I'm Pastor Loren Christensen, and this is "A Word from the Vine." As we continue to explore the profound events of Pentecost, let us consider the nature of the miracle that occurred. The Scripture in Acts 2:5-11 tells us:
"Now there were dwelling in Jerusalem Jews, devout men from every nation under heaven. And at this sound the multitude came together, and they were bewildered, because each one was hearing them speak in his own language. And they were amazed and astonished, saying, 'Are not all these who are speaking Galileans? And how is it that we hear, each of us in his own native language?'"
Here, the miracle of tongues is not an ecstatic, unintelligible speech as some may interpret, but rather a clear and direct communication of God's mighty works to people of different languages. It is a sign of God's kingdom drawing people from every nation, tribe, and language into one family.
The disciples spoke in languages they had not known before, a testament to the Holy Spirit's power to transcend barriers and unite us in the message of Christ. This was not for the self-edification of the disciples but for the edification of the church, a tool for evangelism and a sign to the unbelievers.
Let us embrace this truth, that the Holy Spirit empowers us to communicate and connect across divides, to share the good news with all, regardless of language or background. May we be inspired by this unity in diversity, as we are called to be messengers of God's love and grace to the world.
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