Acts 2:4

"Tongues like fire appeared and were distributed to them, and one sat on each of them."

Key Reflection

In Acts 2:4, the tongues of fire symbolize the Holy Spirit's descent upon the disciples, granting them divine power for preaching. This imagery connects the event to Old Testament themes of divine presence and covenant renewal, as seen in Leviticus where fire represents God’s glory and presence.

From the Scholars: Barnes' Notes

Verse 4. Were all filled with the Holy Ghost. Were entirely under his sacred influence and power. See Barnes "Lu 1:41,67. To be filled with anything is a phrase denoting that all the faculties are pervaded by it, engaged in it, or under its influence. Ac 3:10, "Were filled with wonder and amazement;" Ac 5:17, "Filled with indignation;" Ac 13:45, "Filled with envy;" Ac 13:52, "Filled with joy, and with the Holy Ghost." Began to speak with other tongues. In other languages than their native tongue. The languages which they spoke are specified in @Ac 2:9-11. As the Spirit gave them utterance. As the Spirit gave them power to speak.

Related Verses

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