The Post-Resurrection accounts recorded in the Acts of the Apostles portray the "Salvation History" of the early Christian Community based on Love experienced as a "power" rather than Love as a "force". The two words "power" and "force" have distinct meanings in the context of Energy. While "power" describes energy that is generated from within, "force" refers to an external pressure. We might say that "power" generates true Love while "force degenerates into Law. Let's think over it as we contemplate the Love of Jesus who empowers his Pentecostal community even unto our times.
Christianity is not a religion but a spirituality of Empowerment. The Teachings of Jesus are rarely forceful or for that matter, threatening with punihments and condemnations. Discipleship is not an obligation but an option. "If you wish to be my disciples...." And if you do, only then, the terms and conditions matter: "Take up your cross and follow me"
In the post-Resurrection scenario, the Risen Lord patiently plays an empowering role, dealing compassioantely with his traumatised disciples and coaxing them to feel the power of his resurrection. The Holy Spirit triggers the hesitant faith of the disciples and the Pentecost is infact, Empowerment.
Christianity is not a religion but a spirituality of Empowerment. The Teachings of Jesus are rarely forceful or for that matter, threatening with punihments and condemnations. Discipleship is not an obligation but an option. "If you wish to be my disciples...." And if you do, only then, the terms and conditions matter: "Take up your cross and follow me"
In the post-Resurrection scenario, the Risen Lord patiently plays an empowering role, dealing compassioantely with his traumatised disciples and coaxing them to feel the power of his resurrection. The Holy Spirit triggers the hesitant faith of the disciples and the Pentecost is infact, Empowerment.
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