Acts 2:12 - They were all amazed, and were perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?”
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What does "Acts 2:12" mean?
The verse "They were all amazed, and were perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?”" (Acts 2:12) describes the reaction of the crowd witnessing the disciples speaking in other languages during the Pentecost event. Let's break it down:
"They were all amazed..." - This indicates a sense of wonder and astonishment. The people present were deeply impressed by what they were seeing and hearing. It was something beyond their ordinary experience.
"...and were perplexed..." - This shows that they were also confused and puzzled. While amazed, they couldn't understand how or why this was happening. They lacked an explanation for this extraordinary phenomenon.
"...saying to one another, “What does this mean?”" - This highlights their confusion and desire for understanding. They were actively seeking an explanation from those around them. They recognized that something significant was occurring, but they couldn't grasp its purpose or significance. The question implies they believed it did have a meaning, even if they couldn't yet decipher it.
In essence, the verse conveys:
A supernatural event: The speaking in tongues was clearly something beyond normal human ability.
A lack of comprehension: The observers couldn't explain what they were witnessing through natural means.
A search for meaning: The people recognized the event's potential importance and were trying to understand its significance. They sensed that it was not just a random occurrence, but something with a deeper purpose.
Context within the Book of Acts:
This verse is crucial because it sets the stage for Peter's sermon. The crowd's bewilderment provides an opportunity for Peter to explain that this event is the fulfillment of prophecy (Joel 2:28-32) and a demonstration of the Holy Spirit's power. Peter then proceeds to preach about Jesus Christ, leading to many people believing and being baptized. Thus, the crowd's perplexity is a catalyst for the spread of the Gospel.
Acts 2:12 - They were all amazed, and were perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?”
What does "Acts 2:12" mean?
The verse "They were all amazed, and were perplexed, saying to one another, “What does this mean?”" (Acts 2:12) describes the reaction of the crowd witnessing the disciples speaking in other languages during the Pentecost event. Let's break it down:
"They were all amazed..." - This indicates a sense of wonder and astonishment. The people present were deeply impressed by what they were seeing and hearing. It was something beyond their ordinary experience.
"...and were perplexed..." - This shows that they were also confused and puzzled. While amazed, they couldn't understand how or why this was happening. They lacked an explanation for this extraordinary phenomenon.
"...saying to one another, “What does this mean?”" - This highlights their confusion and desire for understanding. They were actively seeking an explanation from those around them. They recognized that something significant was occurring, but they couldn't grasp its purpose or significance. The question implies they believed it did have a meaning, even if they couldn't yet decipher it.
In essence, the verse conveys:
A supernatural event: The speaking in tongues was clearly something beyond normal human ability.
A lack of comprehension: The observers couldn't explain what they were witnessing through natural means.
A search for meaning: The people recognized the event's potential importance and were trying to understand its significance. They sensed that it was not just a random occurrence, but something with a deeper purpose.
Context within the Book of Acts:
This verse is crucial because it sets the stage for Peter's sermon. The crowd's bewilderment provides an opportunity for Peter to explain that this event is the fulfillment of prophecy (Joel 2:28-32) and a demonstration of the Holy Spirit's power. Peter then proceeds to preach about Jesus Christ, leading to many people believing and being baptized. Thus, the crowd's perplexity is a catalyst for the spread of the Gospel.