Acts 2:5-13
ACTS STUDY DISCUSSION QUESTIONS
What highlights stood out to you from our study of Acts 2:5-13 on Sunday?
Why are there so many people from so many different nations in Jerusalem at this time? Though not immediately obvious in the text, in verse 9, Luke lists the nations and people groups geographically from East to West. How does that amplify the storyline of Acts (cf. Acts 1:8), and what does this tell us about who the gospel is for (cf. Acts 2:39, Eph 2:13 and 17, Matt 28:19-20)? Reflecting on the previous question and verses, why is this good news for us and the world?
In verses 6, 8, and 12, Luke says the crowds were utterly bewildered, amazed, astonished, amazed, and perplexed to hear their own languages being spoken (cf. 6, 7, and 11). The Greek word in verses 6 and 8 indicates they could hear their own language even down to the level of their own distinct local dialect (lit. dialektos). Why is that so amazing, according to verse 7b (cf. Matt 26:73; Acts 4:13)?
How does seeing the Spirit work through uneducated Galileans encourage you as you proclaim the gospel to friends, family, and co-workers (cf. Mk 13:10-12; Acts 6:10; 1 Cor 1:17)? Are there any other examples or verses that come to mind where God works through weakness or inadequacies for his glory? Why do we often feel we need to have all the right answers, words, or solutions when sharing the good news of Jesus? What does that say about us?
Why did God descend on Mt. Sinai to speak to Moses according to Exodus 19:9, and how are his purposes the same here in Acts 2 as his Spirit descends to speak through the disciples on Pentecost (cf. John 7:37-39; Mk 13:10-12; Lk 24:46-47; Rev 5:9-10)?
How is this scene in Acts 2:5-13 similar to Genesis 11:1-9? How does this moment on Pentecost stand apart, redeem, and surpass the scene in Genesis 11:1-9? In Genesis 11, their languages are confused, and the place is called confused (lit. Babel) because of God’s judgment. What is God doing in Acts 2:5-13, and what are the people confused about this time?
What does Acts 2:5-13 teach us about God, his desire to be known, and the means by which we can know him? How do Acts 2:5-13 and Revelation 5:9-10 give us hope?
Are there any attitudes, actions, or affections that need to change as a result of studying Acts 2:5-13?
