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Article: The unruly spirit. (Acts 2:1-21)(Living by the Word) (Column)
- Article from:
- The Christian Century
- Article date:
- May 12, 1993
- Author:
CopyrightCOPYRIGHT 1993 The Christian Century Foundation. This material is published under license from the publisher through the Gale Group, Farmington Hills, Michigan. All inquiries regarding rights should be directed to the Gale Group. (Hide copyright information)
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NOTHING LUKE tells us concerning the behavior of Jesus' followers after his Ascension prepares us for the astonishing character of Pentecost itself When the apostles rejoin other believers in Jerusalem, they establish an orderly and apparently secluded community life centered on prayer. Peter efficiently takes the necessary steps to replace Judas, thereby mending the circle and establishing the correctness of his own leadership. Things seem to be proceeding in a methodical fashion, right up through the opening verse of Acts 2.
Suddenly pandemonium breaks forth! Sound overwhelms the room. Tongues of fire reach out to seize people. If the speech that comes forth ...