Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle Acts 2 reveals that Pentecost’s miracle was not just dramatic signs, but a unified church filled with the Spirit, empowered to witness, and gathered in passion and purpose. The true wonder was how each person heard the message in their own language—highlighting God’s desire that all understand His works and receive salvation. This passage challenges us to seek Spirit-led unity and to let God’s power work through ordinary lives.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2
Audio
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Scriptures used in this lesson:
Acts 2:1-3, Acts 2:5-12, Acts 2:7-8, 1 Corinthians 14:2, 1 Corinthians 14:6, 1 Corinthians 14:23, Acts 2:12-13, Acts 2:14-15, Acts 2:16021,
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Introduction and Intent
I want to recap a bit because of the quiz and to ensure we cover the material you’ll be quizzed on. As I prepared and prayed this morning, I felt strongly that we should not rush through this chapter, or any chapter. My original plan was to cover a chapter each week, but today I realized God wants us to slow down and really learn from this. The early church was the seed, the first church of the early days, and everything we enjoy today started there.
They were learning as they went, just like we are. I want us to take our time and let the Lord teach us, even if we don’t finish Acts 2 today. If we have to continue next time, that’s fine. I want this to really take root in us.
Passion and Purpose of the Church
Judy and I have been discussing this, and I also spoke with someone else this week. Last week, we discussed homothamadon, also known as passion. What is the passion of our church? We preach the gospel and the kingdom of God, but our church also has a deep passion for eschatology. We are eager to defend our views on end times and are not afraid to confront others about them.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
This past Sunday, Tom Dupree brought my generator back. As we watched a football game, Tom talked about passion. He told me he’d had that passion before, lost it, but now wanted it back. Tom reflected on our church and said that, though not many people were coming down to give their lives to Jesus, he’d never seen a church with as much knowledge as ours. He noticed we have a passion for eschatology and the kingdom, but said if we could channel that same passion into bringing people into a relationship with Jesus, it would be powerful.
The Value of Passion in Ministry
I realized he was right—our church has real passion, especially about what we know. But if we applied that energy toward drawing people to Christ, regardless of denominational background, it would be even greater. Simply attending church isn’t enough; the passion should be about forming a relationship with Jesus.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
We became passionate about the end times and the book of Revelation because we spent three years studying those topics. Now, as we go through Acts, if it takes three years but we develop a passion for helping people find a relationship with Jesus, it will be worth it. That would be truly wonderful.
The Setting: Pentecost and Early Unity
Acts 2:1-3
1 And when the day of Pentecost was fully come, they were all with one accord in one place.
2 And suddenly there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all the house where they were sitting.
3 And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Father, as we gather together tonight, we ask for passion. We don’t want passion just for end-time subjects. We want to share the same zeal for leading people into a relationship with God and Jesus. Lord, we ask for energy because we’ve worked all day and we’re tired. Open our ears. Help us hear what the Spirit wants to say to the church. Make us balanced believers and do something good in our lives as we study your Word.
Let me quickly recap what we talked about last week. We discussed how, in Acts chapter 2, Pentecost happened fifty days after Passover. Jesus rose from the dead on a Sunday, and Pentecost also fell on a Sunday. That’s when the church began meeting on Sundays, which we now refer to as the Christian Sabbath—although the Bible doesn’t actually use that term. We come together and worship on this day because that’s the pattern set in the early church.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
We also discussed how the believers were all together, united in one place and with one mind. The scripture uses the word “homothamadon.” It means they shared a single mind, a unified accord, and a shared passion. It’s not enough for us to agree on what we want to do. We have to share the same passion. That’s what I want for us—a church that’s not filled with stars or big names, but a team where everyone participates. When we work together in unity, each of us bringing our strength and passion, we become like the early church: one mind, one accord, one passion. That’s the kind of congregation God uses, and that’s what I pray we will become.
Significance of Gathering and Unity
They were all gathered together in one place, and we have already discussed the significance of that. What I want to highlight now is the suddenness that comes when the Holy Spirit draws you. This experience isn’t dramatic or loud, but it will consume your thoughts. You start waking up and going to bed thinking about God. During the day, you might catch yourself singing songs about the Lord. The Spirit comes upon you suddenly and fills you with a treasure from God.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Receiving the Spirit in Normal Circumstances
When Scripture says the Spirit filled the whole house where they were sitting, it means they received this gift while they were relaxed and comfortable. They weren’t seeking in an uncomfortable or pressured way. Religion often makes us think spiritual encounters should be forced or feel awkward. But for them, it was normal and easy. They were just sitting, talking, eating, and fellowshipping together when the Holy Spirit came upon them. I believe we need to return to that mindset and not make spiritual experiences feel strange or forced.
