There is a paradox concerning the outpouring of the Holy Spirit. When Christ is exalted, He pours out the Holy Spirit. However, the Holy Spirit comes to exalt Christ. This is a mystery, but understanding it helps us receive the person and work of the Holy Spirit.

There have been many discussions over what really happened this day, and many formulas have been written, such as the “three easy steps to Pentecostal power.” However, in the pyrotechnics of the event, we sometimes miss the functional reality.

What the disciples experienced on the morning of Pentecost was a new beginning. It was not only a new beginning for them, but it marked a new beginning for all of us. But in order for them to experience Pentecost, they had to experience the loss of the ascension.

It is easy to make this “power of the Holy Spirit” complicated and mystical. There is certainly mystery concerning the power of the Spirit.

We will not only damage ourselves but also the witness of the kingdom of God if we pursue the power of God without the heart of God. We are not responsible to save people or even to rescue them; but we are responsible to love them, serve them, and give witness to the gospel.

Power that does not bring holiness of heart will eventually be perverted. Holiness without power is lifeless and legalistic. Power without holiness eventually implodes on the individual.

Please notice what Jesus said: the object being received is not the Holy Spirit, but power. The disciples received the Holy Spirit in John 21:22. Jesus breathed on them and said, “Receive the Holy Spirit.” That is pretty clear. Here, it is power. This power is administered by the Holy Spirit.

Waiting reveals. We wait for things we believe we need. I do not know anyone who walks intimately with the Holy Spirit who is not continually aware of their need for Him. We will wait for what we know we need.