INTRODUCTION
Outline.
1. Joel’s Prophecy: “I will pour out of my Spirit.”
2. John’s Prediction: “Ye shall be baptized.”
3. Jesus’ Promise: “Ye shall receive power.”
Introductory Remarks.
1. Today's lesson will discuss the theme: “Ye shall receive power.” This lesson will address the “who” it was that Jesus made this promise. After 2000 years have passed, many today still claim that they have “received power” due to the “Holy Ghost” baptism. We will look into the prophecy of this baptism, consider John the Baptist’s prediction, and finally explore the promise Jesus made: “That ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost comes upon you.”
2. First, we will consider Joel’s prophecy regarding the “outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon all flesh.” He wrote: “It shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: and also, upon the servants and the handmaids in those days will I pour out of My Spirit, and they shall prophesy,” Joel 2:28-29. Joel and others prophesied of this event, and the “pouring out” of the Holy Spirit, upon all flesh. We will answer the questions set forth by those claiming this prophecy is yet being fulfilled.
3. Second, we will shed light on John the Baptist's prediction regarding this great event. Matthew wrote of John’s preaching: “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire,” Matthew 3:11. John does not identify the recipients of these baptisms. He mentions there will be two baptisms: one of the “Holy Ghost;” and the other of “fire.” Most of you in this audience completely understand his declaration. This lesson is not for you but for those who may still believe the Holy Ghost baptism is possible or even necessary today. For these loving people, we now labor to inform them regarding these baptisms correctly.
4. Lastly, we will investigate the promise of Jesus unto the apostles regarding John’s baptism of water and their baptism with the Holy Ghost, Acts 1:4-5. He informs them that: “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost comes upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth,” Acts 1:8. This promise was fulfilled on the first Pentecost, after the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven, Acts 1:10-11. On that day, the Holy Ghost empowered these men to do the work He sent them to complete. We will establish that only the 12 apostles had received this “power” and the “baptism of the Holy Ghost” on that day. Neither the 120 disciples, the multitude, nor anyone else on that day were the recipients of the “Holy Ghost” baptism. We will allow the scriptures to speak to the errors of those claiming otherwise. With this brief introduction, let’s consider our first point.
BODY OF LESSON
I JOEL’S PROPHECY: “I WILL POUR OUT OF MY SPIRIT”
A. I will begin by thanking you for this opportunity to speak today regarding this vital subject. Most of you do not need an explanation of this topic. But, for those who might be visiting or your friends or relatives who could have questions about this subject, I ask for your indulgence and patience this morning. Please turn with me to Joel 2:28-29. Read along with me as we introduce the text of emphasis for this lesson. Are all your eyes there?
B. Joel wrote: “It shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: and also, upon the servants and the handmaids in those days will I pour out of My Spirit, and they shall prophesy,” Joel 2:28-29. Notice:
1. First, he establishes a time frame for this “pouring out of the Spirit upon all flesh.” It would be “afterward.” Other translations say, " It shall be in the last days.” Peter affirms that this prophecy was fulfilled on the Day of Pentecost.
2. Peter declares after confronting the multitude's accusations of drunkenness: “For these are not drunk, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this was spoken by the prophet Joel; it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh,” Acts 2:14-18.
3. Peter said: "Therefore being by the right hand of God (speaking of Jesus) exalted and having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear. For David is not ascended into the heavens: but he saith himself, The Lord said unto my Lord, Sit thou on my right hand, until I make thy foes thy footstool. Therefore, let all the houses of Israel know assuredly that God hath made that same Jesus whom ye have crucified, both Lord and Christ... receive the gift of the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:33-38. [Text shortened for brevity].
C. Peter establishes: “This is that which was spoken of by the prophet Joel." Any time we can get a “this is that” in the scriptures, that will be the “end of that,” as it pertains to our debate and discussion of its meaning. Peter affirms Joel’s prophecy regarding “pouring out of my Spirit” was fulfilled on “that day.” When would this happen? Notice, it was after/on:
1. The resurrection of Jesus Christ and the apostles’ eyewitness of Him.
2. 40 days of Jesus “speaking of the things about the kingdom of God.”
3. Their witness of the ascension of Jesus Christ into the heavens.
4. The apostles waited in Jerusalem as “commanded by the Lord.”
5. The apostles and 120 disciples continued steadfastly in prayer and supplication.
6. The 11 and other disciples chose another apostle to replace Judas (the son of perdition).
7. The first Pentecost after the Lord’s resurrection and ascension into heaven.
D. Isaiah wrote of the last days: “And it shall come to pass in the last days, that the mountain of the LORD'S house shall be established in the top of the mountains, and shall be exalted above the hills; and all nations shall flow unto it. And many people shall go and say, Come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the LORD, to the house of the God of Jacob; and he will teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his paths: for out of Zion shall go forth the law, and the word of the LORD from Jerusalem,” Isaiah 2:2-3; Micah 4:1-2. Notice:
1. The Lord will build his house in Jerusalem in the last days.
a. Build my house: “Therefore thus saith the LORD; I am returned to Jerusalem with mercies: my house shall be built in it, saith the LORD of hosts, and a line shall be stretched forth upon Jerusalem,” Zechariah 1:16; Acts 2:47; Acts 8:1.
b. The house of God: “These things write I unto thee, hoping to come unto thee shortly: But if I tarry long, that thou mayest know how thou oughtest to behave thyself in the house of God, which is the church of the living God, the pillar and ground of the truth. And without controversy great is the mystery of godliness: God was manifest in the flesh, justified in the Spirit, seen of angels, preached unto the Gentiles, believed on in the world, received up into glory,” 1 Timothy 3:14-16.
c. Christ is the Son over his own house: “And Moses verily was faithful in all his house, as a servant, for a testimony of those things which were to be spoken after; But Christ as a son over his own house; whose house are we, if we hold fast the confidence and the rejoicing of the hope firm unto the end,” Hebrews 3:5-6.
d. I will build my church, Matthew 16:13-19; Acts 2:47; Acts 20:28; Romans 16:16.
