(a) Narrate the events on the Day of Pentecost. (b) State two ways in which the Holy Spirit still influences the life of Christians today.

Answer Details

(a) Events on the Day of Pentecost (Acts 2:1-42)

• When the Day of Pentecost had fully come, the disciples were all together in one place in Jerusalem, in obedience to Jesus' command to wait for the promise of the Father.
• Suddenly there came from heaven a sound like the rush of a mighty wind, and it filled the whole house where they were sitting.
• There appeared to them tongues as of fire, distributed and resting on each one of them.
• They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues (languages) as the Spirit gave them utterance.
• Devout Jews from every nation under heaven were dwelling in Jerusalem. When the sound was heard, the multitude gathered and were bewildered, because each one heard them speaking in his own native language the mighty works of God.
• They were amazed and perplexed, asking, "What does this mean?" But others mocked, saying they were filled with new wine.
• Peter, standing with the eleven, lifted his voice and addressed the crowd. He explained that they were not drunk, since it was only the third hour of the day.
• He declared that this was the fulfilment of the prophecy of the prophet Joel, that God would pour out His Spirit on all flesh.
• Peter preached about Jesus of Nazareth, crucified and killed, whom God raised from the dead, exalted at His right hand, and made both Lord and Christ.
• The listeners were cut to the heart and asked what they should do. Peter replied, "Repent and be baptized every one of you in the name of Jesus Christ for the forgiveness of your sins, and you shall receive the gift of the Holy Spirit."
• About three thousand souls were added to the Church that day. They devoted themselves to the apostles' teaching, fellowship, breaking of bread and prayers.

(b) Two ways the Holy Spirit still influences the life of Christians today

1. Empowerment for witness and service: The Holy Spirit gives believers boldness, gifts and power to preach the gospel, testify about Christ and serve God effectively, just as He emboldened Peter and the apostles.
2. Guidance and transformation of character: The Spirit convicts of sin, guides Christians into truth, comforts them, and produces the fruit of the Spirit (love, joy, peace, patience and so on), thereby transforming their conduct and helping them live godly lives.