Scripture
4 All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them.
Reflection
All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues[a] as the Spirit enabled them.
The events of Pentecost did not happen in a vacuum. Centuries of prophecy and tradition pointed to and gave extra meaning for the events of the Christian Pentecost. When the Holy Spirit fell on the believers who had gathered together 50 days after Christ’s death and resurrection, it was symbolic of God’s work amongst the Hebrews centuries earlier.
On the historical Pentecost, God gave his law on Mount Sinai, accompanied with thunder and lightning. On the Christian Pentecost, God sent down his Holy Spirit, like a rushing mighty wind; and tongues of fire sat upon each disciple, in order that, by his influence, that new law of light and life might be promulgated and established. The result was not just that tradition was honored, but that it was realized in its fullness. Referring to Old Testament traditions, Paul writes in Colossians 2:17, “These are a shadow of the things that were to come; the reality, however, is found in Christ.” The same is true of Pentecost – centuries of tradition had pointed to the glorious arrival of God’s Holy Spirit 50 days after Jesus, the lamb of God, was slain.
Thoughts for the day
- What does this passage tell you about God or Jesus?
- What does this passage tell you about humanity?
- What do you feel God is telling you through this passage?
- How can you apply this message in an area of your life that needs transformation?
- Is there anyone you think should hear or will benefit from this message? Go and tell them.
Prayer
Ask God to help shape your prayers – countries you should pray for; situations which need God’s power and transformation; lift them up in confidence and faith. “Say among the nations, ‘The Lord reigns’” Psalm 96:10.
