Monday: Pentecost
For ten days the followers of Jesus prayed, evaluated their experiences with Jesus in the light of Scripture, showed humility and acceptance to each other, and finally allowed the Holy Spirit to impress the truth upon them. Just as the Spirit hovered over the face of the deep at the beginning of the Creation process, so, too, the Spirit of God hovered over each of the disciples, appearing as divided tongues of fire on each of them (Acts 2:2-3). It was a new beginning, a new creation.
Read Acts 2:5-12. What is the significance of what happened as revealed in these texts? Compare it with Genesis 11:1-9.
Image © Damon Bowie from GoodSalt.com
Sometime after the Flood, the inhabitants of the earth decided to build a tower that reached heaven (Gen. 11:1-9). To prevent them from this arrogant and foolish endeavor (as well as the new evils they had been devising, Gen. 11:5-6), God confused their common language and scattered them “over the face of all the earth” (Gen. 11:7-9, NKJV).
At Pentecost, God did the opposite. Here He could see a group of people, not building a new tower of Babel, but who were ready to proclaim the good news that evil would one day be forever banished.
People “from every nation under heaven” were in Jerusalem that day (Acts 2:5, NKJV; compare the scattering at the tower of Babel), and they gathered together in amazement as they each heard their own language being spoken by the disciples (Acts 2:6-11).
Peter uses this as an opportunity to address them. He speaks of an outpouring of the Holy Spirit preparing a people to meet God (Acts 2:17-21). He points out the Messiah’s true mission and rebukes them for crucifying Him (Acts 2:23). They are “cut to the heart” (Acts 2:37, NKJV), and 3,000 are baptized and join the disciples (Acts 2:41).
Some who had, under the inspiration of Satan, consented to the death of Jesus were now, under the influence of the Holy Spirit, converted to Jesus. What does this tell us of the power of God not only to forgive the worst of sins but also to change the hardest of hearts?
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By divine intervention at Babel diverse languages were used to confuse and divide the rebellious group which labored to establish independence from God (Genesis 11:1-9). In sharp contrast at Pentecost diverse tongues were used by the Holy Spirit to clearly preach the everlasting Gospel, unite devout Jews and others from every nation of the world, and honor the Creator (Acts 2:4-8).
The word of God was miraculously communicated by ordinary men with power and hearts were deeply affected. Those who held no contempt for the disciples were understanding clearly the message of hope. Still some found it an occasion to mockingly respond, “These men are full of new wine.” (Acts 2:13)
In every forum where the Spirit moves in marked ways Satan raises voices of opposition in an attempt to set back the truth and advance his cause in the great controversy. As the Holy Spirit works through the meek and willing and is poured out in the latter rain the faithful may expect some in the crowd to mockingly suggest those empowered are extremists, who are intoxicated with unrealistic messages (Acts 2:14-21).
With boldness the faithful preach on; for their fruit will tell to which vine they are connected (Matthew 7:16-20; John 15:1-8). The evidence that the disciples were filled with the Spirit from above was seen in their speech and life. Beyond the spectacular miracles and baptismal numbers the Bible notes they had a spirit of sharing, caring and oneness (Acts 2:42-47). They died to self.
The end-time latter rain and its effects will look a lot like the early rain at Pentecost (Revelation 18:1).
I just wonder why God always intervene at time of Israel like building of tower of babel, yet now many sky scrapers are rising in different location in our planet and I believe those sky scrapers are more taller than tower of babel, yet God did not intervene or destroy those towers.
The context that says, sometimes after the Flood, the inhabitants of the earth decided to build a tower that reached heaven (Gen. 11:1-9) ( is not believable because during those days, people are not equip with tools or materials that can build a towers like our sky scrapers today. Yet what is our sky scrapers today it reaches the clouds only, airplane is better it can fly higher, yet when I ride airplane I did not see heaven only air and clouds. So can you explain to me what is your definition of heaven then? I really don't like to imagine things out, rather I like concrete and realistic evidence.
