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The events described in Acts 2 represent the fulfillment of the [[Old Testament]] prophecy of the outpouring of the Spirit, for example [[Ezekiel 36]]:25-29 and [[Joel 2]]:28-32. The passage in Joel describes the Spirit coming to all people or nations, which links with [[Genesis 12:2]] and [[Acts 1:8]].
The coming of the Spirit also further confirmed the authoity of Jesus. For example, the words of [[John the Baptist]] who had prophesied that [[Jesus]] would baptize with the [[Holy Spirit]] were fulfilled (see [[Mark 1:8]] and [[Luke 3]]:16-17).
The wind of Pentecost can be seen as a physical representation of the presence of God and the fire can be seen to represent purification. The fact that other languages were spoken shows the universality of Pentecost and the break-down of communication barriers. In this sense, Pentecost can be seen to be the reverse of [[Babel]] were communication barriers were set up.
Pentecost had an electrifying effect on the disciples and it marked the start bold evangelism. The [[apostle Peter]] was especially instrumental in this. Whereas before Pentecost the disciples were fearful and hiding, afterwards they were able to courageously speak the gospel.
The day of Pentecost also saw the formation of the church because many Jews who heard the message of the gospel responded, although others turned away ([[Acts 2:41). This church was a clearly defined community which was devoted to the teaching of the apostles and to prayer.
The events that occurred on Pentecost also acted as a future sign of God's acceptance of the Samaritans and the Gentiles into the church. Because Cornelius and other Gentiles had a similar experience to the experiences of Acts 2, the apostles (at the [[Jerusalem Council]] in [[Acts 15:8]]) could see that God was calling them to be in the church as well. In this way, [[Acts 8]] and [[Acts 10]] can be seen of part of the fulfilment of [[Acts 1:8]]
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