You’ve heard the term; “speaking in tongues” I’m sure. This Bible lesson from Acts 2:1-13 certainly gives a very clear description about the day of Pentecost. And, it tells what really happened that day.
But, what does it all mean? Some churches practice this as a part of their worship services today. All in all, the biblical story of the day of Pentecost is an important reminder of the power of faith.
Day of Pentecost – The Holy Spirit Comes
When the day of Pentecost had come, they were all together in one place.
And suddenly there came from heaven a noise like a violent rushing wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.
*And there appeared to them tongues as of fire distributing themselves, and they rested on each one of them.
And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit was giving them utterance.
Now there were Jews living in Jerusalem, devout men from every nation under heaven.
And when this sound occurred, the crowd came together, and were bewildered because each one of them was hearing them speak in his own language.
They were amazed and astonished, saying, “Why, are not all these who are speaking Galileans?
And how is it that we each hear them in our own language to which we were born? – Acts 2:1-8 NASB
What is Pentecost?
Also known as the Feast of Weeks, Pentecost was an event held 50 days after Passover.
The Jewish people celebrated three big festivals each year. This one commemorated giving thanks to God for harvested crops.
Passover
Another historic event, Passover was celebrated because it was the night Israel was “passed over” by death during the killing of the first born in Egypt. It was the pivoting point of their freedom.
Jesus was crucified right after Passover. He ascended forty days later (after the resurrection) and ten days later came the Holy Spirit at Pentecost.
Different Tongues
This was a giant celebration which meant that Jews came from many different nations to attend an international audience. The arrival of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost marked the birth of the Christian Church. It empowered the apostles to speak in different tongues, enabling them to spread the Gospel to diverse nations. This event signified the fulfillment of Jesus’ promise to send a helper. And, it created the beginning of a new era in the Christian faith.
The speech Peter gave that day fulfilled the prophecy of John the Baptist. He said that people would be baptized with fire through the Holy Spirit.
Everyone Hears
This spectacular event gained attention and converted a multitude of Jews to Christianity (the first church). The crowd was initially bewildered and amazed, as they heard the apostles speaking in their own native languages. Some were astonished and recognized it as a miraculous event, while others mocked the apostles, accusing them of being drunk. However, Peter’s powerful sermon clarified the situation, explaining that it was the work of the Holy Spirit, leading many to repentance and conversion.
If we think in a practical way, and in today’s terms, the gospel of Christ is taught in almost every language throughout the world.
It doesn’t matter about nationality, race or other differences in peoples’ lives – when we accept the Holy Spirit into our hearts, we all become one race – Christian! Modern churches can apply this message by emphasizing inclusivity and unity among their congregations.
By promoting the idea that the Holy Spirit transcends cultural and linguistic barriers, churches can foster a sense of belonging and community for people from diverse backgrounds.
This approach can help modern churches create an environment where everyone feels welcome and valued. This means they attend regardless of;
- their nationality,
- race,
- or other differences.
Let’s remember this day as the coming together of people from all walks of life into the loving arms of God. – Amen
Love in Christ
– Bob
If you would like to discover more about accepting Jesus Christ, please take a moment to go here and take the first steps.
Read Today’s Verses Here:
Thanks for the post. awesome！