en_tn/act/02/intro.md

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Acts 02 General Notes

Structure and formatting

Some translations prefer to set apart quotations of the Old Testament. The ULB and many other English translations indent the lines of 2:17-21, 25-28, 31, 34-35, which are quotations from the Old Testament.

The events described in this chapter are commonly called "Pentecost." Many people believe the coming of the Holy Spirit to indwell believers in this chapter marks the beginning of the church. (See: rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/believe)

Special concepts in this chapter

Tongues

There is a display of tongues in this passage. They are described as foreign languages, previously unknown to the speaker.

Last days

Did the last days begin at this time in history? Scholars are divided over the response to this difficult question. The translator should exercise caution to avoid explicitly stating the starting point of the last days. (See: rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/lastday)

Baptism

There are two baptisms referenced in this chapter. The first is christian baptism. The second is the baptism of the Spirit. The difference between the two baptisms depends on one's theological perspective. (See: rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/baptize)

Signs and wonders

This is a unique phrase describing the great power displayed and bearing witness to the truth of who Christ was and is. This is a major theme of the chapter.

Other possible translation difficulties in this chapter

Has the prophecy of Joel been fulfilled?

It appears the prophecy of Joel may have been fulfilled in part, but not completely. (See: rc://en/tw/dict/bible/kt/prophet)