04 Jun Tuesday

The “noise, like a strong driving wind” reminds us of Elijah’s experience at the mouth of the cave where he was awaiting the voice and/or presence of God. It was the noise, not the wind which is a comparison, that filled the house. In other words, the noise was the voice of God. The “noise” translates the word for “roar”. Such is the voice of God! To say “roar” might scare people still sitting in 19th century pietism.

Luke emphasizes that “all” were gathered together and “all” received the tongues like fire. The stress on “all” and the naming of “all” the nations and their languages points to the extent of the mission of the church even today, so that the mighty works of God may be known and praised to the ends of the earth. We have a lot of work yet to do!