The Experience of the Holy Spirit
If people see spiritual gifts expressed in a way that seems weird or improper, they’ll be turned off. That’s why some argue against these gifts—they see only the odd behaviors. But the real experience was normal and inviting. Each person received “the tongue of the Spirit”—not just “tongues” but the Spirit’s ability to speak, to witness, and to prophesy as God promised. We need that today; we need the tongue of the Spirit. That ability will enable us to do what Jesus commanded: to go and be witnesses for Him.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
I think it’s better to talk about the “tongue of the Spirit” rather than just “tongues.” When I say I have the tongue of the Spirit, I mean I can speak with the Spirit and with the mind of the Spirit. Paul writes in 1 Corinthians 14:1 that when someone speaks in an unknown tongue, he isn’t speaking to anyone else—he’s talking to God. The critical point is that what filled the believers wasn’t just “tongues” but the tongue of the Spirit.
The Enemy’s Opposition to Spiritual Gifts
Now consider where the enemy focuses his attack. Out of salvation, tithing, or tongues, which does he fight hardest against? It might seem he would fight salvation or tithing most, but actually, the most significant attack is against tongues. The enemy knows there’s power in the tongue of the Spirit. There is prophecy in it. There is healing in it, and there is authority in it. If he can stop believers from praying in tongues, he can limit the church’s effectiveness. You might still go to heaven, but you won’t be empowered here.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
If you dedicate yourself to praying daily in the Spirit, the enemy will try to disrupt you. That’s why there’s so much discomfort around this gift. In church, people don’t feel awkward praying for healing or financial help. But when it comes to receiving and using the gift of tongues, people hold back. The enemy makes us believe we don’t want that. Salvation and tithing don’t face as much resistance. But when it comes to tongues and to praying in the Holy Spirit, you’ll find the enemy fights it more than anything else.
We can be filled with many things in life. You can be filled with wine or with food, but those things don’t force themselves on you. A drunk person chooses to pursue wine. When you are full from eating, it is because you chose to eat. It is the same way with the Holy Spirit. God does not force Himself on you.
Being Filled with the Spirit is a Choice, Not Forced
Being filled with the Spirit is something you have to desire and seek.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
There’s another principle at work here. In Acts chapter four, we learn that the believers were filled with the Spirit again. It’s not a one-time thing. Just as you need to eat regularly to stay strong, you need to be continually refilled with the Holy Spirit, because we use up that spiritual energy over time.
The Importance of Fellowship
Another critical point is the company you keep. In that early gathering of about 120 people, all were filled, but that only happened because they were together with the apostles. If those 109 other people hadn’t been there, they would have missed out. If you want to receive God’s blessings, you have to spend time with the right people—spiritual people who encourage and support your walk with God. It’s the same principle we apply when we think about the friends our children choose. God wants us to surround ourselves with people who bring blessings into our lives, not those who will hinder us.
If we want spiritual blessings, we need to be in the company of spiritual people. It’s really that simple.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
The Mechanics of Spiritual Gifts
The Bible says they began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. The order of this statement is essential. They were the ones who spoke, but it was the Spirit who gave the utterance. When the Holy Spirit fills us, we may start to hear different sounds, syllables, or even moanings in our spirit—things we can’t always understand.
We have control over whether or not we speak. If I feel pressed to share a word with someone, I still decide whether or not I actually say it. It’s just the same with speaking in tongues. The Holy Spirit will not override our free will or force us to speak. We can only say what the Spirit gives us, but we must choose to speak it out loud.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Human Action and Divine Utterance
The speaking comes from us, but the message or utterance comes from the Spirit. This is a key principle about how spiritual gifts work. We act in cooperation with the Spirit; He leads, but we respond. The Bible says that they began to speak with other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. The sequence matters. The people spoke, but it was the Spirit who gave them the actual words and sounds. When the Spirit is active in us, we might hear syllables or groanings that we don’t fully understand, but those come from Him.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
The Miracle of Hearing at Pentecost
Acts 2:5-12
5 And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under heaven.
6 Now when this was noised abroad, the multitude came together, and were confounded, because that every man heard them speak in his own language.
