filled with the Holy Spirit

Acts 7:1-36 – What a Story!

Stephen brilliantly builds rapport with his audience. I can only imagine how nervous he would have been, and how easily it would be to go on the defensive after being arrested. The history Stephen shares here is a common bond, as these men all share a common ancestral heritage. These hero stories have been passed down for generations. Hearing them never gets old.

Did you notice Stephen had evaded the question? Or did he? The false accusations brought against Stephen included, “We heard him blaspheme Moses, and even God.” Stephen’s answer more than covered Moses’ life. It was clear that Stephen was not trying to change or abuse anything. Stephen told the story just right. Continue reading “Acts 7:1-36 – What a Story!”

Ezekiel 15:1-8 – Wood of the Vine

Read Ezekiel 15:1-8

Normally, when we think about a vine in Biblical terms, we imagine it bearing fruit or talking about Jesus, the “true vine.” Yet Ezekiel’s message is not dealing with fruit at all, In fact, the LORD surprisingly said, “Vines are useless both before and after being put into the fire!”

Other Biblical references speak of the “fruit of the vine” or bearing fruit, but Ezekiel’s vines don’t appear to be fruitful. When compared to a mighty tree of the forest, the wood of a vine would be pretty wimpy or useless for tasks known to be handled well by other wood sources, like trees. Continue reading “Ezekiel 15:1-8 – Wood of the Vine”

Zechariah 4:1-14 – A Lampstand and Two Olive Trees

Read Zechariah 4:1-14

You’re not alone if this fifth vision of Zechariah left you perplexed. It’s not only strange but hard to understand. I’m hoping we can unpack it a little and let the Holy Spirit speak to our hearts the intended message for our reflection. Even the angel’s explanation left me scratching my head.

It helps to remember that this section of the book is focusing on who is leading those exiled people now returning to Jerusalem. This vision points to the new governor, and kingly descendent, Zerubbabel. You may recall Haggai mentions Zerubbabel—now it’s Zechariah’s turn to shine the light on the leader God had chosen.