Acts 2:43

A sense of awe came over everyone, and the apostles performed many wonders and signs.

Study Bible

A sense of awe
The Greek word used here is "φόβος" (phobos), which can be translated as fear, reverence, or awe. In this context, it signifies a profound respect and wonder that filled the hearts of the people. This awe was not merely an emotional reaction but a deep spiritual recognition of God's presence and power at work through the apostles. Historically, this sense of awe is reminiscent of the fear of the Lord described in the Old Testament, which is the beginning of wisdom (Proverbs 9:10). It reflects a community deeply aware of the divine and the miraculous, fostering a reverent atmosphere that is conducive to spiritual growth and transformation.

came over everyone
The phrase indicates a widespread impact, suggesting that this awe was not limited to a select few but was experienced by all who witnessed the events. The Greek word "ἐγίνετο" (egineto) implies an ongoing state, indicating that this sense of awe was a continuous experience among the early believers. This communal experience of awe underscores the unity and shared faith of the early church, as they collectively recognized the work of God in their midst. It also highlights the inclusive nature of the early Christian community, where the presence of God was accessible to all, regardless of status or background.

and the apostles
The apostles were the chosen messengers of Christ, endowed with authority and power to establish the early church. The Greek term "ἀπόστολοι" (apostoloi) means "sent ones," emphasizing their role as emissaries of the Gospel. Historically, the apostles were eyewitnesses to the life, death, and resurrection of Jesus, which gave them a unique authority and credibility in their ministry. Their leadership was crucial in the foundational period of the church, as they were tasked with teaching, guiding, and nurturing the fledgling Christian community.

performed many wonders and signs
The Greek words "τέρατα" (terata) and "σημεῖα" (semeia) are used here. "Wonders" refers to miraculous events that evoke amazement, while "signs" are miracles that point to a deeper spiritual truth or reality. These wonders and signs were not merely displays of power but served as divine attestations of the apostles' message and authority. They were a continuation of the miraculous works of Jesus, now carried out by His followers through the power of the Holy Spirit. In the historical context of the early church, these miracles were essential in validating the new faith and drawing people to the truth of the Gospel. They demonstrated that the same God who worked through Jesus was now working through His apostles, confirming the continuity and authenticity of the Christian message.

Persons / Places / Events

1. The Apostles
The primary leaders of the early church, chosen by Jesus, who were empowered by the Holy Spirit to perform miracles and teach the gospel.

2. Early Believers
The community of new Christians who were witnessing the apostles' works and experiencing the growth of the early church.

3. Jerusalem
The city where these events took place, significant as the center of Jewish worship and the location of the early church's beginnings.

4. Wonders and Signs
Miraculous acts performed by the apostles, serving as divine confirmation of their message and authority.

5. Sense of Awe
The reverential fear and amazement experienced by the people as they witnessed the apostles' works.

Teaching Points

The Power of the Holy Spirit
The apostles' ability to perform wonders and signs was a direct result of the Holy Spirit's empowerment. Believers today should seek the Spirit's guidance and power in their lives.

The Role of Miracles
Miracles served to authenticate the apostles' message. While we may not always witness miracles, we can trust in the truth of the gospel and the authority of Scripture.

Awe and Reverence
The sense of awe experienced by the early believers is a reminder of the importance of maintaining a reverent attitude towards God and His works.

Community Witness
The early church's witness was strengthened by the visible power of God. Our lives should reflect God's work in us, serving as a testimony to others.

Faith and Expectation
While we may not see the same signs today, we should live with an expectation of God's active presence and work in our lives and communities.

Bible Study Questions

1. How does the empowerment of the Holy Spirit in Acts 2:43 compare to the Spirit's work in believers today?

2. In what ways can we cultivate a sense of awe and reverence for God in our daily lives?

3. How do the signs and wonders performed by the apostles serve as a foundation for our faith in the gospel message?

4. What are some modern-day "wonders" or testimonies that can strengthen our witness to others?

5. How can we actively seek and recognize God's presence and work in our communities, even if it doesn't manifest as miraculous signs?

Connections to Other Scriptures

Acts 4:30
This verse also speaks of signs and wonders performed by the apostles, emphasizing the continued presence of God's power in their ministry.

Hebrews 2:4
Highlights how God testified to the apostles' message through signs, wonders, and various miracles, reinforcing the divine origin of their mission.

Mark 16:20
Describes how the Lord worked with the apostles, confirming their message with accompanying signs, similar to the events in Acts 2:43.

Exodus 7:3
Refers to God performing signs and wonders through Moses, drawing a parallel to how God uses miraculous acts to validate His messengers.