7 And they were all amazed and marvelled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?
8 And how hear we every man in our own tongue, wherein we were born?
9 Parthians, and Medes, and Elamites, and the dwellers in Mesopotamia, and in Judaea, and Cappadocia, in Pontus, and Asia,
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
10 Phrygia, and Pamphylia, in Egypt, and in the parts of Libya about Cyrene, and strangers of Rome, Jews and proselytes,
11 Cretes and Arabians, we do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.
12 And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?
In Acts 2:5, we read that Jews from every nation under heaven were dwelling at Jerusalem. The passage says devout men came from many different places for the feast. The Scripture records this as accurate, and in their understanding of the world, Jews really had come from every known nation. Of course, that would not include people like the Inuit (also known as Eskimos), the Aztecs, or Native Americans. But as far as the then-known world was concerned, Jews were present from across it.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
When the sound of the events spread, people gathered together. What sound was heard? It was the sound of men speaking in tongues. As the crowd came together, they were amazed because each person heard their own language being spoken. They marveled and said, Are not all these who speak Galileans? Yet, we hear them speaking in the language in which we were born. The account then lists about fifteen nations and languages present at Pentecost.
A Warning About New Interpretations
Before proceeding, a warning is in order. What follows is not a doctrine, and it may not be entirely correct. It could even be error. The thought may not be worth the paper or toner used to write it down. Still, there might be something essential to consider. So, while this is not presented as fact, it may give insight worth noticing. The goal is to point out something beginning to be seen, even if it proves uncertain. It’s about the miracle of what they heard.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Miracle Focused on Hearing, Not Speaking
The passage states that there were people from every nation in Jerusalem, and each one heard the message in their own language. It does not clearly say that the apostles were speaking in all those languages. What it says is that every man heard them in his own tongue. That detail is essential.
Example of the Miracle: Not Mass Confusion
Imagine three people from different nations, each speaking their own language. One hears in his language, another hears in hers, and another in his. The Scripture does not describe confusion where each disciple spoke a separate language to different groups. Instead, it says every man heard them speaking in his language. That means the miracle may be more about the hearing than the speaking.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
If this is the case, each person understood the words in their native tongue, even though there were many nations present. It was not chaos or noise, but a clear and personal understanding. Still, it is possible that all the apostles were speaking in different languages simultaneously, and the listeners picked out their own. However, the way it reads suggests another possibility: the Spirit enabled each one to hear in their own language.
This interpretation is not set in stone. It is simply a way of examining the text and considering how the miracle might have occurred. The focus seems less on mass confusion of many languages, and more on the clarity of each person hearing God’s message in their own native language.
What is being noticed here is that the miracle may not have been in the speaking, but in the hearing. Each person from a different nation heard the words in their own native language. One man heard in his tongue, another in his, and another in hers. They all asked the same question: how is it possible that each one hears in his own tongue? The apostles were Galileans, and yet everyone heard them in their own language.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
It is possible that the standard teaching is correct, and the apostles were speaking in many different languages simultaneously. Each person could then have picked out the one that was familiar to them. That could be the case. But the text seems to emphasize the hearing more than the speaking.
The Biblical Emphasis on Hearing
Looking closely at Acts 2:7–8, the crowd said, “Are not all these which speak Galileans? And how hear we every man in our own tongue wherein we were born?” They did not ask, “How are they speaking our tongue?” Instead, they asked, “How do we hear them?” That detail suggests the miracle may have been in their ability to hear the message in their own languages. This shift in wording indicates that the focus was on what the listeners experienced, rather than on what the apostles themselves were doing.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
(NIV) Acts 2:7-8
7 Utterly amazed, they asked: “Are not all these men who are speaking Galileans?
8 Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language?
(NLT) Acts 2:7-8
7 Utterly amazed, they asked: “Are not all these men who are speaking Galileans?
8 Then how is it that each of us hears them in his own native language?
New American Standard Update
7-8 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 Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
The passage does not suggest that the crowd was hearing fifteen different languages being spoken simultaneously. Instead, it says that each person heard the apostles in the person’s own native language. Verse 11 makes it clear when they said, “We do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.” The focus is on hearing in their own language, not on the apostles speaking those foreign tongues.
It is possible that the apostles spoke in various languages, but the text does not directly state this. That creates a problem because nowhere else in the Bible does a similar event occur. In fact, Paul later teaches that when someone speaks in tongues, no one truly understands without interpretation. This suggests that the miracle at Pentecost was unique in its aspect of hearing rather than an everyday occurrence of speaking established foreign languages.
