The Number that Doesn't Matter

Scripture: When the day of Pentecost arrived, they were all together in one place. Acts 2:1

Observation: Acts 2 is a chapter that is full of numbers, and is focused on numbers. It says that Peter was standing with the 11 apostles; That about 3,000 were baptized that day; That more were added to their number daily. These are important details. However, verse 1 intentionally ignores a number some might think important ... how many were the "all" who first received the Holy Spirit?

There are several interpretations. This might mean the 12 apostles, or it might mean the ~72 believers whom many say were the core of the believers that waited in Jerusalem, or it might mean the ~500 who were witnesses to Jesus' ascension. Certainly this is a detail Luke - the author of Acts - knew, given that he took the time to research Peter's entire sermon, and the book of Acts is primarily about the growth of the church and therefore addresses numbers of believers often. It's likely Luke knew the names of every person in that room. Therefore, the conclusion is that he intentionally chose not to say the number. Why?

Because it wasn't important. In fact, going a step further ... it was important that the number (and names) not be known.

Application: Jesus well understood two principles about human nature and the future nature of the church that were critical. The first is that people need leaders. He himself raised 12 leaders above others, and 3 leaders above those 12. It is for this reason that those 12 are identified and Peter singled out on this critical day. However, Jesus also understood that believers who love him and worship God are all equal, which is why he corrected the disciples about their squabbles over who was greatest, and washed their feet at the last supper.

Too often, I create hierarchies in my mind. I see "degrees" of believers. I talk about the "core" versus the "congregation". Jesus - and Luke - would have none of that. Yes, there are leaders: Pastors, Elders, Missionaries. And there are those who head up ministries or committees for a season in order to get a task done. However, in the church no one is above another. For this reason, Luke chose to ignore who the "founders" might be to avoid them receiving undo honor.

Prayer: Lord, thank you for your reminder to me to maintain my humility. I am in a season where I could easily allow pride to overtake my heart - I could easy transfer the blessings you have provided into an attitude of achievement and pride where I attempt to set myself above others in all areas of my life. Please help me avoid this dark, terrible trap. Please help me keep my heart humble, and my mind focused on you. Show me your purpose of placing me in a new position, around new people, so I may do your work and serve your people. Thy - not my - kingdom come!! Amen.