‘Amazed and perplexed, they asked one another, “What does this mean?” Some, however, made fun of them and said, “They have had too much wine’ (Ac 2:12-13).
One class of adversaries Charismatic believers must contend with is not that of worldly conformists as such, per Rom 12:2. Rather, firstly, it consists of fellow “believers” who are ignorant of and confused about Pentecostal realities. Some dismiss, mock and ridicule those who receive the Promise of the Father. Sometimes that is a sign of fear, envy or admiration.
Please understand that not everyone will applaud you for your Pentecostal experience, fervour and charisma. Some fellow worshippers will think you’re fanatical or weird when you devote yourself to the Holy Spirit unreservedly. Be prepared to be misunderstood, not by “heathens” but by religious folk who have not received what you have. That’s a price worth paying, because the glory outweighs the pain.
Pastor Josh