2. All nations shall flow unto it: “Many people shall go and say, come ye, and let us go up to the mountain of the Lord’s house,” Isaiah 2:3a; Acts 2:5; Acts 2:9-11.
a. The gospel was for all people; for the Jew first, then the Greek, Romans 1:16; Acts 15:9.
b. The disciples went everywhere, “preaching the word,” Acts 8:4; Acts 11:19-21.
c. Philip went to Samaria and “preached Christ unto them,” Acts 8:5-12.
d. Barnabas went to Antioch, “exhorting the disciples to cleave to the Lord,” Acts 11:22-26.
3. He shall teach us of his ways, and we will walk in his path: “For out of Zion shall go forth the law; and the word of the Lord from Jerusalem,” Isaiah 2:3b.
a. Preaching to begin in Jerusalem, Luke 24:44-49.
b. Peter preached in Jerusalem, Acts 2:36-41.
c. Peter preached in Caesarea, Acts 10:44-48.
E. Paul wrote of the last days: “God, who at sundry times and in divers manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophets, Hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son, who he hath appointed heir of all things, by whom also He made the worlds; who being the brightness of His glory, and the express image of his person, and upholding all things by the word of His power, when he had by Himself purged our sins, sat down on the right hand of the Majesty on high,” Hebrews 1:1-3. Paul wrote:
1. Old times: “God, who at sundry times and in divers’ manners spake in time past unto the fathers by the prophet,” Hebrews 1:1a; 2 Peter 1:20-21.
2. Last times: “Hath in these last days spoken unto us by His Son,” Hebrews 1:1b; Matthew 3:13-17; Matthew 17:1-5.
3. Since the time of Christ until now, these have been the “last days.”
4. The “last days began on Pentecost;” and will continue until “the restitution of all things,” Acts 3:21. On the “last day,” John 11:23-26; John 12:48.
5. The last day will be when the Lord shall be revealed from heaven, and all-time as we know it, will end. The “last day” will be “the end,” 1 Corinthians 15:20-27. With this assurance, let’s consider our next point.
II JOHN’S PREDICTION: “YE SHALL BE BAPTIZED”
A. John the Baptist spoke of this baptism: “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire,” Matthew 3:11. John the Baptist did not claim to be the baptizer, of the Holy Ghost.
1. John does not even identify the recipients “or the persons” of this baptism. He only states this baptism would be “The Holy Ghost, and with fire.”
a. As I said in the introduction, most of you in this audience understand John’s prediction of the Holy Ghost baptism entirely. You have had Bible classes or heard sermons and teachings regarding this subject.
b. For most of you, this lesson will be elementary, so I beg your patience and indulgence for a brief period.
c. Therefore, we now labor to correctly inform those in this audience or those who may hear this lesson on a CD regarding the Holy Ghost baptism.
2. He does not even name the “who will do this baptizing” of the Holy Ghost. However, his description of the one coming after him should clarify that this person will be Jesus.
3. In our analysis of this verse, John lays before us several essential facts. We will consider each of them individually as we proceed in this lesson. Notice:
B. First, he states: “I indeed baptize you with water.” John here, nor in any other place, claims to be the one that “baptizeth with the Holy Ghost.” He states that his baptism is that of “water.” I know that some in this audience will argue that baptism is unnecessary as an act of faith, mainly because you perceive it has no relevance in the believer’s salvation. However, John’s baptism was obeyed by the “publicans (and sinners) to justify God… But the Pharisees and lawyers rejected the counsel of God…being not baptized,” Luke 7:29-30. John’s baptism,
1. Was in water, not the Holy Ghost. It was relevant because God sent him to preach it!
2. Was “eis” “or unto repentance” and not “eis” “unto the remission of sins.”
3. Was done in much water: “And John also was baptizing in Aenon near to Salim, because there was much water there: and they came, and were baptized,” John 3:23. Consider also:
a. John’s baptism prepared the Jews to obey the gospel, which would be preached to them on the Day of Pentecost.
b. Apollos was John’s disciple and was baptized of John’s baptism, Acts 18:24-28.
c. Paul found certain disciples baptized of John’s baptism in Ephesus, Acts 19:1-7.
4. John’s baptism was not done to grant the repentant believers the “remission of sins” or the “gift of the Holy Ghost.”
a. Those baptized of John’s baptism were later baptized “in the name of the Lord Jesus,” Acts 19:5.
b. This was commanded within the “Great Commission,” Matthew 28:19-20.
c. These believing baptized disciples were: “Called Christians first in Antioch,” Acts 11:26; Acts 26:27-28; Acts 18:8.
d. The baptism of Christ under the Great Commission made the believers " disciples and Christians.” It was disciples who were called Christians.
C. Further, he mentions: “But he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear.” John here speaks of Jesus, the Christ. John said: “Ye yourselves bear me witness, that I said, I AM NOT THE CHRIST, but that I am sent before him ... He must increase, but I must decrease,” John 3:28-30.
