Acts 2:11

both Jews and converts to Judaism; Cretans and Arabs--we hear them declaring the wonders of God in our own tongues!"

Study Bible

both Jews and converts to Judaism
This phrase highlights the inclusivity of the early Christian message. The Greek word for "converts" is "προσήλυτοι" (prosēlytoi), referring to Gentiles who had embraced Judaism. This indicates the diverse audience present at Pentecost, emphasizing that the Gospel transcends ethnic and religious boundaries. Historically, Judaism was unique in its openness to converts, and this openness is mirrored in the early Christian church's mission to all nations.

Cretans and Arabs
The mention of "Cretans" and "Arabs" underscores the geographical and cultural diversity of those present. Crete, an island in the Mediterranean, and the Arabian Peninsula represent the far-reaching impact of the Jewish diaspora. This diversity is significant as it demonstrates the universal nature of the Gospel message. The inclusion of these groups signifies the fulfillment of God's promise to Abraham that all nations would be blessed through his seed (Genesis 12:3).

we hear them declaring
The verb "hear" (ἀκούομεν, akouomen) is crucial, as it indicates the miraculous nature of the event. The Holy Spirit enabled the apostles to speak in various languages, allowing each person to hear the message in their native tongue. This miracle of hearing signifies the breaking down of language barriers, symbolizing the unity and universality of the Christian message.

the wonders of God
The phrase "wonders of God" (τὰ μεγαλεῖα τοῦ θεοῦ, ta megaleia tou theou) refers to the mighty works and acts of God, particularly in the context of salvation history. This includes the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The declaration of God's wonders is central to the apostolic preaching, as it points to the fulfillment of Old Testament prophecies and the inauguration of the new covenant through Christ.

in our own tongues
The phrase "in our own tongues" (ταῖς ἡμετέραις γλώσσαις, tais hēmeterais glōssais) emphasizes the personal and intimate nature of the Gospel message. The use of "tongues" signifies the reversal of the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9), where God confused human language. At Pentecost, the Holy Spirit unites what was once divided, symbolizing the restoration and reconciliation brought about through Christ. This event foreshadows the global mission of the church to proclaim the Gospel to all nations, affirming the inclusivity and accessibility of God's salvation.

Persons / Places / Events

1. Jews and Converts to Judaism
These are the primary audience of the Pentecost event, representing the Jewish people and those who have embraced Judaism from other ethnic backgrounds.

2. Cretans
People from the island of Crete, located in the Mediterranean Sea. They were part of the diverse crowd present at Pentecost.

3. Arabs
Refers to people from the Arabian Peninsula, highlighting the wide geographical reach of those present.

4. Pentecost
A Jewish festival occurring fifty days after Passover, during which the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles, enabling them to speak in various languages.

5. The Wonders of God
The miraculous works and mighty deeds of God, which the apostles were declaring in different languages, signifying the universal reach of the Gospel.

Teaching Points

The Universality of the Gospel
The Gospel is for all people, regardless of ethnic or cultural background. The event at Pentecost demonstrates God's desire for all nations to hear and understand His message.

The Power of the Holy Spirit
The Holy Spirit empowers believers to communicate the Gospel effectively. Just as the apostles were enabled to speak in different tongues, believers today are equipped by the Spirit to share their faith.

Unity in Diversity
The diverse crowd at Pentecost hearing the same message in their own languages illustrates the unity that the Gospel brings among diverse peoples. Believers are called to embrace and celebrate diversity within the body of Christ.

The Importance of Witnessing
The declaration of God's wonders in various languages emphasizes the importance of witnessing. Believers are called to declare God's mighty works to those around them.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the event of Pentecost demonstrate the fulfillment of Jesus' promise in Acts 1:8 about receiving power to be His witnesses?

2. In what ways can the church today reflect the unity and diversity seen at Pentecost?

3. How can believers rely on the Holy Spirit to overcome barriers in sharing the Gospel with people from different cultural backgrounds?

4. What are some "wonders of God" that you can declare to others in your own context?

5. How does understanding the universality of the Gospel impact your approach to evangelism and missions?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Genesis 11:1-9
The event of Pentecost contrasts with the Tower of Babel, where God confused human languages. At Pentecost, God unites people through the understanding of diverse languages.

Joel 2:28-32
Peter later quotes this prophecy, which speaks of God pouring out His Spirit on all people, indicating the fulfillment of this prophecy at Pentecost.

Matthew 28:19-20
The Great Commission, where Jesus commands His disciples to make disciples of all nations, is being realized as the Gospel is proclaimed to diverse peoples.