Elsie i think my explanation we help you. before Sin, man was like God he was able to see God with his eyes but because of sin man was separated from God but God love man so-much he did not go faraway from man. if you read Book of Job the first chapter you will see that there was time when the Son of God come to present themselves to GOD and Adam you to represent this Planet before Satan the Devil take's over. people of old time where more intelligent and strong than what we are today and they live longer. i will give you the example the original CD and the burn copy and the copy of the burn copy the are all difference and the original is the best. the context that says the inhabitants of the earth decided to build a tower that reached Heaven it was possible because this people they did have one accord as those who were at Pentecost. the preacher said there is nothing new on this earth
First of all, the Israelites did not build the tower of Babel. This event took place long before there was Israel. Secondly, the Bible sometimes uses the word "heaven" to mean "very high" that may have reached the clouds or not. But it was not the height of the tower that displeased or offended God. It was the motive of their hearts where they thought they could defy God and escape future judgment of God through their own effort.
Gods' power is no joke and so is why He can wash our stains of sin to be as white as snow. Amen
It is interesting that the author chose to contrast Pentecost with the Tower of Babel. My takeaway from this lesson is when individuals choose to be influenced by the power of satan, they are filled with profound confusion. But yielding to the Holy Spirit guides us into truth, repentance, conversion and a living faith - accepting God for who He is!!
The Israel who came from Egypt had knowledge given by God to build, If you remember they build the pyramids, so yes they have the knowledge to build that tower. If God words state that in the Bible who are we to doubt. If we believe his words, we cannot take out what we think is true and what we think is not true. His words are true. God does not lie.
Just a quick note: Remember the Tower of Babel occurs directly after the flood, and before Jacob (Israel) and the sojourn in Egypt. I know that we sometimes confuse the Flood with the Exodus. It's easy enough to do on the spur of the moment.
Elsie
There is alot to learn from the tower of babel.
First of all u need to know that it is true that the people of genesis 11 were civilised in their level to manage building a tower.The materials used is openly described in the bible.
The difinition of heaven in this context was not the area or place but their attitude, the bible say they wanted to build a tower to heaven.means to be secure and no more be affected by a flood.
Now this was the real act of salvation by works,Mighty God knowing their motive He then send angels to confound them leading to stop them from that idea of finding salvation by their own works.
Salvation is by faith through Jesus Christ Alone.
So Heaven meant to erect a tower to a distance that even if flood will come but we will not be affected by it in any way.
God bless you Elsie for the good question, i think i have just tried to answer your question.
Can someone explain to me, in Genesis chapter 11 verse 5, the meaning of; \"the Lord came down to see the city and the tower.\" Isn\'t God all knowing, ever present and all powerful, Then why come down?
Keith, God is ever being a living witness of how we are to be righteous in all things. His example is for us to follow. Yes, He knows all, but we don't, and need His example of being just in all things.
God came down to "see" (raah:inquire, examine, perceive) for the benefit of His creation as a demonstration of His merciful dealings with the rebellious.
In my view this principle is at the center of the investigative judgement. And from the beginning it has been applied, because even in most of the days of creation, God "saw... that it was good." (Gen 1:4,9,12 etc.)
Again and again God was able to perform an impartial self-assessment. He could effectively examine/inspect His own work, and for those in attendance, watching, He could pronounce His work "good". Those that trusted Him, and knew Him to be completely impartial and un-biased, accepted the self-assessment as accurate.
Never underestimate the power of the Holy Spirit, because it is the power thru which Gid created the worlds.
As I was making a comparison of the two events mentioned above, I drew out a conclusion that you ought to always check your motive before you do anything. When we read from (Genesis 11:4) the people were building that tower to make a name for themselves. They needed to glorify themselves through that. When we read in the book of (Acts 2:5-12) it was for a good cause. Hence in our day today dealings no matter how small they are, you need to check the motive behind whatever you are doing. For example as we go out there with the Word of Salvation, we need to make sure that we are not making a name for ourselves. We are only instruments. Read (John 6:15) ‘Jesus, knowing that they intended to come and make him king by force, withdrew again to a mountain by himself.’ At times you will find that people themselves would want to start ‘glorifying’ you. Before it goes far and before you take the Glory that belongs to God alone, be like Jesus withdraw and find a place to pray by yourself. Do not just do anything, they ought to be a good reason for whatever you are doing as a child of God.