D. Next, he notes, “He shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost.” We now come to the part of the lesson where some will find this part hard to believe. John states that Jesus would be the baptizer. And Jesus would baptize his apostles with the Holy Ghost. Let’s hear Jesus on this point.
1. The Comforter: “But the Comforter, which is the Holy Ghost, whom the Father will send in my name, he shall teach you all things, and bring all things to your remembrance, whatsoever I have said unto you,” John 14:26.
2. The Spirit of truth: “But when the Comforter comes, whom I will send unto you from the Father, even the Spirit of truth, which proceedeth from the Father, he shall testify of me: And ye also shall bear witness, because ye have been with me from the beginning,” John 15:26-27.
3. The Spirit will guide you: “Howbeit when he, the Spirit of truth, is come, he will guide you into all truth: for he shall not speak of himself; but whatsoever he shall hear, that shall he speak: and he will show you things to come...glorify me...he shall take of mine, and shew it unto you,” John 16:13-15.
4. The Holy Ghost was promised to the apostles to be their comforter, a revealer of truth, and a guide into all the truth. This was to occur when they were “baptized with the Holy Ghost.” It was then that they “shall receive power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you,” Acts 1:8.
5. Let’s be clear here. The Holy Ghost was given as a “gift” to believers after they “repented and were baptized in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins,” Acts 2:38. However,
a. No believers in this verse, or anywhere else in the New Testament, were ever commanded to be: “Baptized with the Holy Ghost.” This baptism was always mentioned as a “promise.” This was mentioned first by John and then by Jesus.
b. These repentant believers were baptized “for the remission of sins;” and then were granted the gift of the: “Holy Ghost as the seal of their redemption,” Ephesians 1:11-13; Acts 5:32; Romans 5:1-5; Romans 8:14-17; Galatians 3:14; Galatians 4:1-7.
c. The Holy Ghost baptism was always mentioned as a “promise” to the apostles and not as a “commandment” unto believers, Luke 24:49; Acts 1:4-5; Acts 2:33.
E. Finally, he declares: “He shall baptize with fire.” This brings us to the last fact of John’s declaration, “He shall baptize you with fire.” I know many will relate this verse to Acts 2:3. Where Luke wrote: “And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.” Luke said: “It was like as of fire,” not that it was a fire. I only know one “fire” John spoke of in this verse. Notice:
1. First, there was a mixed audience that he spoke unto; some, he notes, would be baptized with the Holy Ghost; the others would be baptized with fire. Notice:
a. “But when he saw many of the Pharisees and Sadducees come to his baptism,”
b. “He said unto them: O, generation of vipers; who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? Bring forth, therefore, fruits meet for repentance.”
c. “And now the ax is laid unto the tree's root... and it is hewn down and cast into the fire,” Matthew 3:7-10.
d. “Whose fan is in his hand, and he will thoroughly purge his floor, and gather his wheat into the garner, but he will burn up the chaff with unquenchable fire,” Matthew 3:12. This fire that is mentioned here is that of eternal judgment, Revelation 20:11-15.
2. Further, Luke’s account: “Then said he to the multitude that came forth to be baptized of him, O, generation of vipers, who hath warned you to flee from the wrath to come? ... And now also the ax is laid unto the root of the trees: every tree therefore which bringeth not forth good fruit is hewed down and cast into the fire... John answered, saying unto them all, I indeed baptize you with water; but one mightier than I cometh, the latcheth of whose shoes I am not worthy to unloose: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire: Whose fan is in his hand. He will thoroughly purge his floor and gather the wheat into his garner, but he will burn the chaff with fire unquenchable. And many other things in his exhortation preached to the people,” Luke 3:7-18.
a. Luke’s account of the people is the same as Matthew's.
b. We see scribes, Pharisees, publican, and sinners (ordinary people) coming unto John to be baptized.
c. The scribes and Pharisees make up the class, which would be “baptized with fire.” Jesus mentions a similar fate for them, Matthew 23:14; Matthew 23:33.
3. Finally, John’s account: “And they which were sent were of the Pharisees. And they asked him, and said unto him, Why baptizeth thou then if thou be not the Christ, nor Elias, neither that prophet? John answered them, saying I baptize with water: but there standeth one among you, whom ye know not; He, who coming after me, whose shoe’s latchet I am not worthy to unloose...Behold the Lamb of God ... Again, the next day after John stood, and two of his disciples: And looking upon Jesus as he walked, he saith, Behold the Lamb of God! And the two disciples heard him speak and followed Jesus,” John 1:24-37. [Text shortened for brevity]. Continuing,
a. “Then Jesus turned and saw them following, and saith unto them: What seek you? They said unto him, Rabbi, (which is to say, being interpreted, Master) where dwellest thou? He said unto them, Come and see.”
b. “They came and saw where he dwelt... One of the two who heard John speak and followed him was Andrew, Simon Peter’s brother.”
c. “He first findeth his brother Simon, and saith unto him, we have found the Messias, which being interpreted, the Christ.”
d. “And he brought him to Jesus. And when Jesus beheld him, he said, Thou art Simon the son of Jona: thou shalt be called Cephas, which is by interpretation, A stone,” John 1:38-42.
e. Andrew and Peter, once John’s disciples, now became the disciples of Jesus. It was these men (Andrew and another) that John proclaims will be: “Baptized with the Holy Ghost,” Matthew 3:11. Jesus calls His other disciples the next day, John 1:43-51. These also followed Him and participated in His ministry and John’s prediction of the Holy Ghost baptism. If not, why not?
