Pentecost Fixed What Babel Broke
The Day of Pentecost had a lot going on; it probably had more going on than you even realized. This is one of the most significant stories in the Bible; it’s the birth of the church, recorded in Acts 2. And it says this in
verses 1-4 of that chapter
When the Day of Pentecost had 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 the whole house where they were sitting. 3 Then there appeared to them divided tongues, as of fire, and one sat upon each of them. 4 And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance.
So we see a lot of unique, strange things happening in these verses. There was wind. It said divided tongues as of fire came to rest on each of them. We’ll try to figure out what that means today.
And then it said that they began speaking in other tongues by the power of the Holy Spirit. Tongues means languages. They suddenly started speaking other languages that they didn’t even know. And this was a sign that the Holy Spirit had come upon them.
So a lot of this are so familiar with this story that we kind of acknowledge it and move on. But wait just a minute. There are many times that the Holy Spirit comes upon someone throughout the Bible and they become capable of amazing and even supernatural things. Samson with his strength. David with his musical gifting. Bezalel as he built the tabernacle. The prophets with their prophesying.
And then you get to the New Testament birth of the church and the sign of the Holy Spirit is tongues; that they start speaking in other languages. Now, isn’t that a little random and weird?
I mean, I find it a little weird. I’m one of those Pentecostals. I’m one of those crazy charismatics. And I think it’s weird.
And I’d like to explore why it’s in the Bible.
Turn to Acts 2, and let’s get weird.
If you want to get in touch, my email is weirdstuffinthebible@gmail.com
Hosted by Luke Taylor
