gifts, particularly speaking in tongues, explaining the three types: proof tongues (for evangelism), prophetic tongues (for edification), and private tongues (for personal prayer). He affirms continuationism, arguing that spiritual gifts are still active today, and calls believers to discover, develop, and deploy their gifts for the common good. The message closes with a personal invitation to repent, be baptized, and receive the Holy Spirit, especially on Easter Sunday, with a special emphasis on church leadership changes and the power of the Spirit to transform lives and communities.