4. Conclusion: During John’s preaching beside the Jordan, the crowd comprised scribes, Pharisees, and ordinary people. Among the ordinary were John's disciples, who later became Christ's disciples. It was these,
a) Disciples of Christ who were to be baptized with “the Holy Ghost.” This will occur when Jesus sends the Holy Spirit from heaven to reveal His message of redemption to the world. We will discuss this exciting event in our next point.
b) The scribes and Pharisees would be baptized “with fire.” This will occur when Jesus returns from heaven to judge the “quick and the dead,” 2 Timothy 4:1; Acts 17:30-31.
c) Jesus will come in “flaming fire bringing vengeance upon them that know not God, and that obey not the gospel of our Lord Jesus Christ,” 2 Thessalonians 1:6-10; 1 Peter 4:17-18; 2 Peter 3:9-12.
d) Then shall the righteous “shine forth as the sun in the kingdom of their Father. Who hath ears to hear, let him hear,” Matthew 13:43.
e) Illustrate the: “Tares Among the Wheat,” Matthew 13:24-50. Let’s notice now our last point. This is what you want to hear!
III JESUS’ PROMISE: “YE SHALL RECEIVE POWER”
A. Ye shall receive power: “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost comes upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth,” Acts 1:8. We are now at the place in this lesson to discuss the fulfillment of Jesus promise unto His apostles, about the “Holy Ghost” baptism. I want you to notice that it is unto the 11 apostles Jesus makes this promise. Notice:
1. First, they would receive power. The word “power” here in Gr., is dýnamis, doo'-nam-is, which means miraculous power (usually by implication, a miracle itself): —ability, abundance, meaning, might (-ily, -y, -y deed), (worker of) miracle (-s), power, strength, or mighty (incredible) work. It must be understood that it is unto the 11 apostles he NOW makes this promise. No one else is in this audience. Let’s continue this thought within the writings of Mark and Luke, within the same time and setting.
a. Mark pens: “And these signs shall follow them that believe; In my name shall they cast out devils; they shall speak with new tongues. They shall take up serpents; and if they drink any deadly things, it shall not hurt them; they shall lay hands on the sick and recover,” Mark 16:17-18; Mark 16:20.
b. Luke wrote: “And, behold, I send the promise of my Father upon you: but tarry in the city of Jerusalem until ye be endued with power from on high,” Luke 24:49. These men had power given unto them by the Lord during His ministry. Notice:
1) They were given power when Jesus called them to be disciples: “And when he had called unto him his twelve disciples, he gave them power against unclean spirits, to cast them out, and to heal all manner of sickness and all manner of disease,” Matthew 10:1.
a) This was for their work under the “Limited Commission,” Matthew 10:5-8.
b) They had “power” but no Holy Ghost for their work under the Limited Commission. The Holy Ghost was in Jesus, and with them, John 14:17; John 1:32-33; John 3:34.
c) They could perform miracles, signs, and wonders because Jesus granted them this power. The Holy Ghost, however, was not yet given unto them “because Jesus was not yet glorified,” John 7:37-38.
2) Jesus promises them “power” and the “Holy Ghost” for their work under the “Great Commission,” Matthew 28:18-20; Luke 24:49.
a) Our Lord enjoins “power” with the “Holy Ghost” for the 11 apostles.
b) They would have “power” for this work and the Holy Ghost to guide and direct their ministry. This would commence on the Day of Pentecost.
c. Jesus was given “power” and the Holy Ghost from His Father for His ministry and miraculous works among the people, Acts 10:38. He will follow this same pattern with the 12 apostles. They would be given miraculous: “Power after that the Holy Ghost is come upon them,” Acts 1:8.
d. This will fulfill John the Baptist’s prediction in Matthew 3:11; Acts 1:4-5. “He shall baptize you with (or in) the Holy Ghost.”
2. Further, after the Holy Ghost. Until this point in our lesson, we have stressed that this “power” and “Holy Ghost” baptism was for the apostles alone. Moving forward, we will notice Jesus’ instruction to them, which will firmly establish this truth without any doubt!
a. Jesus’ command unto His disciples: “And, being assembled with them (the 11 disciples), commanded them that they should not depart from Jerusalem, but should wait for the promise of the Father, which, saith he, ye have heard of me. For John truly baptized with water; but ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost, not many days hence,” Acts 1:4-5. Consider:
b. John the Baptist did not identify the “who” or the “ye” who would be baptized with the Holy Ghost during his preaching and baptism.
c. However, Jesus did. It would be the 12 apostles. This would occur not “many days hence.” Jesus did not promise the “Holy Ghost” baptism to anyone else. And Luke’s narrative of the events on Pentecost will confirm this truth. Recall that “Pentecost” was one of the Jews’ feast days, a time of promised harvest unto God. The word “Pentecost” means fifty (50). B. W. Johnson wrote:
1) “Pentecost, one of the three great annual festivals of the Jews, lasted only one day, was on the fiftieth day from the morrow after, the Passover Sabbath (Lev. 23:15–22),” The People's New Testament, Page 265.
2) “Pentecost was the feast of the grain harvest (Exod. 23:16; 34:22, 23), and was also held by the Jews to be the anniversary of the giving of the law,” The People's New Testament, Page 265.
