V.1-13 The word “Pentecost” means “fiftieth”, It was on the fiftieth day after the death of the Lord, that the Holy Spirit came down to earth. Seven weeks (7 Sabbaths, Saturdays) plus one day, bringing it to Sunday, the Lord’s day. This is Christianity’s day — the first day of the week. Christ is the end of the law (Gal. 2:16-21). By the coming to earth of the Holy Spirit (Who is a distinct Person), a very great change takes place. No longer is the Tabernacle or the Temple to be where God dwells. The Holy Spirit lives now in the body of every believer (1 Cor. 3:16; 2 Cor. 6:16). Also 2 Cor. 5:17 everything has changed.
V.3 “Cloven” means parted, implying the many languages spoken. Speaking in tongues means the sober, clear talking in another language which those who heard that tongue could understand. These were uneducated fishermen from Galilee. They demonstrated the power of God. Hebrews 2:3-4 clearly tell us that these signs and wonders were at the beginning of the preaching of the Gospel of the grace of God. “Of fire” would tell us the punishment ahead which the rejecters of Christ shall receive (John 16:7-11).
V.5-13 Many people of different races and languages (tongues) who were at Jerusalem heard the Apostles miraculously speak in these foreign languages the “wonderful works of God.” The gospel could thus reach out quickly to many languages and nations. The Church of God on earth was formed this day. It is the church’s birthday (1 Cor. 12:12-13). All believers in Christ were formed into “one body.” God desires we would show that oneness today.
V.14-40 Peter preaches that Jesus of Nazareth was now both Lord and Christ (v. 36). He boldly confronts a great crowd, 3,000 at least (v. 41), and simply spoke the facts; Christ’s death and resurrection and ascension to glory, constantly using the Old Testament Scriptures.
V.41-47 What a change took place in the life of these 3,000 souls. Notice 17 things about these believers. Can you find them all? These are the joys and privileges you may have today.