the Holy Spirit arrives on the day of Pentecost, but the powerful work In Acts 2: 1-13, the Holy Spirit arrives on the day of Pentecost, but the powerful work of the Spirit continued to be the driving force in the astounding growth of the early church.

Acts 9:31 “So the church throughout Judea and Galilee and Samaria enjoyed peace [without persecution], being built up [in wisdom, virtue, and faith]; and walking in the fear of the Lord and in the comfort and encouragement of the Holy Spirit, it continued to grow [in numbers].”

In this short (but profound) passage, we can find at least four “keys” that helped unlocked a great period of church growth, even though these ministries were located in different settings and faced differing challenges.

Walking/Living in the “fear of the Lord” Key #1: Walking/Living in the “fear of the Lord” Reverent respect (Hebrews 10:31) Humble awareness of the God’s omnipotence, omniscience, omnipresence (Heb. 12:28-29) Careful obedience of commandments (Heb. 12:25) Choosing holy living each day (Ephesians 4:1)

Comfort/Encouragement of the Holy Spirit Key #2: Comfort/Encouragement of the Holy Spirit Paraclete (“aid called to one’s side”) The role of the Holy Spirit on Earth, as described by Jesus in John 14 & 16. This word has been translated to mean: Comforter, Counselor, Advocate, Intercessor, Helper, Companion, & Friend

Like the early church; we definitely need both the comforting help of the Spirit (during times of sadness or distress) as well as the encouraging help of the Spirit (to spur us on towards love and good deeds).

Choosing to be “built up” in your faith Key #3: Choosing to be “built up” in your faith We build one another up in love (Eph. 4:15-16) Our faith should be strengthened (Coloss. 2:6-7) “But you, dear friends, must build up your lives ever more strongly upon the foundation of our holy faith, learning to pray in the power and strength of the Holy Spirit.” - Jude 1:20 (The Living Bible)

Key #4: Peace of God Have peace with God through Jesus (Romans 5:1) We seek peace with others (Romans 14:19) God brings His “peace time” most often to those He knows will use that for His glory and the good of others. (1 Kings 5:1-5)

What is the right response to calm & peace? To not “jinx” it? Spoil ourselves? Or…view it as a blessing by God to be used for the purposes of God.

The Acts 9:31 “Keys” to Growth 1.) Walking/Living in the “fear of the Lord” 2.) Comfort/Encouragement of the Holy Spirit 3.) Choosing to be “built up” in our faith 4.) The Peace of God providing opportunities