3) The advent of the Holy Ghost would occur on this day. The first Pentecost after the death, burial, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus Christ into the heavens, Acts 1:1-11; Acts 2:1.
d. The apostles were commanded to wait in Jerusalem for the “promise of the Father.” The location of this baptism was in the city of Jerusalem.
3. Finally, when He comes upon you. Ye shall be witnesses of me. Their preaching of the gospel, or “repentance and the remission of sins,” was to begin in the city of Jerusalem, Luke 24:44-46.
a. This also fulfilled the prophecy: “There shall be a fountain open to the house of David and to the inhabitants of Jerusalem for sin and uncleanness,” Zechariah 13:1; Isaiah 2:2-3.
b. The apostles would witness these things: first, in Jerusalem, then all Judea, then Samaria, and then to the “uttermost part of the earth,” Acts 1:8.
c. Jesus’ words to them before His ascension: “And, behold, I will send the promise of the Father upon you; but tarry ye in the city of Jerusalem, until ye be (are) endued with power from on high,” Luke 24:49.
5. Luke concludes: “And he (Jesus) led them out as far as to Bethany, and he lifted his hands and blessed them. And it came to pass, while he blessed them, he was parted from them and carried up into heaven. And they worshipped him... praising and blessing God. Amen,” Luke 24:50-53; Acts 1:9-11.
B. Holy Ghost made His advent into the world on the Day of Pentecost. Luke wrote: “And when the day of Pentecost fully came, they were all with one accord in one place. And suddenly, there came a sound from heaven, like a rushing mighty wind, filling all (the entire) house where they were sitting. And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance,” Acts 2:1-4. Consider:
1. These verses outline some significant facts we must take notice of if we are to learn if the apostles were the ones that received the “Holy Ghost” baptism and the “cloven tongues, like as of fire.” Let’s take Luke’s description of this event and try to understand “who” it was that was “baptized and empowered” by the Holy Ghost. Let’s begin our analysis of Luke’s record of Pentecost. Notice:
2. First, they were all with one accord in one place. “They” is a “pronoun” in this sentence. Usually, it follows a “noun” that has been mentioned earlier.
a. The noun mentioned before our text of emphasis was ascribed to: “Matthias; and the eleven apostles,” Acts 1:26. Stay with me, please!
b. Note if you would that: “Matthias was numbered with the eleven apostles.” This will be meaningful later as we conclude our analysis of this event.
c. So Luke points out that: “They were with one accord in one place,” Acts 2:1. I would suggest, for your consideration, that it was Matthias and the 11 that is mentioned here and subsequently in the remaining text. However, to be objective, let’s continue Luke’s analysis until the very end of this event.
d. They were all in agreement and together in one place when the Holy Ghost came upon them (to fill and empower).
3. Further, they were sitting. Luke further explains: “There came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind, and it filled all (the entire) house where they were sitting,” Acts 2:2.
a. As we continue, please note that “there came a sound from heaven as of a rushing mighty wind.”
b. The sound: “It filled all (the entire) house where they were sitting.”
c. Please note: they were not jumping, shouting, playing music, or beating the tambourine. Luke wrote: “They were sitting,” all with “one accord in one place.”
d. God is not the “author of confusion, but of peace, as in all the churches of the saints,” 1 Corinthians 14:33; 1 Corinthians 14:40.
4. Next, there appeared unto them. Luke continues: “And there appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them,” Acts 2:3.
a. Another “pronoun” is used in our text: the word “them.” The word “them” is like “they,” so it must refer to the same group mentioned earlier.
b. We must then surmise that the word “them” refers to the “they” in the earlier verses of our text.
c. B. W. Johnson wrote that: “Luminous tongues sat on each of them, “parting asunder” (Revision), or “distributing themselves” (margin). Meyer says that the idea is that they parted and distributed themselves among those present.” The People’s New Testament, Page 265.
d. These “cloven tongues” that had an appearance “like as of fire.”
1) The word “cloven tongues” in Gr., is diamerízo, dee-am-er-id'-zo, which means to partition thoroughly (literally in distribution, figuratively in debate): —cloven, divide, part. These were “parting tongues being distributed.”
2) The parting tongues sat upon each of them: “Where they were sitting; all with one accord in one place,” Acts 2:1-3. Stay with me! We are concluding.
5. Additionally, Luke follows in his analysis: “And they were all filled with the Holy Ghost,” Acts 2:4a. He explains those upon whom the “parting tongues” sat were “all filled with the Holy Ghost.”
a. They were “filled with the Holy Ghost.” This fulfills Christ’s promise to the 11 apostles before His ascension. Recall Jesus’ promise to them in these verses: Acts 1:4-5; Acts 1:8; Luke 24:49. What is meant: “They were filled with the Holy Ghost?” Notice:
1) The word “filled” in Gr., is pletho, play'-tho; to "fill" (literally or figuratively (imbue, influence, supply)); primarily, to fulfill (time): —accomplish, complete (come), furnish. In this setting, it means to “be filled with, to furnish or to grant power and the Holy Ghost” to accomplish God’s will in “preaching and confirming the word with signs following,” Mark 16:20; Hebrews 2:1-4; Acts 2:42.
