(a) You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you', Discuss the fulfilment of this promise and the reaction of the people who witnessed it....

Answer Details

(a) The fulfilment of the promise of power and the reaction of the witnesses (Acts 2:1-41)

Before His ascension, Jesus promised the disciples, "You shall receive power when the Holy Spirit has come upon you, and you shall be my witnesses in Jerusalem, in all Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth." This was fulfilled on the day of Pentecost. The disciples were all together in one place when suddenly there came a sound from heaven like a rushing mighty wind that filled the whole house. Divided tongues, as of fire, appeared and rested on each of them, and they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.

Devout Jews from every nation were dwelling in Jerusalem, and hearing the sound, a crowd gathered. They were amazed and perplexed because each one heard the disciples speaking in his own native language about the mighty works of God. Some were bewildered and asked what it meant, while others mocked, saying the men were filled with new wine. Peter then stood up with the eleven, denied the charge of drunkenness (it being only the third hour), and explained that this was the fulfilment of Joel's prophecy that God would pour out His Spirit on all flesh. He preached about Jesus, crucified and raised, and the people were cut to the heart and asked what they should do. Peter called them to repent and be baptised, and about three thousand souls were added that day.

(b) Significance of the descent of the Holy Spirit to the Church

• It marked the birth of the Christian Church and the beginning of its worldwide mission.
• It empowered the disciples for bold witness, preaching and miracles.
• It fulfilled the promise of Jesus and the prophecy of Joel.
• It broke language and national barriers, showing that the gospel is for all nations.
• It provided the Church with the continuing presence, gifts and guidance of God's Spirit.