I am so amazed of what a person can do under the influence of the Holy Spirit. Just imagine this is the same Peter who once denied Jesus three times (Luke 22:54-62).Just compare that moment when he did not want to be recognized with Jesus because of fear of what might happen to him and now he is standing before the people and raising his voice, he addressed all the people and explained to them what they did not know and on that particular day about 3 000 people repented, wow! This can only be done by the work of the Holy Spirit and not our human power. Now I felt challenged and I learnt that when we are Spirit filled and Spirit led more souls will be brought to the Kingdom of God. We need to allow Him to direct us and guide us. This can happen even in this day and age. We hear that a person can be possessed by evil spirits, as for a child of God is it also not possible to be possessed by the Holy Spirit? I mean being filled and controlled by the Holy Spirit.
Tambu, I praise God for your inspired insights. The Holy spirit is with you!!
I give all the Glory to the Lord,thank you.
When the day of the Pentecost came, they were ALL in one accord in one place. I see the importance of the spirit of unity. Do you know that we can be at the same physical location but not together in spirit? In this instance these people were waiting eagerly and not only that they had the heart that is expecting to receive. This is what we ought to have, an expectant heart to receive from God. As we meet together, are we prepared or expecting to receive a Word from God? So much can happen in Church if we can only allow the Holy Spirit to lead us. We need to be a family that is united, that cares and prays for each other. The love of God need to flow within our hearts and in our Church at large.
Can someone explain to me, in Genesis chapter 11 verse 5, the meaning of; \"the Lord came down to see the city and the tower.\" Isn\'t God all knowing, ever present and all powerful, Then why come down? Quetion from keith.
Keith, this question is divine none can answer you in detail and in the correct manner.
Someone here can also ask
God knew where Abraham was,but why He came down for the promise of Isaac??
Why He came down to confirm the sins of sodom??
I can try to encourage you to know that God is doing whatever He sees it good for our benefit.whether He will be in Heaven or come down on earth.
Thanks ,take in mind that your question is divine.
I would look at the statement"God coming down as God reaching out to us.He knows our condition and is aware of everything because He's God
However in His mercy He is always extending His arm of love.
The heavens are divided the atmospheric,the terrestrial and the celestial God's throne 1 cor15:40.
Paul said that he was caught up in the third heaven 2 cor 12:2
The people who built the tower of Babel couldn't reach heaven but all of us who are faithful will live 1000 years there with Jesus
Praise the Lord
In the previous lesson we saw the disciples infighting and striving for pride of place and positions of earthly rank because they just didn't get it, despite Jesus' attempts over three-and-a-half years to impress upon them the real purpose of His mission. It took a lot of prodding and pleading but they did eventually, albeit after his ascension back to heaven. They awaited the arrival of the Holy Spirit as Jesus had instructed and He did come but not until they had put aside their differences and were "all in one accord" (Acts 2:1) could He infuse them with power to spread the gospel of Jesus to all the nations. That was Pentecost.
God has promised that His church will again experience "Pentecost" in the closing scenes of earth, according to bible prophecies (Joel 2:28-29, Acts 2:17) so that we can finish the work which the disciples started. The question is, ARE WE READY to receive Him? or are we quite comfortable down here and in no hurry for Jesus to come. Maybe some of us have all the creature comforts of life and have need of nothing but where are our treasures laid up?
It is as plain as day -with all that is happening in our world- that the end is near. Can you see it friends? I think it's high time to BE READY even as we see the day approaching (Heb 10:25)for we have a work to do. Millions are dying all around us and we are sitting down on the precious truths, storing the up in our heads while people are perishing into Christ-less graves. Their blood be on our shoulders if we neglect invite them to the salvation we have in Jesus and warn them of what is to come on this sin-cursed earth. We all need to cultivate a BURDEN FOR SOULS as THE MATTER IS URGENT. it is AS SERIOUS life and death FOR IT IS.
