Definition: And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles.
Explanation: Okay, let's break down that verse from Acts 2:43 together! It’s a really important one and it speaks about a powerful moment in early Christianity. Here’s what it means, explained simply: The Basic Story: Jesus is Speaking: The verse comes after Jesus announces that he is going to die. A Crowd Reacts: A huge crowd – thousands of people – are gathered in Jerusalem. They're expecting a dramatic and terrifying event. Fear Falls Over: Suddenly, everyone starts feeling afraid! It’s not just a little nervousness; it’s widespread panic. Amazing Things Happen: Then, the apostles – Jesus’s followers – start doing incredible things. They’re performing amazing miracles – healing people with God's power, raising the dead, and bringing about incredible signs. What Does It Mean? It’s a message of God’s power and love. Here's what it suggests: God is Powerful: The verse shows that God isn't just capable of doing amazing things; He actively chooses to do them. God’s Love is Revealed: These miracles aren’t about impressing us with our own abilities. They are a direct demonstration of God’s love and care for humanity. He wants to show His presence and power in a way that's truly impactful. Faith is Called Upon: The fact that so many people were afraid and witnessed these miracles points to the importance of faith. It suggests that when we believe in something, it can bring about incredible things. In short, "And fear came upon every soul: and many wonders and signs were done by the apostles" means God’s power is so great that people are filled with fear, but also witness amazing displays of His might. Think of it like this: Imagine a huge crowd suddenly noticing something truly spectacular – like fireworks or a brilliant light. It's natural to feel a little scared, but also incredibly impressed by the beauty and wonder. --- Do you want me to: Explain another verse? Discuss what these kinds of stories might have meant in the ancient world?