Each one was hearing them speak in his own language.

Acts 2:1-8, When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. And suddenly there came from heaven a sound like a mighty rushing wind, and it filled the entire house where they were sitting. And divided tongues as of fire appeared to them and rested on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit gave them utterance. 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?

It was divine intervention that confused and divided the language of men, who were building the tower of Babel. The Lord is the one who originally confused their tongues after the flood because “nothing they propose will be impossible for them.” He now moves sovereignly to provide His good news to each in his own language, to bring them the good news and to fulfill His promise to pour out His Spirit on all flesh!

We thank You for the gift of Your Holy Spirit that You have given us and for the power to be Your witnesses today!

ESV Lectionary