224 – Coming of the Holy Spirit
Acts 1:1-2:42
On the Day of Pentecost, the believers were praying in the upper room. Suddenly they heard a loud noise. It sounded like a violent storm coming out of heaven. The sound filled the room, and they saw what looked like fire. Suddenly it separated and settled on each believer. Instantly, they were filled with the Holy Spirit and started to speak in foreign languages.
People from the city heard about this. Among them were Jews from many countries who spoke different languages. They went to see what was happening. When they got there, they heard the apostles speaking in various languages, including those of everyone in the crowd.
Some of the people said, “This is impossible! These men can’t speak our language. They’re from Galilee. Yet we’re hearing them in our own tongue.”
Others said, “Oh, they’re just drunk.”
Peter stood up in front of them and said, “These men aren’t drunk. This is what the prophets of old talked about when they said God would pour out his Spirit upon common people.”
“You saw the miracles of Jesus. Still, you crucified him—nailed him to a cross and put him in the grave. But we’re witnesses that God raised him from the dead! He’s alive. He sits at the right hand of the Father. Now he has sent us his Holy Spirit. This is what you’re seeing.
“Understand what I’m saying. You crucified Jesus, but God highly exalted him and made him Lord and Messiah!”
The people said, “What you’re saying is true, but what can we do?”
Peter said, “Repent, and we’ll baptize you in the name of Jesus. Once you’ve received forgiveness of your sins, God will fill you with the Holy Spirit.”
That day, the apostles baptized those who received the message. The number of believers grew to over 3,000 people. They met together often so they could learn from each other and from the apostles.
The apostles did many miracles and wonders, and the number of believers grew day by day. These believers dedicated themselves to prayer, sharing meals together, and spending time with each other.
