PENTECOST

Pentecost is the fulfillment of Christ’s promise (1.8). Initially in Acts 2 the disciples hide away in a private room. By the chapter’s conclusion the church has flooded the streets with a new message. The arrival of the Spirit marked the birth of the church. The Spirit ignited the followers of Jesus with such power. Filled with a new purity and message they filled the marketplace with good news. The two questions of the crowd help understand the chapter. First, what does this mean? (v12) Second, what must we do? (v37). Peter’s message forms the church’s reply (v14-36). God sent his Spirit because long ago he promised he would. God had not forgotten what he had promised. He drives his point by finishing at the cross & the empty tomb. He magnifies and exalts the name of Jesus which humanity had despised. The church is filled with new believers as men and women respond with faith and repentance. Acts 2.42-47 is a concise picture of the purposes of a New Testament church — worship, instruction, fellowship, and evangelism. Their example continues to radiate across the centuries and to beckon churches today to take up the mission of Jesus.

Use these questions to read, reflect, and live out Acts 02 this week:

Acts 2v1-4
What happened when the Spirit came?

Acts 2v5-13
What sound filled the marketplace?

Acts 2v14-36
What is the main idea to Peter’s message?

Acts 2v37-41
How does the crowd respond to the message?

Acts 2v42-47
Is your experience with the Lord & his church daily?

The Small Groups will study Acts 01 beginning July 01. Are you interested in attending Roots in July? Yes? Click here.