2) B. W. Johnson explains: “All the disciples present. To be filled implies that the human spirit within was overwhelmed by or immersed in the Holy Spirit. The baptism of the Spirit was not a sprinkling, but an outpouring that overwhelmed the human spirit.” The People’s New Testament, Page 265.
b. Luke now relates this occurrence to John’s prediction, “ye shall be baptized with the Holy Ghost and with fire,” Matthew 3:11. John’s preaching of this promise of God was fulfilled on the Day of Pentecost.
c. Joel’s prophecy was fulfilled in which he wrote: “That God... would pour out of His Spirit in that day upon all flesh,” Joel 2:28-29; Acts 2:16-18.
d. Peter concluded his sermon, declaring that Jesus was raised from the dead and ascended into heaven: “Therefore being by the right hand of God exalted and (we) having received of the Father the promise of the Holy Ghost, he hath shed forth this, which ye now see and hear,” Acts 2:33. The events of Pentecost certifies that Christ; had indeed sent the Holy Ghost unto the world, as He had promised.
6. Finally, Luke declares: “They began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance,” Acts 2:4b. The last of what they have “seen and heard” is now mentioned by Luke.
a. The “they” here in this verse, we must again conclude, refers to the “them and they” of the previous verses of our text of discussion.
b. They spoke in tongues, “as the Spirit gave them utterance.” They spoke with the guidance and direction of the Holy Spirit.
1) Jesus had told them early in His ministry: “And when they bring you unto the synagogues, and magistrates, and powers, take ye no thought how or what ye shall answer, or what ye shall say; For the Holy Ghost shall teach you in the same hour what ye ought to say,” Luke 12:11-12.
2) These unlearned and ignorant men now speak “languages they were never taught,” Acts 4:13. The multitude heard and understood them. We will discuss this more later in the lesson. Notice, however, these noted commentators.
c. First, Matthew Henry explains, "They were filled with the gifts of the Holy Ghost; they had miraculous powers for the furtherance of the gospel. They spake, not from previous thought or meditation, but as the Spirit gave them utterance,” Matthew Henry’s Concise Commentary on the Bible, Page 985.
d. Second, B. W. Johnson commented that they spoke: “In the languages of all the different countries from which Jews had come up to Pentecost. Many would be unable to understand the Hebrew dialect of Judea in that period, and hence, they must be preached to in the tongue of their own country they understood. That the gospel on this, the first day the Great Commission was ever preached, was preached in all tongues, symbolized that it is for all nations. They were not allowed to preach the Great Commission until now so that every word uttered on this day might be the word of the Spirit, (and) not of man. The words were to be spoken to an audience, not of those in Jerusalem only, but to our whole race in all time, to show how sinners are to be saved under the gospel,” The People’s New Testament, Pages 265-266.
e. Conclusion: We have carefully analyzed the first four verses of Acts Chapter Two. Thus far, we have found That the “they and them” have received the promise of the Father, the baptism of the Holy Ghost. At this point, we still do not know “who” the recipients of this promise were. Luke lists facts that might help us determine the actual “subjects” of the Holy Ghost Baptism. In summary, they are:
1) On the Day of Pentecost, they were all with one accord in one place.
2) There came a sound from heaven like a rushing mighty wind, filling the entire house where they were sitting.
3) There appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.
4) They were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance, Acts 2:1-4.
5) Let’s continue our examination of the rest of these events to ascertain “who” it was that was “given power after the Holy Ghost had come upon them.”
C. There was a dwelling in Jerusalem. Luke now turns his attention to those gathered for this Pentecost in Jerusalem. He wrote:
1. The attendees: “And there were dwelling at Jerusalem Jews, devout men, out of every nation under the heaven. Now, when this noised abroad, the multitude came together, and (they) were confounded because every man heard them speak in his language. And they were all amazed and marveled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?” See Acts 2:5-7.
2. First, we must see the division of the groups at this event. The “they” – were in the house. They were doing the “speaking, as the Spirit gave them utterance,” Acts 2:4.
3. Further, the multitude, on the other hand, came or gathered together where the speaking was being done by those “in the house.” I wish I had some help!
a. This leaves out the multitude. Luke’s description of the event and the divisions of the groups establishes that the multitude was not among the “they” who received the promise of the Father, the Holy Ghost Baptism.
b. They were neither in the house nor doing any speaking with other tongues “as the Spirit gave them utterance.”
c. They were “confounded, because that every man heard them speak his language,” Acts 2:6.
4. Finally, the multitude was amazed and marveled at what was occurring before their eyes, saying one to another, “Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?” See Acts 2:7. Luke here identifies all those speaking in tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance as “Galilaeans.”
a. You might recall the two men (angels) visit with them after “Christ’s ascension into heaven,” Acts 1:9-10. They were identified as natives of Galilee.
b. The angels said: “Ye men of Galilee, why stand ye gazing up into heaven? This same Jesus, which is taken up from you into heaven, shall so come in like manner as you have seen him go into heaven,” Acts 1:11; Revelation 1:7.
c. Conclusion: The 11 apostles are described as Galilaeans by the multitude and the angels, who encouraged them regarding the Lord’s return. Please note that this is also in your Bible. We are now ready to move to the climax of this lesson. Fasten your seat belts! Luke now presents the last and final fact in the text.
D. How hear we, every man? Finally, the multitude commented: “And how hear we every man in our tongue, wherein we were born?” See Acts 2:8.
1. Luke lists the nations and languages of the people present on the day of Pentecost, Acts 2:9-11. They represented “men from all nations, both Jews and proselytes (Gentile converts),” Acts 2:5; Acts 2:10.
