Week 5 Narrative – Day of Pentecost (March 21)
STUDY
Read Acts 2
A little bit of historical context to help us understand this passage a little better: Pentecost is a seven week celebration that started in Old Testament times. In the book of Deuteronomy (16:9-12) God makes it clear that this celebration is for everyone, both men and women, children, servants, foreigners, orphans and widows. Everyone is to be allowed and encouraged to celebrate regardless of race, gender or status.
Ironically, but not coincidentally, in Acts 2, all people were invited to share in God’s blessings through the miracle of all the believers being enabled to speak in different languages. This is then emphasized by Peter when he quotes the prophet Joel who speaks about God’s Spirit being poured out on all people—no one is to be left out.
What God started in Old Testament times is now finding fulfilment in Jesus. Everyone is invited!
IMMERSE
This passage shows us what the Church was like in the beginning. Read verses 42-47 again and consider the following questions:
- What was the original Church like?
- How was it different than our Church today?
- What can we learn from the example of this first Church? Is there anything we can improve or do better?
- Write down any challenges in your Prayer Journal. Ask God what He thinks.