There are stories told of missionaries who suddenly spoke in the local language by the Spirit’s leading. That may have happened and is not being denied, but the Bible itself never presents that as a teaching or promise. Scripture never says that God gives people the ability to speak unlearned foreign languages so they can preach in another nation.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
The reason this point matters is that some groups, such as those opposing tongues, argue that Pentecost was about equipping the apostles to spread the gospel quickly through different languages. But the text does not say that. That idea seems to come from human interpretation. The real miracle emphasized in Acts 2 was not about the apostles speaking foreign languages. It was about people hearing and marveling that each one understood the message in their own tongue.
The Nature and Purpose of Speaking in Tongues
1 Corinthians 14:2
2 For he that speaketh in an unknown tongue speaketh not unto men, but unto God: for no man understandeth him; howbeit in the spirit he speaketh mysteries.
In 1 Corinthians 14:2, Paul says that the one who speaks in an unknown tongue does not speak to men but to God. No man understands him, because by the Spirit he speaks mysteries. This verse makes it clear that others do not naturally understand tongues. They are not given as a direct human language for communication.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Interpretation Versus Translation in the Church
The difference between interpretation and translation is also significant. Translation is word-for-word, while interpretation conveys meaning. Paul shows that tongues are not about translating into another language, but require the gift of interpretation for the message to be understood within the church. Without that, no one knows what is being said.
Paul himself rejoices in this gift. Speaking in tongues is a form of communication with God, not with people. Even the one speaking often does not know the exact meaning of the words. The blessing is that it is prayer and worship directed solely to God. After this, Paul goes on to provide instructions on the proper use of tongues during church gatherings.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Tongues and Edification in Church
(NIV) 1 Corinthians 14:6
6 Now, brothers, if I come to you and speak in tongues, what good will I be to you, unless I bring you some revelation or knowledge or prophecy or word of instruction?
In 1 Corinthians 14:6, Paul explains that speaking in tongues during a congregational meeting without interpretation brings no benefit to the listeners. He says it is only helpful if it gives revelation, knowledge, prophecy, or instruction. The point is that a message in tongues alone does not edify the church because no one understands what is being said.
Paul gives a practical example. Imagine someone standing in the pulpit on Sunday and preaching an entire sermon in tongues. The congregation would gain nothing because there is no clear teaching, exhortation, or encouragement. Without understanding, the message does not build up the body of Christ.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
This makes it clear that tongues were never intended to replace clear preaching in the common language. Instead, the gift must be accompanied by revelation or interpretation; otherwise, it does not serve the church. For that reason, the idea of tongues as normal foreign languages being used for preaching does not match Paul’s teaching. The emphasis is always on spiritual edification, not confusion.
Tongues and Unbelief
1 Corinthians 14:23
23 If therefore the whole church be come together into one place, and all speak with tongues, and there come in those that are unlearned, or unbelievers, will they not say that ye are mad?
Paul teaches in 1 Corinthians 14:23 that if the whole church gathers and everyone speaks in tongues, any visitors or unbelievers will think they are crazy. This reaction would not have happened if those visitors had understood what was being said. If God allowed them to hear the message miraculously, they would not think that way. This teaching demonstrates that the Bible does not support the notion that the apostles preached to a crowd in many different languages on Pentecost. In fact, Scripture presents a different story.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
It is possible that everyone spoke many languages, but there is no clear biblical record of that ever happening. It is essential to understand that a primary use of tongues is to communicate with God, not with man. Tongues build up the believer’s faith and are meant for prayer, worship, and communication with God. When praying in tongues, the Holy Spirit helps the speaker pray according to God’s will, even when they do not fully understand the words.
Tongues are not for preaching to other nations in their languages. God can perform miracles where someone might hear in their own language, but this is never established as a regular pattern in the Bible. There is no biblical or historical record of apostles using unlearned languages to preach to foreign people. The gift is described as a means of prayer and spiritual edification, not a tool for cross-cultural evangelism through spoken languages.
Pentecost Was Not About Preaching in Unknown Languages
When Peter went to Cornelius’ house in Acts chapter 10, something significant happened. Cornelius and his household were Gentiles. As Peter preached, the Holy Spirit fell on them and they began to speak in tongues. The Jews who were with Peter recognized this as the same experience they had received at Pentecost themselves. They said, “How can we forbid water for baptism? They received the Holy Ghost just as we did.” There is no mention in the passage about anyone speaking in foreign languages. The point was simply that they experienced the same gift.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
This addresses a common argument from critics who claim that tongues were given so the apostles could preach in other countries using foreign languages. Many people have believed and taught this idea. However, the actual Bible passages do not support this claim.