2. You might recall those in attendance in the upper room who continued in prayer and supplication: “With the women, and Mary the mother of Jesus, and with the brethren. And in those days Peter stood up amid the disciples, and said, (the number of names together was about on hundred and twenty,) men and brethren, this scripture must need have been fulfilled, which the Holy Ghost spake before concerning Judas, which was a guide to them that took Jesus,” Acts 1:14-16.
3. We hear them speak in our tongues. Luke further records the multitude, saying: “We do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God. And they were all amazed and were in doubt, saying one to another, What meaneth this? Others mocking said, These men are full of new wine,” Acts 2:11-13. In these verses, we must conclude the following:
a. Only men were speaking, and all were Galilaeans.
b. No mention of women speaking in this setting.
c. There was no mention of the 120 disciples.
d. Those who were speaking were accused of being drunken or “full of new wine.”
4. Summary: None of the women or others from the 120 disciples received “the Holy Ghost Baptism.” Let’s summarize Luke’s entire narrative regarding the advent of the Holy Ghost on the day of Pentecost. He wrote of this event in chronological order. Consider Luke’s analysis:
a. When the day of Pentecost fully came, they were all in one accord in one place.
b. There came a sound from heaven like a rushing mighty wind, filling the entire house where they were sitting.
c. There appeared unto them cloven tongues like as of fire, and it sat upon each of them.
d. They were all filled with the Holy Ghost and began to speak with other tongues, as the Spirit gave them utterance, Acts 2:1-4. Luke points out,
e. First, “There was dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men out of every nation under heaven,” Acts 2:5.
f. Further, “When this noised abroad, the multitude came together (at the house), and they were confounded because every man heard them speak his language,” Acts 2:6. (Therefore, none of the multitudes was among those who had received power; after that, the Holy Ghost had come upon them).
NOTE: For a more exhaustive discussion of this Baptism. Download my lesson: “Luke’s Narrative of The Day of Pentecost.” Available on SermonCentral.com by Ron Freeman, Evangelist. Continuing,
g. Finally, “They (the people) were all amazed and marveled, saying one to another, Behold, are not all these which speak Galilaeans?” Acts 2:7. Notice,
h. The men within the multitude asked: “And how hear we every man in our tongue, wherein we were born?” Acts 2:8. How is it possible that these men could speak our language? Luke lists the Nations and tongues that were present in Jerusalem on Pentecost.
i. The men stated: “We do hear them speak in our tongues the wonderful works of God.” Those speaking were addressing the men in their native tongues.
j. The men were all amazed and were in doubt: “Saying one to another, What meaneth this?” (Therefore, none of these nations or men were among those who had received power; after that, the Holy Ghost had come upon them).
k. Others mocking said: “These men are full of new wine.” Only men were accused of being drunken and speaking in other tongues. (Therefore, no women were among those who had received power; after that, the Holy Ghost had come upon them). Only men spoke with “other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance.” Luke then wrote...
E. Peter standing up with the eleven. Luke now establishes for us the “subjects” or the “who” on Pentecost had received, “power after that the Holy Ghost had come upon them,” Acts 1:8. He reveals: “It was Peter and the 11,” Acts 2:14. How do we know this for sure? The same audience was described earlier as “Matthias and the 11” in Acts 1:26. Only 12 are mentioned in both cases. I wish I had some help! Notice:
1. Peter stood up with the eleven: Therefore, Peter and the 11 were those that “were sitting” in the house. [Review a. through k. above]. Peter stood up with the eleven apostles because he was with the 11 that sat in the house, as this event began on the Day of Pentecost. No 120 disciples or a multitude of men or women were in the house to receive the Baptism of the Holy Ghost! Observe,
2. He (Peter) lifted his voice: “And said unto them (the multitude), ye men of Judea, and all ye that dwell at Jerusalem, be it known unto you and listen to my words: For these are not drunken, as ye suppose, seeing it is but the third hour of the day. But this is that which was spoken by the prophet Joel.” Peter now quotes Joel,
a. “And it shall come to pass in the last days, saith God, I will pour out of my Spirit upon all flesh,” Joel 2:28-29.
b. John predicted that Christ would “baptize with the Holy Ghost, and with fire,” Matthew 3:11.
c. Jesus promised that the apostles: “shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost is come upon you,” Acts 1:8.
d. Conclusion: All this occurred on the first Pentecost after Christ's death, burial, resurrection, and ascension into the heavens. Only the 12 apostles received this “power and the Holy Ghost” baptism that day. Anyone else who claims to have received it after this day is either deceived or speaking a falsehood regarding their claim. As I move to conclude this lesson, let me review what we have discussed.
CONCLUSION
A. Outline.
1. Joel’s Prophecy: “I will pour out of my Spirit.”
2. John’s Prediction: “Ye shall be baptized.”
3. Jesus’ Promise: “Ye shall receive power.”
B. Summarize main points.
1. First, we considered Joel’s prophecy regarding the outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon all flesh. He wrote: “It shall come to pass afterward, that I will pour out of my spirit upon all flesh; and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, your old men shall dream dreams, your young men shall see visions: and also, upon the servants and the handmaids in those days will I pour out of My Spirit, and they shall prophesy,” Joel 2:28-29. Joel and others prophesied of this great event and the pouring out of the Holy Spirit upon all flesh. We have answered the questions set forth by those claiming this prophecy is yet to be fulfilled.
