Pentecost
They were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak with other tongues. . . . [The crowds] were all amazed. . . ”We hear them speaking in our own tongues the wonderful works of God!” . . . Others mocking said, “They are full of new wine.” Peter, standing up with the eleven, raised his voice and said to them . . . ” This is what was spoken by the prophet Joel! . . . (Acts 2:4-16, selected verses)
A young girl had a very difficult time speaking clearly. Years later, when we saw her again, we marveled at how distinctly she spoke! It was evidence of the blessed work of her speech therapist.
The disciples on Pentecost gave amazing evidence of the work of the Holy Spirit in their hearts. They spoke the languages of the Pentecost visitors from fifteen different nations! The visitors were surprised and pleased to hear “the wonderful works of God”—the Good News of salvation in Jesus—spoken clearly in their own tongues!
Speaking in tongues is of no value, if it is considered only a badge of personal honor, “Oh! I can speak in tongues—even unknown tongues!” Speaking in tongues is valuable when it is used to share with those of other languages the Gospel of forgiveness in the crucified and risen Christ. “In the church I would rather speak five words with my understanding, that I may teach others also, than ten thousand words in a tongue.” (I Corinthians 14:19) The whole point is to bear witness to peace with God through Christ.
The enemies of Jesus who were present mocked this gift. “They’re drunk!” However, the timid disciples were not timid! Peter, who had denied three times that he knew Jesus, now stood up boldly. He spoke loudly, proclaiming that Jesus, the Son of God whom they had crucified, was alive and had poured out these gifts! Are you as bold as Peter? Pray the Lord makes you bold for the sake of someone who needs to hear the Gospel.
Lord, give me the boldness to share Christ in a simple way with others. Amen!