Beautiful Fruit from Bitter Seed - the Spirit's Power

“I am full of power by the Spirit of the Lord, and of judgment, and of strength to declare unto Jacob his transgression, and to Israel his sin” (Micah 3:8, Geneva Bible).

This is the work of the Holy Spirit (John 16:7-9) – the convicting men of their sin through the Word preached (1 Corinthians 14:24,25) – and the fruit of it is eternally glorious: “Now when they heard it, they were pricked in their hearts, and said unto Peter and the other Apostles, ‘Men and brethren, what shall we do?’ Then Peter said unto them, ‘Amend your lives, and be baptized every one of you in the Name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins: and ye shall receive the gift of the holy Ghost. For the promise is made unto you, and to your children, and to all that are afar off, even as many as the Lord our God shall call.’ And with many other words he besought and exhorted them, saying, ‘Save yourselves from this froward generation.’ Then they that gladly received his word, were baptized, and the same day there were added to the Church about three thousand souls. And they continued in the Apostles’ doctrine, and fellowship, and breaking of bread, and prayers. And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the Apostles. And all that believed, were in one place, and had all things common. And they sold their possessions, and goods, and parted them to all men, as everyone had need. And they continued daily with one accord in the Temple, and breaking bread at home, did eat their meat together with gladness and singleness of heart, praising God, and had favor with all the people: and the Lord added to the Church from day to day, such as should be saved” (Acts 2:37-47).

This? Out of the work of preaching for the conviction of sin? Only the power of God the Holy Spirit can produce such beautiful fruit from such bitter seed.