2. Second, we discussed John the Baptist's prediction regarding this great event. Matthew wrote of John’s preaching: “I indeed baptize you with water unto repentance: but he that cometh after me is mightier than I, whose shoes I am not worthy to bear: he shall baptize you with the Holy Ghost and with fire,” Matthew 3:11. John does not identify the recipients of these two baptisms. He mentions there will be two baptisms, one for the Holy Ghost and the other for fire. Most of you in this audience completely understand this declaration. This lesson was not preached for you but for those who may believe the Holy Ghost baptism is possible or necessary today. We labored for these loving people to inform them regarding this baptism correctly.
3. Lastly, we investigated the promise of Jesus unto the apostles regarding John’s baptism of water and their baptism of the Holy Ghost not many days hence, Acts 1:4-5. He informed them that: “Ye shall receive power, after that the Holy Ghost comes upon you: and ye shall be witnesses unto me both in Jerusalem, and in all Judea, and Samaria, and unto the uttermost part of the earth,” Acts 1:8. This promise was fulfilled on the first Pentecost, after the resurrection and ascension of Jesus Christ into heaven, Acts 1:10-11. On that day, the Holy Ghost filled and empowered these men to do the work that Jesus now sends them forth to complete. We established that only the 12 apostles received this power and the baptism of the Holy Ghost. The 120 disciples, or the multitude, did not receive this promise. We allowed the scriptures to speak to the error of those claiming otherwise.
C. Invitation. Present God’s pattern of conversion. Jesus said: "Come unto me all ye that labor," Matthew 11:28-30. [Explain the POC, i.e., hearing and believing the Gospel; repentance of all past sins; confessing faith in Christ, as the Son of God; and then, by obeying the Gospel; that is to: "repent and be baptized, in the name of Jesus Christ for the remission of sins, and to receive the gift of the Holy Ghost," Acts 2:38; Romans 6:17-18; Ephesians 1:12-14].
D. Exhortation. “The harvest is past, the summer is ended, and we are not saved,” Jeremiah 8:20.
E. Motivation. Do as Peter directed: “Save thyself,” Acts 2:40; Acts 2:36-39; Acts 2:41.
Consultations and Commendations
I submit this verse unto you that I may: “Render therefore to all their dues: tributes to whom tribute is due; custom to whom custom; fear to whom fear; and honor to whom honor, (is due),” Romans 13:7. I acknowledge my consultation with these distinguished authors in this lesson.
References
1. Matthew Henry's Concise Commentary on the Bible, by Matthew Henry, Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Grand Rapids, MI, 1706.
2. The People's New Testament, by B. W. Johnson, Christian Publishing Company, Grand Rapids, MI, 1891.
3. The New Greek-English Interlinear New Testament; United Bible Societies, Fourth, Corrected Edition, Tyndale House Publishers, Inc., Wheaton, IL, 1990.
4. Textus Receptus, taken from the Greek Text of Stephens 1550, The Englishman’s Greek New Testament, Zondervan Publishing House, Grand Rapids, Michigan, First Zondervan Printing, 1970.
5. Clarke Commentary on the Bible, Eight Volumes, Published, 1810-1826, New York, Published by J. Emory and B. Waugh, for the Methodist Episcopal Church, at the conference office, 13 Cosby-Street., J. Collord, Printed, 1831.
6. Vine’s Expository Dictionary of Old and New Testament Words, by W. E. Vine, Fleming H. Revell Company, Old Tappan, NJ, Copyright, 1981.
7. Smith's Bible Dictionary, William Smith, Grand Rapids, MI: Christian Classics Ethereal Library, Printing 1884.
8. Orr, James, The International Standard Bible Encyclopedia, Volume IV, Wm. B. Eerdmans Publishing Co., Grand Rapids, MI., 1986.
9. Hastings, James, A Dictionary of the Bible, Volume 3, Hendrickson Publishers, Peabody, MA., 1988.
10. Roberts, J.W., Letters to Timothy, Sweet Publishing Company, Austin, TX., 1964.
11. Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary © 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
12. Merriam-Webster Online Thesaurus © 2015 by Merriam-Webster, Incorporated; Springfield, Massachusetts, 01105.
13. Freeman, Ronald, “Luke’s Narrative of The Day of Pentecost,” a Text (Bible-based Sermon), TX 9-309-963, Published by WorldWide Ministry Church of Christ.Org, Anniston, AL 36207, Copyright August 23, 2023.
14. The BlueLetterBible.org, (BLB’s) Interlinear, Textus Receptus; and the Morphological GNT, @ 2022, by the Blue Letter Bible. This tool allows you to access the Greek New Testament in both manuscripts. http://www.blb.org/The BLB also provides tutorials to help you learn how to use it. Link, (www.BLB.org).
A word of thanks to BLB.org:
Thank you for this valuable tool of study, BLB.org. It has been an excellent instrument for me to learn and use the Interlinear to bring my sermons alive to the audience. Thank you very much for this great Application to help study the scriptures.
Author’s Information
Ron Freeman, Evangelist
Worldwide Ministry Church of Christ.org.TM
Post Office Box 1112
Anniston, AL 36202
Communications and Websites
Email: wwmcoc@earthlink.net
https://wwmchurchofchrist.org/
Website: https://en.gravatar.com/refreeman
Visit and worship with the Church of Christ at Pickensville, AL, every Sunday at 11:00 AM and Wednesday at 6:00 PM. The call-in number is 1-302-202-1110, and the PIN is 214733. These men "know the Shepherd!"
Updated by Ron Freeman, Evangelist 6/22/2024
