Pentecost

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Genesis 11:1-9, Acts 2:1-13

Three questions about Pentecost.

1. What is Pentecost?

It's the reversal of the tower of Babel, that city connected with Babylon, representing mankind's rebellion against God. Here God is coming to live on earth in a new way (compare Exodus 40:34 with Acts 2:3). God establishing his dwelling among his people.

2. What does it mean?

Peter explains in Acts 2:14-41. We see the clear communication of the truths of the gospel of Jesus Christ in all language to all people, signaling universally available salvation. Jesus, the main character of Pentecost, is the Lord, and God is doing a new thing. He's building his home inside us.

3. What should we do?

Peter tells the crowds to do two things: repent and be baptized. This is how we receive and continue to enjoy the gift of salvation. Repentance is not a single event but an ongoing lifestyle. Baptism, immersion in water, is the sign of washing from sin and freedom from the slavery of sin. 

Questions for personal reflection or group discussion:
1. When you consider the fact that Pentecost signals the return of God's presence to once again dwell with his people and in his people, how does that impact you?
2. In what ways is God on the day of Pentecost fulfilling his Old Testament promises to carry out his grand plan of redemption?
3. In light of the fact that repentance is not a single event but instead an ongoing lifestyle, how might you need to repent today?