Embodying Spirit
The article discusses the role of the Holy Spirit as depicted in the Bible, particularly during Pentecost. It emphasizes how the Spirit empowers the disciples to speak boldly and act selflessly, leading to the growth of the early Church. The author connects the Spirit's embodiment in believers to the incarnation of Christ, highlighting the transformative power of the Spirit in the community of faith.
- ▪The Holy Spirit is described as breath, wind, smoke, and flame, illustrating his elusive nature.
- ▪At Pentecost, the Spirit empowers the disciples to speak in various languages and emboldens them to preach publicly.
- ▪The Spirit's presence leads to the formation of a community that shares resources and supports one another.
Opening excerpt (first ~120 words) tap to expand
Embodying Spirit Peter J. Leithart May 22, 2026 Share Article The Bible figures the Spirit as breath, wind, smoke, and flame. He blows where he will, circulates invisibly, flickers like glory. You can hear his voice, but you can’t determine where he came from or where he’s going. You can no more grasp or control the ethereal Spirit than you can mold the mist. Just so, at Pentecost, he arrives as a rushing, mighty wind and ignites tongues of fire on the heads of the assembled disciples. It seems one could almost be forgiven for mistaking the Spirit for an airy nothing. That’s not the trajectory of Pentecost. The Pentecostal Spirit manifests himself in the bodies of those who receive him.
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Excerpt limited to ~120 words for fair-use compliance. The full article is at First Things.
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