Acts 2:5

Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem God-fearing Jews from every nation under heaven.

Study Bible

Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem
This phrase sets the geographical and cultural context for the events of Pentecost. Jerusalem, the heart of Jewish religious life, was a city of profound significance. The Greek word for "dwelling" (κατοικοῦντες, katoikountes) implies a settled residence, indicating that these individuals were not mere visitors but had established their lives in Jerusalem. Historically, Jerusalem was a melting pot of Jewish culture and religious fervor, especially during the feasts when Jews from various regions would gather. This setting underscores the divine orchestration of events, as God chose a time and place where His message could reach a diverse audience.

Jews
The term "Jews" (Ἰουδαῖοι, Ioudaioi) refers to the descendants of Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob, who were the recipients of God's covenant promises. In the context of Acts 2, these Jews were devout individuals who adhered to the Law of Moses and the traditions of their ancestors. Their presence in Jerusalem during Pentecost, a major Jewish festival, highlights their commitment to their faith. This moment marks a pivotal transition in God's redemptive plan, as the message of the Gospel begins to extend beyond the Jewish people to all nations.

devout men
The phrase "devout men" (εὐλαβεῖς, eulabeis) describes individuals who were deeply reverent and pious, committed to the worship and service of God. This term suggests a level of spiritual maturity and sincerity in their faith. These men were not merely religious by tradition but were genuinely seeking to honor God in their lives. Their devout nature made them receptive to the extraordinary events of Pentecost and the message of the apostles, setting the stage for the spread of the Gospel.

from every nation under heaven
This phrase emphasizes the diverse and international composition of the Jewish population in Jerusalem at the time. The Greek word for "nation" (ἔθνος, ethnos) can also be translated as "people" or "ethnic group," indicating a wide array of cultural and linguistic backgrounds. The hyperbolic expression "under heaven" underscores the universality of the gathering, symbolizing the global reach of God's redemptive plan. This diversity foreshadows the inclusive nature of the Gospel, which transcends ethnic and cultural boundaries, fulfilling the promise that all nations would be blessed through Abraham's seed.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jerusalem
The central city of Jewish worship and the location of the Temple. It is significant as the place where the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles during Pentecost.

2. God-fearing Jews
These were devout Jews who adhered to the Jewish faith and traditions. They were in Jerusalem for the Feast of Pentecost, a major Jewish festival.

3. Every nation under heaven
This phrase indicates the diverse origins of the Jews present in Jerusalem. It emphasizes the widespread dispersion of Jews across the known world and sets the stage for the universal message of the Gospel.

Teaching Points

Unity in Diversity
The gathering of Jews from every nation highlights the inclusivity of the Gospel. The church is called to embrace diversity and unity in Christ.

Divine Timing
The event occurs during Pentecost, a time when Jews from various regions were present, demonstrating God's perfect timing in spreading the Gospel.

Prepared Hearts
The term "God-fearing" suggests that these Jews were open to God's work. Believers should cultivate a reverent and open heart to receive God's message.

Global Mission
The presence of Jews from every nation foreshadows the global mission of the church. Believers are called to share the Gospel across cultural and national boundaries.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the presence of "God-fearing Jews from every nation" in Jerusalem during Pentecost reflect God's plan for the spread of the Gospel?

2. In what ways can the church today embrace and celebrate diversity within its community, following the example of Acts 2:5?

3. How does the event of Pentecost in Acts 2 relate to the Great Commission given by Jesus in Matthew 28:19?

4. What can we learn from the timing of the Holy Spirit's arrival during a major Jewish festival, and how does this apply to recognizing God's timing in our lives?

5. How can we prepare our hearts to be "God-fearing" and open to the work of the Holy Spirit in our daily lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 11:1-9
The account of the Tower of Babel contrasts with Acts 2, where language barriers are supernaturally overcome, symbolizing unity in the Spirit.

Isaiah 2:2-3
This prophecy speaks of all nations coming to Jerusalem to learn God's ways, which is echoed in the gathering of diverse Jews in Acts 2.

Matthew 28:19
The Great Commission to make disciples of all nations is foreshadowed by the presence of Jews from every nation in Acts 2.