For example, a quote from Barnes suggests that both the ability to speak the language and to understand it were given. However, the Bible does not say anything about understanding a foreign language supernaturally through the gift of tongues. That view goes beyond what Scripture actually teaches. The real focus in these stories is on receiving the Holy Spirit, not acquiring new human languages for evangelism.
Responses to Pentecost: Three Groups
Acts 2:12-13
12 And they were all amazed, and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this?
13 Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
In Acts 2:12, the crowd reacts to the events at Pentecost in three ways. One group is speaking in tongues by the power of the Spirit. Another is questioning what it means. The last group mocks, saying the speakers are drunk. Each person at Pentecost fits into one of these three categories.
The ones who questioned asked, “What does this mean?” They wanted to understand the purpose and meaning of the tongues. That is an honest and vital question. Their curiosity may have led them to believe later on and become part of the 3,000 added to the church at the end of the chapter. They received the Spirit, understood God’s message, and found salvation.
The mockers dismissed the event, saying the speakers were full of new wine. They missed the opportunity to receive the gift of the Holy Spirit. Their attitude put them dangerously close to blaspheming against the Holy Ghost, which Scripture warns is a serious offense. History shows that many in Judea who rejected the message were destroyed during the fall of Jerusalem in AD 70. The division at Pentecost illustrates how people respond differently to God’s work—some receive it, some inquire about it, and some reject it. Those who mock risk missing the blessing and the warning spoken by Jesus.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Don’t Mock God’s Works
The main point is not to mock God’s works, even when they seem strange or hard to understand. Sometimes spiritual things may appear confusing or even foolish, yet it is wise not to ridicule them. Instead, it is better to admit that you don’t understand and ask the Lord for guidance.
If something is being preached and it is difficult to grasp, avoid dismissing or mocking it. If the truth is in Scripture and the preacher’s message seems genuine, seek someone who can explain it. Curiosity and humility are often more effective than criticism.
Always refrain from mocking what is unfamiliar, especially regarding the things of God. Even when something appears outrageous or incomprehensible, show respect, seek understanding, and refrain from making fun of it.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Peter’s Explanation to Jerusalem
Acts 2:14-15
14 But Peter, standing up with the eleven, lifted up his voice, and said unto them, Ye men of Judaea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be this known unto you, and hearken to my words:
15 For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day.
Acts 2:14 describes Peter standing up with the other eleven apostles. Many imagine the scene as chaotic, with people staggering in the streets as if they were drunk. However, the Bible does not say that. Instead, it shows Peter rising and speaking to the crowd. The apostles were likely sitting and speaking in tongues calmly, enjoying the experience with comfort and simplicity. This event has often been made more dramatic or misunderstood by tradition.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Peter then lifts his voice, not speaking in tongues, but in his own language. He clearly addresses the men of Judea and those living in Jerusalem. Peter points out that it is only the third hour of the day, which was too early for anyone to be drunk. He does not say they abstain from alcohol, just that the timing makes drunkenness unlikely.
Notably, Peter chooses to speak first to the men of Judea and Jerusalem, despite the presence of Jews from fifteen nations. He singles out one specific group, asking them to listen to his words. Peter’s sermon begins with a focus on Jerusalem and Judea, and later he addresses all the men of Israel. This structure reveals a deliberate and orderly approach, not the confusion sometimes imagined.
In this part of Acts 2, Peter makes a strong point by explicitly addressing the men of Judea and Jerusalem. He tells them to pay close attention to his words. This direct approach highlights why their learning and experiences were necessary for what was about to happen. Peter points out this group and urges them to listen carefully.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Peter’s Sermon Focus and Its Outcome
Throughout his sermon, which was lengthy and detailed, one thing stands out. Not once does Peter mention the blood of Jesus washing away sins. He does not discuss eternal security or the afterlife after death. These topics, often emphasized today, are absent from this foundational message.
