In my last blog, where I wrote about the Apostle Peter, I mentioned the speech he gave at Pentecost in which he proclaimed Jesus as the Messiah. The book of Acts describes this powerful moment and how Peter’s words moved his audience—changing history.

Something else miraculous happened that day: the Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples. We find this moment in Acts chapter 2: “When the day of Pentecost came, they were all together in one place. Suddenly a sound like the blowing of a violent wind came from heaven and filled the whole house where they were sitting. They saw what seemed to be tongues of fire that separated and came to rest on each of them. All of them were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other tongues as the Spirit enabled them.” (Acts 2:1–4)

This fulfilled Jesus’ promise in John 14:26: “But the Advocate, the Holy Spirit, whom the Father will send in my name, will teach you all things and will remind you of everything I have said to you.”

When the Holy Spirit descended upon the people at Pentecost, they were deeply moved. They heard others speaking in different and recognizable languages and were astonished by the overwhelming conviction they felt. Moved and inspired, they asked Peter what they should do, and that’s when Peter said, “Repent and be baptized.”

Later, 3,000 people were baptized as Peter continued: “With many other words he warned them; and he pleaded with them, ‘Save yourselves from this corrupt generation.’ Those who accepted his message were baptized, and about three thousand were added to their number that day.” (Acts 2:40–41 NIV)

I believe this is why Pentecost is known as the birth of the Christian church. It marked the beginning of the new covenant and revealed the power of the Holy Spirit moving within the hearts of Peter’s audience. This day was remarkable—it not only convicted people to share more about God, but it also inspired them to form a spiritual community and grow a new nation of believers.

Side note: I think this story of the Day of Pentecost gives us confidence in knowing that the four Gospels are true. We can believe in the miracles Jesus performed because He already fulfilled one of the greatest prophecies when God sent the Holy Spirit at Pentecost—to remind us who Jesus is and of the sacrifices He made so that we may live eternally.

• The Pentecost took place 50 days after Jesus rose from the dead and the word Pentecost means “fiftieth” from the original greek word.