Acts 2:19

I will show wonders in the heavens above and signs on the earth below, blood and fire and billows of smoke.

Study Bible

I will show
The phrase "I will show" indicates a divine initiative and purpose. The Greek verb used here, "δείξω" (deixō), implies a deliberate act of revealing or making visible. This is not a passive occurrence but an active demonstration by God. In the context of Acts, this reflects God's sovereign power and His intention to reveal His glory and authority through miraculous events. Historically, this aligns with the biblical narrative where God often uses signs and wonders to communicate with His people and affirm His covenant promises.

wonders in the heavens above
The term "wonders" comes from the Greek "τέρατα" (terata), which refers to extraordinary events that inspire awe and signify divine intervention. The "heavens above" points to the sky or celestial realm, often associated with God's majesty and the supernatural. Throughout Scripture, the heavens are depicted as a canvas for God's glory (Psalm 19:1). In a historical context, celestial phenomena were often seen as omens or messages from the divine, underscoring the significance of these wonders as signs of God's active presence and the unfolding of His redemptive plan.

and signs on the earth below
"Signs" translates from the Greek "σημεῖα" (sēmeia), which are indicators or markers pointing to a deeper reality or truth. These are not just miraculous events but carry a message or revelation from God. The "earth below" contrasts with the "heavens above," emphasizing that God's signs are comprehensive, affecting both the spiritual and physical realms. Biblically, signs on earth often accompany pivotal moments in salvation history, such as the plagues in Egypt or the miracles of Jesus, serving as evidence of God's intervention and authority.

blood and fire and clouds of smoke
This vivid imagery evokes scenes of judgment and divine presence. "Blood" can symbolize life, sacrifice, or judgment, often associated with covenantal themes and the seriousness of sin. "Fire" is frequently a symbol of God's holiness and purifying presence, as seen in the burning bush (Exodus 3) or the tongues of fire at Pentecost (Acts 2:3). "Clouds of smoke" suggest the awe-inspiring and sometimes terrifying presence of God, reminiscent of Mount Sinai (Exodus 19:18). Together, these elements convey a powerful message of God's imminent action in history, calling for repentance and faith in His redemptive work through Christ. This aligns with the eschatological themes in Acts, where the early church anticipated the fulfillment of God's promises and the establishment of His kingdom.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Day of Pentecost
This event marks the outpouring of the Holy Spirit on the apostles, enabling them to speak in various tongues and proclaim the gospel with power.

2. Peter
The apostle who delivers the sermon in Acts 2, quoting the prophet Joel to explain the miraculous events occurring at Pentecost.

3. Jerusalem
The city where the events of Acts 2 take place, during a time when Jews from various nations were gathered for the Feast of Weeks.

4. Joel
An Old Testament prophet whose prophecy Peter cites to explain the signs and wonders accompanying the Holy Spirit's arrival.

5. The Holy Spirit
The third person of the Trinity, whose coming fulfills Jesus' promise and empowers the apostles for ministry.

Teaching Points

Understanding Prophecy
Acts 2:19 reminds us of the importance of understanding biblical prophecy. It encourages believers to study the Scriptures to discern God's plans and purposes.

God's Sovereignty
The wonders and signs described highlight God's control over creation and history. Believers can trust in His sovereign plan, even amidst chaos.

The Urgency of the Gospel
The signs in Acts 2:19 serve as a reminder of the urgency to share the gospel. They point to the reality of God's coming judgment and the need for repentance.

Empowerment by the Holy Spirit
Just as the apostles were empowered at Pentecost, believers today are called to rely on the Holy Spirit for boldness and effectiveness in ministry.

Hope in Christ's Return
The cosmic signs point to the return of Christ. Believers are encouraged to live with hope and anticipation, preparing for His second coming.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the context of Pentecost enhance our understanding of the signs and wonders mentioned in Acts 2:19?

2. In what ways do the signs described in Acts 2:19 connect to the prophecies of Joel and the teachings of Jesus about the end times?

3. How can we discern the fulfillment of biblical prophecy in our current world events, and what role does the Holy Spirit play in this discernment?

4. What practical steps can we take to ensure we are living with the urgency and hope that the signs in Acts 2:19 inspire?

5. How does understanding God's sovereignty over the signs and wonders in Acts 2:19 impact our faith and trust in His plans for our lives?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Joel 2:28-32
Peter quotes this passage to explain the events of Pentecost, emphasizing the fulfillment of prophecy regarding the outpouring of the Spirit and the accompanying signs.

Matthew 24:29-30
Jesus speaks of cosmic signs that will precede His return, similar to the wonders described in Acts 2:19, indicating a connection between the end times and the events at Pentecost.

Revelation 6:12-14
This passage describes apocalyptic signs, including blood, fire, and smoke, which echo the imagery in Acts 2:19, pointing to God's ultimate plan for judgment and redemption.