This is That

The minister preaches from Acts 2:16-21, where Peter declares that the Pentecost outpouring is the fulfillment of Joel's prophecy. He emphasizes that this 'this is that' experience is available to believers today. Drawing from Joel 1-2, he describes the bleak judgment of locusts and fire that consumed Israel's land, but highlights the turning point in Joel 2:12: 'Turn ye even to me with all your heart.' This call to repentance, with fasting and mourning, is not about outward show but a torn and contrite heart. The minister uses the metaphor of a farmer burning a field to reset the ground for new growth, explaining that God's judgments prepare hearts for fresh sowing. God's promise follows: restoration of the years the locusts have eaten, and the outpouring of His Spirit. The minister connects Joel's 'former rain' to the moderate beginnings of the Spirit's work in Acts—3,000 saved, miracles, healings, and unified prayer shaking the place. He notes that while the former rain came moderately, God also promises the latter rain, signaling an even greater outpouring in the last days. He calls believers to seek this same apostolic experience, to be unified in one accord, and to anticipate a restoration of Acts-level power in the present time. The message urges turning to God wholeheartedly to receive the promise of the Holy Ghost and the full restoration He brings.