May 25, 2020
Acts 2:1-11 … “And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting.” vs. 2
The disciples had sensed that there was more coming after Jesus’ death and resurrection, but they didn’t know what it might be. Some were likely still looking for an overthrow of the oppressive occupation, but they had no clear direction; so they waited in Jerusalem and continued to worship as in the past. And then there was an outpouring of the Spirit similar to that spoken of the prophets. It came upon them all without discrimination. Luke describes it in terms reminiscent of the opening verses of Genesis: a wind from God whose sound filled the room, and that’s what this was—it was a new creation, a baptism of the Spirit of God with purifying fire. And with the Spirit came a gift whose purpose was unmistakable! They began to speak in other languages, describing God’s deeds of power for all who were gathered there. This was no ecstatic language helpful only for themselves, this was the ability to bring the message of the Gospel to people of every folk and nation. Unfortunately, the gift didn’t last. It seems to have been effective only for one occasion, but it was enough to give them a missional purpose. The good news of Jesus was for all and it was the disciples’ job to get it there, and that’s been the mission of the Church ever since, and it’s still our mission today.
Thought for the Day: When will evangelism no longer be necessary?
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