Lesson 8: Waiting for the Holy Spirit

Question 1

Meaning of Matthias

Answer 1

Gift of God

Question 2

What is pentecost also known as?

Answer 2

1. Festival of first fruit
2. Festival of harvest

Question 3

What is considered as the second Babel?

Answer 3

The Upper Room (Mansion at Sion)

Question 4

After the Ascension of Jesus, how did the disciples decide to fill the vacancy left by Judas Iscariot, and what were the qualifications required for the chosen person?

Answer 4

After the Ascension of Jesus, the disciples, numbering 120, gathered in the Mansion of Mark. St. Peter suggested filling the vacancy left by Judas Iscariot. The qualifications required for the chosen person were:
(i) They should have followed Jesus from His baptism to His ascension.
(ii) They should be eyewitnesses to the Resurrection of Jesus.

Question 5

Who were the two proposed candidates to fill Judas Iscariot’s position, and how was the final decision made?

Answer 5

The two proposed candidates were Joseph, called Barsabbas (also known as Justus), and Matthias. The decision was made through prayer and drawing lots, and Matthias was chosen to be added to the group of 11 Apostles.

Question 6

On what day did the Holy Spirit descend upon the disciples, and what significant event occurred on that day?

Answer 6

The Holy Spirit descended upon the disciples on the 10th day after the Ascension of Jesus, which was the day of Pentecost. On this day, a sound like a strong wind filled the house where they were, and they saw what looked like tongues of fire touching each person. They were filled with the Holy Spirit and began to speak in other languages.

Question 7

Describe Peter’s sermon on the day of Pentecost. What were the key points he addressed?

Answer 7

Peter’s sermon on Pentecost can be divided into four parts:

1. Acts 2:14-21: Peter explained that the events were the fulfillment of Joel’s prophecy and clarified that it was too early in the day for them to be drunk.
2. Verses 22-28: Peter explained the events leading to Jesus’ crucifixion and resurrection, quoting Psalms 16:8-11.
3. Verses 29-36: Peter emphasized that Jesus is the descendant and heir to the throne of David, raised by God as Lord and Messiah.
4. Verses 38-41: Peter urged the crowd to turn away from sins, be baptized in the name of Jesus Christ, and receive the Holy Spirit. This led to about 3000 people being baptized and added to the church.

Question 8

What are the special features of the first church as described in Acts 2:41-47?

Answer 8

1. Entry into the church through baptism.
2. Active participation in prayers and the Eucharist with the apostles.
3. Participation in prayers in the Temple at Jerusalem.
4. A sense of communal living, considering belongings as common.