We MUST put away the isms and schisms from among us and do as Jesus urged His disciples, to unite in ONE ACCORD preparing our hearts and lives individually and as a unit to receive the outpouring of the Spirit, who only can empower us to finish the last work. I want to get sick and tired of being sick and tired of this sin-sick world, how about you, friends? I want to be ready for PENTECOST AGAIN".
My prayer today is:
LORD, LAY SOME SOUL UPON MY HEART
AND LOVE THAT SOUL THROUGH ME;
AND MAY I NOBLY DO MY PART
TO WIN THAT SOUL FOR THEE.
TO WIN THAT SOUL FOR THEE
TO WIN THAT SOUL FOR THEE
AND MAY I NOBLY DO MY PART
TO WIN THAT SOUL FOR THEE.
AMEN!
Yes, I want to be ready for Pentecost again, too!
The glory of the Latter Rain will be greater than the glory of the Former Rain, but I doubt that there will be any great wind, or shaken house, or cloven tongues of fire, associated with the Latter Rain when it comes.
Solomon's Temple was attended with great external manifestations of God's power, but it was the [smaller] Second Temple, of course, that had the greater glory. Jesus was literally "in" both Temples, but Jesus showed God's glory (His character) much, much, clearer in the Second Temple.
In the same way, I think that the Latter Rain will have, by far, the greater glory, but it will be much less ostentatious (for want of a better word) than the Former Rain.
This is so profound,thank you Claudette.
You're very welcome, Tambu.
As l was comparing these two separate and distinct events ,l was reminded of this verse ,Luke 20:18 " Everyone who falls on that rock will be broken ,and if that rock falls on someone ,it will crush to powder".Jesus said this in allusion to the dream of chapter 2 of Daniel ,specifically the crushing of worldly kingdoms by the stone from the mountain.Here is the principle behind the worldly kings and kingdoms, in Daniel 4:30 ".... he said , "Look how great babylon is! I built it as my capital city to display my power and mght , my glory and majesty." No doubt this spirit has its own origin in Lucifer .When manifested in heaven it resulted to a fall ,again at Babel God came to investigate .No doubt bible students SELFISHNESS is the centre of the great controversy.Yet its mannifestation and its achievement God will crush to powder at his coming .But if is denied and surrendered he will surely break us ,giving us a new heart a new mind as well as living in us .
All things are possible through Him. He takes away and gives. We are unable to be in Heaven of our own accord. We must allow Jesus to Bless us with the power of the Holy Spirit which the Father made available to Him for us, for Jesus is the Way.
The city and the tower of Babel.
In their efforts to be "one", the people determined to build themselves "a city and a tower... [and] a name" (Gen 11:4). But despite all their efforts to make themselves independent and secure from God, the only thing they could agree on, in the end, was the need to separate.
The city they began to build was literally Babylon, on a great plain beside the river Euphrates. Their tower of safety/refuge ["in case of another deluge" (PP p.119)] became their pride and joy.
Their city and their tower and their name were all intended to save the people from being "scattered abroad upon the face of the whole earth." (Gen 11:4) Their three-fold endeavor was intended to unite them.
But the fall of Babylon [the first "fall" of Babylon] came, despite -- or perhaps more correctly, because of, their efforts to resist God.
The men of Babel appeared to want to consolidate, and to centralize, their strength.
But warnings against "centralization" have always been relevant for God's people.
"Everywhere there is a tendency to substitute the work of organizations for individual effort. HUMAN WISDOM TENDS TO CONSOLIDATION, TO CENTRALIZATION, to the building up of great churches and institutions. Multitudes leave to institutions and organizations the work of benevolence; they excuse themselves from contact with the world, and their hearts grow cold. They become self-absorbed and unimpressible. Love for God and man dies out of the soul." (Ministry of Healing p.147)
In various ways, warnings have come to us, “There is too much,” said the Great Teacher, “in one place." (8Testimonies p.205)
The event at Pentecost was, I think, a great example of God's design that His workers be scattered, and de-centralized (in terms of their earthly organization and work).
tower of babel is the one talked about much but what spiritual lessons do we learn from the day of Pentecost?can someone elaborate?