The heart of Peter’s message is simple: Jesus Christ is both Lord and Messiah. Despite the lack of traditional points about sin and heaven, his proclamation leads to a powerful result. Three thousand people respond and are saved. The focus is on the identity and authority of Jesus, and the response to the message brings transformation.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Fulfillment of Joel’s Prophecy
Acts 2:16-21
16 But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel;
17 And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh: and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions, and your old men shall dream dreams:
18 And on my servants and on my handmaidens I will pour out in those days of my Spirit; and they shall prophesy:
19 And I will shew wonders in heaven above, and signs in the earth beneath; blood, and fire, and vapour of smoke:
20 The sun shall be turned into darkness, and the moon into blood, before the great and notable day of the Lord come:
21 And it shall come to pass, that whosoever shall call on the name of the Lord shall be saved.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Peter stands and addresses the men of Judea and all those living in Jerusalem. He urges them to listen closely to his words. He tells them, “This is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel.” The crowd had asked, “What does this mean?” Peter answers by pointing to Scripture.
He explains that what they are witnessing is the fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy. God promised to pour out His Spirit on all people in the last days. Sons and daughters would prophesy, young men would see visions, and older men would dream dreams. Servants of God would also receive the Spirit and prophesy. There would be wonders in the heavens and signs on the earth—blood, fire, smoke, darkness, and signs in the sky—before the coming of the great day of the Lord.
Salvation: Immediate and Present
Peter emphasizes that whoever calls on the name of the Lord will be saved. But this salvation is not just about going to heaven after death. Peter is warning them about the judgment and destruction that would soon come – before the passing of that generation. Salvation means deliverance from the dangers and disasters happening in their own time. It is practical and immediate, offering protection from harm, not only a future hope. Peter wants his listeners to understand that they need salvation now to survive what lies ahead.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
The Start of the “Last Days”
Peter explains that the events at Pentecost are happening in the “last days.” He says, “It shall come to pass in the last days, said God, I will pour out my spirit.” This is the day when God begins to send His Spirit upon people. Peter’s message means that the fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy has arrived, and everyone is now entering the last days.
Peter is not talking about something thousands of years in the future. He is describing a time that is starting at that very moment. He says when the Holy Ghost comes, it marks the beginning of the end for those listening. Significant changes and judgment are near.
The crowd asks, “What does this mean?” Peter answers, “This is that”—the fulfillment of prophecy. He specifically singles out the Jews of Jerusalem and Judea. This is important because these people needed to understand the urgency of their situation. If Joel’s prophecy is being fulfilled, then Jerusalem is about to face trouble. The signs—blood, fire, darkness, and disaster—are warnings for those present.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
If Peter is correct, Jerusalem and Judea are soon to experience judgment and hardship. His warning urges them to take the message seriously and prepare for what is coming. The last days had begun, and those present needed to be ready for difficult times.
Urgency of Peter’s Warning
If Peter were wrong about the events at Pentecost being the fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy, then his teaching and much of the Bible would be questionable. If this were not the moment that Joel spoke of, it would cast doubt on the rest of Scripture. But Peter was not wrong. He spoke with conviction and urged his listeners to save themselves from their corrupt generation. This was the same generation that Jesus said would not pass before the great tribulation came.
Luke’s account tells us that Peter used many words to encourage the crowd. He exhorted them to escape from the wicked and perverse society around them. Peter’s warning was connected to what Jesus had taught—that troubling times and tribulation would come before their generation passed away.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
History shows Peter was correct. Before that generation ended, Titus led the Roman armies in the destruction of Jerusalem and the temple. All of Judea faced terrible tribulation. About one million Jews died, and thousands more were taken captive. Those who listened to Peter’s message and followed Jesus’ instructions escaped; not a single Christian died in the siege, because they left when Jerusalem was surrounded. Those who ignored the warning were destroyed with their families and descendants. Peter’s message was a real, urgent call to salvation and survival.
Historical Fulfillment: The Destruction of Jerusalem
Matthew Henry considers the destruction of Jerusalem, which happened about forty years after Christ’s death, to be the great and notable day of the Lord. This event marked the end of the Mosaic law, the Levitical priesthood, and all the ceremonial laws. The devastation was greater than that experienced by any other place or nation. It was called the day of the Lord because it was God’s judgment on the people for crucifying Jesus.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2: How to View Pentecost’s Miracle
Peter also made it clear in his sermon that the Jews had not just opposed Jesus—they crucified and killed Him. This was the worst act humanity ever committed, and God did not overlook it. In His foreknowledge, God had planned for this, but He also brought judgment in response.
Closing Blessing and Encouragement
Thank you for coming and studying with us. I pray a blessing over you all. The LORD bless you and keep you. The LORD make his face shine upon you and be gracious to you, and the LORD turn his face toward you and give you peace.
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2 Audio
Acts Chapter 2 Part 2 Audio
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Blessing High Praise Fine Discourse
Pentecost the Hope of the World
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