“And suddenly from heaven there came a sound like the rush of a violent wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared among them, and a tongue rested on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages, as the Spirit gave them ability.”
Acts 2:1-13
1. What is Pentecost?
Pentecost is a significant event in our history that marks the moment when the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles. It is often considered the "birthday" of the Christian Church. This event is described in the Book of Acts, Chapter 2, and it occurred fifty days after Easter Sunday, which commemorates the resurrection of Jesus Christ.
2. Okay, but what is it really about?
During Pentecost, the apostles and other followers of Jesus were gathered in a room in Jerusalem. Suddenly, they heard a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and flames like "tongues of fire" appeared and rested on each of them. Filled with the Holy Spirit, they began to speak in various languages, enabling them to communicate with people from different regions and cultures who were in Jerusalem for the Jewish festival of Shavuot.
"And at this sound the crowd gathered and was bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in the native language of each."
3. Why is this a big deal?
It's seen as the birth of the Christian church: Pentecost is seen as the beginning of the apostles' public ministry and the rapid spread of Christianity. Empowered by the Holy Spirit, the apostles were able to preach boldly and perform miracles, leading to the conversion and baptism of about three thousand people that very day. This marks the foundation of the early Christian community and the start of its mission to spread the teachings of Jesus.
This story shows the significance of the Holy Spirit. The descent of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost transformed the apostles from fearful and uncertain followers into courageous leaders. This event underscores the Holy Spirit’s role in empowering us to live out our faith and fulfill God’s purposes.
At a time when diversity and inclusion were not seen as cultural values, this event broke down literal language barriers, transcending culture and geography; God made it clear that the message for Jesus is for all people.
4. What does "divided tongues, as of fire, appeared on them, and a tongue rested on each of them"?
This scene, like many described in the Bible, uses metaphor and simile to explain ineffable experiences and concepts. In fact, Luke (the author of Acts), uses the phrase "as of fire" purposefully to highlight that what he is describing is like fire but not necessairy literal flames. The latter part of the scripture is emphasizing the individual nature of this experience for each person present. The gift of the Holy Spirit was given equally to all the apostles and followers, not just a select few. It underscores the idea that every believer has a role in the mission of the Church.
5. So is this where that whole "speaking in tongues" thing comes from? If so, why don't Presbyterians typically speak in tongues?
Yes, that's where that came from. According to the PCUSA Constitution, there are small differences among parts of the church on this subject. Presbyterians tend to emphasize orderly worship and clear understanding. According to 1 Corinthians 14:27-28, if anyone speaks in a tongue, there should be interpretation so the congregation can understand and be edified.
Here's an interesting perspective from our Church's constitution:
When there is no real consensus in the church, differences among the confessions should ordinarily be allowed to stand until such time as a genuine consensus is possible and necessary. Even if a bare majority were able to defeat a very large minority in voting for one option in preference to another, it would ordinarily be premature and dishonest for the church to claim, “This is what we Presbyterians believe.”
I don't know about you, but I feel really blessed to be part of a Church that creates a culture of open discussion and consensus!