In the wake of Pentecost, a pivotal period for Christians around the globe, the General Secretary of Olivet Assembly Oceania has issued a profound exhortation to the staff in the regional General Office, missionaries on the frontier, and ministers in local church chapters. The focus during this post-Pentecostal period is clear: a deeper engagement with Scripture and a renewed commitment to global mission.
The first priority is an in-depth study of the Holy Spirit, drawing directly from the robust foundation of Holy Scripture. Understanding the person and work of the Holy Spirit is paramount. This study should transcend superficial signs and eschew the influence of pagan spiritualistic theories that often confuse the true nature of the Holy Spirit. Leaders within Olivet Assembly Oceania are called to hold fast to biblical truths, aligning themselves with the Holy Spirit’s guidance. By doing so, they allow the Spirit’s work to bear fruit in their lives and ministries, fostering spiritual growth and empowerment.
The second focus in this period is mission, with a particular emphasis on global outreach. This directive follows the model established by the early church. Initially, the early disciples focused on the heavens, perhaps overwhelmed by the spiritual phenomena they witnessed. However, the Lord redirected their focus to the ends of the earth, empowering them with the Holy Spirit to reap a bountiful harvest in the mission field. This shift from a heavenly gaze to earthly mission is a crucial transition that Olivet Assembly Oceania must embrace.
The early church provides a blueprint for contemporary mission work. The disciples, once hesitant and inward-looking, became bold and outward-facing under the Holy Spirit’s influence. Their mission was clear: to spread the gospel to all nations, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. Today, the call remains the same. The General Secretary’s exhortation is a reminder that our mission is not confined to our immediate surroundings but extends to the global community.
For the missionaries on the frontier, this period demands renewed vigor and clarity of purpose. The Holy Spirit’s empowerment is not merely for personal edification but for the proclamation of the gospel in distant lands. As they engage with diverse cultures and challenges, their reliance on the Holy Spirit will be their greatest strength.
For the ministers in local church chapters, the call is to foster a community that is deeply rooted in Scripture and actively engaged in mission. Their leadership should inspire congregations to look beyond their local context and contribute to global evangelism efforts. By grounding their teachings in the truth of the Holy Spirit and encouraging participation in global missions, they model the early disciples’ transformative journey.
The staff in the regional General Office play a crucial role in supporting these efforts. Their administrative and logistical support is vital in facilitating effective mission work. Ensuring that resources are available and efficiently managed will enable missionaries and local ministers to focus on their spiritual and evangelical tasks.
In conclusion, the post-Pentecostal period is a time of deep reflection and active mission. By focusing on an in-depth study of the Holy Spirit and committing to global mission work, Olivet Assembly Oceania can continue the legacy of the early church. This dual focus not only enriches individual spiritual lives but also extends the reach of the gospel to the farthest corners of the earth. The General Secretary’s exhortation serves as a clarion call to embrace this mission with unwavering faith and dedication, empowered by the Holy Spirit.